Marine Corps Sergeant Major Demoted Over False Decorations and Misconduct Allegations

Deceptive Decorations: Once a respected Sergeant Major in the Marine Corps, Charlie Clawson was relieved of his duties and demoted to sergeant last month after being charged with wearing numerous unauthorized military awards, including the Purple Heart and Combat Action Ribbon. The charges stemmed from evidence that Clawson falsely displayed nine decorations on his uniform between January 2019 and October 2023. These awards, recognized as marks of distinguished service and sacrifice, were worn without merit, as revealed by official charge sheets.

The Marine Corps maintains strict policies regarding wearing decorations and awards, given the profound honor and commitment they represent. Clawson’s actions were seen as a profound violation of these principles, with implications beyond the uniform. His unauthorized display included the Joint Meritorious Unit Award, reserved for personnel contributing to meritorious achievements in joint operations.

Additional Misconduct Charges:

Clawson’s misconduct didn’t end with unauthorized decorations. In 2019, he falsely claimed academic credentials by submitting a fabricated doctoral degree and transcript from Liberty University to Marine Corps Manpower and Reserve Affairs. The charge sheets noted that Clawson knowingly submitted the false documents, attempting to deceive the Corps about his educational background.

Such misrepresentations are considered severe breaches of trust. Clawson was subsequently charged with violating Article 134 of the Uniform Code of Military Justice, which addresses conduct contrary to the standards of the armed forces, including false statements, fraternization, and other misconduct.

Years of Service and Fallout:

Clawson, a Virginia native who first enlisted in 1996, served as a motor vehicle operator during his Marine Corps career. Despite his years of service, his record has been permanently marred by his actions, and he has been administratively reassigned to the Headquarters Battalion at Quantico’s Training and Education Command. The awards Clawson legitimately received were a Global War on Terrorism Service Medal and two Sea Service Deployment Ribbons, contrasting the unauthorized decorations he falsely displayed.

Clawson’s demotion reflects the Marine Corps’ commitment to integrity and accountability, holding even high-ranking personnel to the highest standards of honesty and ethical conduct.

Jonathan W. Barlet,
Journalist, The Midtown Times