gain a number of advantages--and they would be "unfair" if the person did not merit them. Some, of course, require serious proof (like the extra pay a MOH recipient gets) but others, like commissary or exchange benefits, might not be too hard to get with a little bullshit and phony paperwork:
Medal of Honor recipients are given the following special privileges and special benefits:
Special Medal of Honor pension of $1,194 per month above and beyond any military pensions or other benefits for which they may be eligible. The MOH pension is subject to cost-of-living increases.
Special entitlements to Space A air transportation.
Enlisted recipients are entitled to a supplemental uniform allowance.
Commissary and exchange privileges (includes eligible dependents).
Admission to the United States military academies for qualified children of recipients -- without nomination and quota requirements.
10 percent increase in retired pay.
Medal of Honor Flag.
Allowed to wear the uniform at anytime as long as the standard restrictions are observed.
Many states offer Medal of Honor automobile license plates.
Interment at Arlington National Cemetery if not otherwise eligible.
http://www.military.com/benefits/content/veteran-benefits/the-medal-of-honor.html
I think a year in jail is a bit much, though, even though I don't have any respect for people who do that kind of thing. I think public shaming is much more effective, and I think the law, if it even stays on the books, should be beaten down to a misdemeanor with a chunky but not too onerous fine (the proceeds of which should be diverted to the fund for the Armed Forces Retirement Home), and an exception clearly stated in the law for films, satire and the like.
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