I know I will be asked why I think the later memory may be the better on.

Without trying to teach a course in Psychology and the workings of the mind, let’s just say that the mind has some filters that kick in in times of extreme stress. Yesterday’s memories may seem distant and hazy. The here and now of survival may seem like all there is.

Different people behave differently, of course but when the stress is gone memories do come back into focus.

It is also worthwhile in noting that the US Army seemed to believe him. He spoke on combat leadership to them and was invited to speak at West Point. The Army of course had the citations for his awards and celebrity gained from a TV movie would not sway them to invite someone who’s veracity was in the slightest question, particularly when it deals with awards.

Officers, particularly at the service academies, are taught that truthfulness is first and foremost and lying reason for dismissal. I am sure he would have been thoroughly vetted.