After a detailed investigation, it was found that Republican Rep. Troy Nehls, who served in Iraq and Afghanistan, received a Bronze Star medal for his services. However, his claims of receiving two Bronze Stars and a Combat Infantryman Badge have been found to be inaccurate. Military documents obtained by CBS News show that Nehls actually only received one Bronze Star medal and had his Combat Infantryman Badge from Afghanistan revoked in 2023. Despite multiple attempts by CBS News to contact Nehls’ press secretary for an explanation, no response was provided.
In the military, falsely wearing medals that have not been earned is considered offensive and can bring disgrace to public officials. In the past, there have been cases where politicians inaccurately claimed military awards, but Nehls’ case is unique because he did serve overseas and did receive recognition for his actions. The Bronze Star medal, awarded for heroic actions or meritorious performance under combat conditions, is a significant commendation in the U.S. Army. As the controversy surrounding Nehls’ awards came to light, Army veteran Anthony Anderson publicly asked Nehls to address the discrepancies.
In his 2020 campaign ad, Nehls is seen wearing his military decorations, including the top ribbon signifying two Bronze Star medals. However, the investigation found that Nehls only received one Bronze Star in 2004 for his service in Iraq. Despite listing on his official House of Representatives website that he received two Bronze Stars, the records show no evidence of the second medal. Additionally, Nehls was found to be wearing a Combat Infantryman Badge lapel pin in a photograph, which was later clarified to be a Combat Action Badge, awarded to soldiers outside of infantry and Special Forces roles.
Nehls’ military career began as an enlisted infantryman, but by 2004 he had transitioned into a civil affairs officer. Despite receiving the Combat Infantryman Badge in 2008 for his actions in Afghanistan, it was later revoked in 2023 due to his role as a civil affairs officer, not an infantryman or Special Forces soldier. The discrepancy in Nehls’ awards has caused criticism from veterans and the public, with some questioning the accuracy of his claims. It is important for public officials to accurately represent their military service and awards to maintain integrity and trust with their constituents.
Overall, the investigation into Troy Nehls’ military awards has revealed discrepancies in his claims of receiving two Bronze Stars and a Combat Infantryman Badge. While Nehls did receive a Bronze Star for his service in Iraq, he inaccurately claimed a second Bronze Star and wore a Combat Action Badge lapel pin as if it were a Combat Infantryman Badge. The revocation of his Combat Infantryman Badge in 2023 further adds to the confusion surrounding Nehls’ military record. As a public official and former military officer, it is crucial for Nehls to address these discrepancies and provide the public with accurate information regarding his military service and commendations.
