A few SEALs came across this gravemarker and became curious. They did not recognize the name as being a SEAL or a Silver Star recipient.
BACKGROUND
The grave marker is in the Eternal Valley Memorial Park, Newhall, Los Angeles County California.
There was no SEAL listed in the BUD/S database with the name “Siri Dharma Singh.”
Upon doing genealogy research, it was determined that this man changed his name. The exact date is hard to pin down.
In March 1963, his name was listed as ‘Dennis Leroy Franks.’ On 27 November 1979, his name was listed as ‘Siri Dharma Singh.’
Dennis Leroy Franks was found in the BUD/S – SEAL database. He served with the US Navy SEAL Team One, just like the grave marker says.
Dennis Leroy Franks’ military records were ordered via a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request.
. . . . .
FOIA RESULTS
Besides confirmation of Franks in the BUD/S database, his records support him being with SEAL Team One in Vietnam.
He has some impressive Navy Achievement Medal awards, along with a Bronze Star.
He has no Silver Star, however.
Why the name change? A newspaper search turned up what may have lead to Franks changing his name.
. . . . .
DISCUSSION & SUMMARY
DISCUSSION
The military records do not support Singh/Franks’ claim of being awarded a Silver Star.
It is a huge mystery how he got that award put on his grave marker.
The rest of the story is tragic and sad, especially for the victims.
. . . . .
SUMMARY
Many of the claims attributed to Siri Dharma Singh/Dennis Leroy Franks were not supported by his official military records.
STOLEN VALOR
Since a Silver Star is included as an award protected under the Stolen Valor Act, perhaps someone should look into correcting the record in regard to Singh/Frans.