This would/should, of course, make a difference if by the time you were asked your choice of meal was no longer available. But you make no mention of it so I will assume that you did receive your first choice and the problem you have is with the placement in in line, so to speak.

Please tell me when, provided there is enough on board to give everyone their first choice, you (or someone like you; i.e. high status in *A but not on UA itself) should be asked to satisfy you as to your standards of appropriate treatment commensurate with the fare paid.