Stolen Valor: Veteran Busts Fake Soldier

A Pennsylvania man could soon be facing federal charges for posing as a decorated army ranger on Black Friday. 

Ryan Berk, a purple heart recipient, captured the “phony” ranger on video at the Oxford Valley Mall. According to a local Fox affiliate, Berk had noticed some “inconsistencies” about the man in uniform, suspecting that he had dressed up as a veteran to receive discounts.

Berk asked the man, reportedly identified as Sean Yetman, about some of his badges on the uniform he was wearing. He also asked Yetman specific questions regarding claims he had made about his service. 

Seemingly confirming Berk’s suspicions, Yetman is not listed in the Army Human Resources Command records, according to USA Today.

After the video of the incident went viral — to date, its received over 3 million views — Pennsylvania Congressman Mike Fitzpatrick said he is requesting that federal charges be filed against Yetman. It is unlawful to act as a military member in order to receive benefits, under the Stolen Valor Act of 2013. 

Follow Kristin Tate on Twitter @KristinBTate.