What you think about the good old boy system?

Probably one of the most frustrating and counterproductive things I've seen in the Army. I would think the only way to squash it is to have quality leaders who are promoted out of merit, and not by their connections. Yet it still happens and it continues the vicious cycle of installing incompetent and corrupt leaders, while frustrating the Soldiers who actually have potential and want to make the organization a better place, who end up leaving because they see they things will never change...

In short, it's the persistent elephant in the room, but it takes senior leaders and commanders to put a stop to it.

I was an active duty officer and was stationed with a large National Guard unit. I saw the power of the buddy system to promote the studs, however, I saw a SGM with less than 10 years in. It is a double bladed sword.

WO1 (Join to see) I would hope this type of thing is the exception rather than the norm. If this happens it is a shame and is a product of the command climate. As leaders, we are all responsible for stopping this cycle if we see it. The opportunity for soldiers to have an equal chance to be successful based on their own merits is essential to a positive command and team-centric environment.