As a TSO, I would have to say that "forgetting" his ID is probably the best choice. ID is not required to fly, but he will undergo some additional screening. In the situation of presenting an expired visa to the TSA, we are only supposed to refer him to secondary screening anyway.
Cee, I can't speak for any other FTers, but I certainly am glad you came here and appreciate that you are not espousing TSA rhetoric as we've heard here in the past.
If other TSAers were are as grounded in reality as you seem to be, there would be far less activity in this forum (also far less fun
.)
Thank you.