Likely a moot point (and MOO), but the important meeting for his job and potential promotion seemed strange. Federal employment is quite structured. I don't think a supervisor can notice an exemplary performance and say "I am going to promote that person". I would think that you would need enough time in grade at your present level, and then either career ladder step up or an open higher grade position that you can apply for. He may have had the potential for earning an award or incentive, or resume material, but beyond that it seemed like he was just blowing hot air.