Terry Birch charged with Unlawful use of Military Uniforms

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By Shawna O'Neill
Terry Birch charged with Unlawful use of Military Uniforms
Cpt. Terry Birch signing the City of Cornwall's Book of Recognition allegedly wearing medals that Stolen Valor claims he did not earn (Nick Seebruch/ Seaway News).

CORNWALL, Ontario – Capt. Terrance Birch appeared in a Cornwall courtroom on Thursday, Dec. 12 to face criminal charges for illegally wearing military medals he was not entitled to.

Birch came under scrutiny in August when Stolen Valour Canada accused him of wearing four military service medals he allegedly did not earn, including the Special Service Medal, Centennial Medal, Canada 125th Medal or the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Medal.

RELATED: Legion reacts to Stolen Valour

Following this accusation, CPS conducted an investigation into the matter.

“Terrance Birch was charged with Unlawful use of Military Uniforms, contrary to Section 419(b) of the Criminal Code. This is the only charge,” confirmed Stephanie MacRae, CPS Communications Officer.

Stolen Valour Canada further alleges that Birch’s Sovereign’s Medal for Volunteers should be investigated and reviewed due to it’s awarding being based on his claimed service record. The organization also accused Birch of making false claims regarding his career, including being wounded by a landmine during the FLQ Crisis in 1970.

RELATED: Legion holds hearing on Stolen Valour allegations

In October, a hearing took place at the Royal Canadian Legion, Branch 297, and was attended by several of the Legion’s Executive members. Both the local Legion and Ontario Command have not made public if Birch had broken their bylaws by engaging in discreditable conduct.

More information on this story will be shared as it becomes available.

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