Curious One,
It seems that you have discovered what is known to military and ex-military types as a 'Walt' (sic Walter Mitty).
Walt baiting is a sport in itself and you should launch forthwith on a campaign to identify his
shortcomings. Hanging on their every word usually gets them to embellish their stories out of all proportion and it is not unusual to find them in two different global hemispheres at the same time.
If you require any advice, visit the Army Rumour Service website where there are numerous artistes, well practised in this skill, but I'm sure your ex-mil lads can also help out.
http://www.arrse.co.uk/cpgn2/Forums/viewforum/f=12.html