Yup.  Having that top cover can be vital, especially – frankly- when you’re in a new position and don’t have alot of background for people to draw from, they need time to understand your consistency. In time they’ll see your work, the XO will (intentionally or not) make comments how they don’t have to do alot because your shop’s good, and your reputation will build.

But Bde having the final say is both frustrating and ‘the way it is’.  It hinges on how (or whom) at Brigade people value or rely on for this skill (or even just as a task).  Just like you’re trying to empower your shop and are learning when you get burned or supported, the same is happening at Brigade too, as you’ve experienced. Battalion is a different beast, for sure!!! Networking and reputation go a long way.  Keep working at it!