On March 11, 2011, we published an article which contained a mis-representation. On March 18, we apologized and initiated an investigation to get to the truth. The investigation is now complete.
The article stated that a Laguna Beach businessman had been a Navy SEAL. He was not. The SEAL community rose up, as one, to condemn the statement and the businessman has now apologized. As a result of the transgression, the businessman and his employer have parted ways.
This incident shows not only the power of the press, but also its special responsibility to search out the truth. We apologize for not getting it right the first time.
The SEALs have asked us to call your attention to the Stolen Valor Act of 2006, which is now under challenge in the Courts. The Act makes certain mis-representations illegal.
