At the core of the USS Veritas are Bridge Officers, Department Chiefs, and specialized roles which collectively serve as the foundation, overseeing every aspect of ship activities to guarantee smooth operations. The Command Staff plays a pivotal role in charting the ship’s course, with the Captain and XO steering daily operations, the Chief Science Officer nurturing curiosity, the Chief of Operations ensuring compliance, and the Intelligence/Comms Officer keeping the Captain and crew up to date on current information.
Together, they embody and epitomize the essence of Star Trek, fostering a sense of camaraderie and unity among our diverse crew. Whether navigating the vast cosmos or ensuring the ship’s safety, every role holds significance in our shared voyage aboard the USS Veritas. Delve into the distinctive and unique responsibilities of each officer, and always bear in mind that our mission is to boldly venture together. Live long and prosper!
Section 03:01 – Veritas Staff
Bridge Officers
The Bridge Officers play a crucial role on the USS Veritas. They are stationed on the bridge, overseeing and coordinating all ship activities. These officers monitor various tasks happening throughout the ship, ensuring smooth operations. The Bridge Officers are key players in maintaining order and communication, making them integral to the overall functioning of the starship.
“I’m responsible for every person under my command. But you’re also responsible for the ship and crew. Understood?” – Captain Jean-Luc Picard, “Encounter at Farpoint”
Department Chiefs
The Department Chiefs on the USS Veritas are vital members of the Command Staff, under the leadership of the Captain. The Department Chiefs take charge of various tasks, including overseeing projects, recommending promotions and awards, hosting events, and planning away missions. Their role is essential in crew management, fostering teamwork, and achieving the ship’s objectives within their departments.
“First field assignment, bridge officer on a starship. Every cadet’s dream come true.” -Harry Kim
Becoming A Command Staff
Joining the Command Staff or becoming a Department Chief on the USS Veritas is a straightforward process. To start with, there must be an available position within a department on the ship or a proposal to create a new department.
The next steps involve completing the Officer Training School (OTS) course, followed by the Officer Command Course (OCC). It’s also advisable for officers to take the STARFLEET Data Protection Policy (SFDPP) courses and the corresponding Bridge Officer Certification Programming for their department. See the Bridge Officer Certification Programs. These courses, accessible through STARFLEET Academy, greatly contribute to enhancing your understanding of your role within the department.
Section 03:20 USS Veritas Command Staff
Section 03:20.1 – Commanding Officer (CO)
The Commanding Officer (CO, or Captain) is the highest authority aboard the USS Veritas and is ultimately accountable to STARFLEET International for the chapter’s conduct, activity, and compliance. The CO sets the direction of the ship — establishing priorities, making final decisions, and ensuring that the chapter’s actions reflect both the standards of STARFLEET International and the values at the heart of Star Trek.
The CO serves as the chapter’s principal representative, acting as liaison between the USS Veritas and STARFLEET International, the Regional Coordinator, and other chapters. They are responsible for submitting the Monthly Status Report (MSR) on time each month, and for ensuring the ship remains in good standing with all organizational requirements.
While the CO delegates the day-to-day management of crew, departments, and events to the XO and OPS respectively, they remain the final authority on all chapter matters — from approving promotions and resolving crew issues to setting the tone for how the USS Veritas engages with its community. The CO chairs the Promotion Review Board and has final say on all advancement decisions.
Above all, the CO is a leader in the truest Star Trek tradition — someone who leads by example, builds an environment where every crew member feels valued and included, and keeps the ship pointed toward something worth striving for.
Section 03:20.2 – Executive Officer (XO)
The Executive Officer (XO, or First Officer) is the Commanding Officer’s right hand and the ship’s second-in-command. When the CO is unavailable, the XO assumes full command of the USS Veritas and all associated responsibilities.
Day-to-day, the XO serves as the primary link between the Command Staff and the crew. They manage chapter records and maintain a comprehensive archive of the ship’s activities, ensuring that documentation stays current and accessible. The XO also takes the lead on onboarding new members — welcoming them aboard, orienting them to the ship’s culture and expectations, and helping them find their place within the crew.
The XO works in close partnership with the Chief of Operations (OPS). While the XO focuses on the crew’s wellbeing, internal communications, and departmental coordination, OPS handles the logistical and administrative machinery that keeps the chapter running — from event planning and membership tracking to website, document, and training compliance. Together, they form the operational core of the ship’s leadership, and both serve as standing members of the Promotion Review Board.
Working alongside OPS and the Department Chiefs, the XO monitors the health and activity of each department, coordinates between them as needed, and keeps the CO informed of any issues or developments across the ship. They are also responsible for overseeing internal investigations when crew matters require it, approaching such situations with fairness, discretion, and a commitment to the well-being of all involved.
In all things, the XO models the collaborative, optimistic spirit that defines the USS Veritas and the values at the heart of Star Trek.
Section 03:20.3 – Second Officer
The Second Officer (SO) holds the third-highest position in the USS Veritas chain of command. In the absence of both the CO and XO, the SO assumes command of the ship. Should the XO step up to Acting Commanding Officer, the SO moves into the Acting Executive Officer role in turn.
In addition to their command succession responsibilities, contributing to the smooth coordination of ship operations. The SO works closely with the CO and XO, assists with crew matters as needed, and is a standing member of the Promotion Review Board.
The SO position is well suited to an experienced crew member who is ready to take on greater leadership responsibility and wants to be more deeply involved in the direction of the ship.
Section 03:20.4 – Ship’s Yeoman
The Ship’s Yeoman serves as the Commanding Officer’s personal aide and is the chapter’s primary keeper of records and history. Working closely with the CO and XO, the Yeoman ensures that the ship’s activities are consistently documented and that nothing important goes unrecorded.
At events and meetings, the Yeoman captures photos, takes minutes, and maintains a running record of the chapter’s activities over time. They manage the ship’s social media presence, keeping the crew and the broader community informed and engaged with what the USS Veritas is up to. The Yeoman also plays a key role in the ship’s newsletter, gathering articles and content from across the crew and departments to help bring each issue together.
A good Yeoman has an eye for detail, a knack for communication, and a genuine interest in telling the story of the ship — both for the crew’s enjoyment and as a lasting record of what the USS Veritas has accomplished.
Section 03:20.5 – Chief of Operations
The Chief of Operations (OPS) is the organizational engine of the USS Veritas, responsible for keeping the ship’s day-to-day activities running smoothly and ensuring the crew has every opportunity to engage, connect, and serve the community.
OPS is the ship’s primary event coordinator — proposing, planning, and executing chapter activities including social gatherings, charity fundraisers, convention appearances, and community outreach. From securing venues and coordinating logistics to tracking attendance and following up with crew, OPS owns the event lifecycle from concept to completion. Working in close partnership with the Executive Officer (XO), they ensure that activities align with the ship’s mission and that no detail falls through the cracks.
Beyond events, OPS maintains the crew roster, monitors membership standings, and proactively reminds members of upcoming renewal dates to keep the ship at full strength. They also serve as a department liaison — working with Department Chiefs to coordinate resources, track department activity, and surface any operational needs to the XO and CO. OPS is a standing member of the Promotion Review Board, contributing their perspective on crew participation and engagement when advancements are considered.
Reporting directly to the CO and XO, the Chief of Operations plays a vital role in translating the ship’s goals into action — making sure the USS Veritas is not just a ship on paper, but an active, thriving crew.
Section 03:20.6 – Chief of Intelligence
The Chief of Intelligence serves as the USS Veritas’s eyes and ears in the wider fan community. Their primary focus is tracking upcoming conventions, fan events, and community gatherings — identifying opportunities for the ship to participate, represent STARFLEET International, and connect with fellow fans.
Beyond simply reporting on what’s out there, the Chief of Intelligence takes an active role in coordinating the ship’s presence at these events. This includes organizing group attendance, reserving tables at conventions and community events, and ensuring the crew has everything they need to make a strong showing. They report their findings regularly to the CO and Command Staff, keeping the ship ahead of the calendar and ready to engage.
A good Chief of Intelligence is curious, well-connected, and proactive — always scanning the horizon for the next opportunity to fly the USS Veritas flag.
STARFLEET Intelligence Website: https://intel.sfi.org/
Section 03:20.7 – Chief of Communications (Comms Officer)
The Chief of Communications (Comms Officer) is the voice of the USS Veritas, responsible for keeping the crew informed, connected, and engaged. They maintain clear and consistent communication across the ship’s internal channels, ensuring that news, announcements, and updates from the CO and Command Staff reach every member of the crew in a timely manner.
The Comms Officer, while reporting to the Executive Officer, leads the production and distribution of the ship’s newsletter, coordinating with crew members and department chiefs to gather articles, updates, and stories that reflect the life and mission of the USS Veritas. Each issue is an opportunity to celebrate the crew’s achievements, spotlight upcoming events, and strengthen the sense of community that defines the ship.
Section 03:20.8 – Chief Science Officer
The Chief Science Officer (CSO) serves as the USS Veritas’s liaison to the STARFLEET Academy (SFA), the Science Auxiliary, and is the crew’s champion for curiosity, learning, and exploration — both in the real world and across the final frontier.
The CSO tracks and actively encourages crew participation in SFA challenges and science-focused programs, making sure members are aware of opportunities to earn recognition and deepen their engagement with the organization. They source and share materials that invite the crew to explore a wide range of disciplines — from the hard sciences to the more imaginative corners of the Star Trek universe, including exobiology, geoscience, and the study of spatial phenomena.
Beyond organizing and promoting, the CSO works to weave a genuine spirit of discovery into the fabric of ship life — sparking conversations, sharing interesting finds, and making science feel accessible and exciting for crew members of all backgrounds. They report to the XO and collaborate with the Command Staff to ensure the ship’s scientific programs are active and thriving.
STARFLEET Sciences Website: https://sciences.sfi.org/
Section 03:20.9 – Chief Medical Officer
The Chief Medical Officer (CMO) serves as the USS Veritas’s primary liaison to STARFLEET Medical, connecting the crew with the resources, programs, and opportunities the auxiliary has to offer. The CMO’s mission isn’t about hyposprays and tricorders — it’s about motivation, wellness, and helping every crew member pursue their own personal best.
The CMO promotes and coordinates crew participation in STARFLEET Medical’s ongoing challenges, including the Step Challenge, Reading Challenge, and other wellness programs. They track member progress, assist with monthly reporting, and celebrate milestones and achievements along the way. Beyond tracking numbers, the CMO actively works to build a culture of wellness aboard the ship — creating a supportive environment where crew members of all fitness levels feel encouraged to participate.
As an auxiliary liaison, the CMO relays updates and announcements from STARFLEET Medical to the crew, promotes available training pathways and certification programs, and encourages members to join and grow within the auxiliary. They report participation levels and member achievements to the XO on a regular basis.
Note: The CMO does not provide medical advice or diagnosis. This role is focused entirely on education, encouragement, and participation in STARFLEET Medical programs.
STARFLEET Medical Website: https://medical.sfi.org/
Section 03:20.10 – Chief of Engineering
The Chief of Engineering serves as the USS Veritas’s liaison to the STARFLEET Corps of Engineers, connecting crew members with one of the most creatively rich communities in STARFLEET International. The Corps of Engineers is home to makers, designers, and builders — members who contribute to costuming, graphic design, 3D printing, prop fabrication, and more, lending their skills to the broader SFI community in tangible and visible ways.
A key day-to-day function of the Chief of Engineering is helping new crew members navigate uniform design and procurement — advising on options, materials, and resources so that every member can put their best foot forward at events and gatherings. Beyond onboarding support, the Chief of Engineering promotes Corps of Engineers programs and projects to the crew and helps members with a passion for making and building find their place within the auxiliary.
In the spirit of the role, the Chief of Engineering also tends to the USS Veritas’s place in the Star Trek universe — maintaining the ship’s technical identity, contributing to its narrative, and ensuring that the Sovereign-class vessel remains space-worthy in the ship’s ongoing story.
Corps of Engineers Website: https://coe.sfi.org/
Section 03:20.11 – Chief of Tactical
The Chief of Tactical serves as the USS Veritas’s liaison to the STARFLEET Tactical auxiliary and is the crew’s go-to organizer for games, friendly competition, and shared play. Whether it’s a tabletop RPG campaign, a board game night, a round of Yahtzee, or grouping up in an online game, the Chief of Tactical is the person making it happen.
The Chief of Tactical plans and coordinates gaming events for the crew — both in-person gatherings and online sessions — creating regular opportunities for members to connect, have fun, and build camaraderie outside of more formal chapter activities. They track and promote Tactical auxiliary challenges, encouraging crew members to participate and engage with the wider STARFLEET gaming community.
Reporting to the Executive Officer, the Chief of Tactical works alongside the rest of the department heads to keep the crew active, entertained, and connected — because a crew that plays together stays together.
STARFLEET Tactical Website: https://tactical.sfi.org/
Section 03:20.12 – Chief of Security
The Chief of Security is responsible for the safety and security of the USS Veritas crew at all meetings, events, and away missions. This includes planning and coordinating site security, assessing venues for potential hazards, and ensuring that every crew member can participate in chapter activities safely and confidently.
The Chief of Security serves as the ship’s primary liaison to STARFLEET’s Marines and Special Operations auxiliary Department Heads, fostering collaboration and drawing on those communities’ expertise when planning events or activities that require additional coordination. The Chief of Weapons reports directly to the Chief of Security, who maintains overall responsibility for safety and compliance across the department.
The Chief of Security reports primarily to the Executive Officer but works in close partnership with OPS when planning and executing chapter events, ensuring that security considerations are built into the logistics process from the start.
STARFLEET Marine Corps Website: https://sfmc.sfi.org/
STARFLEET Special Operations Website: https://sfso.sfi.org/
Section 03:20.13 – Chief of Weapons
The Chief of Weapons serves under the Chief of Security and is specifically responsible for ensuring that the USS Veritas remains in full compliance with all applicable local laws, ordinances, and weapon safety regulations at every event the chapter attends or hosts. This role is especially critical at activities involving props, replicas, or live weapons such as marksmanship training or competitions.
The Chief of Weapons stays informed on the regulations relevant to each venue and activity, advises the Chief of Security and Command Staff accordingly, and serves as the crew’s point of contact for any questions related to weapons handling, transport, and display at chapter events.
Section 03:20.14 – Cadet Commandant
The Cadet Commandant is the USS Veritas’s dedicated advocate for its youngest crew members, responsible for fostering the development, engagement, and sense of belonging of all Cadets in the chapter. They serve as the ship’s Cadet Program Liaison, creating and distributing Cadet Challenges, coordinating age-appropriate activities, and ensuring that Cadets have meaningful opportunities to participate in the life of the crew.
A core priority of the Cadet Commandant is ensuring that Cadets are not just welcome at chapter meetings and events, but actively included. This means working ahead of meetings to identify ways Cadets can participate meaningfully — whether through activities, presentations, challenges, or simply ensuring the environment is welcoming and age-appropriate. No Cadet should come to a chapter gathering and feel like an afterthought.
The Cadet Commandant reports to the Executive Officer and works closely with OPS and fellow Department Heads when planning events, ensuring that Cadet participation is considered early in the planning process rather than as an afterthought. This collaboration is key to making the USS Veritas a chapter where families feel genuinely valued and included.
The Cadet Commandant maintains regular communication with Cadets and their families through the chapter’s established channels, keeping them informed of activities, challenges, and opportunities available through both the USS Veritas and STARFLEET International’s Cadet programs.
Due to the nature of this role and its direct involvement with minors, any individual fulfilling the position of Cadet Commandant SHALL maintain a current background check and SHALL have completed an accredited Child Safety or Youth Protection Training program within the last two years. These requirements are non-negotiable and must be met before assuming the role.
Section 03:20.15 – Ship Ambassadors
Ship Ambassadors serve as the USS Veritas’s bridge to the broader fan community, fostering relationships between our chapter and other organizations, clubs, and fandoms. Ambassadors are full voting members of the chapter and active participants in its community, bringing outside perspective and connections that enrich the life of the ship.
Ambassadors represent the USS Veritas with professionalism and enthusiasm, promoting goodwill and collaboration across the Star Trek, science fiction, cosplay, and broader fan communities. While they are encouraged to share their experiences and connections with the crew, they are expected to represent the USS Veritas first and foremost in their ambassadorial capacity, ensuring that interclub relationships remain positive and focused on our shared interests.
Ambassadors file reports with the Executive Officer detailing the state of their interclub relationships, ongoing collaborations, and any opportunities or challenges on the horizon. They may also be called upon to share updates and insights during crew meetings, keeping the chapter informed and connected to the wider fan world.
All ambassadorial candidates are vetted by the Commanding Officer and Executive Officer to ensure they embody the values and spirit of the USS Veritas. No external organization may unilaterally assign an ambassador to our chapter — all appointments are made at the discretion of the Command Staff, preserving the chapter’s autonomy and ensuring that every Ambassador is a genuine representative of our community.
STARFLEET Diplomatic Corps Website: https://dc.sfi.org/