Upham is brought up as one of the most enraging and cowardly figures in film. But no one questions Captain Miller (Hanks) recruiting him
I see a post on Upham at least once a week in Reddit. No doubt he is cowardly and not a trained soldier that is prepared for the incredibly dangerous mission he is assigned to.
But I've always had a different perspective. Miller got to select his crew. He was clearly combat experienced across multiple countries/continents. What on Earth was he thinking bring Upham. In the "humorous" assignment scene, Upham is flustered and is trying to bring his typewriter. He fumbles. He says he is not ready.
That's on the leader for selecting a soldier of his experience and demeanor for an incredibly dangerous mission. What was Miller thinking. Did they really need a translator that badly? And for such a small crew, you would think they could find another translator that had some combat chops.