Marine faker claiming Vietnam service convicted - Marine Corps News | News from Afghanistan & Iraq - Marine Corps Times

Marine faker claiming Vietnam service convicted

GREENVILLE, N.C. — A man accused of lying about Vietnam-era combat and collecting $30,000 in compensation has been convicted in federal court in North Carolina.

A jury found Michael Hamilton, 68, guilty of false statement to the government, larceny of government property, unauthorized wearing of a military uniform and unauthorized wearing of Congressionally authorized military medals, according to a statement by the U.S. Attorney’s office.

Sentencing is scheduled for Aug. 9. Hamilton faces up to 16 years in prison and $600,000 in fines.

Authorities said Hamilton told Veterans Affairs officials that he saw combat in Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia. He was accused of taking more than $30,000 in veteran’s benefits for service-related ailments, and with appearing at a veteran’s ceremony in Jacksonville dressed as a highly decorated Marine colonel.