Expert: MARK A. HOWELL - 11/7/2010

Question
Hello,

I am a writer and I was wondering if you would be able to help me with a few questions.

My book is set in the future but the military is based off of present military structure and I would like it to be as realistic as possible.

Now, my question is this.

My main characters are part of a black ops unit, very covert dangerous missions. Some of which the government would deny their existence if caught.

In my opening scene they are on a spaceship about to take an enemy station that is very important, the attack is synchronized with several other attacks that are happening at once.

Now, first off what would be logical ranks for my characters? It's a four, maybe five man team.

Also, what roles would each of these members play in the attack? It will be a tactical entrance once the ship docks with the enemy station. (On a captured ship so they wont attack before they get there, so they have the element of surprise.)

On top of these, any information that you think would be relevant would be most helpful.

If I was to ever get the book published you will be credited as a Military Adviser. :-)

Thank you ahead of time!


Answer
Tristen,
You book plans sound exciting.

A typical team consists of 6-9 men who are cross-trained to do each others job in case of the loss of a team member.  Based upon the mission, the commander decides how many men will be required.

Each man has a Primary function on the team.  Team structure is as follows:

- Commander (usually a Captain)
- Deputy Commander (usually a Warrant Officer One or Chief Warrant Officer Two)
- Team Operations Sergeant (usually a Master Sergeant)
- Assistant Operations & Intelligence Sergeant (usually a Sergeant First Class)
- (2) each, Weapons Sergeants (usually Sergeants First Class, Staff Sergeants or Sergeants)
- Engineer Sergeant (usually Sergeant First Class, Staff Sergeant or Sergeant)
- Medical Sergeant (usually Sergeant First Class, Staff Sergeant or Sergeant)
- Communications Sergeant (usually Sergeant First Class, Staff Sergeant or Sergeant)

You say "element of surprise."  How do they dock with the enemy station without setting off some kind of proximity alert or docking sequence alert?  Think of the movie "Independence Day" when Will Smith tried to board the enemy station in a captured enemy ship.

When you say it will be a "tactical" entrance, that means they will be expecting to meet resistance.  Your weapons sergeants will actually breech the door first and clear the way of any enemy forces; and the commander would enter last for safety.

Remember Star Trek?  Spock the operations officer, Bones the doctor, and Scotty the engineer always beamed down with the commander (Captain Kirk) and a couple of guys with weapons.  The engineer comes along to operate the enemy station.

If you need any more assistance please let me know.  Also, if you decide to get it published let me know so I can buy a copy.

Colonel H