Overview

• Rep. Cory Mills was awarded a Bronze Star in January 2021 for alleged heroics during Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2003.
• Five veterans, including two soldiers Mills is credited with saving, have publicly disputed his presence and actions during the cited incidents.
• Pfc. Joe Heit, named in the citation, stated Mills did not save his life and was not present during the events described.
• Retired Brig. Gen. Arnold Gordon-Bray, who approved the award, admitted to batch-processing medal recommendations without reviewing specific claims.
• Formal complaints have been filed with the Office of Congressional EthicsDOJ, FBI, and a U.S. attorney’s office to investigate the authenticity of Mills’ award and related conduct.