Random thoughts...

That's life sucka. Not just in the military. Happens in civilian jobs as well. Let's assume a company is trying to fill a role. A stranger with high qualifications applies. Then someone with a lot less qualifications applies. But the dude with less qualifications knows someone from the inside. You know how it goes. "Yo, hook yo boi up!" Boom, the dude with less qualifications gets the job. It's often not "what you know. But who you know."

It's all about networking your name and kissing ass. You can always ask your CO upfront if he has anyone he can think that will help you get promoted. If he does know someone ask to see if a lunch can be arranged and sweeten the occasion a bit. When people are satisfied is when they will agree with almost anything.

That's how I got into the merchant mariner program and got the port of houston to pay for all inconveniences. Ha so to give them a speech and do multiple lunches but eventually got my name to stick in their heads.

Basically know them beforehand from a mutual contact and know what they like. In my case of was mexican food and bbq so had multiple lunches with them at some spots I knew and just chatted and did not push the issue I wanted done quite yet. Once you really get comfy with them you pop the question and they will say, "Only because I know what kind of man you are, I will do this favor for you. Do not let me down."

I dont go out of my way to get recognition. Im just here to do my job, i dont wanna get any medals i dont wanna get any awards i just wanna do my time. The privilege to serve is good enough. Im not gonna brown nose or anything because i honestly dont care. I just wanna do my time and retire.