While there is some truth in what you state I would hesitate to use such a 'broad brush'.

I see locked squads as you do, and similar groups of TG members banding together. There are a number of reasons for this including IHS practice, IHS camaraderie, friendship, and sometimes just because people have fun gaming together.

I dont think there is any ulterior motive at play, I think its just human nature to socialize with people whom you are familiar. Its also human nature to ascribe this to 'elitism' or 'exclusivity' - when its simply people having fun. Too often we feel 'slighted' or 'unwanted' when quite frankly its all in our imagination - the internet helps reinforce this anomaly.

Truth be told, I have felt the same way as you - which is one of the reasons I am 'not' in an IHS. I like to game with everyone and not feel 'obligated' to join any particular flock of gamers - or make anyone feel as if I have 'excluded' them.

Also, I typically create unlocked squads and let the chips fall where they may. Sometimes I lock the squad to get a friend or two in, sometimes ( if the server is full of idiots ) I do it to keep out the riffraff that wont listen. Mostly I do it because I know that all the non TG people out there feel the same way you do - and I want them to feel included. I enjoy meeting new players that love teamwork as much as we do, and inviting them to join TG. In fact there are a number of people here who's arms I have twisted to join up. Subsequently those people put on TG tags, and join my squad... which I guess makes us all look elitist when we are just having fun.

So in the long run I guess I believe we should give everyone the benefit of doubt and not ascribe negative motivations when its just human nature to socialize with friends. Likewise, try not to paint TG et al with your paintbrush .. when many of us feel the same as you.