Crewmember orientation guide

Version 2.0.0 | December 2024
Adopted on: Stardate [Unadopted]
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USS WHITE SANDS | NCC-75027

A Chapter of STARFLEET, the International Star Trek Fan Association, Inc.

Table of contents

  1. Welcome aboard
  2. 898th Marine Strike Group (MSG)
  3. Chapter finances
  4. Charity/Community service programs
  5. Crew promotions
  6. Awards and recognition program

I. Welcome aboard!

Membership is open to everyone, whether they are a member of STARFLEET or not. However, if a person participates on a regular basis, we do request they consider becoming a STARFLEET member. Thankfully, STARFLEET dues are very minimal, and joining gives that person voting rights on the USS White Sands. You can choose to be a Cadet (those under the age of 18), Federation Citizen (adult member without rank), Enlisted member, STARFLEET Officer, or STARFLEET Marine.

As of December 2024, the USS White Sands does not have local membership dues. Any interested person only needs to announce their intention to come aboard to the Commanding Officer (CO) and/or Executive Officer (XO). The CO or XO will then collaborate with that person to select a ship’s department that best aligns with their preferred functions. Please review the Chapter Finances section for additional information about events and payments.

Minors and others requiring supervision

All persons are welcome at USS White Sands events, but proper parental or guardian supervision is needed for all children under 18 years old and any persons legally requiring additional supervision. No member of this crew is expected or needed to provide transportation or supervision of an unescorted or unsupervised minor or other protected person. This rule is in place for legal reasons–this organization cannot and will not be legally responsible for the acts of minors and other protected persons, and nothing in this organization’s bylaws require any member of the organization to assume liability for any potential injury or illness that may occur if a child or protected person is left unsupervised.

If this rule is not followed at a particular function, the parent(s) or guardian(s) of those requiring supervision may be asked to take their charges and leave the event. Continued abuse of this rule may result in a request to cease participation with this chapter.

II. 898th Marine Strike Group (MSG)

The USS White Sands is home to the 898th Marine Strike Group (Combined Arms — Medical and Aerospace). The primary Military Occupational Specialties (MOSs) for the 898th are Medical and Aerospace, but Marines from all branches and MOSs are welcome to serve in the unit.

The 898th was originally organized and attached to the vessel previously in existence in Albuquerque. That chapter and the 898th were dissolved in 2014; however, many original members of the 898th are a part of this ship and decided to reform the MSG. The MSG was reactivated on board the USS White Sands on Stardate 202202.22 (Feb 22, 2022) by first OIC BDR Mike Dethlefs.

General information and qualifications

898th MSG NicknameThe Flying Medicine Men
898th MSG Motto“A spoonful of sugar helps the phaser blast go down.”
898th MSG Slogan“This will only hurt a little.”
898th Mission StatementTo protect the United Federation of Planets against all enemies, foreign and domestic, in accordance with the orders given to the Strike Group by the Commanding Officer, Forces Command, STARFLEET Marine Corps. These orders may include but are not limited to: serving as an onboard security force for the USS White Sands; setting up and defending field hospitals; deploying its fighters in support of other units and their assigned operations or conducting assault landings, depending upon the situation

Qualifications

The 898th Marine Strike Group possesses a well-defined structure outlining qualifications and training requirements for all its members. To become a member of the MSG, one must be a member in good standing with STARFLEET International and have completed the STARFLEET Marine Corps Academy’s Basic Training (SFMCA Course PD-100). Marines can choose to serve primarily with the MSG (Active-Duty Marine) or contribute part-time as a STARFLEET Marine Reserve Officer.

There are additional training requirements for leadership positions within the MSG. If a Marine is assigned to a leadership role and has not yet completed all the necessary courses, they will be given 60 days to get up to speed before assuming those responsibilities.

MSG Command Staff

The 898th MSG is organized into two sections, Medical and Aerospace, with more detachments as needed to meet the desires of the Marines aboard. The MSG Command Staff has an additional command and reporting structure in conjunction with the general operations of the USS White Sands. It is composed of the following individuals: Officer-in-Charge, Deputy Officer-in-Charge, the two Section Chiefs, a Detachment Liaison, and the Non-Commissioned Officer-in-Charge.

Officer-in-Charge (OIC)

The OIC manages all Marine activities and is assigned the Command Staff of the USS White Sands as the Tactical Officer. This dual role requires the OIC to balance the needs of the MSG with the needs of the USS White Sands. The OIC makes all decisions regarding the MSG, in consultation with the CO and XO of the White Sands. The OIC oversees filing unit reports every other month and for reporting the state of the MSG to the USS White Sands’ Command Staff. The OIC is also responsible for making final award promotion recommendations up the chain of command.

Qualifications: Must be a commissioned Marine Officer with a focus on leadership and either Aerospace (AE) or Medical (MD) qualifications. Required courses include SFMCA courses PD-100, PD-132, PD-135, PD-201, and an AE or MD qualification track. Additionally, Leadership Development courses LD-100, LD-201, and LD-211 are strongly recommended for this role.

Deputy Officer-in-Charge (DOIC)

Second-in-command of the 898th MSG, the DOIC should be ready to step into the OIC position in case the OIC is unable to fulfill his/her duties. This may be on a temporary basis or a more permanent basis. Close collaboration between the OIC and DOIC ensures a smooth handover if the DOIC needs to assume the OIC position. The DOIC also serves as the personnel manager for the Strike Group and coordinates awards and promotion recommendations to the OIC for further evaluation by the USS White Sands Command Staff.

Qualifications: Must be a commissioned Marine Officer with a focus on leadership and either Aerospace (AE) or Medical (MD) qualifications. Required courses include SFMCA courses PD-100, PD-132, PD-135, PD-201, and an AE or MD qualification track. Additionally, Leadership Development courses LD-100, LD-201, and LD-211 are strongly recommended for this role.

Aerospace Section Chief

Voting member of the MSG Command Staff. The Section Chief is the Commanding Officer for their section (Aerospace). They are charged with reporting the disposition of all Aerospace personnel to the DOIC of the Strike Group. All primary Aerospace Marines report to the Aerospace Section Chief.

Qualifications: Must be a commissioned Marine Officer who has completed SFMCA courses PD-130 and AE-291.

Medical Section Chief

Voting member of the MSG Command Staff. The Section Chief is the Commanding Officer for their section (Medical). They are charged with reporting the disposition of all Medical personnel to the DOIC of the Strike Group and aiding the CMO of the USS White Sands as needed. All primary Medical Marines report to the Medical Section Chief.

Qualifications: Must be a commissioned Marine Officer who has completed SFMCA courses PD-130 and ME-221/ME-291 or ME-301.

Detachment Liaison

Voting member of the MSG Command Staff. The Detachment Liaison represents the interests of any other Marine branch personnel assigned to the MSG. They are charged with reporting the disposition of all personnel that are not assigned to either Aerospace or Medical sections to the DOIC of the Strike Group. All Marines not assigned to either Aerospace or Medical report to the Detachment Liaison.

Qualifications: Must be a commissioned Marine Officer with a broader range of knowledge to represent potentially attached forces. This requires completing SFMCA courses PD-100, AE-100, AR-100, CE-100, MD-100, ME-100, IN-100, SO-100, and SU-100.

NCOIC (Non-Commissioned Officer-In-Charge)

Non-voting advisory member of the MSG Command Staff. Being the most senior enlisted member of the Strike Group, they represent the interests of all enlisted members of the Strike Group. They are charged with reporting the disposition of all Enlisted personnel to the DOIC of the Strike Group. They are also the organizer of any enlisted only activities or operations. All Enlisted Marines report to the NCOIC.

Qualifications: Must be a senior enlisted Marine who has completed SFMCA courses PD-100, PD-130, PD-135, NCO-100, NCO-201, and NCO-251.

III. Chapter finances

Currently, members don’t pay extra dues to participate in USS White Sands events. However, it is expected that regular attendees to ship functions be active members of STARFLEET International. This policy may be revised at any time if necessary.

Each member of the ship is responsible for their own expenses when we take part in activities that require payment, like museum visits or movie premieres. In these cases, members will either pay for themselves at the event or reimburse the person who arranges a block of tickets beforehand. Most events are planned well in advance to avoid needing members to “front” or pay for another’s attendance.

After two violations of this policy, organizers may exclude repeat offenders from the headcount, potentially barring them from the event. Further abuse may result in the member being asked to leave the ship.

Additionally, members may host get-togethers at their homes. A potluck signup sheet will allow attendees to list what they plan to bring. Crew members should read the list carefully to avoid duplicate items. No one should be expected to cover all expenses, and members should only contribute what they can afford.

IV. Charity/Community service programs

One of the founding principles of STARFLEET is to work towards building stronger communities through the efforts of its members. While participation in community service programs and the support of charitable organizations is not required, it is highly encouraged for all crew members.

The Chief of Sciences spearheads the organization of community service events. All events will be publicized to the ship to allow all crew members the opportunity to take part if they wish.

Additionally, the 898th Marine Strike Group may organize additional charity events. These events are open to all members, and we encourage everyone to participate. MSG events will also be publicized to the ship.

When participating in these events, crew members are encouraged to wear apparel showing themselves as members of the USS White Sands.

Our signature event is our winter Toys for Tots drive, one of our oldest recurring events. We also organize other events throughout the year to support various causes championed by our members.

V. Crew ranks and promotions

Upon joining the USS White Sands, you have the choice of accepting a rank or staying a Federation citizen. Those seeking a rank start as an E-1 (Crewman Recruit for STARFLEET Officers, Private for STARFLEET Marines). Completing Office Training School (OTS) with a passing grade earns you O-1 (Ensign or Second Lieutenant). Ranks beyond E-1 are awarded on a point system, which can be seen in the Appendix. You earn points through participation with the ship, such as attending business meetings, conventions, and other away missions. Time in rank is also taken into consideration. This system ensures that promotions are based on merit, not favoritism.

If you are transferring from another STARFLEET vessel, we will recognize your earlier rank. Ranks from other Star Trek fan organizations are not currently recognized.

The Executive Officer (XO) manages promotions. The XO keeps track of each member’s participation points and time in rank. Every six months (starting January 2023), the XO reviews member eligibility and recommends promotions to the Commanding Officer (CO). A list of those eligible is circulated among the Command Staff, who will have two weeks to provide comments. After this period, the CO and XO decide on promotions based on points, time in grade, and staff feedback.

We recommend keeping track of your own points to check promotion eligibility. If you believe a promotion was missed, contact the XO to discuss. The XO keeps individual records for such discussions.

FLEET level promotions

Promotions beyond Commander/Lieutenant Colonel are awarded as described in the STARFLEET International Membership Handbook section about rank and cannot be changed by this chapter. The tables above have a recommended number of points for these Fleet level promotions, but none of them can be guaranteed since the STARFLEET Executive Committee is the sole awarding authority for these promotions.

STARFLEET Marine Warrant Officers

Marine Enlisted Members of the crew may be promoted beyond the basic ranks into the Warrant Officer grades. Warrant Officers need to choose a particular branch of the SFMC as a concentration, and any Marine wishing to advance into the Warrant Officer grades should announce that intention (along with their chosen branch of the Marine Corps) to the CO, XO, and Marine OIC for the 898th MSG.

Promotional requirements to the first Warrant Officer (WO) grade are as follows:

  • 3-5 years in service to the STARFLEET Marine Corps
  • Hold the minimum rank of Sergeant
  • Complete OTS (through SFA), and PD-100, IN-100, LD-100, and NCO-100 (through SFMCA)
  • Complete a minimum of the -20 level course in their chosen branch

VI. Awards and recognition program

To reward member participation, the USS White Sands has prepared its own awards and recognition program, to compliment the Regional and FLEET awards programs. These awards are generally presented at the annual Commission Anniversary celebration. All crew members can recommend other crew members for awards, and the Command Staff will consider them. To nominate someone, please use the Award recommendation form and complete it to the best of your ability. Completed nomination forms should be sent to the XO, who will review all nominations for completeness and present them to the CS for a vote.

Awards that are sanctioned by STARFLEET are listed on the SFI website. Since these awards are presented by STARFLEET, they can take a period of 1-2 months to be sent to the chapter. If a member wishes to nominate a fellow member for these awards, they should send their nomination into the XO at least 3 months before the Anniversary party. These awards may or may not come with a ribbon or other uniform designation. Upon a vote of the CS for an Order 3rd Class award, the CO will file the nomination with STARFLEET.

The Region 17 Awards Program recognizes our hardworking and exceptional STARFLEET members in good standing. These people are recognized for their participation and support of STARFLEET and regional activities, going beyond the level of the average STARFLEET Region 17 member. More information can be found on the Region 17 website.

USS White Sands certificates

The White Sands will also present its own awards that are certificates only. These awards are local and do not come with any sort of uniform recognition. Additionally, these awards are given out based solely on their criteria; if no one has earned these awards, the awards will not be handed out. Unless the award specifically says that it is only awarded to one member, it may be awarded to all members that meet the criteria. These awards will be presented at the Commissioning Ceremony/Anniversary party, so nominations are due to the XO at least one month before the Commissioning Ceremony/Anniversary party date.

Valor and heroism

Humanitarian AwardAwarded to any member who administers humanitarian aid (including first aid) to someone without placing his/her own life in danger.
Khitomer MedalAwarded to any member wounded seriously enough to require medical attention during a ship function.
Medal of ValorAwarded for heroism at the risk of personal safety. Requires nominations by two members in good standing, one of which must be a member of the Command Staff.

Distinguished service and achievement

Cadet AwardAwarded to one cadet member per year for outstanding service to the ship.
Captain Janeway AwardAwarded to one adult officer per year for outstanding service to the ship.
Captain Kirk AwardAwarded to one adult member per year for outstanding service to the ship.
Chief O’Brien AwardAwarded to one adult enlisted member per year for outstanding service to the ship.
Civilian Achievement AwardAwarded to any civilian member who has made an outstanding contribution to the ship.
Departmental CommendationAwarded by a Department Head to any member of their department who has made a significant contribution. Receipt of this award does not disqualify a member from receiving other awards.
Distinguished ServiceAwarded to any member for distinguished service to the ship. Requires nominations by two members in good standing, one of which must be a member of the Command Staff.
Reserve Corps Service AwardAwarded to any member in reserve, detachment or correspondence status who contributes to the ship in a way deserving of recognition.
Transwarp CommendationAwarded to any member for distinguished service during an away mission. Requires nominations by two members in good standing, one of which must be a member of the Command Staff.

Specific service awards

Ambassadorial Service MedalAwarded to any member who participates in an away mission with another Star Trek-related club. This may be cooperative or competitive and must be done while obviously participating as a crew member of the USS White Sands. Crew members who are also members of the same fan organization are not eligible.
Away Mission AwardAwarded to any member who participates in an away mission with another non-Star Trek-related club. This may be cooperative or competitive and must be done while obviously participating as a crew member of the USS White Sands. Crew members who are also members of the same organization are not eligible.
Civil Service AwardAwarded to any member who participates in community service activities/events outside of regular ship activities.
Crew Excellence Service AwardAwarded to any member who maintains at least a 90% attendance rate for all ship events for one calendar year.
Freighter Service AwardAwarded to any member who provided equipment transportation services during an out of town away mission, such as transporting gear or food items for a ship activity.
Good Samaritan AwardAwarded to any member who participates in a Charity event in the ship’s name.
Public Relations AwardAwarded to any member who served the ship during a convention.
Recruitment MedalAwarded to any member who recruits at least 5 active members to the ship and STARFLEET International.
Shuttle Service AwardAwarded to any member who provides carpooling services to other ship members during an out of town away mission. Family members are not included.

Length of service

1 Year Service CrossAwarded to any member in good standing who has served the ship as a member for one year.
5 Year Service CrossAwarded to any member in good standing who has served the ship as a member for five years.
10 Year Service CrossAwarded to any member in good standing who has served the ship as a member for ten years.

Charter membership recognition

The following awards were only awarded once to recognize the charter members of the USS White Sands.

Charter Member AwardAwarded to all adult crew members of the ship upon Commissioning as an active vessel. Only awarded once.
Cadet Charter Member AwardAwarded to all cadet crew members of the ship upon Commissioning as an active vessel. Only awarded once.

Appendix A: Abbreviations and acronyms

STARFLEET International

CQCommuniquéFOSFlag Officer’s School
MSGMarine Strike GroupOCCOfficers’ Command College
OTSOfficers’ Training SchoolRCRegional Coordinator
SFASTARFLEET AcademySFISTARFLEET International
SFMCSTARFLEET Marine CorpsSFMCASTARFLEET Marine Corps Academy
ShOCShakedown OperationsVRCVice Regional Coordinator

Ranks and offices

BDRBrigadierBGNBrigadier General
CAPTCaptainCDRCommander
COCommanding OfficerCOBChief of the Boat
COMMCommodoreCRRCrewman Recruit
CSCommander, STARFLEETCSOur ship’s Command Staff
CWOChief Warrant OfficerDOICDeputy Officer in Charge
ECSFI Executive CommitteeENSEnsign
FADMFleet AdmiralFCAPTFleet Captain
LCDRLieutenant CommanderLTLieutenant
LTjgLieutenant, junior gradeMGENMajor General
NCOICNon-Commissioned Officer-in-ChargeOICOfficer in Charge
VCSVice Commander, STARFLEETXOExecutive Officer

USS White Sands ship departments

CommsCommunicationsOpsOperations

Appendix B: Background information

The USS White Sands began as an idea at the 2022 Albuquerque Comic Con, where founding members Captain Bernard D, Commodore Earl B, and Brigadier General David R discussed forming a new STARFLEET chapter in the area. Albuquerque had lacked a STARFLEET presence for approximately seven years, making the timing right to bring the organization back to the region. In a humorous anecdote that Fleet Captain Laurie M often shares, when COMM Earl first contacted her about leading the new chapter, she discovered she was mistakenly listed on STARFLEET’s Memorial Wall—a list of deceased members of the international organization. Despite this clerical error, FCAPT Laurie was very much alive and eager to be involved. This led to a February meeting of the original five members, where the decision was made to launch a new vessel in Albuquerque: the USS White Sands, a Sovereign-class vessel set in the 2370s. The ship began as an NX vessel on February 21, 2022, and quickly achieved the minimum required membership of ten by March 12, 2022.

The USS White Sands experienced two significant losses in 2022. Founding member BGN David R passed away on March 30, 2022. His contributions to the chapter’s founding are fondly remembered, and the ship honors his memory with a physical shadowbox displaying his rank and awards and by naming the ship’s Captain’s Yacht in his honor. Then, on September 9, 2022, the ship tragically lost Aaron J to sudden cardiac arrest. In recognition of his efforts and contributions, he was posthumously granted the rank of Captain, and a shuttle has been named in his honor.

The official commissioning of the USS White Sands took place on August 27, 2022, at Bubonicon 53, an event whose transmission reached the UK. As part of this commissioning, the ship was given its official registry number, NCC-75027. Shortly after commissioning, on September 24, 2022, the ship achieved another milestone by becoming the recipient of the STARFLEET Corps of Engineers Website Design Project. The first elections since the ship’s launch took place in December 2023. Now-Commodore Laurie was retained as Commanding Officer, and Lieutenant, Junior Grade Gene G. was elected as Executive Officer, subsequently promoted to Commander by COMM Laurie in February.

Since its commissioning, the USS White Sands has been an active and growing chapter within STARFLEET, regularly holding the position of the second-largest ship in Region 17, which encompasses Colorado, Utah, New Mexico, and Wyoming. The USS Tiburon in Denver holds the distinction of being the largest ship in the region. The chapter has participated in local events such as Albuquerque Comic Con and Duke City Comic Con each year from 2022 to 2024, where members have been privileged to meet Star Trek actors such as Tracee Cocco, John Billingsley, and Armin Shimerman, as well as writer Melinda Snodgrass, among others. Its annual anniversary celebrations have also been held at Bubonicon each year since 2022. The ship has conducted “Away Missions” to significant local sites, including Trinity Site in 2023, and the Very Large Array, Los Alamos, and Spaceport America in 2024.

The USS White Sands is committed to serving its community through various outreach programs. The chapter has developed a strong tradition of community service, holding an annual Toys for Tots drive after Thanksgiving, which has seen significant growth, with 147 toys donated in 2023 and an impressive 199 in 2024. The chapter has also participated in local awareness walks for multiple sclerosis (MS) and breast cancer, further demonstrating its dedication to supporting important causes. The USS White Sands continues to foster new relationships within the community and was recently invited to participate in an upcoming Star Trek week hosted by Albuquerque’s Cherry Hills library. The ship also launched a Tribble Adoption program at Bubonicon 55. The crew handcrafted each tribble and adapted materials from the USS Tiburon to create its own adoption certificate and care guide. Half of the proceeds benefited Raised by Wolves in northern New Mexico.

For 2025, the USS White Sands made a conscious decision regarding its participation in the Albuquerque Comic Con. Following the announcement of Kevin Spacey as a headlining guest, the chapter, after careful consideration, opted to join other fan organizations and vendors in boycotting the event. This decision reflects the chapter’s values and its commitment to creating a welcoming and inclusive environment.

The crew of the USS White Sands remains dedicated to the ideals of the fictional Starfleet and continues to serve the Albuquerque community and the wider STARFLEET organization.

Appendix C: USS White Sands

Uniforms

Uniforms are never required for any ship’s activity. When uniforms are appropriate, they are highly encouraged. The ship may create t-shirts or other ship-specific apparel in the future, but no crew member is required to purchase or wear them to participate. The White Sands operates post-2370 (Star Trek: First Contact), so uniforms from that time are preferred; however, crew members are welcome to wear any Star Trek series or movie uniform. Unless otherwise specified, uniforms from other fandoms should not be worn to STARFLEET/chapter events.

Crew and Officer minimum uniform

For those who do not have or are unable to afford a uniform, a minimum uniform may be worn instead. The Minimum Uniform may consist of a department color (FLEET) or branch color (Marine) polo shirt, with pants or jeans. A comm badge, rank insignia, collar brass for Marines, and the SFI or chapter/MSG member badge are authorized for wear with this uniform. All head coverings are authorized. Please keep in mind the rules for wearing your intended head cover. A chapter or MSG specific shirt, whether a polo shirt or T-shirt, would also be appropriate.

Marine Strike Group uniforms

If a Marine chooses to obtain one or more uniforms for his/her use, s/he should consult with the Marines’ Uniform Policies and Guidelines Handbook for a list of the approved uniforms, insignia, and where they can be obtained. Like the non-Marine members of the USS White Sands, the Marines have a minimum uniform option. In the case of the 898th MSG, this will consist of a black, dark grey, or Branch color polo shirt, black pants, and black shoes. Refer to the Convention Minimum (1.11) entry in the Marine Uniform Policies and Guidelines Manual for further information.

Interior design and layout1

In terms of deck layout, the upper sections of the Sovereign-class starship formed the command section and living areas, while the lower decks housed main engineering and fuel supplies. As is traditional, deck numbering ascended from top to bottom.

At the top of the saucer section was Deck 1, which housed the main bridge. This deck also held the more recent modifications of an observation lounge, a ready room for the ship’s captain, and an airlock with attached cabin.

Deck 2 encompassed the first of the many levels of crew quarters, with rooms for the highest-ranking command staff and an officer’s mess hall. Decks 3 through 9 featured more officers’ quarters, the forward and aft viewing lounges, science labs, the main shuttle bay, conduits for the optical data network, and the vessel’s main computer core.

Decks 10 through 14 completed the primary hull of the Sovereign-class starship and encompassed forward and aft cargo bays on Decks 10 and 11, along with phaser systems on deck 11. The stellar cartography department aboard the Sovereign-class was located on Deck 11. Sensors and the secondary navigational deflector were found on Deck 12.

Deck 13, which was taken up almost entirely by deuterium fuel tanks, marked the real split between the habitable areas and the engineering and ship storage sections. Main engineering and its related systems – such as the EPS power taps, the central matter/antimatter reaction chamber, support labs, and the engineering computer core – were spread over decks 14 through 18.

Deck 14 was largely dedicated to engineering systems and featured the lower sensor platform. Decks 15 through 18 comprised the main navigational deflector array and an auxiliary bridge, which was also known as the battle bridge.

Deck 16 also featured the launch and retrieval mechanism for the captain’s yacht. The yacht was lowered by a set of gantries until its engines extended to operational position and then it would be free to maneuver.

The Sovereign-class was also equipped with an astrometrics lab where a direct uplink with Starfleet Cartography could be established. Interference from nearby astronomical phenomena could interfere with the lab’s link with Starfleet Cartography.

Command and Control systems

The computer systems on board the Sovereign-class were bio-neural gel pack-based. Computer systems were concentrated in two computer cores. The primary core was located directly below the main bridge on decks 6 through 8. The secondary core was in the engineering section, adjacent to environmental control, on decks 15 through 17.

Primary operational control of the ship was provided by the main bridge, located at the top of the primary hull. The bridge directly supervised all primary mission operations and coordinated all departmental activities.

The central area of the main bridge provided seating and information displays for the captain and two other officers. The captain’s chair was raised from the rest of the bridge officers to the height of the surrounding level, which included tactical and operations. The two officer seats were equipped with fully programmable consoles for a variety of uses.

Directly fore of the command area was the conn officer, who faced the main viewer. To the port side of the conn officer, also facing the main viewscreen, was the operations officer’s console, which was identical in size and design to the helm station.

At the very front of the bridge chamber was a large viewscreen. When the screen was not active, a standard bulkhead was present.

Aft and to the left of the command area was an elevated platform on which tactical and security consoles were located. To the captain’s right, behind the tactical console, was the mission operations section of the bridge. Against the starboard side walls of the main bridge were the consoles for sciences, along with others that were programmable for a multitude of functions.

Located against the aft wall of the bridge was a large Master Systems Display monitor, similar to the one in engineering. All relevant ship information (such as damage, power distribution, etc.) could be displayed on this cutaway image of the vessel. This monitor could be used to direct ship operations and could be configured for limited flight control if necessary.

Also located against the aft wall of the main bridge was the large engineering console. This had a smaller cutaway diagram of the vessel, which displayed all engineering-relevant data and showed warp fields and engine output.

There were two turbolifts on the bridge. There was also an emergency ladder that connected the bridge to the lower decks. Additionally, the bridge provided direct access to the observation lounge, which was located directly aft of the bridge, and the captain’s ready room.

Ready room

The captain’s ready room doubled as an office and a second private cabin in addition to the commanding officer’s private quarters. It was located off the starboard side of the main bridge on Deck 1 and provided a place where the captain could work or rest while remaining next to the bridge in case of an emergency. Meetings between the captain and one or two people would also take place here.

In one corner there was a simple, narrow bed with a small bookcase over it. Toward the rear of the room was a desk with a computer console.

In a corner behind the desk was a doorway which led into a bathroom containing a sonic shower. Below a mirror was a sink that had no visible controls; the water came on automatically when hands were placed beneath the faucet and went off when they were withdrawn.

Usually, the ready room would be decorated by its occupant by adding several personal ornaments.

Propulsion systems

Sovereign-class starships achieved warp flight through two warp nacelles, which housed multiple pairs of warp coils. It could achieve warp factor 8. There were two impulse engines, both located at the aft of the saucer section.

Main engineering contained the controls for the warp and impulse drive systems. Entrance to the primary engineering spaces was provided by two large blast doors, a pair each deck on Decks 15 and 16, that could be closed for internal or external security reasons, as well as in case of emergencies. It was much larger than on previous starship classes and was split into three levels to accommodate the warp core, which spanned several decks.

Most of the controls were situated on the main deck (Deck 16) and an upper-level gantry. Arranged around the warp core stack were a few control consoles that could be reconfigured to emulate all the command controls on the bridge.

The largest workstation was the master systems display, which was used to monitor the status of all key systems and could comfortably accommodate four personnel. There were also various wall displays, including a schematic that showed the ‘health’ of the warp propulsion system.

The deuterium tanks were above the core, while antimatter storage pods surrounded the base of the core. Two large cylindrical tanks were positioned next to the warp core and contained highly dangerous plasma coolant. Two rectangular power transfer conduits fed off from the warp reaction chamber and angled out of main engineering to the port and starboard warp nacelles.

Additionally, there were numerous ladders and access panels to Jefferies tubes, leading throughout the starship. A second level ringed the second level of main engineering on deck 15. Two ladders on the opposite ends of the catwalk provided access. By 2379, Starfleet began implementing a force field system around the warp reactor.

The Sovereign-class was equipped with a warp core ejection system. This is normally used as a last resort measure when a warp core breach was in progress.

Transporter systems

The Sovereign-class starship included at least four separate transporter rooms, capable of site-to-site transport. Unusually, the transporter console in a Sovereign-class transporter room was built into a wall opposite the transporter platform, from where the controls on the console could be seen. The transporters could be operated from both the tactical and engineering stations on the ship’s bridge. A Sovereign-class starship could beam a single small vessel – such as a Scorpion-class attack fighter – aboard, even if the smaller craft was mobile.

Crew support systems

The Sovereign-class starship had the usual array of amenities available to the crew, including holodecks, gymnasiums, a ship’s library, etc.

Medical facilities

One large sickbay facility, located on Deck 7, served as the primary care facility on Sovereign-class starships. Equipped with six standard and one advanced biobed, sickbay was also home to the chief medical officer’s office and a small lab used for routine analysis of patients.

A second, smaller facility identical to an Intrepid-class sickbay was also present on Deck 16.

The room itself was used for general purposes, and was often the location of regular crew physicals, appointments, and various medical emergencies – it could effectively handle most situations that a starship crew would face.

Sovereign-class starships were equipped with an Emergency Medical Hologram.

Located near sickbay was the counselor’s office, a modest room approximately the size of a standard living room compartment.

Crew quarters

The arrangement of living quarters was designed to be modular, so that at any time a particular area could be reconfigured to create larger or smaller residential areas. Most living areas were located on the upper and lower surfaces of the saucer section, offering residents a remarkable view of the starscape outside their windows.

As was common on Starfleet vessels, the living accommodations for senior officers and VIPs were larger than standard crew quarters. Officers’ quarters usually included a living area in the center of the dwelling, which held a personal workstation, couch, replicator, and a small dining area.

Connected to this was a bedroom that featured a double-sized bed and room for personal belongings. Normally, the bedroom would be connected by a half-bathroom with wash basin, mirror, toilet, several drawers, and a sonic shower. For senior staff, this bathroom was usually upgraded to a full-sized bathroom with bathtub.

Auxiliary spacecraft systems

Located at the dorsal stern of the primary hull, the main shuttle bay took up a significant portion of the aft section of Decks 6 through 9 on the Sovereign-class. Due to the mission profile of the Sovereign, the shuttle bay extended further than normal for a vessel its size to accommodate runabouts and several shuttlecraft.

The secondary shuttle bay was located at the very aft portion of the engineering hull. This bay, while smaller than the main facility, was just as capable of handling flight operations as the main shuttle bay.

In addition to shuttlecraft, the Sovereign-class also featured a captain’s yacht, designed for special diplomatic missions.

The USS White Sands has the following auxiliary craft:

  • Captain’s Yacht: David R
  • Shuttles: Aaron J

Escape pods

The Sovereign-class starship carried several escape pods. In the event of a catastrophic emergency, these pods served the same purpose as the lifeboats of a water-based vessel and ensured the continued survival of passengers and crew after the primary vessel had to be abandoned.

The escape pods were located throughout the Sovereign-class starship’s primary and secondary hulls: there were two rows of pods on the dorsal side of the command saucer, and two on the ventral side. Further rows of pods lined each side of the engineering hull.

Unlike the escape pods utilized on the Galaxy– and Intrepid-class, there was no outer hatch that opened for launch. Instead, the heat shield of the escape pod lay flush with the Sovereign-class ship’s outer hull. Personnel entered the pods through hatches that lined sections of the ship’s corridors, and a situation display monitor was located between the pods.

Each hatch swung open on a hinge at the bottom, creating a short ramp from the floor of the corridor into the interior of the capsule. The pods were equipped with heat shields for atmospheric entry and landing if a suitable planet could be found to set down on.

Appendix D: Promotions, ranks, and related information

Promotion points accumulation table

The following sections break down how points are earned in this system. The promotion points table shows the minimum points needed for various ranks.

Meetings and other events

Event/ActivityPoints earned
Meeting attendance1
Meeting attendance in Star Trek/ship attire2
Meeting attendance in uniform3
Meeting attendance in full cosplay4
Hosting an event5
Assisting with hosting an event2
Excessive travel to an event (50+ miles)x2 multiplier
Participation in a charity event1 point per hour
Participation in a recruitment event1 point per hour plus
5 points per new member
Participating at a regional event1 point per hour
Physically attending an International eventx3 multiplier
Working at an International event5 points per hour

Miscellaneous

Event/Activity/MilestonePoints earned
STARFLEET member for one year aboard the USS White Sands5
Academy course completed with Grade: Pass1
Academy course completed with Grade: Honors2
Academy course completed with Grade: Distinction3
Miscellaneous events/activities promoting STARFLEET or the USS White SandsCO’s discretion

Promotion points table

This table explains the number of points required for promotion to each rank and the time in grade requirement related to each promotion. Please note that these are general guidelines, and all promotions below FLEET level are subject to approval by the USS White Sands Command Staff.

Enlisted personnel

RankSTARFLEETMarine CorpsMinimum PointsMaximum PointsTime in Grade
E-10FLEET Level*(No equivalent)695 3 years
E-9Master Chief Petty OfficerSergeant Major
Master Gunnery Sergeant		5956942 years
E-8Senior Chief Petty OfficerFirst Sergeant4955942 years
E-7Chief Petty OfficerGunnery Sergeant3954942 years
E-6Petty Officer, First ClassStaff Sergeant2953941 year
E-5Petty Officer, Second ClassSergeant1452941 year
E-4Petty Officer, Third ClassCorporal701441 year
E-3CrewmanLance Corporal30696 months
E-2Crewman ApprenticePrivate, First Class10296 months
E-1Crewman RecruitPrivate096 months

STARFLEET Officers

RankSTARFLEETMarine CorpsMinimum PointsMaximum PointsTime in Grade
O-6+FLEET Level*FLEET Level*775 3 years (review)
O-5CommanderLieutenant Colonel5757742 years
O-4Lieutenant Commander, First ClassMajor, First Class3755742 years
O-4Lieutenant Commander, Second ClassMajor, Second Class2753741 year
O-4Lieutenant Commander, Third ClassMajor, Third Class1752741 year
O-3LieutenantMarine Captain751746 months
O-2Lieutenant, Junior GradeFirst Lieutenant25746 months
O-1EnsignSecond Lieutenant0246 months

*FLEET level promotions

Promotions beyond Commander/Lieutenant Colonel are awarded as described in the STARFLEET International Membership Handbook section regarding rank and cannot be changed by this chapter. The tables above have a recommended number of points for these Fleet level promotions, but none of them can be guaranteed since the STARFLEET Executive Committee is the sole awarding authority for these promotions.

STARFLEET Marine Warrant Officers

Marine Enlisted Members of the crew may be promoted beyond the basic ranks into the Warrant Officer grades. Warrant Officers need to choose a particular branch of the SFMC as a concentration, and any Marine wishing to advance into the Warrant Officer grades should announce that intention (along with their chosen branch of the Marine Corps) to the CO, XO, and Marine OIC for the 898th MSG.

Promotional requirements to the first Warrant Officer (WO) grade are as follows:

  • 3-5 years in service to the STARFLEET Marine Corps
  • Hold the minimum rank of Sergeant
  • Complete OTS (through SFA), and PD-100, IN-100, LD-100, and NCO-100 (through SFMCA)
  • Complete a minimum of the -20 level course in their chosen branch
RankSTARFLEETMarine CorpsMinimum PointsMaximum PointsTime in Grade
W-5(No equivalent)Chief Warrant Officer 51100 2 years
W-4(No equivalent)Chief Warrant Officer 480010992 years
W-3(No equivalent)Chief Warrant Officer 35007992 years
W-2(No equivalent)Chief Warrant Officer 23004992 years
W-1(No equivalent)Warrant Officer145299 

To advance beyond the WO grade, a member must complete the required point scale and serve two years in the prior grade to be eligible for promotion. Promotion to CWO-2 requires the Marine to complete the -30 course for their chosen branch as well as PD-20, LD-20, NCO-20, and IN-20. CWO-3 candidates must complete OCC, PD-15, LD-27, and NCO-30 to be eligible for promotion.

Warrant Officers who reach the rank of CWO-5 have only one option for further advancement: become a fully Commissioned Officer and continue their career advancement, at which time their accumulation of career points will be reset to zero, and they will begin to accumulate points again. Otherwise, a CWO-5 may continue to serve in that rank and assignment until they decide to retire.

Appendix E: Rank promotion worksheet

Please see one of the downloads above for the promotion worksheet

Appendix F: USS White Sands award recommendation

To complete the manual form, please see one of hte downloads above. To submit online, please see the Awards page.

Appendix G: Organization Chart

*All Department Heads are Officers (have taken OTS through STARFLEET Academy), except the Chief of the Boat, who is a senior Enlisted Member, with no required rank level.

Appendix H: Departments

Department HeadsReal-world duties
Commanding Officer (CO)
First: Laurie M		The CO serves as the president (“Captain”) and chief administrator of the USS White Sands, representing the chapter to the Region, SFI, and external organizations. The CO has the authority to make decisions regarding chapter operations unless overruled by the Command Staff or SFI regulations.
Executive Officer (XO)
First: Bernard D		The Executive Officer is the vice-president of the USS White Sands. The XO assists the CO and assumes the CO’s responsibilities when the CO is unavailable or delegates authority.
Chief of the Boat (COB)
First: Guy M		The COB should be the primary advocate for the enlisted members onboard. This includes gathering feedback from the Enlisted personnel and representing them to the Command Staff. The COB can play a key role in welcoming and orienting new enlisted members, helping them to feel welcome and get involved.
Communications (Comms)
First DH: Gene G		The Comms officer distributes information to the crew. Generally, this is done by recording and publishing meeting minutes, gathering content for and distribution of the chapter newsletter, and maintenance of the USSWhiteSands.org website. The Comms officer is also a Facebook page Admin.
Conn
First DH: Jared F		The Conn officer is the main transportation service for the crew when going on away missions and other out-of-town chapter events.
Counseling
First DH: Elene G		The ship’s counselor is the main recruiting officer for the ship, and is charged with searching out and welcoming new members to the USS White Sands.
Engineering
First DH: Dee S		The Engineering officer is charged with creation and maintenance of props, such as banners, signage, and other display items.
Medical
First DH: Christine W		The Medical officer ensures the ship is following all current medical guidance and is the main interface with SFI’s Medical division. The Medical officer is also charged with coordinating CPR training for the crew if desired. (This is not a professional medical role and does not require a medical degree.)
Operations (Ops)
First DH: Aaron J		The Operations officer is charged with locating and organizing chapter events and activities, such as conventions or local events. The Ops officer may also be tasked with coordination with other organizations as needed.
Sciences
First DH: Marsha B		The Science officer is charged with locating and organizing charitable events for the chapter, such as local volunteer opportunities.
Tactical (MSG OIC)
First DH: Mike D		The Tactical officer, as the Officer In Charge of the MSG, is the liaison to SFMC and/or MACO.

Appendix I: Current Command Staff

Commanding OfficerLaurie M
Executive OfficerGene G
Chief of the Boat
Chief Tactical OfficerMike D
Chief EngineerDee S
Chief Conn OfficerJared F
Chief Communications OfficerJordan
Chief Medical OfficerChristine W
Chief Operations OfficerTroy S
Chief Sciences OfficerMarsha B
Ship’s CounselorElene G
  1. This section was mostly found on the Memory Alpha Wiki. Some light edits have been made to assist in readability. Source: https://memory-alpha.fandom.com/wiki/Sovereign_class ↩︎