‘Glory plagiarism’ is sad but not always bad

Madam, – Having read Jim Millar’s article (Renewed calls for clampdown on fake veterans, Courier, June 18) about ‘Walter Mitty’ types who claim Second World War honours, I totally agree with him.

As the historian and archivist for 149 (East India) Squadron, RAF I have come across this strange phenomenon a few times.

When relatives or Veterans contact me I assemble the history of their time with the squadron and donate it to them for their own use.

Occasionally a relative will contact me and ask about their person’s squadron history.

A little investigation shows there is none, or a very different story from the initial information.

Although sad, this can often be explained by bedtime stories from grandad, or whoever, being a shade exaggerated.

There is no malice in these stories and the relatives are quietly told of the errors and all is forgotten.

Guys who served in Bomber Command, be they air or ground crew, are all heroes.

The wearing of medals or decorations by those not entitled to wear them is wrong.

The reasons for this ‘glory plagiarism’ elude me, but strike me as sad. Some times it is not intended.

The recipient of a medal or decoration is allowed to wear it on his or her left breast, whilst a relative of the recipient can wear the medals on the right side.

There is also a strict protocol which places all UK medals, etc before any foreign medals or honours – i.e. the UK medals belong closest to the centre of the body.

The order of wearing them is also covered by protocol.

Strictly speaking, the permission of the Sovereign is required before foreign medals can be worn by serving personnel.

All of those who took part in the war, in any capacity, have my undying gratitude and respect.

Wear your medals with pride and God Bless you all.

Alan Fraser.

149 (East India) Squadron, Archivist and RAF Historian.