This is how it is. When a BCMD or higher position is being awarded. debriefs will be mandatory. There are many comments here that give the reason to as why this is a thing so i see no reason to repeat them when denying this.
These ceremonies take little time out of your tryouts your doing and serves as respect to those gaining a position. I beg the question of the people here on how they would feel if they got a big position and everyone walked out to do their tryouts or just going afk,
Lastly, Yes. The Screenshot above is still in effect. Also, If you participate in an encounter/event it is also mandatory.