So dumb. I know in USAF, and I’m sure the other branches, making it to E-9 is no cake walk and quite an accomplishment (politics aside, but for some, it makes it even harder). To think you need to embellish that with honors you’ve never earned is the epitome of poor self esteem. And TOTAL disrespect to your fellow service members that have actually earned such honors.
When I retired from active duty, it was retire at highest rank held 10 yrs after retirement. Depending at the demotion steps (I think in this case E-9 to E-6?) Not sure what grade a Marine Sgt is, but 120 months at that reduced retirement pay is a significant financial hit…including all annual retired pay raises based on rank.
Not that I think the financial hit makes up for the total disrespect of other Marines and honorably serving/served service members, but as they didn’t pull his retirement, at least it’s something.