While I think "Two's In"'s comments are perfectly valid regarding the variability of individuals in the armed forces, I don't believe that Tony Ward is saying anything that doesn't apply to the majority of servicemen with long and good service records. I don't believe that he is overstating the case.
My list of what one is less likely to experience with ex-service people is long but here's a few;
1. Clock watching.
2. Marking time.
3. Turning up but not contributing
4. Avoiding issues
5. Passing the buck
6. Dissent and internal disturbance
I have employed a lot of ex-services over the years (I am one myself). Yes I have had some regrets, but on the whole I have been very satisfied with their application to the task and their willingness to learn new skills rather than just bluff their way forward. Sometimes they will be more forthright in their opinion than a civilian equivalent, but the origins of that are probably prior necessity of circumstances, and I would rather have someone say what they think than avoid responsibility for an impending train wreck...
FWIW