Local Leader Wants 'Distinguished Warfare Medal' Ranked Lower Than 'Purple Heart'

The following was issued Thursday by Rep. Ken Calvert's office. Among other jurisdictions, the congressman represents the local cities of Lake Elsinore and Wildomar:

Yesterday, Congressman Ken Calvert (CA-42) delivered remarks on the House floor on why the newly established Distinguished Warfare Medal should not be ranked in the order of precedence above medals, like the Purple Heart, which are awarded to soldiers who put themselves in harms way.

You can watch the video HERE.

You can read more about this issue HERE.

Here is a transcript of Rep. Calvert's remarks:

Mr. Speaker,

Our country has a proud history of honoring our military heroes and, in doing so, we place an emphasis on recognizing servicemembers whose actions place themselves in harm's way for the benefit of our nation and their fellow soldiers. 

It is because of this proud history that I have serious concerns about the Department of Defense's placement of the newly established Distinguished Warfare Medal in the order of precedence. Surely it is appropriate to recognize servicemembers who make contributions through technology-driven warfare, however, I agree with the VFW that we must continue to preserve the sanctity of our medals for those Americans who sacrifice their personal safety for the safety of the country and their brothers in arms.

That is why I strongly support the effort being led by my friend Congressman Duncan Hunter, who is a decorated veteran himself, to alter the rank of the Distinguished Warfare Medal such that it ranks below the Purple Heart in precedence. I would encourage all of my colleagues to join me by cosponsoring his bill, H.R. 833, and urge for its passage.