Your anecdote is irrelevant. Carrying a gun is not a rational decision for most people because it increases the risk of harm to yourself and others regardless of how you feel about it. I’m not saying this guy should be in jail for defending himself either, but he ultimately was not in mortal danger and wouldn’t be facing charges if he didn’t have that gun.
Recruiters chase misery like sharks chase blood. That costume is probably more comfortable than the shit the army makes you wear and he can tell his boss to fuck off if he gets sick of it.