Frauds put up a decorated front

0 Comments | USA TODAY, June, 2006 | by Gregg Zoroya

The man cutting a path across the Marine Corps Birthday Ball near Atlantic City last fall wore row upon row of battle ribbons on his chest -- silent testament to a history of gallantry and sacrifice.

Among the awards he wore were a Bronze Star, a Silver Star and the Navy Cross, which is second in significance only to the Medal of Honor.

Retired Marine Corps master sergeant Fred Montney III and others turned to admire Gerard Smigel, 52, in his dress blue uniform and wearing the rank of lieutenant colonel. "He was in his element. He enjoyed it," says Montney, who sat at Smigel's table.

As the night wore on, Montney noticed little flaws. Smigel would excuse himself to go to the "latrine." Marines call it the "head." Smigel wore one award, a Combat Action...