I don't think Swofford is trying to put a message across. From what I remember of his book (I read it when it first came out, so my memory may be a bit foggy) it was more of a coffeeshop philosopher expounding on his thoughts and experiences while in the Corps. It did not seem to have an agenda, he just seemed a bit bitter.
Several have posted on the movie didn't fully cover combined arms of the MAGTF, or it just focused on bad NCOs or bad officers or bad Marines. Well, what do you remember - all the average to above average people, or the sh!tbirds. When you are a 20 year old college student, do you really look at the big picture, or are you focused on what is happening to you and your friends?
I think the argument should not be over accuracy (yes there are some sea stories portrayed as true) because a lot of what was portrayed happened. I think we should argue if our dirty laundry should be shown for all to see.