Having never been a CM, but as a player with over 10 years of experience in FSO, I thought I would give some of you my observations as to its operation. However most of this is covered under the description and rules of FSO found on Special Events Web Site and is common knowledge for most players. However newer participants may find it informative.
First off, as far as I know, HTC has nothing to do with FSO other than to provide the sandbox we all play in. They might insure that we play nice, but I believe that is the extent of their involvement.
CM’s
The CM’s, who are all volunteers, design the various events, determine the sides and oversee the operation of each frame for usually three sequential Friday nights a month.
A. Side determination.
Prior to each event, the CM’s will request which side a squad prefers to be on. This does not guarantee the squad’s request. The past has proved many more squads choose allied
than axis, so that to achieve balance some squads may not receive their preferred side.
1. Bias.
The CM’s will lean toward assigning squads to the side that reflect their historical context, be it allied or axis for any particular event. That is why the dedicated ride selection was
put in place in the Squad sign ups.
The CM’s will also favor any squad who chooses axis, as they have been shown to be typically in the minority.
B. CIC Assignments:
For each of the 3 frames during the event, the CM’s will assign a squad to command each side. These Commanders in Charge (CiC) will be responsible for the more detailed assignments for
each side.
C. Objectives:
For each of the 3 frames a list of targets to be defended, and most times a list of targets to be attacked to will be issued to both sides. In addition they will detail what aircraft will be flown
and any restrictions to quantity or ordnance. They will also include the parameters of the battle environment.
Squadrons:
Squadrons who participate can select their preferred side, however as stated above there is no guarantee of being placed on that side. They must adhere to a commitment level of attendance. This is so that the sides can be distributed equitably.
A. Squad Attendance*:
1. 4 - 6 (Very small)
2. 7 - 10 (Small)
3. 11 - 15 (medium)
4. 16 - 21 (large)
5. 22 - 27 (very large)
6. 28 – 32 (mega large)
Descriptors are of my choice. There have been very few, very large or mega large squads in the past.
B. Squad CO responsibilities:
1. Select the side your squad prefers each month
2. Confirm your attendance
3. State your historical ride, if any
4. Select your ride for your preferred side, and then again afterwards if your side assignment is different.
5. A list of 4 email addresses is necessary for each squad to insure that the CiC orders can be distributed, and to confirm CiC duties when appointed.
6. Make sure that you achieve your minimum weekly commitment but not exceed the maximum level.
7. If assigned to a multi-squadron mission, communicate with the participating squadrons to achieve the common goal.
While most CiCs will try assigning requested aircraft, it is not always possible due to plane set limitation or the ability to achieve an objective. A good FSO CO will also amend the ride request immediately after each frame indicating what aircraft was assigned to them that frame. This may help prevent being assigned a less than desirable ride for the next frame, while aiding the next CiC in planning.
Commander in Charge (CiC)
Each month the CM’s will assign overall commanders for each side of each frame of the 3 week period. These squadrons will receive objectives and be responsible for implementing a strategy for a successful frame. Based on current participation, a squadron may have this opportunity at least once if not twice a year.
A: CiC Responsibility:
1. Know the rules
There are myriad of rules to become accustomed with. Most are in place to ensure the playability of the event.
2. Read the objectives carefully.
Know what it is that you have to accomplish. Also sometimes a rare mistake may occur that can be corrected early.
3. Assign squadrons to aircraft and targets to accomplish the objectives.
Keep in mind that there are often restrictions to the number of certain aircraft as well as minimum number of aircraft to defend or attack an objective.
B. Types of CiC:
1. Let me get this over with
This type of CiC will perform the minimum duties as stated above to fulfill the squads’ obligation. Often it does not include aircraft preference, but simply aircraft assignment and a target list.
This type of CiC also does not monitor the progress of the frame or at times even stay to the end. He leaves it up to the individual squadrons to formulate strategy and cooperation. The
frame could be a success, but in no part due to his actions.
2. The General
This by no means should be a negative connotation. The individuals clearly have an idea on how a battle should unfold and produce a plan respectively. They pay attention to details and not only
perform the minimum requirements but also go the extra distance in making sure that to best of their abilities that as many squadrons as possible get the rides they request. They will delegate
authority to individual squadrons. They may offer suggestions as to strategy in performing a certain mission while leaving the flexibility for a strike commander to exercise their own judgment.
They truly care about the outcome of the frame and will continue to offer advice as the frame progresses.
I felt that this overview of FSO was necessary from a player perspective because there are many new people enjoying what I feel is the best part of Aces High. In addition there have been complaints about the role of very small squadrons in FSO. To put it bluntly, a squadron of 4 to 6 is ineffective in this environment by themselves. Only when they are paired with a larger squadron that communicates can a very small squadron let their abilities shine whether they lead or not.
These perceptions are of my own as a player with over 10 years of experience. These views are not necessarily those of my squadron or anyone else related to FSO. I’m sure that there is something I may have forgotten or perhaps misconstrued. For that I apologize.
AKWxMan
