The issue with this statement is that Milley veered away from the concept of merit based promotions at every opportunity. He frequently elevated 3rd and 4th ranked candidates on promotion lists for GO/FO positions if they pledged allegiance to him over the CiC and Constitution.
https://x.com/EzraACohen/status/1859821297968218412
https://x.com/EzraACohen/status/1859821297968218412