A onetime Chicago Police commander convicted of lying about the torture of suspects contends he deserves a lighter prison sentence because of his service to this country.

In a recent filing, attorneys for Jon Burge cited his tours of duty in Korea and Vietnam in arguing that he deserves a break. Attorneys say Burge received the Bronze Star and other commendations while in the Army.

Burge was convicted of perjury and obstruction of justice based on his answers to questions during a lawsuit over claims that he and his officers tortured murder suspects.

The Chicago Sun-Times reports that Burge’s attorneys contend he should get a break below the 15- to 21-month sentencing range recommended by the probation department. Prosecutors say he could get up to 30 years in prison.