My problem with the argument being that it's always been that way is, it doesn't have to stay that way (unless it really can't be changed). But I'm primarily a solo player, so whatever rules you are used to experiencing are new to me, even when the game was live all those years ago, I could count on one hand the number strike forces I did (one, it was the one one in Cap), and I guess I was lucky that I didn't ever find that out back then.
But if it isn't going to be changed, I feel that there should at least be a way for this to be known other than the literal most annoying way possible. I do not understand defending it, outside of worrying about abusers trying to take advantage and get easy badges/clears, but that it why I'm trying to suggest something like contribution, not just being in the group. But I also know that this might not be possible, so I'm not holding my breath.