While I don't think this gent should be vilified for being scared and disgusted, nor do I think his actions should be lauded as those of a patriot. Simply because someone's actions coincide with your political stance -- in this case, the idea that being anti-war is patriotic (with which I agree) -- doesn't mean they are acting from your ideals. It's the flip side of the coin from the pro-war group saying anyone who sticks a flag on their car antenna is patriotic, regardless of whether their other actions are positive for the country.

He's not acting because he thinks it's the right action for a particular country, he's acting because he thinks it's the right action for himself. It may be a brave personal act, but it's not an act of patriotism.