You booked a flight (with a connection) with a scheduled arrival time of 4 PM to then attend an important event that evening?
Given the number miles you log each year you must understand that weather and/or ATC delays are elements of air travel out of your AND the airline's control?
And while I agree that US's canned response to your complaint was rather poorly worded, I'm wondering what you wanted them to say that would have satisfied you?
You stated you did not expect compensation with your complaint to US but then offered the example of your brother's UA experiences where he was given token compensation. Those examples run counter to each other. Did you want compensation but not ask for it? Or did you want compensation, didn't ask for it and now you are upset none was offered?