You're right Stan. While some may have been in the perimeter of the fray they can add experiences of others they know of just to make the telling more 'interesting' Anyone who serves in the Military is worthy of respect. As you pointed out, there were many who may have been willing but due to the nature of their job they didn't go.
It's the claims of some of the regular soldiers we sort of 'gloss' over. Officers padding is another matter. it would be fine to give them credit where it's due but the few who add to their resume just because it made them look better or they missed some of thie 'big ones' and tried to make up for it. My Father was in the Army during WWII but never left the states. He was told they needed his skills to organize supply departments and he also processed paperwork for others who were going to a combat area.

Pam