Don't kid yourself....the Army and DoD at large is deeply wrapped up in quotas. Promotion lists, command selections, key staff assignments all are subject to quota review and adjustment prior to being approved and released. And the black fraternity subculture is very strong, especially in the officer corps. And do not forget that the massive number of civilians in DoD - they are not any better than the civilians across the rest of the government. Some really magnificent and hard core dedicated and capable public servants but too many who are only there for the job security and realization that if they achieve minimum standards they have over achieved and will be promoted anyway.