Entourages that gravitate around Field Grade Officers - are they excessive? or not?

There are very few officers that move with an entourage. Those that do, do so out of necessity. GEN Odierno, GEN Allyn, GEN Campbell...these officers need to stay plugged into their staffs every minute of the working day whether they are at home or on TDY. I've seen other general officers leave their Aide de Camp at home station while on TDY. Recently, there has been a push to limit TDY expenses and cutting out strap-hangers is one way. Field grade officers...hrmph...I was a Squadron Commander and there was never a gaggle following me around. When I show up at a range or at training or on the battlefield, someone needs to link up with me and give me the SITREP and answer some questions, but after that, they have work to do, and nowhere on their support form does it say, "Apple polisher for the boss when he shows up." Don't get me wrong, I know a few questionable people who continue to gravitate around general officers. Still competent individuals, but when the rank and file are taking the hard jobs, they are busy polishing a GO's belt and making sure his car arrives on time. Not that it isn't hard, but when you keep going back to the well...you get a reputation...usually it is well deserved.

I always avoided these adventures, and I scratched my head wondering why all the frenzy to be close to the boss. I generally tried to avoid this. I always was focused on letting my actions speak for me vs. my ability to show/tell the boss I am there if he needs me...

As a Field Grade, I can't really say I've seen much of an entourage. I've seen Generals that have an assistant, but I can't really say I've seen anything excessive.