In Joseph Heller's "Catch-22," Hungry Joe stands out from other characters because he finds himself preoccupied with nightmares following each of his missions. While the others might return to mundane activities or cope differently, Joe's experiences are marked by intense fear and anxiety that manifest in screaming nightmares, indicating a deeper psychological struggle.

Additionally, Hungry Joe's engagement in physical confrontations, such as fighting Huple's cat, suggests a coping mechanism driven by his frustration and turmoil. His character highlights the absurdities of military life, where even personal conflicts can seem trivial against the backdrop of larger existential challenges faced by soldiers.