SEATTLE – An Army specialist from Fort Lewis is apologizing to his family and community for lying about being injured in Afghanistan, lying about his rank and wearing military honors that he hadn't earned.
Spc. Jordan Olson, 22, arrived at Outagamie County Regional Airport in Wisconsin to a hero's welcome Saturday. Along with Olson's family, members of the American Legion, VFW and Patriot Guard were waiting to greet him.
"It was only supposed to be my family there," Olson told a Wisconsin TV station. "I didn't realize the news was going to be there … the VFW, the Legion."
Olson shook hands as he walked the airport hallway, which was lined with people proudly holding up American flags. One person held a sign that said "Sgt. Olson." Olson also walked with a limp, which he reportedly explained was due to a injuries from a bomb blast.
By Monday, his story fell apart. Members of his own battalion reportedly saw news reports and exposed him. According to The Appleton Post-Crescent:
- Olson's battalion says he was not wounded in combat.
- A Joint Base Lewis-McChord spokesman says Olson is a specialist, not a sergeant, and that he has no upcoming promotion
- Olson should not have been wearing an 82nd Airborne Division patch. His battalion was not attached to that division.
- Olson wore the Parachutist Badge and the Combat Action Badge. Military records show he never attended the Airborne school and was not authorized to wear the Combat Action Badge.
"Just wanted my family to be proud of me and … overstepped some boundaries I shouldn't have overstepped," said Olson.
Olson says he is going to personally apologize to the VFW, American Legion and Patriot Guard. He says he also plans to seek some help.
"It's a self-esteem issue. I think I should go see what I can do about getting taken care of myself and having better self-esteem for myself," said Olson.
Olson could be prosecuted under the Stolen Valor Act of 2005, which prohibits claiming military honors that were not earned.
