Classification 43: Illegal Wearing of Uniform or Decorations, et al
Classification 43 was established prior to 1924 and originally carried the designation "National Defense." This classification covers a variety of statutes relating to the illegal wearing of the uniforms of any of the Armed Forces, Public Health Service, and other agencies; illegal wearing, manufacturing of selling of Congressionally authorized decorations, medals, or badges; forgery or alteration of discharge papers, passes and other government documents; counterfeiting or using without authorization seals of agencies of the United States; unauthorized use of characters and slogans originated by Federal agencies (such as "Smokey the Bear" and "Give a Hoot, Don't Pollute"); and false advertising or misuse of names to indicate a Federal agency. Initially designed to discourage the unauthorized use of display of military clothing or badges, the original statutes were broadened and expanded over time to encompass illegal use of emblems, names, and identifying characteristics of civilian agencies. Because proof of violation is easier to establish in this classification than under the statutes for impersonation, Headquarters repeatedly encouraged the field to seek conviction in Classification 43 rather than Classification 47, Impersonation. Therefore the two classes are closely linked.
NARA holdings for Classification 43: Illegal Wearing of Uniform or Decorations, et al
The following records under Classification 43: Illegal Wearing of Uniform or Decorations, et al are not yet described in NARA's online catalog. Please contact NARA's Special Access Program at specialaccess_FOIA@nara.gov with your reference request.
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