A quite accurate assessment. The horrific injuries seen/experienced under wartime conditions certainly affects the human psych obtuse to that in which Hollywood movies depict.
Your second point, are people often found in leadership positions of such organizations like VFW and the like. In many cases, they were cooks, clerks, supply personnel, etc. There are numerous rank members who join these orgs. for entirely different reasons though.
Thirdly, you're right on target regarding politicians, many who display various degrees of psychopathy.
Enjoy your day.