His stance drew attention both because of his military record -- he had served as an officer in the Navy and had been awarded a Silver Star, Bronze Star and three Purple hearts -- and his background.

CNN: Specials

At the Silver Jubilee, the Royal Navy had 69 destroyers and frigates, now it has 19.

BBC: Jubilees show UK's declining ability to protect itself

He received two Silver Stars and other commendations before leaving the Navy in 2009 -- claiming that, in his years as a sniper, he'd killed more than 150 people, which he called a record for an American.

CNN: STORY HIGHLIGHTS