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RS Bylaws Revision
Members of the Rebel Squadrons,
Recently, High Command has been in discussion regarding a number of changes to the RS Bylaws. I’m pleased to announce that after this lengthy discussion, a vote was held and the new revisions have been adopted. For those interested in what has been altered, this email will list each section of the previous RS Bylaws, followed by the revised section that has been adopted in bold.
1.2 Membership Participation
It is intended that each member is to have the opportunity, if they so choose, to advance through the ranks to the limits of their leadership capabilities, and that all members be allowed freedom of choosing the extent to which they will, or will not, actively participate.
1.2 membership participation
It is intended that all members have the opportunity to join whichever divisions they wish, and that all members be allowed to participate within the limits of their abilities, or within the limits set by their commanding officers.
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2.2 Chain of Command
The Chain of Command (CoC) is required for organizational and hierarchical purposes and is the proper channel for specific complaints, appeals, suggestions, requests and promotions. All officers, no matter what their position in the RS, should use the CoC in this way. The standard Chain of Command is Squad XO/CO-> Wing XO/CO -> Fleet XO/CO -> RSFC-> HC.
2.2 Chain of Command
The Chain of Command (CoC) is required for organizational and
hierarchical purposes and is the proper channel for specific
complaints, appeals, suggestions, overall authority, and requests. All officers, no matter what their position in the RS, should use theCoC in this way.
The Primary Chain of Command (PCoC) is Squad XO/CO -> Wing
XO/CO -> Division XO/CO. Only as a last resort should the Fleet
Commander or Executive Officer be contacted.
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2.3 High Command
The highest administrative body of the RS shall be the High Command (HC), which bears the responsibility to enact policies, which further the mission of the RS. The HC bears final responsibility for interpreting and applying RS policies and regulations. It may also enact new policies and regulations or modify existing ones.
All HC discussions, and any part thereof, are to be considered private unless HC agrees otherwise on a topic-by-topic basis.
The voting membership of HC shall consist of all active Fleet Commanding Officers and an additional number of selected officers, although it is understood that there may be exceptions to this rule in certain circumstances.
Any decision reached by HC must be by a simple majority of active HC voting members.
A call to vote may be introduced by any active HC voting member or the Fleet Commander at any time discussion is deemed to be over, or progress considered stalled.
HC may reverse any action by any officer in the RS by a simple majority vote.
2.3 High Command
The highest administrative body of the RS shall be the High Command (HC), which bears the responsibility to enact policies, which further the mission of the RS. The HC bears final responsibility for interpreting and applying RS policies and regulations. It may also enact new policies and regulations or modify existing ones.
All HC discussions, and any part thereof, are to be considered private unless HC agrees otherwise on a topic-by-topic basis.
HC will consist of at least 9 voting members at all times. All division COs will be considered to be voting members, and an appropriate number of Aldermen will be added to the number of division COs to bring the total number up to at least 9. In addition, at no point in time will the number of Aldermen be less than 2, even if this causes the number of voting members in HC to exceed 9."
Any decision reached by HC must be by a simple majority of active HC voting members.
A call to vote may be introduced by any active HC member or the Fleet Commander at any time discussion is deemed to be over, or progress considered stalled. Once a vote is called it is understood that all voting members respond within 2 weeks, unless otherwise agreed upon. After a majority vote has been cast, if the motion is said to have passed it will go into effect after 24 hours regardless of outstanding votes. All outstanding votes must reply with a reason for lateness, unless reasons were previously stated. Changing of votes are allowed unless otherwise noted.
HC may reverse any action by any officer in the RS by a simple majority vote.
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2.4 RS Fleet Commander
The Rebel Squadrons Fleet Commander (FC) is the individual with the highest executive authority in the RS.
This officer will execute the mission statement of the RS to the full extent of his or her abilities at all times; shall be responsible for ensuring the effective operations of HC, for facilitating smooth day-to-day operations of the RS, and shall be elected, or removed from office, by a simple majority vote of HC members. The FC does not have a vote in HC, except as a tiebreaker. Under this circumstance the FC should strive to resolve the deadlocked vote by way of the best compromise available.
It is intended that the FC should be selected from current or previous members of the High Command, and that this officer be a previous or active Fleet Commanding Officer. Should the FC be a Fleet Commanding Officer at the time they are voted in to the position, he or she is expected to resign from command of his/her Fleet, and the FC position should be his or her only major command responsibility.
2.4 RS Fleet Commander
The Rebel Squadrons Fleet Commander (FC) is the individual with the highest executive authority in the RS.
This officer will execute the mission statement of the RS to the full extent of his or her abilities at all times; shall be responsible for ensuring the effective operations of HC, for facilitating smooth day-to-day operations of the RS, and shall be elected, or removed from office, by a simple majority vote of HC members. The FC does not have a vote in HC, except as a tiebreaker. Under this circumstance the FC should strive to resolve the deadlocked vote by way of the best compromise available.
It is intended that the FC should be selected from current or previous members of the High Command, and that this officer be a previous or active Division Commanding Officer. Should the FC be a Division Commanding Officer at the time they are voted in to the position, he or she is expected ,but not required, to resign from command of his/her division, and the FC position should be his or her only major command responsibility.
When the current Fleet Commander leaves office for whatever reason, a general call for applicants is to be held for a time span of 2 weeks.
Any RS officer who is an active XO/CO of a wing or higher is
eligible for nomination. Once nominations are in, a new Fleet
Commander will be chosen from the applicants by a simple majority
vote of High Command. If no majority can be reached, the 2 most voted upon members will 'run-off' against each other, being the only two choices in a second round of voting. In the event of extenuating circumstances (multi-member tie, etc.) HC is authorized to use whatever means necessary to secure a new Fleet Commander from the poolof applicants.
During the application period, the RSXO is considered to be the Acting Fleet Commander and assumes all responsibilities therein. If the RSXO is not available, the next highest ranking officer in the RS Line of Succession is considered to be the Fleet Commander.
A member of High Command may nominate any member of the RS, regardless of their position, so long as at least two other members of HC agree with the nomination, not including the one who nominated the member.
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2.5 RS Executive Officer
The Rebel Squadrons Executive Officer (RSXO) is the individual who bears responsibility for the Rebel Squadrons in the event that the FC is unable to perform his/her duties. The RSXO shall assist the FC and be appointed, or replaced, by the FC as deemed necessary.
As with the FC, it is intended that the RSXO should be selected from the active or previous members of High Command, and that this officer be a previous or active Fleet Commanding Officer. Should the FC or the HC deem it appropriate, the RSXO position will be his/her only command position in the RS, and he or she will be expected to resign all other command positions.
2.5 RS Executive Officer
The Rebel Squadrons Executive Officer (RSXO) is the individual who bears responsibility for the Rebel Squadrons in the event that the FC is unable to perform his/her duties. The RSXO shall assist the FC and be appointed, or replaced, by the FC as deemed necessary. The Executive officer acts with the full authority of the RS FleetCommander.
As with the FC, it is intended that the RSXO should be selected from the active or previous members of High Command, and that this officer be a previous or active Fleet Commanding Officer. Should the FC or the HC deem it appropriate, the RSXO position will be his/her only command position in the RS, and he or she will be expected to resign all other command positions.
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2.7 Executive Staff
It is understood that the FC will need help in executing his or her job. For this reason, the FC may appoint as many Executive Staff members as he or she sees fit. Because all RS members will undoubtedly be interested in this Executive Staff, it is required that the FC keep a current list of active staff positions available at all times.
Any officer of the Executive Staff is appointed solely by the FC, and therefore holds as much authority as the FC wishes to imbue him or her with, up to and including the upper limits of the FC's authority as described in section 2.4. For this reason, RS members should treat orders from an Executive Staff officer as if the orders had come from the FC.
2.7 Executive Staff
It is understood that the FC will need help in executing his or her job. For this reason, the FC may appoint as many Executive Staff members as he or she sees fit. Because all RS members will undoubtedly be interested in this Executive Staff, it is required that the FC keep a current list of active staff positions available at all times.
Any officer of the Executive Staff is appointed solely by the FC, and therefore holds as much authority as the FC wishes to imbue him or her with, up to and including the upper limits of the FC's authority as described in section 2.4. For this reason, RS members should treat orders from an Executive Staff officer as if the orders had come from the FC.
It is expected that all Executive offices submit a report to the Fleet Commander on a monthly basis. The exception to this rule is the Council of Justice, who submits a report to High Command after every case. This report does not have to be long, but it should explain what the office has been doing and any problems or requests should be brought to the Fleet Commander's attention then.
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3.1 Unit Design
The Rebel Squadrons is a federation of Fleets, each of which has its own policies, regulations, and administrative structures. No Fleet, however, shall act in a manner contradicting established Rebel Squadrons policy.
Each Fleet shall minimally consist of four Squadrons, or the equivalent. These Squadrons may be split into Wings at the discretion of the Fleet Commanding Officer.
Exceptions to this rule may apply with the agreement of the Fleet Commanding Officer and the Fleet Commander.
3.1 Unit Design
The Rebel Squadrons is a group of Divisions, each of which has its own policies, regulations, and administrative structures. No Division, however, shall act in a manner contradicting established Rebel Squadrons policy.
Each Division will consist of however many squadrons and/or wings it deems necessary. Provided it does not go below the limit for Division status. (See 3.2 below)
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3.2 Fleet Status
All gaming platforms, or other groups in the RS, will begin as divisions of Redemption Fleet, unless the FC and RF CO together agree to cede the gaming platform to a different Fleet.
At the time they are considered ready for Fleet status, the RF CO will bring the division before HC and they will establish or deny Fleet status by a simple majority vote.
3.2 Division Status
All gaming platforms, or other groups in the RS, will begin as
units of Redemption Fleet, unless the FC and RF CO together agree
to cede the platform to a different Division.
A Division will consist of at least 50 active members not including AWOL or LOA members, with at least 30 members participating over the period of 6 months. The Redemption Commanding Officer may amend this as needed and within reason.
At the time they are considered ready for Division status, the RF CO will bring the division before HC and they will establish or deny status by a simple majority vote. At this time, the division's current Commanding Officer is expected to be given command of the promoted unit; however under extenuating circumstances; the RSFC has authority to change the Division CO due to Bylaw 3.4.
A Division will no longer have a vote on High Command and will be
downgraded if any or all of the following criteria are met, or a
majority HC vote is called:
1: A Division goes below 30 members not including AWOL or LOA members.
2: A division only has a constant participation rate of 15 members over any 6 month span.
3: An accurate roster is not maintained and the command staff is
"padding" their numbers.
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3.6 Squadron Command
Each Squadron shall have a Commanding Officer (Squadron CO), appointed by the Fleet CO or Wing CO, who bears responsibility for the well being of his/her Squadron. It is the Squadron CO's responsibility to keep their Squadron XO constantly informed of their Squadron's developments to facilitate any temporary or permanent transfer of Squadron command.
Each Squadron shall have an Executive Officer (Squadron XO), appointed by the Squadron CO, who bears responsibility for their Squadron in the event that their Squadron CO is unable to perform his/her duties. When this situation arises, the XO shall be the Acting Squadron CO and have all the authority and power of the Squadron CO. The Squadron XO is expected to assist the Squadron CO in the execution of his or her duties as necessary.
3.6 Squadron Command
At the discretion of the Division CO, each Squadron shall have a
Commanding Officer (Squadron CO), appointed by the Division CO or Wing CO, who bears responsibility for the well being of his/her Squadron.
It is the Squadron CO's responsibility to keep their Squadron XO
constantly informed of their Squadron's developments and to
facilitate any temporary or permanent transfer of Squadron command.
At the discretion of the Division CO, each Squadron shall have an
Executive Officer (Squadron XO), appointed by the Squadron CO, who bears responsibility for their Squadron in the event that their Squadron CO is unable to perform his/her duties. When this situation arises, the XO shall be the Acting Squadron CO and have all the authority and power of the Squadron CO. The Squadron XO is expected to assist the Squadron CO in the execution of his or her duties as necessary.
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4.1 New Members
All new members enter the Rebel Squadrons with the rank of Cadet (CDT). Once they have confirmed their wish to join, they are immediately placed in the Fleet(s) that they signed up for.
It is understood that each Fleet has a different gaming or non-gaming structure, and therefore should have differing requirements for full graduation into said Fleet. Refer to each Fleet for its own regulations regarding graduation and initial promotions.
4.1 New Members
All new members enter the Rebel Squadrons with the rank of Cadet
(CDT). Once they have confirmed their wish to join, they are
immediately placed in the RS Academy.
It is understood that each Division has a different gaming or non-gaming structure, and therefore should have differing requirements for full graduation into said Division. Refer to each Division for its own regulations regarding graduation and initial promotions.
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4.3 Promotions
To receive a promotion to ANY rank, a person should consistently show that they are dedicated to the RS. This means being active over a period of time, consistently participating in activities, and making worthwhile contributions. All promotions will be awarded for proven service only. Standards for promotions will be fair and consistent with the level of effort.
Promotion reviews will occur at the discretion of commanding officers. Every officer in a command position is required to review every member at the appropriate level who has designated their unit as their primary and grant appropriate promotions. Medals are to be considered first for short-term efforts.
Squadron CO's will review officers under their command up to Level 1 promotions. Wing CO's will review officers under their command up to Level 2 promotions. Fleet CO's will review officers under their command up to Level 3 promotions. The RSFC will review officers under their command up to Level 4 promotions.
4.2 (Renamed 4.3) Promotions
To receive a promotion to ANY rank, a person should consistently show that they are dedicated to the RS. This means being active over a period of time, consistently participating in activities, and making worthwhile contributions.
All promotions will be awarded for proven service only. Standards for promotions will be fair and consistent with the level of effort. All members may be promoted by the Chain of Command of any of their units.
Promotion reviews will occur at the discretion of commanding officers. Every officer in a command position is required to review every member at the appropriate level who has designated their unit as their primary and grant appropriate promotions. Medals are to be considered first for short-term efforts. "pre-emptive" promotions, or promotions for something someone will do/might do/planning on doing will not be tolerated and will be reversed.
Squadron CO's will review officers under their command up to Level 1 promotions. Wing CO's will review officers under their command up to Level 2 promotions. Division CO's will review officers under their command up to Level 3 promotions. The RSFC will review officers under their command up to Level 4 promotions.
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Section 5 Judiciary
5.1 Judicial Overview
The Rebel Squadrons is the finest force in the galaxy, and as such, it requires its members to adhere to the H.I.E.R. principle in all club interactions and representations. It is intended that all conflicts between our members and members of other clubs remain fictional. To this effect, the guiding principle of the Rebel Squadrons is H.I.E.R. All specific problems should be dealt with as appropriate to the time, circumstances, and people involved.
5.2 Judicial Procedures
All grievances are to be addressed through the Primary Chain of Command (PCoC), and to the Fleet Commander or the FC's designated officer if the PCoC is unclear. Grievances should be handled at the lowest level in the PCoC as possible.
When violations of RS regulations are alleged to occur, normal military judiciary procedures and investigation will ensue. The following is a list of suggested disciplinary sentences, though by no means an exhaustive one:
* Dismissal
* Compromise
* Reversal of Action
* Reprimand
* Probation
* Channel ban
* Demotion
* Removal of Command and/or Op status
* Suspension
* Expulsion
5.3 Violations
Because the Rebel Squadrons deals with a diverse number of people within a wide range of age, geographical location, cultures and sense of social acceptability, the actions that will require official attention and response include, but are not limited to:
* Verbal Abuse: The Rebel Squadrons does not tolerate non-fictional and unprovoked harassment of a public nature regardless of rank or position of either the offended or the offender.
* Discrimination: The Rebel Squadrons does not tolerate discrimination on the basis of ethnicity, age, sex, sexual orientation, religion, handicaps of any sort, computing platform, or Internet Service Provider.
* Sexual Harassment: The Rebel Squadrons does not tolerate unwanted and unprovoked sexual comments or advances.
* Cheating: The Rebel Squadrons does not tolerate cheating in any form.
* Excessively Crude Behavior: While the Rebel Squadrons command understands that slight infractions herein will tend to lend more of a flavor of reality (as defined by a vast majority of our members) to our fictional universe, excessive behavior will be addressed in order to maintain the content of our pages and chat rooms consistent with the Star Wars universe as it has been authorized by Lucas Arts Entertainment.
* Dereliction of Duty: The Rebel Squadrons does not tolerate neglect, or gross and/or repeated failure to carry out the responsibilities of a command position.
* Abuse of Authority: The Rebel Squadrons does not tolerate the use of an officer's position and rights in any way that is selfish, detrimental to other members or units, or self serving.
* Espionage: The Rebel Squadrons takes a very dim view of, and will not tolerate, non-fictional spying on, or infiltration into, other clubs for any reason whatsoever.
5.1 Judicial overview
The Council of Justice (CoJ) is the judicial body of the Rebel
Squadrons who's purpose is to solve intra-divisional, RS-Wide
complaints and handle situations that threaten the operational
integrity of the Rebel Squadrons. The Council of Justice shall consist of 3 (Three) equal-status members who serve at the bequest of the Fleet Commander. Members of the CoJ are affirmed by High Command by a simple majority vote. Any member of the Council of Justice may be removed from his/her position by the Fleet Commander at any time.
5.2 Judicial Review
All grievances are to be addressed through the Primary Chain of Command (PCoC)[See Bylaw 2.2] in the Division the grievance occurred in. In the event that the designated officer in the PCoC is unclear, or spans multiple units, the grievance should be brought to the Council of Justice as an official complaint. Grievances should be handled at the lowest level in the PCoC as possible before being brought to the COJ. Any charges against the RSFC or the RSXO should go directly to High Command.
5.3 Investigations
When violations of RS regulations are alleged to occur, normal
military judiciary procedures and investigation will ensue. The
standard sequence of events when a complaint is received is the following:
1. The accused and the accuser are contacted within 24 hours by a
member of the CoJ indicating their complaint has been received and is under processing.
2. The Council of Justice reviews the complaint and all attached
evidence, should they need additional evidence/testimony from members involved, they will secure this additional information within five (5) business days of the notification to the accused/accuser.
3. The Council of Justice will then determine if a violation has been committed by the accused party, and release a verdict within two weeks (14 days) of the original complaint.
The Council of Justice shall determine guilt or innocence by a
majority ruling of the current member body. Abstentions are
disallowed. Once their decision has been made, the Council of Justice shall draft a report detailing the complaint and ruling to High Command before informing all involved parties of the decision. The Council of Justice will keep a detailed database of all previous cases as to record precedence's set by the council, and to provide a database for use against repeat offenders/grievous offenders/etc.
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5.4, Violations and Punishments
Because the Rebel Squadrons deals with a diverse number of people
within a wide range of age, geographical location, cultures and sense of social acceptability, the actions that will require official attention are diverse.
These actions include, based on precedent, include but are not limited to:
Espionage: The Rebel Squadrons takes a very dim view of, and will not tolerate, non-fictional spying on, or infiltration into, other clubs for any reason whatsoever. This also includes spying on our Forums/IRC, and/or "hacking" our website.
1st Offense: Immediate and Permanent Expulsion from the Rebel Squadrons.
Cheating: The Rebel Squadrons does not tolerate cheating in any form.
1st Offense: One month Suspension, 1 year Probationary period,
Demotion, Demerit, Zeroed TOUR score.
2nd Offense: Immediate and Permanent Expulsion from the Rebel Squadrons.
Discrimination (ALL Types): The Rebel Squadrons does not tolerate
discrimination on the basis of ethnicity, age, sex, sexual
orientation, religion, handicaps of any sort, computing platform, or
Internet Service Provider.
1st Offense: Written Reprimand, Six month Probationary period,
promotion freeze for entire probationary period.
2nd Offense: Demotion, Demerit, 1 year Probationary period.
3rd Offense: Six Month Expulsion, 1 year Probationary period.
4th Offense: Immediate and Permanent Expulsion from the Rebel Squadrons.
Harassment (ALL types) The Rebel Squadrons does not tolerate unwanted and unprovoked sexual comments or advances. This includes other types of harassment as well. This also includes other clubs, clans, groups, or any other organization.
1st Offense: Written Reprimand, Six month Probationary period.
2nd Offense: Demotion, Demerit, 1 year Probationary period..
3rd Offense: Three Month Expulsion, 1 year Probationary period.
4th Offense: Immediate and Permanent Expulsion from the Rebel Squadrons.
Abuse of Authority: The Rebel Squadrons does not tolerate the use of an officer's position and rights in any way that is selfish,
detrimental to other members or units, or self serving.
1st Offense: Written Reprimand, Six month Probationary period.
2nd Offense: 1 month site suspension, Six month Probationary period,Demotion, Demerit
3rd Offense: 6 month Site suspension, Demotion, 1 year Probationary period.
4th Offense: Immediate and Permanent Expulsion from the Rebel
Squadrons.
Verbal abuse/crude/abusive behavior/etc - The Rebel Squadrons does not tolerate non-fictional and unprovoked harassment of a public nature regardless of rank or position of either the offended or the offender. While the Rebel Squadrons command understands that slight infractions herein will tend to lend more of a flavor of reality (as defined by a vast majority of our members) to our fictional universe, excessive behavior will be addressed in order to maintain the content of our pages and chat rooms consistent with the Star Wars universe as it has been authorized by Lucas Arts Entertainment.
1st Offense: Written Reprimand. The Council of Justice is aware thatsometimes tempers flare, this is the only charge that you,
essentially, get a 'free shot' at. This is not to say that this
charge, when combined with others is not absolutely serious... but we all must understand that tempers do flare.
2nd Offense: Reprimand, 2 week ban from IRC/Forum it was done on.
3rd Offense: Demerit, 1 month ban from IRC/Forum it was done on,
special orders to explain, in writing, why you continue to be abusive.
4th Offense: Demotion, Demerit, Two Month Ban from IRC/Forum it was done on
5th Offense and Higher (If Applicable): At this point, the Council of Justice will seriously consider further action that includes but is not limited to prolonged site/IRC bans and/or expulsion.
Dereliction of Duty: The Rebel Squadrons does not tolerate neglect, or gross and/or repeated failure to carry out the responsibilities of a command position.
1st Offense: Written Reprimand, One month Probationary period.
2nd Offense: Demotion, demerit, Six month Probationary period.
3rd Offense: Demotion, demerit, One month site suspension, Six month Probationary period.
4th Offense: Immediate and Permanent Expulsion from the Rebel
Squadrons.
Definitions: A Probationary period is defined as a span of time
wherein a member is banned from holding any command position, is
ineligible for promotion, and will be looked at with more scrutiny should additional charges come up during this time frame.
A Site Suspension is defined as a full site, IRC, Forum, and
participation ban on a member for the designated time frame.
Recently, High Command has been in discussion regarding a number of changes to the RS Bylaws. I’m pleased to announce that after this lengthy discussion, a vote was held and the new revisions have been adopted. For those interested in what has been altered, this email will list each section of the previous RS Bylaws, followed by the revised section that has been adopted in bold.
1.2 Membership Participation
It is intended that each member is to have the opportunity, if they so choose, to advance through the ranks to the limits of their leadership capabilities, and that all members be allowed freedom of choosing the extent to which they will, or will not, actively participate.
1.2 membership participation
It is intended that all members have the opportunity to join whichever divisions they wish, and that all members be allowed to participate within the limits of their abilities, or within the limits set by their commanding officers.
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2.2 Chain of Command
The Chain of Command (CoC) is required for organizational and hierarchical purposes and is the proper channel for specific complaints, appeals, suggestions, requests and promotions. All officers, no matter what their position in the RS, should use the CoC in this way. The standard Chain of Command is Squad XO/CO-> Wing XO/CO -> Fleet XO/CO -> RSFC-> HC.
2.2 Chain of Command
The Chain of Command (CoC) is required for organizational and
hierarchical purposes and is the proper channel for specific
complaints, appeals, suggestions, overall authority, and requests. All officers, no matter what their position in the RS, should use theCoC in this way.
The Primary Chain of Command (PCoC) is Squad XO/CO -> Wing
XO/CO -> Division XO/CO. Only as a last resort should the Fleet
Commander or Executive Officer be contacted.
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2.3 High Command
The highest administrative body of the RS shall be the High Command (HC), which bears the responsibility to enact policies, which further the mission of the RS. The HC bears final responsibility for interpreting and applying RS policies and regulations. It may also enact new policies and regulations or modify existing ones.
All HC discussions, and any part thereof, are to be considered private unless HC agrees otherwise on a topic-by-topic basis.
The voting membership of HC shall consist of all active Fleet Commanding Officers and an additional number of selected officers, although it is understood that there may be exceptions to this rule in certain circumstances.
Any decision reached by HC must be by a simple majority of active HC voting members.
A call to vote may be introduced by any active HC voting member or the Fleet Commander at any time discussion is deemed to be over, or progress considered stalled.
HC may reverse any action by any officer in the RS by a simple majority vote.
2.3 High Command
The highest administrative body of the RS shall be the High Command (HC), which bears the responsibility to enact policies, which further the mission of the RS. The HC bears final responsibility for interpreting and applying RS policies and regulations. It may also enact new policies and regulations or modify existing ones.
All HC discussions, and any part thereof, are to be considered private unless HC agrees otherwise on a topic-by-topic basis.
HC will consist of at least 9 voting members at all times. All division COs will be considered to be voting members, and an appropriate number of Aldermen will be added to the number of division COs to bring the total number up to at least 9. In addition, at no point in time will the number of Aldermen be less than 2, even if this causes the number of voting members in HC to exceed 9."
Any decision reached by HC must be by a simple majority of active HC voting members.
A call to vote may be introduced by any active HC member or the Fleet Commander at any time discussion is deemed to be over, or progress considered stalled. Once a vote is called it is understood that all voting members respond within 2 weeks, unless otherwise agreed upon. After a majority vote has been cast, if the motion is said to have passed it will go into effect after 24 hours regardless of outstanding votes. All outstanding votes must reply with a reason for lateness, unless reasons were previously stated. Changing of votes are allowed unless otherwise noted.
HC may reverse any action by any officer in the RS by a simple majority vote.
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2.4 RS Fleet Commander
The Rebel Squadrons Fleet Commander (FC) is the individual with the highest executive authority in the RS.
This officer will execute the mission statement of the RS to the full extent of his or her abilities at all times; shall be responsible for ensuring the effective operations of HC, for facilitating smooth day-to-day operations of the RS, and shall be elected, or removed from office, by a simple majority vote of HC members. The FC does not have a vote in HC, except as a tiebreaker. Under this circumstance the FC should strive to resolve the deadlocked vote by way of the best compromise available.
It is intended that the FC should be selected from current or previous members of the High Command, and that this officer be a previous or active Fleet Commanding Officer. Should the FC be a Fleet Commanding Officer at the time they are voted in to the position, he or she is expected to resign from command of his/her Fleet, and the FC position should be his or her only major command responsibility.
2.4 RS Fleet Commander
The Rebel Squadrons Fleet Commander (FC) is the individual with the highest executive authority in the RS.
This officer will execute the mission statement of the RS to the full extent of his or her abilities at all times; shall be responsible for ensuring the effective operations of HC, for facilitating smooth day-to-day operations of the RS, and shall be elected, or removed from office, by a simple majority vote of HC members. The FC does not have a vote in HC, except as a tiebreaker. Under this circumstance the FC should strive to resolve the deadlocked vote by way of the best compromise available.
It is intended that the FC should be selected from current or previous members of the High Command, and that this officer be a previous or active Division Commanding Officer. Should the FC be a Division Commanding Officer at the time they are voted in to the position, he or she is expected ,but not required, to resign from command of his/her division, and the FC position should be his or her only major command responsibility.
When the current Fleet Commander leaves office for whatever reason, a general call for applicants is to be held for a time span of 2 weeks.
Any RS officer who is an active XO/CO of a wing or higher is
eligible for nomination. Once nominations are in, a new Fleet
Commander will be chosen from the applicants by a simple majority
vote of High Command. If no majority can be reached, the 2 most voted upon members will 'run-off' against each other, being the only two choices in a second round of voting. In the event of extenuating circumstances (multi-member tie, etc.) HC is authorized to use whatever means necessary to secure a new Fleet Commander from the poolof applicants.
During the application period, the RSXO is considered to be the Acting Fleet Commander and assumes all responsibilities therein. If the RSXO is not available, the next highest ranking officer in the RS Line of Succession is considered to be the Fleet Commander.
A member of High Command may nominate any member of the RS, regardless of their position, so long as at least two other members of HC agree with the nomination, not including the one who nominated the member.
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2.5 RS Executive Officer
The Rebel Squadrons Executive Officer (RSXO) is the individual who bears responsibility for the Rebel Squadrons in the event that the FC is unable to perform his/her duties. The RSXO shall assist the FC and be appointed, or replaced, by the FC as deemed necessary.
As with the FC, it is intended that the RSXO should be selected from the active or previous members of High Command, and that this officer be a previous or active Fleet Commanding Officer. Should the FC or the HC deem it appropriate, the RSXO position will be his/her only command position in the RS, and he or she will be expected to resign all other command positions.
2.5 RS Executive Officer
The Rebel Squadrons Executive Officer (RSXO) is the individual who bears responsibility for the Rebel Squadrons in the event that the FC is unable to perform his/her duties. The RSXO shall assist the FC and be appointed, or replaced, by the FC as deemed necessary. The Executive officer acts with the full authority of the RS FleetCommander.
As with the FC, it is intended that the RSXO should be selected from the active or previous members of High Command, and that this officer be a previous or active Fleet Commanding Officer. Should the FC or the HC deem it appropriate, the RSXO position will be his/her only command position in the RS, and he or she will be expected to resign all other command positions.
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2.7 Executive Staff
It is understood that the FC will need help in executing his or her job. For this reason, the FC may appoint as many Executive Staff members as he or she sees fit. Because all RS members will undoubtedly be interested in this Executive Staff, it is required that the FC keep a current list of active staff positions available at all times.
Any officer of the Executive Staff is appointed solely by the FC, and therefore holds as much authority as the FC wishes to imbue him or her with, up to and including the upper limits of the FC's authority as described in section 2.4. For this reason, RS members should treat orders from an Executive Staff officer as if the orders had come from the FC.
2.7 Executive Staff
It is understood that the FC will need help in executing his or her job. For this reason, the FC may appoint as many Executive Staff members as he or she sees fit. Because all RS members will undoubtedly be interested in this Executive Staff, it is required that the FC keep a current list of active staff positions available at all times.
Any officer of the Executive Staff is appointed solely by the FC, and therefore holds as much authority as the FC wishes to imbue him or her with, up to and including the upper limits of the FC's authority as described in section 2.4. For this reason, RS members should treat orders from an Executive Staff officer as if the orders had come from the FC.
It is expected that all Executive offices submit a report to the Fleet Commander on a monthly basis. The exception to this rule is the Council of Justice, who submits a report to High Command after every case. This report does not have to be long, but it should explain what the office has been doing and any problems or requests should be brought to the Fleet Commander's attention then.
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3.1 Unit Design
The Rebel Squadrons is a federation of Fleets, each of which has its own policies, regulations, and administrative structures. No Fleet, however, shall act in a manner contradicting established Rebel Squadrons policy.
Each Fleet shall minimally consist of four Squadrons, or the equivalent. These Squadrons may be split into Wings at the discretion of the Fleet Commanding Officer.
Exceptions to this rule may apply with the agreement of the Fleet Commanding Officer and the Fleet Commander.
3.1 Unit Design
The Rebel Squadrons is a group of Divisions, each of which has its own policies, regulations, and administrative structures. No Division, however, shall act in a manner contradicting established Rebel Squadrons policy.
Each Division will consist of however many squadrons and/or wings it deems necessary. Provided it does not go below the limit for Division status. (See 3.2 below)
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3.2 Fleet Status
All gaming platforms, or other groups in the RS, will begin as divisions of Redemption Fleet, unless the FC and RF CO together agree to cede the gaming platform to a different Fleet.
At the time they are considered ready for Fleet status, the RF CO will bring the division before HC and they will establish or deny Fleet status by a simple majority vote.
3.2 Division Status
All gaming platforms, or other groups in the RS, will begin as
units of Redemption Fleet, unless the FC and RF CO together agree
to cede the platform to a different Division.
A Division will consist of at least 50 active members not including AWOL or LOA members, with at least 30 members participating over the period of 6 months. The Redemption Commanding Officer may amend this as needed and within reason.
At the time they are considered ready for Division status, the RF CO will bring the division before HC and they will establish or deny status by a simple majority vote. At this time, the division's current Commanding Officer is expected to be given command of the promoted unit; however under extenuating circumstances; the RSFC has authority to change the Division CO due to Bylaw 3.4.
A Division will no longer have a vote on High Command and will be
downgraded if any or all of the following criteria are met, or a
majority HC vote is called:
1: A Division goes below 30 members not including AWOL or LOA members.
2: A division only has a constant participation rate of 15 members over any 6 month span.
3: An accurate roster is not maintained and the command staff is
"padding" their numbers.
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3.6 Squadron Command
Each Squadron shall have a Commanding Officer (Squadron CO), appointed by the Fleet CO or Wing CO, who bears responsibility for the well being of his/her Squadron. It is the Squadron CO's responsibility to keep their Squadron XO constantly informed of their Squadron's developments to facilitate any temporary or permanent transfer of Squadron command.
Each Squadron shall have an Executive Officer (Squadron XO), appointed by the Squadron CO, who bears responsibility for their Squadron in the event that their Squadron CO is unable to perform his/her duties. When this situation arises, the XO shall be the Acting Squadron CO and have all the authority and power of the Squadron CO. The Squadron XO is expected to assist the Squadron CO in the execution of his or her duties as necessary.
3.6 Squadron Command
At the discretion of the Division CO, each Squadron shall have a
Commanding Officer (Squadron CO), appointed by the Division CO or Wing CO, who bears responsibility for the well being of his/her Squadron.
It is the Squadron CO's responsibility to keep their Squadron XO
constantly informed of their Squadron's developments and to
facilitate any temporary or permanent transfer of Squadron command.
At the discretion of the Division CO, each Squadron shall have an
Executive Officer (Squadron XO), appointed by the Squadron CO, who bears responsibility for their Squadron in the event that their Squadron CO is unable to perform his/her duties. When this situation arises, the XO shall be the Acting Squadron CO and have all the authority and power of the Squadron CO. The Squadron XO is expected to assist the Squadron CO in the execution of his or her duties as necessary.
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4.1 New Members
All new members enter the Rebel Squadrons with the rank of Cadet (CDT). Once they have confirmed their wish to join, they are immediately placed in the Fleet(s) that they signed up for.
It is understood that each Fleet has a different gaming or non-gaming structure, and therefore should have differing requirements for full graduation into said Fleet. Refer to each Fleet for its own regulations regarding graduation and initial promotions.
4.1 New Members
All new members enter the Rebel Squadrons with the rank of Cadet
(CDT). Once they have confirmed their wish to join, they are
immediately placed in the RS Academy.
It is understood that each Division has a different gaming or non-gaming structure, and therefore should have differing requirements for full graduation into said Division. Refer to each Division for its own regulations regarding graduation and initial promotions.
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4.3 Promotions
To receive a promotion to ANY rank, a person should consistently show that they are dedicated to the RS. This means being active over a period of time, consistently participating in activities, and making worthwhile contributions. All promotions will be awarded for proven service only. Standards for promotions will be fair and consistent with the level of effort.
Promotion reviews will occur at the discretion of commanding officers. Every officer in a command position is required to review every member at the appropriate level who has designated their unit as their primary and grant appropriate promotions. Medals are to be considered first for short-term efforts.
Squadron CO's will review officers under their command up to Level 1 promotions. Wing CO's will review officers under their command up to Level 2 promotions. Fleet CO's will review officers under their command up to Level 3 promotions. The RSFC will review officers under their command up to Level 4 promotions.
4.2 (Renamed 4.3) Promotions
To receive a promotion to ANY rank, a person should consistently show that they are dedicated to the RS. This means being active over a period of time, consistently participating in activities, and making worthwhile contributions.
All promotions will be awarded for proven service only. Standards for promotions will be fair and consistent with the level of effort. All members may be promoted by the Chain of Command of any of their units.
Promotion reviews will occur at the discretion of commanding officers. Every officer in a command position is required to review every member at the appropriate level who has designated their unit as their primary and grant appropriate promotions. Medals are to be considered first for short-term efforts. "pre-emptive" promotions, or promotions for something someone will do/might do/planning on doing will not be tolerated and will be reversed.
Squadron CO's will review officers under their command up to Level 1 promotions. Wing CO's will review officers under their command up to Level 2 promotions. Division CO's will review officers under their command up to Level 3 promotions. The RSFC will review officers under their command up to Level 4 promotions.
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Section 5 Judiciary
5.1 Judicial Overview
The Rebel Squadrons is the finest force in the galaxy, and as such, it requires its members to adhere to the H.I.E.R. principle in all club interactions and representations. It is intended that all conflicts between our members and members of other clubs remain fictional. To this effect, the guiding principle of the Rebel Squadrons is H.I.E.R. All specific problems should be dealt with as appropriate to the time, circumstances, and people involved.
5.2 Judicial Procedures
All grievances are to be addressed through the Primary Chain of Command (PCoC), and to the Fleet Commander or the FC's designated officer if the PCoC is unclear. Grievances should be handled at the lowest level in the PCoC as possible.
When violations of RS regulations are alleged to occur, normal military judiciary procedures and investigation will ensue. The following is a list of suggested disciplinary sentences, though by no means an exhaustive one:
* Dismissal
* Compromise
* Reversal of Action
* Reprimand
* Probation
* Channel ban
* Demotion
* Removal of Command and/or Op status
* Suspension
* Expulsion
5.3 Violations
Because the Rebel Squadrons deals with a diverse number of people within a wide range of age, geographical location, cultures and sense of social acceptability, the actions that will require official attention and response include, but are not limited to:
* Verbal Abuse: The Rebel Squadrons does not tolerate non-fictional and unprovoked harassment of a public nature regardless of rank or position of either the offended or the offender.
* Discrimination: The Rebel Squadrons does not tolerate discrimination on the basis of ethnicity, age, sex, sexual orientation, religion, handicaps of any sort, computing platform, or Internet Service Provider.
* Sexual Harassment: The Rebel Squadrons does not tolerate unwanted and unprovoked sexual comments or advances.
* Cheating: The Rebel Squadrons does not tolerate cheating in any form.
* Excessively Crude Behavior: While the Rebel Squadrons command understands that slight infractions herein will tend to lend more of a flavor of reality (as defined by a vast majority of our members) to our fictional universe, excessive behavior will be addressed in order to maintain the content of our pages and chat rooms consistent with the Star Wars universe as it has been authorized by Lucas Arts Entertainment.
* Dereliction of Duty: The Rebel Squadrons does not tolerate neglect, or gross and/or repeated failure to carry out the responsibilities of a command position.
* Abuse of Authority: The Rebel Squadrons does not tolerate the use of an officer's position and rights in any way that is selfish, detrimental to other members or units, or self serving.
* Espionage: The Rebel Squadrons takes a very dim view of, and will not tolerate, non-fictional spying on, or infiltration into, other clubs for any reason whatsoever.
5.1 Judicial overview
The Council of Justice (CoJ) is the judicial body of the Rebel
Squadrons who's purpose is to solve intra-divisional, RS-Wide
complaints and handle situations that threaten the operational
integrity of the Rebel Squadrons. The Council of Justice shall consist of 3 (Three) equal-status members who serve at the bequest of the Fleet Commander. Members of the CoJ are affirmed by High Command by a simple majority vote. Any member of the Council of Justice may be removed from his/her position by the Fleet Commander at any time.
5.2 Judicial Review
All grievances are to be addressed through the Primary Chain of Command (PCoC)[See Bylaw 2.2] in the Division the grievance occurred in. In the event that the designated officer in the PCoC is unclear, or spans multiple units, the grievance should be brought to the Council of Justice as an official complaint. Grievances should be handled at the lowest level in the PCoC as possible before being brought to the COJ. Any charges against the RSFC or the RSXO should go directly to High Command.
5.3 Investigations
When violations of RS regulations are alleged to occur, normal
military judiciary procedures and investigation will ensue. The
standard sequence of events when a complaint is received is the following:
1. The accused and the accuser are contacted within 24 hours by a
member of the CoJ indicating their complaint has been received and is under processing.
2. The Council of Justice reviews the complaint and all attached
evidence, should they need additional evidence/testimony from members involved, they will secure this additional information within five (5) business days of the notification to the accused/accuser.
3. The Council of Justice will then determine if a violation has been committed by the accused party, and release a verdict within two weeks (14 days) of the original complaint.
The Council of Justice shall determine guilt or innocence by a
majority ruling of the current member body. Abstentions are
disallowed. Once their decision has been made, the Council of Justice shall draft a report detailing the complaint and ruling to High Command before informing all involved parties of the decision. The Council of Justice will keep a detailed database of all previous cases as to record precedence's set by the council, and to provide a database for use against repeat offenders/grievous offenders/etc.
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5.4, Violations and Punishments
Because the Rebel Squadrons deals with a diverse number of people
within a wide range of age, geographical location, cultures and sense of social acceptability, the actions that will require official attention are diverse.
These actions include, based on precedent, include but are not limited to:
Espionage: The Rebel Squadrons takes a very dim view of, and will not tolerate, non-fictional spying on, or infiltration into, other clubs for any reason whatsoever. This also includes spying on our Forums/IRC, and/or "hacking" our website.
1st Offense: Immediate and Permanent Expulsion from the Rebel Squadrons.
Cheating: The Rebel Squadrons does not tolerate cheating in any form.
1st Offense: One month Suspension, 1 year Probationary period,
Demotion, Demerit, Zeroed TOUR score.
2nd Offense: Immediate and Permanent Expulsion from the Rebel Squadrons.
Discrimination (ALL Types): The Rebel Squadrons does not tolerate
discrimination on the basis of ethnicity, age, sex, sexual
orientation, religion, handicaps of any sort, computing platform, or
Internet Service Provider.
1st Offense: Written Reprimand, Six month Probationary period,
promotion freeze for entire probationary period.
2nd Offense: Demotion, Demerit, 1 year Probationary period.
3rd Offense: Six Month Expulsion, 1 year Probationary period.
4th Offense: Immediate and Permanent Expulsion from the Rebel Squadrons.
Harassment (ALL types) The Rebel Squadrons does not tolerate unwanted and unprovoked sexual comments or advances. This includes other types of harassment as well. This also includes other clubs, clans, groups, or any other organization.
1st Offense: Written Reprimand, Six month Probationary period.
2nd Offense: Demotion, Demerit, 1 year Probationary period..
3rd Offense: Three Month Expulsion, 1 year Probationary period.
4th Offense: Immediate and Permanent Expulsion from the Rebel Squadrons.
Abuse of Authority: The Rebel Squadrons does not tolerate the use of an officer's position and rights in any way that is selfish,
detrimental to other members or units, or self serving.
1st Offense: Written Reprimand, Six month Probationary period.
2nd Offense: 1 month site suspension, Six month Probationary period,Demotion, Demerit
3rd Offense: 6 month Site suspension, Demotion, 1 year Probationary period.
4th Offense: Immediate and Permanent Expulsion from the Rebel
Squadrons.
Verbal abuse/crude/abusive behavior/etc - The Rebel Squadrons does not tolerate non-fictional and unprovoked harassment of a public nature regardless of rank or position of either the offended or the offender. While the Rebel Squadrons command understands that slight infractions herein will tend to lend more of a flavor of reality (as defined by a vast majority of our members) to our fictional universe, excessive behavior will be addressed in order to maintain the content of our pages and chat rooms consistent with the Star Wars universe as it has been authorized by Lucas Arts Entertainment.
1st Offense: Written Reprimand. The Council of Justice is aware thatsometimes tempers flare, this is the only charge that you,
essentially, get a 'free shot' at. This is not to say that this
charge, when combined with others is not absolutely serious... but we all must understand that tempers do flare.
2nd Offense: Reprimand, 2 week ban from IRC/Forum it was done on.
3rd Offense: Demerit, 1 month ban from IRC/Forum it was done on,
special orders to explain, in writing, why you continue to be abusive.
4th Offense: Demotion, Demerit, Two Month Ban from IRC/Forum it was done on
5th Offense and Higher (If Applicable): At this point, the Council of Justice will seriously consider further action that includes but is not limited to prolonged site/IRC bans and/or expulsion.
Dereliction of Duty: The Rebel Squadrons does not tolerate neglect, or gross and/or repeated failure to carry out the responsibilities of a command position.
1st Offense: Written Reprimand, One month Probationary period.
2nd Offense: Demotion, demerit, Six month Probationary period.
3rd Offense: Demotion, demerit, One month site suspension, Six month Probationary period.
4th Offense: Immediate and Permanent Expulsion from the Rebel
Squadrons.
Definitions: A Probationary period is defined as a span of time
wherein a member is banned from holding any command position, is
ineligible for promotion, and will be looked at with more scrutiny should additional charges come up during this time frame.
A Site Suspension is defined as a full site, IRC, Forum, and
participation ban on a member for the designated time frame.
Comments
LJG Tarren Korr - Mon Aug 18 2008, 10:27pm
I'm new, so I whole heartedly agree with these bylaws.