S P O G
SPOG - SPace, Orbit, and Ground operational specialists. The best of the best, the SPOGs draw from all branches of the armed services and professional practice. Those given the opportunity to begin SPOG training are given every opportunity to leave without disgrace. SPOG recruits are anonymous until graduation from SPOG basic training. SPOG Basic is tough, and training does not get easier. In phase 2, the aspiring SPOG learns to conduct his or her speciality in the spaceborn environment. At this point, the SPOG may take his name back, or purchase a new one. SPOGs graduate with the rank of Spaceman, with the SPOG insignia under the Spaceman slash. The SPOG paygrade is (as of this writing) a grade higher than the equivalent without the SPOG insignia. After sufficient Time In Grade, and regular promotions, a SPOG CPO, and with the recommendation of his commanding officer, may attempt SPOGOCS. SPOGOCS graduate with the rank of Ensign. The pay grades are equalized at this point, so there would be no monetary incentive to go to SPOGOCS. Motivation is key.
Electing to go SPOG also requires a 16 year commitment as opposed to the usual 8 year enlistment. A would be officer would have to re-enlist, and again the period would be 16 years. SPOG training is ongoing, and continues onboard and during refits.
A Typical SPOGOCS candidate will have 15 or 16 years of service, and have been assigned to at least 3 different ships.
Some SPOGOCS graduates are technical rather than command path and begin officer life as a Chief Warrant Officer. CWOs have grades 1-5, although at present there are no CWO-5s.
All SPOGs are required to maintain excellent combat skills.
The original SPOG insignia consisted of a silver spaceship diagonal across a red planet on a black background, The subdued pin consists of a blackened silver spaceship diagonal across a dull copper planet on a dark blue (case hardened steel) background. Rendered as a patch, the insignia is black, brown and dark blue.