U.S. Air Force Awards Senior Master Sergeant Phillip Monk Prestigious Decoration Despite Religious Discrimination Claim

SAN ANTONIO, Feb. 17, 2014 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The U.S. Air Force awarded Senior Master Sergeant Phillip Monk—who filed complaints that his former commander discriminated against him for holding a biblical view of marriage—the Meritorious Service Medal on February 12.  Liberty Institute represents SMSgt Monk and commends the Air Force for recognizing his outstanding contributions, while serving with the 326th Training Squadron at Lackland Air Force Base. 

According to Air Force regulations, the Meritorious Service Medal is awarded to a member of the Armed Forces who has distinguished himself or herself by outstanding meritorious achievement or service.  Some noted recipients of this second highest non-combat award are Senator John McCain and General Norman Schwarzkopf.

"This is a testament to SMSgt Monk's courage and conviction.  I can think of few Airmen who have demonstrated the courage to stand on their principles the way SMSgt Monk has, to be ostracized for it—but ultimately to be exonerated and awarded for his achievement," said Mike Berry, Liberty Institute Director of Military Affairs. "Then again, few Airmen are more deserving of this award.  The Meritorious Service Medal is a prestigious decoration, and one for which SMSgt Monk should be proud. This is a noble gesture by the Air Force to recognize SMSgt Monk's hard work and sacrifice.  I'm pleased that they've done the right thing by him. Because of his example, other service members should be encouraged to stand up for their religious beliefs."

Liberty Institute is a national law firm dedicated to defending and restoring religious liberty across America — in our schools, for our churches, in our military and throughout the public arena. Liberty's vision is to reestablish religious liberty in accordance with the principles of our Founding Fathers. For information, visit www.LibertyInstitute.org.

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SOURCE Liberty Institute