I Will be honest i never respond to forum posts but this one caught my attention, If HC decided to go in on this request i would assume they prefer idea 1 same like other that have posted here.
But i also have to Agree with Keegan People Rush they Enlisted to an NCO position and NCO to an Officer Position without having any other backup in order to reward you people in their battalion, For example some Battalions in the past maybe currently also [idk not confirming anything] some may still have that Only Officers can become Branch Leads within their battalion why not give an NCO the Upertunity to lead and Branch so they can show possible Leadersnap, Initiative and most important Responsibility. thats a way to reward your men other is Promoting RP or Activity by ingame creditsit doesnt have to be difficult it can be rather simple.
Anyway Overall my +1 is on idea 1 but also take what i said into consideration.