Dirty dealings: Decorated Vietnam vet and U.S. Congressman Randy “Duke” Cunningham, took a plea deal and resigned his seat at his trial on corruption charges today, according to the San Diego Union-Tribune. In return for bribes to the tune of $2.4 million, Cunningham, an eight-term Republican representative from Southern California, steered Pentagon contracts toward a defense contractor.

Oh yeah, he also cheated on his taxes. But at least he cried at the press conference:

“I misled my friends, family and myself. The truth is, I broke the law and disgraced my office and myself,” Cunningham said after his plea, breaking into tears at a news conference.

“I know I will have to forfeit my freedom…. In my life I have great joy and great sorrow, and now I know great shame,” said Cunningham, a Vietnam War flying ace who won the Navy Cross.

Cunningham pledged to make amends. He said he admitted his fault, apologized and asked for “God’s grace” as he moves forward.

Move on forward, Duke, but please save a place for Tom, Scooter and Bill.