You have to understand that NCOs, the trained and good ones, are leaving the Army and other services in droves. From personal interaction with many over the last few years, there is a desire to retire as soon as possible. That leaves upper level vacancies which are being filled with people 3-8 years ahead of normal without the experience or training. Think about it ... your commander is a bearded guy wearing a dress who has a husband.
The NCO is the backbone of our military. They’re more dedicated than the officers who are more political. Also there are more of them to correct and guide the newcomers. I’ve seen more than a few who were quite bitter and wanting to get out first chance they got-20 years. The money ain’t that great except for the retirement. Wasn’t worth it to me.
In my Vulcan platoon, 3 of my 4 squad leaders were E4s. Other platoons gave us short shrift due to our youth. I knew what we had, and I told them that. In our only battery level evaluation, we were the only platoon to pass.