Nine unearned awards lead to demotion for Marine Corps Sergeant Major
In a recent case highlighting the importance of integrity in the military, Marine Corps Sergeant Major Charlie Clawson was demoted to the rank of sergeant after being found guilty of wearing multiple unauthorized military decorations, including some of the most revered awards in service. The charges, revealed in documents obtained by the Marine Corps Times, detailed a total of nine unauthorized decorations worn by Clawson between January 2019 and October 2023. Among these decorations were the esteemed Purple Heart and Combat Action Ribbon, symbols of courage and sacrifice in the line of duty.
Clawson’s court-martial, held on September 13, led to his demotion from sergeant major to sergeant, a substantial rank reduction reflecting the gravity of the charges. According to Marine Corps Training and Education Command spokesperson Maj. Hector Infante, Clawson was found guilty on all charges related to unauthorized wearing of awards, falsifying official statements, and misconduct.
Unauthorized Awards and Decorations
The awards Clawson was accused of falsely displaying included:
- Purple Heart: Reserved for those killed or wounded in combat, this is one of the military’s highest honors.
- Combat Action Ribbon: Awarded to sailors and Marines who have participated directly in ground or surface combat.
- Joint Meritorious Unit Award: Given to those contributing to joint activities marked by notable achievement.
- NATO Service Medal, Kosovo Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal: Symbols of international cooperation and contributions to specific conflicts.
- Sea Service Deployment Ribbon: Clawson wore this with silver and bronze devices, falsely indicating seven completed deployments.
- Navy and Marine Corps Overseas Service Ribbon and the Navy and Marine Corps Parachutist Insignia.
Each instance of wearing these unearned awards constituted a violation of Article 134 of the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ), which broadly addresses misconduct within the military.
Falsification of Academic Credentials
In addition to the unauthorized awards, Clawson faced charges for submitting a falsified doctoral degree and transcript from Liberty University to the Marine Corps Manpower and Reserve Affairs office in 2019. The charge sheet clearly states that Clawson knowingly submitted false documentation, adding a further count of dishonesty to his record.
Career Background and Service Record
Originally from Virginia, Clawson enlisted in the Marine Corps in 1996 as a motor vehicle operator. Over the years, he climbed the ranks, eventually reaching the esteemed rank of sergeant major. However, this recent incident casts a shadow over his long service history. His official records confirm that he is currently assigned to the Headquarters Battalion at Training and Education Command in Quantico, Virginia, albeit now in an administrative role.
While Clawson’s career includes legitimate decorations, such as one Global War on Terrorism Service Medal and two Sea Service Deployment Ribbons for at-sea deployments, these earned awards are now overshadowed by his actions regarding unearned honors.
Upholding the Marine Corps' Core Values
The case of Charlie Clawson serves as a reminder of the military’s unwavering commitment to the values of honor, courage, and commitment. Each decoration and award represents sacrifice, achievement, and integrity—principles that form the foundation of the Marine Corps’ ethos. This incident also underscores the military's vigilance in ensuring that any violations of trust or integrity are addressed, preserving the respect associated with military awards and the individuals who earn them.
As one of the most recent cases of “stolen valor” in the military, this story highlights the ongoing challenge of preserving the honor tied to military awards and decorations, which represent sacrifices that cannot and should not be falsified.
