"Were the AWOL regulations to change...what changes would you like to see?"

What was originally thought to have been a boring topic developed into a spirited and thorough discussion of the practices and procedures of activity in the Tie Corps. From the outset two distinct groups developed: those wanting change and those seeing no need.

Led by VA Sauron, the "changers" would like to see the regulations raise the expectations of activity and to do this would generally shorten the AWOL response time or would require some "activity" (flying, writing, graphic development, etc.) within which to avoid AWOL issues. This group pointed out that access to the Internet has improved and that the current rules have basically been in place since 1995, before the implementation of the Reserves.

Those seeing "no need" were generally led by LC Freelancer. It generally is the opinion of this group that the responsibilities of the AWOL system and activity levels fall on command positions. If CMDRs want activity, it is their responsibility to inspire it. The AWOL rules do not create activity, but provide time for issues of inactivity to be identified and worked on, until a decision of AWOL is made.

What appeared to be a problematic differences of approach, cleared up with the appearance of FA Kessler. When Kess explained the flexibility he provides CMDRs in determining when to do AWOL checks and what levels of activity are acceptable, the debate changed. Clearly the FO considers it the responsibility of CMDRs to improve their management skills, if they haven't the activity they desire.

The "no need" camp was justified in knowing their arguments were being supported, the CMDRs are given the support they need. The "changers," however, pointed out that the "practice" was not what the regulations specifically provide. The "changers" then argued that were CMDRs and all pilots clearly informed that e-mail responses one a month are not regularly acceptable and that CMDRs actually have more AWOL power than that, all parties could better conform their behavior to the prevailing "practices." CMDRs can legitimately demand more of their pilots (acknowledging it is their responsibility to inspire such) and pilots otherwise disposed to inactivity would be on notice the CMDR had the authority to make such demands.

This led the discussion to the role of the reserves. Knowing the practices of the Tie Corps allow CMDRs much flexibility, discussion focused on how best to use that flexibility. (Initially it must be noted ALL parties agreed the Reserves are an important and legitimate place for pilots on legitimate leave)

Some argued for a short e-mail response time with an automatic movement to Reserves for failures and subsequent expulsion for failure to get involved after the movement to the reserves. Others argued for a pre-AWOL list...moving AWOL potential pilots to a separate list from which they would be purged if they did not exercise some activity. All agreed, however, that any pilot moved to reserves, unrequested, must be informed of the reason and how he/she could be re-instated to active duty.

While no clear answers developed, all parties participating or reading the discussion should have learned several things: While CMDRs bear the responsibility for inspiring activity, the FO is there to support them when problems develop; CMDRs do not need to wait the full thirty days to seek the assistance of the FO in addressing identified inactivity issues; used properly, the Reserves are a great way to permit seasonal or otherwise legitimate pilots return to fight for the Glory of the Tie Corps and the Emperor's Ha

Article written/edited by Major Theodore (theo_eh@hotmail.com). Visit the TC Magazine Debate Board at http://www.sitepowerup.com/mb/view.asp?BoardID=114602 and voice your opinions.