Do you remember the 1966 movie “Our Man Flint” ? After refusing to accept the usual spy gadgets because Derek Flint has his own, he immediately dispatches a couple of Bad Guys disguised as military guards by recognizing the phonies were wearing “Battle of the Bulge” ribbons.
He knew they were stolen valor phonies because they’re wearing ribbons for the Battle of the Bulge, which didn’t exist.
Stolen Valor came with stiff penalties back then.
Now a days you can buy a commemorative ribbon for the Battle of the Bulge and wear it, it won't even raise an eyebrow.