For example, I was fuming after we returned to our motor pool after a less than successful training exercise. My platoon sergeant pulled me aside, and said "LT, consider this: nobody died." That kind of brought me back to reality.
I also a first sergeant who did 3 tours in Nam, as an infantry first sergeant. During an ARTEP, I had to wear both hats as XO and Maintenance Officer. He came up to me and said, "LT, I don't know a damn thing about this ADA stuff."
I laughed and said, "you know how to set up a Company HQ, that's what we need." He was back in his element.
A few hours later, I saw him sitting on a stump with his head in his hands. Apparently, the CO screwed up a mission by sending out bad coordinates, yet he took it personally. I told him I'd handle it, we had an additional day to make up for it.
Those NCOs prepared me to lead when everything was turning to $hit. That evening, I laid out the plan for the next day, using colorful language and a very loud voice. I didn't know it, but the evaluation team chief heard every word.
I bumped into him after leaving the CP. He gave me a big smile and said, "that was beautiful." Like I said, those NCOs played a huge role in my development.
Getting back on topic, I hate it when someone embellishes their service. I mostly keep my stories to myself, as I know they're interesting only to me. lol, I had some great experiences and I was a pretty good officer.
The Captain(?) that was hoping to lead his team of Special Forces didn't have any war-time experience. He gets grief from the Commander that is making the selection of the team. The Captain's answer sounds similar to your comments.
The Captain gets the same treatment from General Dostum that he joins up with.
Great movie. I have no idea how realistic it is.