Overview
The command branch of a starship consists of
the Commanding Officer, Executive Officer and an appointed 2nd
Officer.
Commanding Officer's Duties
The Captain* is always held to a higher standard than any other position. The Captain is the mainstay of the
crew and is often the barometer of the crew's moral and enthusiasm. It is the responsibility of the Captain to
set an example for the crew at all times, both in character and out, by getting the Mission Briefing out and posted on
time and getting their logs out and posted before the deadline. The actions of the Captain reflect on the ship/station
and the crew and is often the basis of judgment on the caliber of the crew.
In Character:
Primary goal is to
obtain the mission objective.
The mission objective is set in the Mission Orders sent by
Admiral William Crenshaw at the beginning of each arc. It is up to the Captain to come up with a plan of action to
accomplish the goals set out for in the Mission Orders. This objective is the underlying reason for
any action taken by the crew and ship and must be achieved if even remotely possible. A reasonable
explanation and/or inquiry may be necessary if the mission objective is not met.
While obtaining the mission
objective, the safety of the crew and ship must be kept to
the fore, although it is not the primary goal. There will
be times when damage to either crew or ship may be
necessary to achieve the mission objective, but this
course may only be taken when all other options have been
exhausted. It is customary that an inquiry will take place
upon the death of any crew member or the destruction of a
ship.
The Mission Briefing is the
platform for focusing the crew's actions toward completing
the mission. At least 48 hours prior to the session's
start it should be distributed to the crew and SM via
email. A different Mission Briefing should be written
prior to each game session, even if the mission is
continuing over several sessions. It should be brief and
concise and include something for each department to do so
that all players can begin the session focused on an
activity. There may be times when a certain player's
position is not needed during a session. Regardless,
something should be assigned to them whether it be in
assisting another player or a task pertaining to regular
ship's business.
Direction of senior crew during
missions
Command of away teams when applicable
-
While it is often an unwritten
practice that the CO does not go on away teams, this has
never been set as a directive. It is up to the discretion
of the CO whether it is more beneficial for the CO to be
on the away team or on the bridge during any given
situation. The over riding factor in establishing this is
if it is in the interest of achieving the objectives. If
the CO is on an away team, the XO will take charge of the
bridge. Even while on an away team, the CO may countermand
any orders given on the bridge.
Upholding of Starfleet directives.
Starfleet General Order #1 -
Prohibits Starfleet personnel and spacecraft from
interfering in the normal development of any society, and
mandates that any Starfleet vessel or crew member is
expendable to prevent violation of this rule.
This is the first and foremost
directive and any violation of any of the crew will result
in a court martial of the commanding officer and the
offending crew member.
Temporal Directive
The Temporal Directive was put into place when Time
Travel was discovered possible. Time Travel is strictly
prohibited and may only be done under the expressed order of
either Starfleet Command or the Temporal Authorities. Under
no circumstances may a ship or it's crew do anything that
may alter the timeline, even in the event that they find
themselves caught in a temporal loop. Extreme caution must
be exercised at all times not to disrupt the timeline even
if it results in the destruction of the ship and/or crew.
Omega Directive (CAPTAIN'S EYES
ONLY)
The Omega Directive supercedes all other directives including
the Prime Directive (General Order #1). The Omega
Directive is an emergency classified Starfleet protocol relegated
only to captains. When a certain substance--the mysterious,
dangerous, and powerful molecule known as "Omega"--is detected by
the sensors, the captain is alerted by the computer and must
follow preplanned Starfleet procedures to destroy the molecule at
all costs. Due to the destructive nature of the Omega particle
even the Prime Directive is set aside if need be. This molecule
has great energy capabilities and great destructive power. In
addition to causing destruction on a large scale, it also can
cause the destruction of subspace on an even much larger scale,
leaving areas of space permanently affected such that traveling
through said areas faster than the speed of light becomes
impossible. Get a big enough explosion from enough Omega molecules,
and an entire quadrant or even galaxy could be affected, ending
warp travel and therefore interstellar civilization as the
Federation knows it.
Communication with visiting
dignitaries and adversaries both on the com. channel and/or
in person.
The Captain is often the first hand liaison for VIP and other visiting dignitaries. It is custom for the Captain to host a dinner in honor of the guests. During an adversarial situation, the Captain is the one responsible for contact with the adversary in an effort to cease all hostilities. If a face-to-face meeting is required to establish peace then the Captain is the one to attend usually leaving the XO in command of the ship.
Diplomatic/Peace Keeping Missions
The Federation is a peaceful organization that was created for exploration and education. Although it is equipped to police and patrol that is not it's main function. Often times the Captain will find themselves in the role of peace keeper where diplomacy and tact are required. Under no circumstances can the Captain take sides in an internal dispute involving an alien society or
species. Humanitarian aid is not considered interference and is acceptable as long as it is given equally to both sides. Under no circumstances can a Captain or any of their crew give, sell or manufacture any kind of weaponry for a disputing side.
First Contact
The Captain represents not only their ship and crew but also the entire Federation and therefore must maintain proper decorum at all times. Part of these duties are first contact communications with newly encountered species. It is up to the Captain to establish if this
species meets the qualifications for membership into the Federation and to make their recommendations to Starfleet Headquarters. It is also up to the Captain to ascertain if a newly discovered
species meets the requirements for first contact or if the Prime Directive should take effect and passive observance should be established instead.
Final responsibility for any and all actions of crew.
The Captain has the final
responsibility for any and all actions taken by their crew
both on and off duty. If any actions involves the local
authorities, it is the Captain's responsibility to run
interference and establish the crewmembers guilt and
innocence independently. In the case of false imprisonment,
it is the Captain's responsibility to negotiate the
crewmember's release. If the planetary laws are broken by a
crewmember the punishment for that infraction should be
placed into effect with the Captain acting as liaison and
the representative of Starfleet.
Letters of condolences for the surviving family members of crew killed.
The Captain is responsible for writing a letter of condolence to each crewmember's family upon the death of said crewmember. This letter shall contain a brief and discreet description of the final moments and or acts of the crewmember and a few words expressing the Federation's deep sorrow and gratitude for the sacrifice their loved ones gave. Any medals or commendations for the deceased shall be forwarded along with the standard accruements such as a folded Federation flag, the
rank insignia of the deceased crew member and a replication of the ship/station or a replica of the ship/station's dedication plaque on which they served. A description of the deceased crewmember's service record and any personal effects shall also be included in a follow up. These
ill be gathered together by the first officer and sent after the letters of condolences to the surviving family members of the deceased.
Finalization of crew transfers, awards, promotions and/or disciplinary actions.
The Captain has the final say in regards to transfers, awards, promotions and/or disciplinary actions. These will be first screened by the XO and then brought to the Captain's attention by the XO. In regards to promotions, a review session with the XO and/or the Department Head will be conducted and all factors weighed, but it is the Captain's final decision that will stand after taking into consideration the recommendations of the XO and /or Department Head.. A Captain may award medals and/or awards without conferring with their XO or anyone else. A Captain may overrule the disciplinary action taken by the XO or may add additional reports to the crewmember's record. All awards, promotions, transfers and disciplinary actions must be reviewed and finalized by the command Admiral before taking effect.
Second tier for settling disputes between crew members (In character).
The Captain is the second tier in any crewmember disputes after the XO. It is the Captain's responsibility to listen impartially to all sides and make their decision based on facts, not conjecture. it is customary that when appropriate, the XO shall be included in the deliberations and to assist in whatever recommended action is required to settle the dispute. The Captain is responsible for assisting any crewmember in taking their dispute to Starfleet command if the Command staff has failed to settle the dispute.
Out
of Character:
Liaison between players and SM.
The Captain is the first link in the chain of command to the SM. In the event that a player has an issue or a situation, it is the Captain's responsibility to contact the SM and assist in the resolution of the situation.
Warnings and intervention of players who are delinquent in logs/attendance and/or participation during missions.
One of the responsibilities of the Captain is to run interference with players that may be having problems with logs/attendance or participation. If necessary, it is the responsibility of the Captain to arrange a meeting with the player, SM and the XO for
counseling into the best way to assist the player in resolving the delinquency.
Assist in the posting of logs to the NG when needed.
It is the Captain's responsibility to make certain that each player is able to post to their logs to the newsgroup. If not then it is the responsibility of the Captain to either post them or delegate the posting to either the XO or the 2nd officer.
Make sure that each player is tasked at least something during mission (if possible pertaining to the mission).
It is up to the Captain to make sure that each player has some task in each mission and is occupied during the mission. If at all possible the task should relate to the storyline or at least enhance the storyline of the arc. Cross delegation is permissible if one player is not tasked and another is overtasked.
Research and distribution of additional information that might help enhance and further game play (i.e.: Weapons specs and ship specs of opposing ships. Things that would be in the Starfleet database)
It is one responsibility of the Captain to either research or assign research of any additional information needed by the crew for that current arc. The Captain will then gather the materials and distribute it to either all the players on the crew or the ones that the information effects.
Coordinating with SM for distribution of additional information that might be needed in a general way to the players. (i.e.: Description of planets, cultures that the characters are dealing with, etc.)
The Captain will assist the SM in the distribution of specific information pertaining to the storyline. This will also pertain to any
NPCs that are assisting in the arc. The Captain is responsible for making sure that the
NPCs are included in the mail string for the duration of their playing.
Reading of all logs/supplementals and OOMs of the crew.
The Captain should read everything submitted by the crew and comment if appropriate.
Editing of transcript or assignment of an editor.
It is the Captain's responsibility to either edit the transcript themselves or assign an editor.
Updating of mail string with the departure and/or arrival of crew.
It is the Captain's responsibility to keep the
mail string updated and to redistribute it in the event of a change.
Welcome letter for all new players with information on ship, crew and current mission.
It is the Captain's responsibility to send out a welcome letter to each new player and provide them with any information necessary to ensure a seamless entry into the current arc.
Distribution of information of new player and new crewmember to existing players.
It is the responsibility of the Captain to make certain that the new crewmember is introduced to the existing crew and to distribute the new
mail string with the new crewmember's email included.
Evaluation of crew members and recommendations for promotions/demotions or no-action.
It is the responsibility of the Captain to arrange a meeting with the XO and/or SM to discuss crew evaluations on a regular basis and to decide on the appropriate action for each crewmember based on their attendance, participation, logs and attitude both in character and out.
Coordinate with the SM over player disciplinary actions.
The Captain is responsible for bringing any discipline problems to the SM's attention and to work with the SM to resolve the situation. In the event the situation can be handled within the command structure, it is the Captain's responsibility to keep the SM informed as to any disciplinary action required/taken.
Be first tier to settle disputes between players.
It is the Captain's responsibility to arbitrate any player disputes and keep the SM apprised of the situation. If the Captain is unable to resolve the situation then it is the Captain's responsibility to arrange a meeting with the players and the SM for further arbitration.
* The term Captain used in this text refers to the position and not the rank.
Executive Officer's Duties
The Executive Officer is the second in command and must maintain a high standard of excellence. They are mentors for the crew and support for the Captain. They provide a solid base and help instill a solid front for the command staff. Many times the Captain will need to rely heavily on the Executive Officer and a relationship of trust and respect between the two is paramount.
In Character :
- Liaison between the crew and the Captain
If a crew member has a complaint or issue that requires the Captain's attention, it is the XO's responsibility to make sure the report is sent to the Captain after first reviewing the situation and ascertaining that it is a legitimate issue. Often times the XO will accompany the crewmember and attend the meeting between them and the Captain. The XO is also responsible for any follow-up required for this matter. A crew member should always go through the XO instead of confronting the Captain directly.
- Conduit for information between crew and Captain.
The XO is responsible for conveying the Captain's orders to the crew and making sure they are carried out. The XO is responsible for the distribution of any pertinent information to the crew. Another aspect of the XO's job is to also inform the Captain of anything they need to know that the crew found either through research or sensor data. And also to keep the Captain informed with up-to-date status reports on any given situation.
- Ensuring the safety and security of the Captain.
The XO is responsible for the safety of the Captain and must ensure their safety at all times, but not to the detriment of the primary goal of the mission. Although an XO may object vigorously against the Captain going into a hostile situation, it is still the Captain's decision to do so. The XO is then responsible to assign security to accompany the Captain and provide the best safety available for the Captain at that time.
- Advising the CO and acting as a sounding board.
Often times the XO is the only person a Captain has to talk to about a situation. Then it is up to the XO to be a sounding board for the Captain. It is also the XO's primary duty to advise the Captain about any given situation. If the XO disagrees with a Captain's order the XO is well within their rights to object but this should be done in private. It is up to the XO to provide an atmosphere of cooperation and accord within the command staff. Disagreements should never be aired publicly and the XO should support the Captain in all final decisions, regardless of their personal feelings.
- Handle the paperwork ensuring that only the forms needing the CO's signature cross the CO's desk.
Even in the enlightened 24th century there is paperwork and a large bulk of it lands on the XO's desk. They are responsible for the maintenance and assignment of the entire crew. Although there are many forms that require the Captain's approval and signature, it is part of the XO's duty to prioritize and weed out the superfluous paperwork.
- Handling all Captain's duties when the Captain is unavailable.
Often times the XO will be called upon to stand in for the Captain when the Captain is otherwise engaged. Then they will assume all of the duties and responsibilities that would go with the position. If there is a 2nd Officer on board, the 2nd would then assume all of the duties and responsibilities of the XO.
Additional mission briefings if on an away team, the Captain is on an away team or the Captain is unavailable.
The XO is responsible for creating a mission brief if the Captain is on an away team, if the XO is on an away team or the Captain is otherwise engaged and unable to brief the senior staff. The briefing will include instructions and tasks for those crew members that under the XO's jurisdiction at the time. This may be only a small portion that are on assignment with the XO or it may be the entire senior staff. At least 48 hours prior to the session's start it should be distributed to the crew and SM via email. A different Mission Briefing should be written prior to each game session, even if the mission is continuing over several sessions. It should be brief and concise and include something for each department to do so that all players can begin the session focused on an activity. There may be times when a certain player's position is not needed during a session. Regardless, something should be assigned to them whether it be in assisting another player or a task pertaining to regular ship's business.
- Command of away teams when applicable
The XO is often the command officer on away teams. The XO is responsible for selecting which crew they will take although the Captain has the final say. While on an away team, it is the XO's responsibility to designate and achieve the away team's primary mission goal while maintaining the highest Starfleet standard and adhering to all regulations and restrictions. While on an away team, the XO assumes responsibility for any and all actions and conduct of those crew members that are assigned to the away team. It is at the XO's discretion whether the Captain is needed at the site of the away team to achieve the primary mission goal. If there is a 2nd Officer on board, the 2nd would then assume all of the duties and responsibilities of the XO during the XO's absence.
- Command of the bridge if the Captain is on an away team or unavailable.
The XO is quite often found on the bridge assuming command of all bridge crew and functionality while the Captain is otherwise engaged. It is at the XO's discretion in any situation if it requires the Captain's presence or not. In that event it is the XO's responsibility to contact and inform the Captain of the situation.
Otherwise it is the XO's responsibility to handle the situation in accordance to Starfleet standards, rules and regulations. If there is a 2nd Officer on board, the 2nd would then assume all of the duties and responsibilities of the XO.
- Be first tier to settle disputes between crew members. (In character only)
It is one of the XO's tasks to intervene and resolve any disputes or issues between crew members. In the case that the situation cannot be settled, it is the XO's responsibility to bring all of the facts to the Captain and present them in an unbiased manner. It is then the XO's duty to follow-up with the solution devised by the Captain and to maintain a watch on the situation to see that it does not crop up again.
- Be first tier for disciplinary actions for crew members (In character only)
The XO is the first tier in disciplinary actions for crew members. If there is a situation that requires the Captain's involvement, it is the XO's responsibility to present the facts in an unbiased manner and advise the Captain on a course of action. It is then the XO's responsibility to follow through and administer the punishment that was decreed by the Captain.
Out of Character:
- Keep accurate records of attendance and logs
It is the XO's responsibility to maintain the attendance records for the crew or to designate the task to another crew member. If it is designated out, then the XO must periodically check and see that the records are being kept accurately. These records include keeping track of weekly attendance and weekly log submissions for each crew member, including the Captain. The XO will then bring any discrepancies or discretions to the Captain's attention for further action.
- Keep accurate records of when crew evaluations are due.
It is the XO's responsibility to maintain when the crew has their evaluations and to inform the Captain when the crew is due for their next one. Again, this task may be delegated out to another crew member but it is the XO's responsibility to keep a check on the accuracy and completion of these records.
- Fill in for the Captain's out of character duties during the Captain's absence.
In the event that the Captain is absent, the XO will resume all out of character duties and responsibilities of the Captain until the Captain returns and assumes the position again. If this should occur and there is a 2nd officer, the 2nd officer shall take over the out of character duties and responsibilities of the XO.
- Help with evaluation of crew members and recommendations for promotions/demotions or no-action.
The XO shall help conduct the crew evaluations along with the Captain and/or the SM. There they will discuss and advise the Captain on whether a player deserves a promotion, a demotion or a no-action.
Second Officer's Duties
Many crews have a 2nd Officer even
though it is not an official ACTD position. The 2nd Officer is
selected by the Captain and the XO and the position is often used as
a training position for command. The selection of the 2nd Officer is
based on the current record of the player and the potential for the
player and character to assume command. The 2nd Officer will still
maintain their current position and rank. As with the Captain and
the XO, the 2nd Officer must maintain the highest standard at all
times.
In Character:
Handling all of the XO's duties
if the XO is unavailable.
The 2nd Officer will assume all in
character duties and responsibilities of the XO if the XO is
unavailable, absent or has assumed the duties and responsibilities
of the Captain.
Out of Character:
Handling all of the XO's duties
if the XO is unavailable.
The 2nd Officer will assume all
out of
character duties and responsibilities of the XO if the XO is
unavailable, absent or has assumed the duties and responsibilities
of the Captain.
Chain of Command (Command Staff only)
In Character
The Captain has authority over every person on their ship/station
until they are relieved from command.
The XO has authority over
every member of the crew.
The 2nd officer has authority over the
people within their department and only when standing in for the XO
do they have authority over the entire crew
The only officers that
have authority over the Captain is the CMO or the CNS. If either one
of them think that there is due cause...then they can relieve the
Captain from duty and the XO will become the Acting Captain until
the Captain is deemed fit to command again. The same can be done for
the XO with the 2nd standing in as Acting XO.
This should only be
done as a last resort as the CMO or the CNS will have to justify
their actions to Starfleet Command.
Out of Character
Generally only the Captain and the SM have any say in out of
character matters with the SM as the ultimate authority. If there is
a disagreement between the Captain and the SM, either party can take
the issue to their FM (Fleet Manager). If no resolution is reached
then the matter can be taken by the FM to the DM (Division Manager).
If there still is an issue then the DM has the right to take it to
the Chief Moderator who has the final say in the matter.
Orders on the bridge
There is a definitive but fine line in the Chain of Command on the bridge and often times that line gets blurred in the midst of a crisis. Different situations call for different command structures, although the Captain is always the final word on any given order.
Relieving the standing Bridge Officer
When an officer is placed in command of the bridge by either the Captain, the XO or the 2nd Officer they retain that command unless they relinquish it to a higher rank or are relived by either the 2nd Officer, the XO or the Captain. If an officer is placed in command, a higher ranking officer that is not a part of the command staff cannot relieve that officer, no matter what the standing bridge officer's rank or position. It is customary for the junior officer to offer command to the ranking officer and it is customary that unless there is a pressing need the senior officer will decline the offer and let the junior officer continue their watch.
Orders in Battle
During a battle, time is of the essence so the normal issuance of orders is usually suspended. During normal operations the Captain will often give an order either directly or indirectly and leave it up to the XO to make certain it is carried out. During a battle the Captain will always give an order directly to whichever officer the order pertains to, bypassing the XO. The XO will pay close attention and fill in any gaps that may occur during this hectic time. For example: The Captain may be issuing orders for the FCO to fly a certain evasive
maneuver while the XO instructs the CTO to raise shields. They must always work as a team, complimenting each other in a show of unity. At all times the XO must defer to the Captain, although they are not only encouraged but expected to give their advice and insights to the best solution to the situation. Advice the Captain is expected to take into consideration.
The one cardinal rule is...only the Captain may give the order to fire weapons. Regardless of the situation and what anyone on the bridge may think is the correct action. The order to fire must always originate from the Captain or the XO if the Captain is injured and cannot take command. There are times when the Captain may order the CTO to 'fire at will' or 'fire at your discretion'. In this event, the CTO may fire whenever they think it is the most opportune time without waiting for an order each time.
Likewise the FCO can continue evasive maneuvers at their discretion if ordered to take evasive action without a particular
maneuver being dictated.
Countermanding orders
The XO may countermand any order given by any officer except for the Captain. The Captain, of course, can countermand any orders given on the ship regardless of who gave them, unless the Captain is deemed unfit by medical or the CNS for some reason and is temporarily relieved of command. Even if an Admiral is on board visiting, the Captain is still in charge and may countermand any order the Admiral gives to any of the crew (although it is not advisable without a darn good reason).
In the case where an officer was given two conflicting orders by two superior officers except for the 2nd, XO or CO, the officer must obey the most senior officer. If that is not distinguishable, then the officer may take their case to the XO for arbitration.
If an order was given that contradicted Starfleet rules and regulations or was immoral, then the officer may refuse to obey without fear of prosecution. but they must be able to prove that the order went against the rules, regulations and policies of Starfleet.
If it is questionable then they may take their concerns to the XO or the Captain. Generally though, unless the Captain and/or the XO are under the influence of some Alien entity or are ill, the officer usually follows the order, trusting that their commanding officers have a good reason for the order and will not betray them
Rewards & Discipline
A more detailed account of the Rewards and Discipline Guidelines can
be found in the players handbook under ESPC guidelines
Rewarding good effort
Letters of commendation
This applies to both in character and out of character. Any senior officer may send to the Captain a letter of commendation to award one or more of their subordinates for an exceptional job well done. The XO and/or the Captain may submit letters for any member of the crew including each other. It is then the Captain's
responsibility to bring it to the SM and discuss whether the letter has merit or not. The XO is usually involved in this discussion as well unless, of course, it is the XO that is being discussed. If the XO is submitting a letter about the Captain than the XO may take it straight to the SM bypassing the normal chain of command. If the request has merit then the SM will add that to the character's file (Note: This does not mean the player's file only the character that is on the ship/station where the request was made. ODN will automatically send out a letter to the recipient. There are three levels of Letters of Recommendations. These are dependent upon the degree of merit. They are listed here from the highest honor on down:
Starfleet Command Letter of Commendation
Admiral’s Letter of Commendation
Captain’s Letter of Commendation
Following is a list of actions that merit a Letter of Commendation plus an example of a Letter of Commendation sent automatically by ODN:
Exemplary Service
Outstanding Performance of Duties Under Extreme Conditions
Outstanding Performance of Duties
Bravery
Valor
Courage
Excellence in Administrative Duties
Victory Against Overwhelming Odds
Lifesaving
Honorable Acts
Charitable Acts
Creative Thinking
Commendation
TO: <Abv. Rank & Char. Full Name> <Current Position / Ship Name / NCC> <Serial
Number>
CC:
<CO Abv. Rank & Char. Full Name>, CO <Ship Name & NCC>
FROM: Vice-Admiral Norman Fraser, Starfleet Personnel
DATE: Stardate
<Date>
SUBJECT: Service Award
<Abv. Rank & Char. Full Name>,
By the request of the , Starfleet Command is pleased to present you with the Letter of Commendation for on Stardate . In accordance with Starfleet protocols, this award will be recorded on your service record. Congratulations and keep up the excellent work.
Vice-Admiral Norman Fraser
Starfleet Personnel
Rewarding Good Effort By the Player
Each player's file has a comments area that can be viewed by the staff. This area is reserved for both favorable and unfavorable comments about the player...not
their characters. The Captain or XO can send their remarks to the SM and if approved, the SM will post them in the player's file. Only the SM is allowed to post into these comments. If either the Captain or the XO is a staff member, they still need to send their comments to their SM for posting.
Starfleet Medals and Awards
This is a list of the medals that are generally awarded. These
are listed from the highest honor down.
United Federation of Planets Medal of Honor
The Medal of Honor is awarded by the President in the name of
United Federation of Planets Council to one who distinguishes
himself or herself conspicuously by gallantry and intrepidity at the
risk of his life or her life above and beyond the call of duty;
while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an
opposing foreign force; or while serving with friendly foreign
forces engaged in an armed conflict against an opposing armed force
in which the United Federation of Planets is not a belligerent party.
The deed performed must have been one of personal bravery or
self-sacrifice so conspicuous as to clearly distinguish the
individual above his comrades and must have involved risk of life.
Incontestable proof of the performance of the service will be
exacted and each recommendation for the award of this decoration
will be considered on the standard of extraordinary merit.
The Star Cross
Awarded to officers and enlisted personnel of Starfleet who
distinguish themselves by extraordinary heroism, not justifying the
award of the Medal of Honor, in military operations against an armed
enemy. Originally awarded for combat heroism and other distinguished
service; it is not necessarily a combat decoration only, awarded for
extraordinary heroism in the presence of great danger and personal
risk. It is now the second highest decoration for Starfleet
personnel.
Starfleet Medal of Valor
The star is awarded to any member of Starfleet who, while serving
in any capacity, distinguished themselves by gallantry in action
against an enemy of the United Federation of Planets, or while
serving with friendly forces against an opposing armed enemy force.
It is awarded for combat action only, and ranks as the third highest
valor decoration of Starfleet.
Starfleet Distinguished Service Medal
The medal is awarded to any member of Starfleet who, while
serving with Starfleet in any capacity, distinguishes themselves by
exceptionally meritorious service to the Federation in a duty of
great responsibility. Awarded for combat or non-combat services.
Legion of Honor
Awarded by the Commander in Chief of Starfleet to military
officers who perform exceptionally meritorious service in a degree
of great responsibility while in Starfleet.
Silver Palm
This is awarded to any person in any branch of Starfleet service
who, while serving in any capacity with Starfleet or the United
Federation of Planets shall distinguish themselves by heroic or
meritorious achievement or service; not a combat decoration.
Starfleet Meritorious Service Medal
Awarded to any member of Starfleet of the United Federation of
Planets who distinguishes himself or herself by either outstanding
achievement or meritorious service to the United Federation of
Planets. It was established as a junior award of the Silver Palm for
the recognition of meritorious non-combat services.
Starfleet Command Commendation for Conspicuous Gallantry
Originally created as a ribbon called the Pantereas Commendation
Ribbon, it was the first of the commendation awards. Awarded to
members of Starfleet, who distinguish themselves by heroism,
outstanding achievement or meritorious service. This is a personal
decoration, which has often been awarded for Life Saving, in place
of the medals originally created for that purpose and is junior to
the Starfleet Command Meritorious Service Medal.
Starfleet Decoration for Valor (rank must be LtCmdr and lower
)
Awarded [LtCmdr and Lower] and enlisted personnel serving in any
capacity with Starfleet who distinguish themselves by outstanding
professional achievement or for leadership. Originally a non-combat
award, the achievement medal is now awarded for both combat and
non-combat service. The combat cluster device is worn on the ribbon
if stipulated in the citation.
Starfleet Surgeons Medal (Medical Staff Only )
Awarded to anyone serving exclusively in the Starfleet Medical
Corps who rescues, or endeavors to rescue, any other person from
exposure, shipwreck, or other peril of Space. The rescue must take
place in space within the United Federation of Planets or subject to
U.F.P jurisdiction, or one of the parties must be a citizen of the
United Federation of Planets, and the rescue must have been made at
the risk of the rescuer's own life, with evidence of extreme and
heroic daring.
Starfleet Silver Lifesaving Medal (Non-Medical Staff Only)
Awarded to any person in Starfleet who rescues, or endeavors to
rescue, any other person from exposure, shipwreck, or other peril of
the Space. The rescue must take place in space within the United
Federation of Planets or subject to U.F.P jurisdiction, or one of
the parties must be a citizen of the United Federation of Planets.
Axanar Humanitarian Medal
This is awarded to members of Starfleet who distinguished
themselves by meritorious direct participation in a significant act
or operation of humanitarian nature, or who have rendered a service
to mankind. Operations which merit consideration for the Medal
include: disaster, flood, Plague, and Relief work, or rescue
operations anywhere in the Galaxy.
Vulcan Scientific Legion of Honor Medal (Science and Medical
Staff Only )
Awarded by the Vulcan Science Academy for outstanding
performances, discoveries or research in the Scientific Fields.
Traditionally, this award went exclusively to Officers and Enlisted
Personnel in the Starfleet Sciences Department.
United Federation of Planets Council Peace Medal
(Only for Diplomatic Missions)
Commends an individual who has set a personal example of foster
peace, co-operation and mutual respect between divergent species.
Purple Heart
It is awarded for combat action only, and is awarded to any
person wounded in action while serving Starfleet of the United
Federation of Planets. It is also awarded posthumously to the next
of kin of personnel killed in action, or who died of wounds received
in action.
Promotions
The Captain, XO and the SM must meet and evaluate the players and
determine whether they are entitled to a promotion or not. There are
various factors that come into play:
Mission Attendance
Log Completion & Substance
Quality of Game Interaction
Character Attitude:
Player Attitude
There are 3 actions that can be taken. A promotion, a demotion or a
'no action'. These are explained in detail in the players handbook.
Note: It is possible that there may be an outstanding player that
deserves promotion but their character may not due to some action
they had their character do. The promotion is primarily for the
character...not the player. It is deemed a courteous gesture that
when this situation arises a personal letter from the Captain
explaining that they are aware that the player is exceptional...it
is their character that is not getting the promotion. Most times,
when a player deliberately makes their character conduct
inappropriate actions they are aware of the consequences.
Once the decision has been made the SM will apply the appropriate
action to the player's character file. Following is an example of a
letter of promotion and a letter of 'no action'. If a letter of 'no
action' is sent, it is deemed a courtesy that the Captain also write
a personal letter explaining why in more detail.
Promotion Letter:
TO: <Full Rank Character Name>, <Assignment>, <Serial Number>
CC: <Full Rank Character Name of Commanding Officer>, <Assignment>
FROM: Admiral Norman Fraser, Starfleet Personnel
STARDATE: YYYMM.DD
SUBJECT: Letter of Commendation
<Abr. Rank Character's Last Name>,
By the request of <Abr. Rank and Last Name of Commanding Officer>
you have been awarded a <Level of Letter if any> Letter of
Commendation for <Specific Reason> on this Stardate of <YYYMM.DD>.
This commendation will be recorded on your permanent record.
Congratulations and keep up the excellent work.
Admiral Norman Fraser
Starfleet Personnel
Letter of No Action
<Abr. Rank and Last Name of Character>
This letter is to inform you that per the evaluation guidelines of
Star Trek: A Call to Duty, your performance and record onboard the
has been reviewed by the Command Crew and SM. The decision has been
made that, at this time, no action will be taken. Please be assured
that the Command Staff has every confidence in your abilities as a
player and character amongst this crew.
If you would like to discuss the reasons for this decision, you may
contact either the Captain or SM and we would be happy to provide
feedback on your involvement in Star Trek: A Call to Duty. Per the
guidelines for evaluation, your character will be reviewed again
within the next five months. All of us look forward to continued
game play with you and your character.
<SM Name>
<SM Email Address>
Disciplining poor effort
Unfortunately there are times when poor effort by a player must
be addressed. It is the Captain's and the XO's duty to try and
intervene before disciplinary action is taken. If it is an in
character problem then the matter should be taken up solely in
character. Any out of character problems should be addressed out of
character and privately between the command staff and the player.
The SM should be kept informed of any situation and if necessary,
should be included in any discussions with the player. Never should
a player be disciplined in public before the rest of the other
players.
Verbal reprimands
In Character
If a member of the crew needs a verbal reprimand, it is the
XO's duty to conduct it in private with the crewmember. this may
be done in the Captain's Ready Room if the Captain is not using it
or the Briefing Room. If the XO deems it necessary, the Captain
may be included in the discussion.
Out of Character
If a player requires a verbal reprimand it should be conducted
in a privately with that player by the Captain, with the XO and
possibly the SM included. If the SM is not required to be there,
they should also be informed of the situation and a copy of all
conversation with the player forwarded to the SM.
Written Reprimands
In Character
If a member of the crew warrants a written letter of reprimand,
it is the XO's duty to draw one up and present it to the Captain
for review. Then the Captain will forward it to the Admiral (SM)
for approval for it to be placed in the crewmember's file (character's
file). The letter should state exactly what the reason for the
reprimand is and the outcome of that action.
Out of Character
The Captain may send a letter to the player with a copy going
to the SM and the XO. This is for player actions only. The SM may
decide to become involved or not depending on the situation. The
Captain is well within their rights to discuss the situation with
the XO and the SM first before taking this action. Depending on
the severity of the undesirable behavior, the Captain may send
comments to the SM which, upon approval by the SM, can be posted
into the player's comments.
Demotions
Often times a player may have their character purposely display
conduct unbecoming of an officer or have them perform some action
that warrants a demotion. This should be brought to the Captain by
the XO. If the action warrants a demotion, a report will be
written by the Captain and sent to the Admiral (SM). Upon the
Admiral's approval the SM will enter the demotion into the
character's file and drop them to the next lowest rank.
It is courtesy for the Captain to address the player and
double-check that they are aware that their character's actions
can result in a demotion. Often times the player is unaware that
one of the consequences may be a demotion for their character. If
that is the case, often times a reprimand will be issued and
placed in the character's file instead of the demotion.
Various Punishments
In Character
There are certain punishments that a senior officer can assign
to lower ranking crew members. If the crewmember thinks they are
being treated unfairly by the senior officer they have the right
to take their case to the XO. If the senior officer is the XO or
the Captain, the crewmember must complete the punishment
regardless of their feelings about the matter. Following is a few
examples of punishments. This is in no way a definitive list but
just a reference:
Confined to quarters for a period of time.
Assigned extra duty.
Transferred to an undesirable duty for a period of time.
Time in the Brig.
Loss of privileges (eg holodeck).
Loss of shore leave
Out of Character
Usually all out of character punishments are conducted by the
Captain, SM and the XO together in agreement. These may be
anything from suspension for one or two missions up to complete
expulsion from the ship/station. If expulsion is decided then it
is taken completely out of the Captain's and XO's hands and dealt
with by the SM through their chain of command.
Court-Martial offences
In the event that an accusation is made against an officer in
ACTD, the following guidelines are to be followed to the letter
unless there are mitigating circumstances. Although all ACTD
Captains can call for an investigation of personnel under their
command, most ranking officers prefer to conduct their own
inquiries and submit their own subordinates for court martial.
Accusations of misconduct on the part of a Starfleet Command
officer shall be made promptly in writing to the immediate
Commanding Officer of the accusing officer.
· Any officer of the rank Captain or higher can submit a
subordinate for immediate court martial (though frivolously
abusing this right is itself a court martial offense)
· The commanding officer shall immediately thereafter forward the
accusation to the SM who, in-turn, shall immediately inform the
FM.
· An investigator is assigned to the case to gather information
and to determine if court martial proceedings are warranted. If no
investigator is available to conduct an investigation, it falls to
the highest-ranking officer to appoint an investigator-normally
the Head of Security.
· Once the investigator has deemed that there is adequate evidence,
a court martial is convened.
· As part of the formal order of court martial, the presiding
representative of the SM nominates both a prosecuting advocate and
an advocate for the defense.
· If no suitable advocates are available, the SM can nominate any
available ACTD officer as ad hoc advocates.
· The accused always have the right to refuse the nominated
defense advocate and either serves as his/her own advocate or
appoint an eligible officer of their choice.
· A panel of three judges presides over the proceedings, usually
members of ACTD staff and Commanding Officers of ships. If none
are available, the SM typically appoints an ad hoc judge-the
highest-ranking officer available.
· Only officers ranked Captain or higher can serve as judges, and
no officer with an obvious conflict of interest, such as
friendship, is allowed to serve.
· If possible the representative who signs the order for court
martial appoints a full three-judge panel.
· The accused has the right to request orally on the record or in
writing, a trial by military judge alone (without members). Before
choosing to be tried by judge alone, an accused is entitled to
know who the judge will be. The trial counsel (prosecutor) may
argue against a request for a judge-alone trial when presented.
The judge rules on the request and, if the request is granted, the
court members are dismissed for that case only.
Court-Martial procedures
Procedurally, a court martial is handled very much like a
civilian criminal trial. Both sides make their opening statements.
The prosecution presents it's witnesses and any evidence. The
defense makes it's case. Each side has the right to cross-examine
the witnesses presented by the other side. Each side then makes
it's closing statement. Unlike civilian trials court martial
proceedings to not employ juries; guilt or innocence is determined
by the panel of judges.
Appeals
All officers of ACTD found guilty of an offense may either
accept and agree to the specifications of charges lodged against
them or they may request an appeal.
· To file your appeal you must make a submission to the Chat
Moderator.
· Once a matter has been submitted to Chat Moderator there is no
turning back, all matters in the hands of Chat Moderator will
follow the appropriate course until a verdict is set down.
· Once the Chat Moderator has received an application, it shall
set a hearing date and then it will proceed with its rules of
conduct, which are itemized in the policies section.
· At this time the officer charged with an offense shall not use
the ACTD name in game and shall be temporarily suspended of all
rank and privileges until such a time as the Chat Moderator has
handed down its verdict.
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In Character
Duties
Primary Objective