[the OlLine Rebel]

Very low? There are 3 basic clearance levels, not 20.

Heck, my C required much more effort on a daily basis at work than my later S. Of course, that could be the difference between contractor and subcontractor....

[SkyPilot]

A SECRET is almost a given to anyone in uniform, and for most Federal Civilians or Contractors - even down to the lowest levels.

That, in turn, has "normalized" the clearance requirements.

It is TOP SECRET and the Special Background Investigations that are difficult.