A group of Michigan veterans is demanding an apology from Democrat Curtis Hertel, a candidate running for Congress, for wearing part of a U.S. Army-issued uniform during a Veterans Day event. The veterans accuse Hertel of giving the false impression that he served in the military and committing an act of “stolen valor” by wearing the jacket. The incident has sparked controversy and raised questions about Hertel’s credibility.
The letter, signed by 28 veterans, was addressed to Hertel, who is expected to be the Democratic nominee for Michigan’s 7th Congressional District. It expressed deep concern over his decision to wear an official U.S. Army-issued uniform while speaking at the Veterans Day event, despite never having served in the military. The veterans respectfully requested a public apology from Hertel and urged him not to repeat such an offense.
The letter highlighted the fact that wearing official military attire, especially at a ceremony honoring veterans, creates the impression that the individual personally served in uniform. The veterans emphasized that this form of “stolen valor” is frowned upon and called on Hertel to acknowledge the impact of his actions.
The controversy stems from Hertel’s attendance at a Nov. 11 wreath-laying ceremony at the Michigan Veterans Memorial in Lansing. During the event, Hertel wore a retired U.S. Army-issued physical fitness jacket, even though he was not listed as a participant. The letter noted that the jacket is intrinsically linked to the Global War on Terror era and is associated with military service during that period. While Hertel was eligible to serve during that time, based on his age, he did not.
According to U.S. Army regulations, the physical fitness uniform is not considered appropriate for certain events, including memorial services and patriotic ceremonies. Retirees are authorized to wear the uniform but not as part of such ceremonies or gatherings. Hertel’s decision to wear the jacket at the Veterans Day event raised questions about his knowledge and respect for military protocols.
In response to the criticism, Hertel explained that the jacket was a gift from his brother-in-law, a retiring Army major. He stated that he wore it on Veterans Day to honor his brother-in-law and other family members who served in the military. Hertel’s campaign also pointed out that the jacket is available for purchase by the public and highlighted his record of supporting veterans’ issues as a state senator.
Despite the defense from Hertel and his campaign, Vietnam veteran Jack Devine, who attended the Veterans Day event, defended the candidate’s actions. Devine commended Hertel for his continuous advocacy for veterans and criticized the attacks on his support for his family and the military on Veterans Day.
The race for Michigan’s 7th Congressional District is expected to be closely watched in 2024, as both Republicans and Democrats vie for control of the House. Hertel is likely to face former Republican state Sen. Tom Barrett, a U.S. Army veteran, in the general election. Barrett previously ran against Democrat Rep. Elissa Slotkin in 2022 but was unsuccessful.
As the controversy surrounding Hertel’s attire continues, it remains to be seen how it will impact his campaign and the overall dynamics of the upcoming election.
