Maryland Governor Wes Moore’s Bronze Star: A Closer Look at the Controversy
Recent discussions have emerged surrounding Maryland Governor Wes Moore’s military accolades, particularly the Bronze Star he was awarded for his service in Afghanistan. The claim that Moore never received this prestigious honor has been circulated by some far-right commentators and media outlets.
The controversy stems from an accusation that Moore inaccurately stated he had earned the Bronze Star on a 2006 White House fellowship application and failed to correct subsequent media reports. However, the facts tell a different story. At the time of his application, Moore was informed by his commanding officer, Lt. Gen. Michael Fenzel, that he had been approved for the award. The official presentation of the medal was delayed until December 2024 due to a paperwork issue, a situation not uncommon in military procedures.
General Stanley McChrystal highlighted the prevalence of such delays, stating to the New York Times, “I don’t know how many times since I’ve retired that I’ve [had] people come to me trying to get an award that they told me that they had been recommended for that they never got.”
The Bronze Star is a recognition of heroism in combat, and Moore’s military career began in 2004 after completing his master’s degree at Oxford. He served in Afghanistan from 2005 to 2006 with the 82nd Airborne Division, with Fenzel putting forward his recommendation for Moore to receive the honor. Fenzel was unaware of the delay until it was brought to light, and he subsequently ensured the necessary paperwork was processed.
During a ceremony held for the delayed award, Fenzel praised Moore’s contributions: “Moore was tireless in his efforts to engage villages and tribal leaders to receive the most relevant and important messages associated with reconstruction, development, and stabilization. Through innumerable trips outside the wire and into Afghan communities, Wes Moore consistently demonstrated courage and skill in [a] wartime environment.”
Moore’s officer evaluation report from his service period described him as “a top 1% officer” and “the best lieutenant I’ve encountered during Operation Enduring Freedom.” Despite the delay in receiving the Bronze Star, Moore did not pursue inquiries about the award, stating to the New York Times, “You don’t do that. I’m not going in and asking, ‘Well, what about this award or that award?’ I’m grateful that I’m home.”
In addition to the Bronze Star, Moore has been honored with several other military decorations, including the Combat Action Badge, the National Defense Service Medal, the Afghanistan Campaign Medal, the Armed Forces Reserve Medal, the Army Service Ribbon, and the Parachutist Badge.
—
Read More Kitchen Table News
