IIRC, Petey was a Green Zone aide or driver to some other officer. IMO, the times he went outside the wire and posed for pictures with his M4 all operator-like was for preparation for his future political career.
If you’re wounded - like McCain - you’re a loser; and, if you’re not wounded - like “Petey” - you’re a loser. I see why you say not serving, like 4F and his two adult sons, is better than serving.