Rank Theory & Intent

A ranking system in gaming communities often garners skepticism due to exaggerated complexities. Consider a group with an excessive array of twenty or more ranks, while having merely a handful of members. The logic behind such an intricate hierarchy becomes questionable and seemingly unnecessary.

As our community evolved, it became apparent that establishing a structured system to delineate levels of responsibility, accountability, and proficiency was necessary. Thus, a series of small ranks were conceived, creating a similar rank structure to that of a U.S. Army Rifle Company.

In essence, our aim is to:

  • Provide a framework through which both new and seasoned players could easily identify their peers and understand their capabilities. This becomes increasingly crucial as the size of our group expands. It’s unreasonable to expect every member to recall the leadership abilities of every other player, especially considering not all members participate in every session.

  • Establish a comprehensive framework for the community, outlining ranks and their roles within the structure. Defined responsibilities facilitate effective coordination within our gaming environment. While feasible without formal ranks, their absence would introduce unnecessary complexity, hindering accessibility for the average player. Accessibility to the playerbase is a key part of a healthy group system, and this is a critical element.

  • Utilize a concise hierarchy with the fewest possible ranks that accurately represent the diverse player profiles within the group. Each of these ranks encompass various levels of experience and commitment. There are currently eight official rank types, covering a wide spectrum:
    • PVT: Probationary and newly accepted players
    • PFC: Enthusiastic participants enjoying the gaming experience
    • CPL: Experienced players taking on lower-level leadership roles such as fireteams or interested in taking specialized roles such as pilots and medics
    • SGT: Players interested in leading squads or larger elements
    • 1SG: Members undertaking additional in-game and community leadership responsibilities
    • 1LT: Senior leaders with the highest responsibilities in group development
    • CPT: Overall community owner that makes executive decisions for the community.

  • Present ranks in a manner that underscores their functional necessity and minimizes concerns of excessive “mil-sim” or “roleplaying” behavior. All members are valued equally, and higher ranks signify greater responsibility, not superiority.

  • Discourage excessive “mil-sim” behavior; there’s no need for formalities like “Sir” or egotistical role-playing. We’re friends first, and rank within the group doesn’t dictate personal superiority.

  • Allow players to choose their involvement level. No member should feel pressured into assuming leadership roles, as participation should be voluntary and reflective of individual preferences. All contributions, whether in leadership or as frontline troops, are equally valued within the community. Every path is respected without judgment or hierarchy.

The essence of our group’s rank structure lies in its inclusive and egalitarian philosophy. We’ve carefully cultivated a system that prioritizes merit over hierarchy, ensuring that every member feels valued and respected.

All members, regardless of rank, are regarded with the same level of respect and consideration.

Our ranks are entirely driven by player preference. Members will not recieve ‘demotions’ for choosing to participate as a rifleman for a session or two instead of serving as a squad leader nor will they receive a ‘promotion’ if they choose to try out as a squad leader for a session instead of solely playing as a rifleman. These ranks merely reflect their preferred playing style and serve as a guideline for other members in understanding what to expect from individuals holding those ranks. Members can apply for these roles by completing a brief form or by directly requesting assistance from staff members.

Generally, individuals in each position should aim to maintain the proficiency and responsibilities of their previous rank while also understanding the roles of those both below and above them in the hierarchy. This serves as the standard expectation, though it’s important to acknowledge that exceptions may arise in various circumstances. Players are also more than welcome to try out for these roles before choosing to fully commit to them.

The outline of specific responsibilities associated with each rank is listed below.

PVT (Private)

These are the newest members who are still in a trial phase. This signifies that these players are being evaluated to see if they fit well within the group. It’s an introductory phase where they get a feel for how our communityoperates, and the group gets a chance to assess their commitment and compatibility.

Typically, individuals remain in this phase for approximately one month, during which they undergo assessment to determine their compatibility with the community.

Once a player passes the probationary phase, they are officially accepted into the group but are still considered relatively new and retain the rank for a period of time. They are still learning the ropes and getting accustomed to the group’s dynamics, expectations, and gameplay style.

During sessions, they will typically assume junior roles within the fireteams, such as rifleman or assistant automatic rifleman.

PFC (Private First Class)

This is the foundational rank within TFR, representing every individual’s equal footing and contribution to our community. These are full members are primarily focused on enjoying the gaming experience without assuming leadership roles and are actively committed to contribute to the group’s success, whether through gameplay or community engagement.

During sessions, they will commonly fulfill roles typical of fireteam members, including rifleman, assistant, grenadier, and automatic rifleman. There is no set prerequisite for attaining this rank, although individuals are encouraged to familiarize themselves with more senior fireteam roles, such as automatic rifleman and grenadier.

PFCs are also offered the chance to showcase their expertise in a special role or take on leadership responsibilities over time. They have the liberty to choose roles they are confident in, particularly in main sessions or those they wish to develop further, such as during training sessions.

This rank is typically bestowed upon probationary members upon completion of their one-month evaluation period and acceptance into the community.

CPL (Corporal)

Seasoned members who have been in the community considerable period, often taking on lower-level leadership responsibilities such as fireteam leaders or fulfill specialized skills or interests, or specific roles within the group. This role is also voluntary, as are the ranks further below.

They can encompasses various specialized positions, including pilots, tankers, forward air controllers/observers, weapons squad members/leaders, medics, snipers, and others.

Depending on the mission, they may not consistently fulfill these duties and are expected to demonstrate a willingness to share. In such instances, they may adopt conventional fireteam.

The list of specializations include but are not limited to:

  • Forward Air Controller
  • Medic
  • Pilot
  • Vehicle Crewman
  • Medium/Heavy Anti-Tank
  • Crew-Served Weapons (such as mortars and heavy machineguns)
  • Anti-aircraft
  • Designated Marksman
  • Sniper
  • Combat Engineer
  • Reconnaissance
  • Forward Observer

SGT (Sergeant)

Highly experienced members who are interested in leading squads or larger elements. Individuals interested in undertaking this voluntary role are recommended to have at least three months of active participation within the community before assuming this role due to its demands.

They will have the opportunity to engage in leadership at their preferred level, including squad leader, platoon leader, and company commander, as well as take on headquarters roles such as platoon sergeant and company executive officer.

Usually, individuals holding these ranks have previous experience as corporals and may often take on senior leadership positions within specialized units and attachments, such as weapons squads, tank columns, or flights, when they’re not leading traditional rifle squads.

It is highly beneficial for members to have prior experience as fireteam leaders and specialized roles such as medic, forward observer, or forward air controller. This exposure helps provide comprehensive understanding of the operational structure and the interconnectedness of each role on the battlefield.

1SG (First Sergeant)

Distinguished members of TFR who have amassed considerable experience and expertise during their tenure. They are often considered moderators and willingly embrace additional in-game and community leadership responsibilities, contributing to training, administration, and the enhancement of our community.

This roles, along with those listed below, are classified as staff roles, which grant individuals a broader scope of authority beyond in-game activities and thus are regarded as positions of trust. Unlike the preceding roles, access to these positions is restricted and can only be attained once a member has fulfilled the minimum requirements and contacted staff to apply for the role.

Typically, a member should have at least three months of active participation and have volunteered for it before requesting this role.

Considered the cornerstone of our community, these individuals serve as providers, disciplinarians, and trusted advisors. They help guide junior members, offer counsel to community leadership, and facilitate the training of new members.

Members assuming this role should possess extensive leadership experience, particularly as a Squad Leader, Platoon Sergeant or Company Executive Officer, and have demonstrated proficiency in various leadership capacities. They may also engage in mission making activities.

Additionally, they may engage in mission-making endeavors to enrich the gaming experience for all members.

The list of responsibilities include but are not limited to:

  • Upholding all community regulations
  • Assisting with administrative tasks as needed
  • Addressing any infractions promptly and fairly
  • Providing mentorship and guidance to members
  • Assessing, certifying and promoting junior ranks
  • Participating in community activities and discussions
  • Resolving conflicts between members in a constructive manner

1LT (First Lieutenant)

These individuals represent the most senior leaders and founders of TFR, playing a pivotal role in its inception and ongoing development. They are deeply committed to the community’s growth and direction, shouldering the greatest responsibilities in shaping its trajectory. Operating primarily in leadership capacities, they are considered more as leaders rather than frontline soldiers and possess a wealth of experience and expertise.

To qualify for this role, individuals are expected to have participated extensively as a First Sergeant for a minimum of three months before volunteering for this elevated position. They should be well-versed in the duties of a First Sergeant and have additional leadership experience as Platoon Leaders or Company Commanders.

They are granted considerable autonomy to organize events, provide guidance, steer community initiatives, develop missions, update regulations, craft in-house mods, and mentor members to attain the rank of First Sergeant.

They are also responsible for overseeing administrative tasks such as website management, TeamSpeak and Discord coordination, document upkeep, roster maintenance, personnel updates, announcements, and campaign design.

The list of responsibilities include but are not limited to:

  • Administration tasks including:
    • Website management
    • TeamSpeak upkeep
    • Discord upkeep
    • Document upkeep
    • Role management
    • Mod management
  • Updating and enforcing rules and regulations
  • Managing personnel updates and announcements
  • Designing and creating missions and campaigns
  • Hosting sessions
  • Overseeing mod management and development
  • Mentoring and qualifying members for leadership roles
  • Conducting training for senior leadership roles like Company Commander

CPT (Captain)

This rank bestowed upon the overall community owner. In addition to upholding the responsibilities associated with previous ranks, the Captain is entrusted with making executive decisions that advance the collective welfare of the community while remaining aligned with its core vision.

They are held to the same standards as other community members, serving as a role model and setting the bar for exemplary conduct.