I have been a AF Reserve pilot for 16 years and never been REQUIRED to do office work or kiss much butt to get upgraded/promoted. I think the purist appreciates the opportunity. After all, isn't/wasn't the MISSION to "Fly, Fight, and Win." Now I have to get mothers (TACC) permission for what used to be Aircraft Commanders decision making. I was complaining to a TACC controller and he said the young pilots call to "ask permission to fart."