2nd Known Upset Vet Gives Back His Medals Over Iraq Conflict

David Patterson, 53, got the idea from a friend, who e-mailed him about a Navy veteran in Orlando, Fla., who had done just that.

The action struck Patterson. What a powerful, personal statement. Here, take these back. I don't want them anymore.

So in March, the mild-mannered Air Force veteran with graying hair sat down and wrote to the President of the United States of America:

“I am saddened to give up my hard earned medals. But the hate, torture and death you have instrumented in this world tarnish the symbolism they carry.”

Patterson doesn't know if his gesture will do any good.

He hasn't heard back from the White House. And his action has received little media attention

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