Contents

• 1 Introduction
  • 1.1 The Basic Concepts of a Promotion
  • 1.2 Rank versus Authority
  • 1.3 New Member Rank
• 2 Kinds of Ranks & Promotions
  • 2.1 XP Program Promotions
  • 2.2 Promotions & Time in Grade
  • 2.4 Reduction of Time in Grade
  • 2.5 Promotions and conduct
  • 2.6 Why to NEVER expect a promotion
  • 2.7 Demotions
  • 2.8 Important for Commanding Officers
• 3 Promotion Requirements
  • 3.1 Line Officer Ranks
  • 3.2 Command Grade Ranks
• 4 Promotion Procedure
• 5 Example Recommendation
• 6 Appeals
• 7 Posthumous Promotions
• 8 Meritorious Promotions
• 9 Transfer of Rank - Enlisted to Commissioned
• 10 Reduction of Rank
• 11 Alts and P&A
• 12 Ethics

Introduction

This manual acts as a reference for composing Promotion recommendations and outlines the policies related to promotions on the USS Gallant. Any inquiries concerning promotions should be directed to the command staff.

One of the initial inquiries posed by numerous officers and crew members is, "How can I achieve promotion?" This question ranks among the most frequently asked within our community. In the subsequent points, we will endeavor to elucidate the concept of promotions as clearly as possible. For more comprehensive information regarding Promotions & Awards, please refer to the

Instead of asking yourself WHEN you will receive a promotion, consider asking WHAT actions you can take to EARN a promotion.

The Fundamental Principles of a Promotion

Journey begins for those wanting to be a contributing member of the USS Gallant.  Promotions are given to those members who choose to take the officer route within our group using our XP program.  Civilians are not eligible for promotion in Solaris as they hold no rank.

We recognize the contributions made by the crew through the XP ranks.  It is the way our group to value their contributions and activities 

The fundamental principle of any promotion is straightforward; promotions require active participation and contribution to the group. In simpler terms, the benefits you derive from USS Gallant are directly proportional to your input. When you engage with the ship in any capacity you prefer, you will eventually receive a promotion. However, if you merely fulfill your assigned duties, the process will take longer than what the XP Program suggests and necessitates a considerable amount of effort.

We urge every crew member to engage at all levels; you do not need to hold a rank or departmental office within the Gallant to be eligible for promotion. However, as previously mentioned, this path will be more prolonged and challenging to navigate. That said, if you refrain from participating outside your ship or group, achieving higher promotions will be significantly more difficult. Please be aware that Solaris Command utilizes promotions as a means to reward its members for their contributions to the ship as a collective. Solaris/USS Gallant is not obligated to promote any individual. The Command Staff will promote crew members when they deem it appropriate to do so, but never in response to a member's belief that they deserve a promotion or any demands for one.

Promotions are...

Not the ultimate goal. To put it plainly, anyone can achieve a promotion to any rank within the USS Gallant. Within our vessel, there are limited Senior positions available.

The XP Program will establish the criteria for diligent members at all levels.

Fictitious and should NOT be utilized to demean any other member. If you attempt to assert your rank or intimidate fellow members, you can anticipate swift reprimand, regardless of whether you hold the title of Captain or Crewman.

Granted for service and the responsibility to serve on the USS Gallant. They are not given based on personal favors or favoritism. Something that must be earned. You are not entitled to a promotion; it must be earned by adhering to the XP guidelines outlined in this manual.

Rank versus Authority

Rank and Authority are often mistaken for one another. Your RANK is a construct, whereas authority is tangible. A rank is conferred upon you for your service aboard the USS Gallant. The AUTHORITY of the Commanding Officer, Admiral Solaris Base Command, is necessary to carry out their administrative and managerial responsibilities.

New Member Rank

All newly joined members begin as "crewman" until they successfully complete the 60-day trial period without any problems. Upon the conclusion of this period, the crewman will be elevated to the initial rank of their selected career path.

*(Defined issues by command staff, group guidelines and rules)

• Civilian - No rank

Kinds of Ranks & Promotions

We use the Unity Star Maximum system & HUD to  award the crew with different levels formats.   Solaris Command has set a format program to define each line of rank (Military format) 

Only Command Staff can award XP points

Any member of USS Gallant can submit another member for promotions however it is the responsibility of Command Staff to monitor and ensure the names of eligible crew is submitted and maintained via a written Promotion Recommendation using the forms provided.

ANY and ALL questions regarding promotions can be directed to any Command Staff member

Promotions & Time in Grade

Numerous members believe that Time in Grade guarantees a promotion to the subsequent rank. Solaris Command considers Time in Grade as a sign that an individual may be ELIGIBLE for a promotion. Essentially, this indicates that a member who has fulfilled their responsibilities and remained active; while also satisfying all other criteria for the next rank, MAY be put forward for promotion consideration once the Time in Grade requirement is fulfilled. Eligibility does NOT imply "automatic approval."

To attain a promotion, the member must exhibit exceptional performance and demonstrate progress since their last promotion.

Reduction of Time in Grade

Although Solaris Command enforces stringent regulations regarding the use of TIG, there exists an opportunity for members who significantly exceed their usual responsibilities to have their TIG reduced by as much as up to 6 months for the purpose of promotion eligibility, contingent upon their level of engagement.

HOWEVER,

It is important to understand that maintaining consistent activity plays a crucial role in promotions. Extended times of inactivity or only engaging when you believe a promotion is imminent can greatly affect promotion suggestions.

 Command Staff at any time can reduce your XP points for any type is misbehavior or inactivity during roleplay 

Promotions and conduct

Solaris Base Command is a fan group inspired by Starfleet, as shown in the TV series "Star Trek"™. Starfleet operates under a strict framework of rules, regulations, and standards of personal behavior. At Solaris, we strive to replicate this atmosphere as closely as we can, which means we expect nothing but the best from you. We all aim to be proud members of Solaris and our starship, the USS Gallant, and we endeavor to project this pride into the world. As members of Starfleet, we expect you to conduct yourself in a manner befitting a Starfleet member. You are welcome to be as active as you wish, but if you cannot adhere to our rules and regulations or face significant challenges in following the conduct expected of a member as detailed in our guidelines, it will undoubtedly impact your chances for promotion.

A great episode of Star Trek to watch and grasp the concept of promotions is Star Trek: The Next Generation - Tapestry.(is the 15th episode of the sixth season)

The quote "If you want to get ahead, you have to take chances... stand out from the crowd, get noticed!" is spoken by Riker to Lieutenant Picard in Star Trek: The Next Generation. 

This line emphasizes the importance of taking risks and standing out to achieve success and recognition in a competitive environment

Why to NEVER expect a promotion

Members often begin tracking their XP points, TIG, and comparing them to their perceived contributions to USS Gallant and Solaris, leading to expectations of promotion. This can result in disappointment when they do not receive a promotion at the time they believe they deserve it. While these members focus solely on their perceived activity, Solaris Command evaluates additional factors to determine if a promotion is justified. Consider it this way: as you advance in XP rank, greater expectations are placed upon you. It is generally easier for an ensign to achieve a promotion to Lt JG through roleplay contributions than it is for a Lt Cmdr to be promoted to Cmdr for similar efforts.

•  A member of the USS Gallant who performs their regular duties on the ship typically does NOT receive a promotion right at their Time in Grade (TIG), but rather several months after their TIG has elapsed.
• A member of the USS Gallant who performs their regular responsibilities on the ship but also engages in mini roleplay with other crew members: MAY receive a promotion based on Time in Grade (TIG)
• A member of the USS Gallant who goes above and beyond their duties by assisting with various events. They take a more prominent role in that project for the Ship or Solaris Command. Solaris Command may consider reducing the officer's Time in Grade (TIG) by 1 to 6 months, but this is uncommon and typically occurs only during an official event.
• A member of the USS Gallant who is active but tends to get "upset" when things don't go their way may find that this negatively impacts their chances for promotion.

The more frequently we notice your name in a positive context, the higher the chances are for your promotion.

Demotions

As Solaris Command awards promotions based on your contributions to the organization, we also retain the right to revoke a promotion (demotion). Your conduct and overall behavior within our group are the primary reasons why Solaris Command may contemplate demoting one of its members. We will not let one bad apple ruin the whole tree

Important for Commanding Officers