I agree about being careful; however, if he had changed his name, his records, since he says he "retired" after 30 years, there would be a complete record of all changed throughout his career verifying his eligibility as "retired" and for benefits.
Believe me, if he's so proud that he's a retired SEAL, he'd make sure that everything was in order because all SEALs know of the Wall of Shame.
I did not know the records worked that way. You've already been careful. Thanks.