I did exactly the same than Japo. The thing is that Vinny never really lasted too long for me because he's not that good in any department. Fidel remained in my team until at least half game then I got tired of him and hired a better merc when the money was flowing.
I clearly remember another merc who look apish somehow, with a strange haircut. I don't think I kept that one in my team too long too but the whole point was the equipment he was carrying. In his case, if memory serve (but I could be wrong) he came on the island with a shield vest which was a very useful early armor.
