Custer established his reputation as brave and fearless in the Civil War and this earned him promotion to a rank of brigadier general. Most individuals have a need to be part of a “tribe” and to be in a successful group (tribe). We see this evidenced today in the seemingly endless books, seminars, college courses, etc on leadership, building successful teams, etc. Specific to our military, I think the same individual desires to be part of a successful team are present, but as to whether the desire is stronger than in the general population, I don’t have the close proximity to the military to have a valid opinion.
Historically, many did petition to be under his command, but as time went on he became known as “Old Ironpants” for his harsh discipline and the petitioning to serve under him did decrease. He also had some very harsh and vocal critics among his fellow officers, such as Frederick Benteen, which diminished his aura.