Roles in the camp The main officer, non-commissioned officer, and other functional roles involved in the operation of the camp. Here you will find a very detailed description of these profiles, together with all guidelines for the proper execution of their tasks. Principales Centvrio Profile description Centvrio is the most important soldier and, at the same time, the commander of the unit known as a Centvria . Chosen from among the most distinguished and bravest men, he serves as a field commander fighting in the front line, inspiring the soldiers under his command, indicating the direction of attack, and personally taking part in combat. Centvriones were distinguished by a transverse cresta, that is, a plume of feathers of various colors. Due to their high pay, ranging from two to five times the pay of an ordinary miles, and sometimes even more depending on their position in the Legion, they were also marked by richer equipment and by the insignia and decorations they wore. The high mortality rate among Centvriones made this a high-risk position, but also one of exceptional prestige. In the event of the death of the Centvrio , command was assumed by the commander of the rear guard, namely the Optio , and if he too fell, the unit was taken over by the Centvrio of a neighboring unit from the same maniple. Tasks and duties Centvrio is responsible for the overall functioning of his unit during preparations for a campaign, throughout camp life, and on the battlefield. His duties include the proper allocation of roles, organization of work, supervision of the camp’s condition, creation of military action plans, and ongoing command of the soldiers under him. Officer and functional assignments Before each campaign, Centvrio determines which specific soldiers will assemble under the legionary standards. On this basis, he organizes the command structure, tent assignments, and the staffing of the most important functions within and outside the camp. Before each campaign, he determines which specific soldiers will assemble under the legionary standards. In the absence of regular officers and non-commissioned officers, he appoints soldiers at his own discretion to the following posts: Optio Signiferi Tesserarivs He places the appointed officers and non-commissioned officers in the staff tent. From among the remaining soldiers, he selects the most experienced to serve as senior rank-and-file soldiers responsible for a tent, namely Decanvsi . In consultation with the Decanvsi appointed for the duration of the campaign, he assigns specific soldiers to their tents. Guided by his knowledge of the training of the registered soldiers, he also appoints other important functional posts, such as: Specvlatores Frvmentarivs Magister Campi Cvstos Castrorvm Medicvs Magister Latinae Priority for the above functions is given to soldiers who hold them permanently and have the greatest experience in them. Attention!!! Every effort should be made to ensure that the persons concerned can be informed of all the above assignments before the event. Attention!!! Some positions may be combined. In particular, there is no objection to Decanvsi also performing other functional roles. However, roles and tasks in the camp must be divided in such a way that the selected soldiers are not overburdened with an excessive number of duties. On the battlefield, Centvrio decides on: Dividing the unit into smaller parts and assigning temporary commanders to selected sections of the front. Calling a council of war, namely Consillivm , during which he discusses the battle plan, appoints temporary commanders, and defines the actions they are to undertake. Drafting the tactical battle plan for the entire Legion, based on intelligence information. In the camp, Centvrio : Ensures the proper allocation of human resources to tasks necessary for the functioning of the Castrvm . Upon seeing shortcomings or problems, immediately orders the necessary actions to be carried out by the appropriate cell specializing in the selected work. Rebukes the lazy, motivates the discouraged, and rewards the diligent. Ensures that every day in the Praetorivm there is a written list of tasks to be completed that day by the functional personnel, who later mark them as completed. Ensures that, upon returning to the staff tent, he has immediate insight into the status of completed assignments and executed orders. Assigning missions to the Specvlatores : Scouting and reconnaissance of the area in terms of threats from the local population. Spreading propaganda. Assessing the enemy’s numbers and weaknesses, as well as obtaining information from prisoners by various methods. Reconnoitering the marching route, if a march is to take place on that day, and removing obstacles. Additional activities: He has the right to organize simulated incidents in order to make soldiers alert to threats and to develop an appropriate response to them. He has the right to order a march, raid, reconnaissance, and other military actions in consultation with the Tribvnvs . Full cooperation with Optio Because of the broad range of duties that Centvrio has in and outside the camp, he appoints his direct deputy in the person of the Optio . His task is to be fully engaged in service on the assumption that at any moment he may have to become Centvrio himself and effectively replace him in the full scope of his duties. He agrees with Optio on the division of his own duties in order to improve command. He ensures, where possible, that they exchange various tasks with one another every day, so that Optio gains experience across many areas of activity. He shares with him all information on the condition of the camp and all reports received from soldiers. He expects the same from Optio , especially if the deputy receives reports during the absence of Centvrio from the staff or the camp. Attention!!! Cooperation between Centvrio and Optio must be complete and continuous, so that command can be smoothly taken over at any moment without loss of control over the situation. Camp construction The scope of Centvrio ’s duties with regard to camp construction still requires full elaboration. It should be assumed, however, that he is responsible for supervising the entire organization of work and for the proper distribution of tasks among functional personnel and ordinary soldiers. Creating battle and demonstration plans Centvrio, as the commander-in-chief of the unit, bears full responsibility for the course of the battle. At the council of war, he agrees with the remaining Principales and Decanvsi on the tactical outline of military operations, assignments to designated units, and their temporary commanders. On the basis of intelligence data from the Specvlatores , he has a full situational and terrain picture, which he should use in every possible way to the army’s advantage. He is responsible for preparing the tactical plan of military operations. In consultation with the command staff, he determines the deployment of forces, assignments, and the manner in which the assumed objectives are to be achieved. He uses intelligence information to assess the terrain, the enemy, and possible threats. He bears responsibility for the success or failure of the actions, which are then subject to the assessment of the Tribvnvs . Daily running of the camp Centvrio is responsible for the ongoing functioning of the camp, the organization of work, receiving reports, and directing the activities of functional personnel. His duties include both planning and supervising the execution of assigned tasks. Staff meetings Centvrio organizes a briefing around 8:00, after warm-up and a visit to the latrine, but before breakfast and washing. The briefing takes place in the Praetorivm tent.  All functional personnel report to the Praetorivm immediately after assembly, warm-up, and a visit to the latrine, in order to submit to the commanders a report on the personnel status of the people under them, completed work, and comments regarding further tasks. If the activities require the presence of Decanvsi , selected members from among them are also summoned. He receives a report from Centvrio Castrorvm on the camp’s readiness in terms of: cleanliness; stability of living quarters; condition of the fortifications; preparation of the camp and the men for emergency situations, for example natural disasters; his own comments concerning work necessary to secure the functioning of the camp. The office of Centvrio cooperates with Medicvs in order to know the current status of soldiers capable and incapable of combat, demonstrations, marching, or other duties. He assigns field missions for the Specvlatores unit for the given day, as well as other tasks arising from the current situation. Receiving reports One of the basic duties of Centvrio is to receive regular reports from functional personnel and to maintain a complete picture of the situation in the camp. He receives a report from Cvstos Castrorvm on the camp’s readiness for inspection in terms of cleanliness. He cooperates with Medicvs in order to know the current status of soldiers capable and incapable of combat, demonstrations, and marching out of the camp. He analyzes reports submitted by other functional personnel and, on their basis, issues further orders. Attention!!! Centvrio should constantly strive to ensure that no significant problem in the camp remains without a report, a decision, and the appointment of a person responsible for solving it. For discussion and development Determine whether councils and briefings should be treated as the same thing or as two separate types of staff meetings. Define precisely who is required to attend such briefings, in particular whether all functional personnel should always participate, including Frvmentarivs and Specvlatores, or whether some of them should be informed individually of their tasks. Complete the full scope of Centvrio’s duties during camp construction and specify in greater detail the procedure for daily reporting. External links http://www.academia.edu/6339769/Centurion Optio Profile description Optio is the second most important person immediately after the Centvrio . Polybius describes him as the commander of the rear guard, where he occupies a position from which he can see the entire condition of the unit and control its actions when the Centvrio is unable to do so. This position was intended to prepare him for the future full assumption of the duties of the Centvrio in the event of his incapacity or death. Tasks and duties Optio supports the Centvrio in all decisions affecting the functioning of the unit in the following areas: organisation and transport training and tactics discipline management of human resources and Legion equipment Inspections by day and by night: Correctness of completed construction works Together with the Tesserarivs and Specvlatores , he establishes security measures and a defence plan for the camp in the event of natural disasters or an unexpected attack (see the duties of the Tesserarivs concerning security) Whether the guards perform their duties in the required and expected manner, and he enforces punishments in the event of insufficient commitment. He assigns and directs men to tasks where additional manpower is needed, whether in the kitchen, transport work, construction work, guard duty, and so on. He conducts additional training if he considers it appropriate, when the soldiers show deficiencies or discipline has become too lax. Duties during battles and displays Optio has varied tasks depending on the type of display being conducted. During drill and combat training, most Principales take positions outside the unit for presentation purposes. He supports the Centvrio by standing beside the operating unit, always opposite the Centvrio on the other side, and by repeating the commands issued by him in a loud voice so that all training milites can hear the order despite disturbances such as music played in the background or ongoing narration. He moves extensively together with the group of soldiers, detects all irregularities and corrects them, whether by drawing attention to them, issuing an additional command, or applying force or physical punishment, without shying away from brutality. During simulated clashes and battles, all commanders and Principales take an active part as the main core of the fighting Centvria, around which the soldiers gather and assume the appropriate formation. Optio , as commander of the rear guard, moves during intense fighting along the rear ranks of the Centvria, carrying out the following actions: he urges the soldiers on to fight, supports their morale and motivates them to act he ensures that the formation remains coherent and does not break apart during the course of the battle, reminding the fighters where their place is and that they must fill gaps in the line he indicates the men who are to drag the wounded to the rear for treatment in the event of the death of the Centvrio , he assumes command by moving to his position and continuing the fight; from that moment onward, the scope of duties presented in the description of the function of the Centvrio during battle applies to him. in the event of danger, he selects available soldiers and directs them to a given section of the fighting if the need or necessity arises, he may personally join the fighting (for example, in the event of a threat to the sacred standards) as during combat drill, so too on the battlefield he repeats the orders of the Centvrio , enforcing and ensuring the execution of their provisions Daily running of the camp Optio , before dusk, together with the Tesserarivs , inspects the soldiers' tents, looking for any breaches of discipline, order and organisation. Throughout the entire day, they carefully observe the behaviour of the legionaries, looking for the disobedient and troublesome, to whom he will assign punitive work or guard duties at the evening assembly. If all Contvbernia perform their duties exemplarily and there are no visible shortcomings, a competition is held for the best-maintained tent in the Legion in terms of hygiene, order and preparation of equipment, taking care not to select men who have recently performed guard duty. Staff meetings Optio takes an active part in all councils, reports and briefings. He has a strong mandate and the right to influence decisions made within the group in every aspect, from the ordinary organisation of the day in the Legion to a military court over the disobedient. Together with the Centvrio , he receives statements and reports from functionaries and Decanvi , on the basis of which they issue orders and instructions to be carried out. For discussion and development External links Signiferi Profile description Signiferi are a group of standard-bearers carrying the legionary standards, important from the point of view of morale, prestige and religious belief. Chosen from among the bravest men in the unit, they form the core of the Centvria together with its commander, positioned in the second line behind him, where they mark the rallying point and the direction of attack. Within the group of legionaries, we distinguish the following standard-bearers by order of importance :  Aqvilifer - bearer of the legionary eagle - aqvila, Imaginifer - bearer of the image of the emperor - imago, Signifer - bearer of the Centvria standard - signvm, Vexiliarivs - bearer of the banner indicating which legion our detachment belongs to - vexillvm. Cornicen , Tvbicen – trumpeters who transmit orders through sound signals, for example to march, attack, or retreat Tasks and duties in the camp Duties of those carrying the standards (Vexilivm, Signvm, Aqvila ): Maintaining formation - the soldiers oriented themselves according to their position in relation to the Signvm , followed it and moved in the direction it indicated. If the Signifer advanced, the line pressed forward; when he stopped, the position was held. Because the standards signalled the commander's intentions, all basic signals given by the standards, which informed the soldiers about specific manoeuvres, must be known: rallying point lowering the signvm - signal for the legionaries to lower their shields raising the signvm - readiness to march / act, raising of shields by the legionaries direction of march/attack turning in the designated direction signalling the commander's intentions Caring for all symbols and legionary standards, maintaining them so that, always properly polished, they present themselves with dignity and majesty because of the great religious reverence surrounding them Care of the Sacellvm in the camp, where the standards were kept, as in a sanctuary, with proper religious reverence. In cooperation with the priests, they perform ceremonies in their honour (offerings, ritual decoration of the standards) their display during the day at the designated place, and at night their storage to protect them from bad weather or potential theft (for example during an attack or an attempted theft) Managing the soldiers' savings and the physical payment of their wages   Managing each soldier's funeral fund (transport of the ashes and a dignified burial) Duties of the trumpeters: Cornicen gives orders in the form of sound signals not only on the battlefield, but also during camp work. He signalled and regulated the cycle of work being carried out.  In the camp setting up/rolling up the battle standards waking the camp assembly of the soldiers changing the guards (Excvbia) meal time regulating movement during the review of the army announcing the moment of a command address or an assembly of the army participating in sacrifices and during military ceremonies In battle (trumpets and horns play together) signalling the beginning of a march / halt signalling attack / withdrawal execution of a special task (by soldiers operating away from the standards) regrouping rallying point after the formation has been broken On the march beginning the process of breaking camp forming the column and marching out of the camp helping to maintain pace and order in the marching column transmitting commands such as "forward" ( procedite ), "halt" ( consistite ) or "rest" raising the alarm about an approaching enemy signalling arrival at the destination and designating the place for building the camp Tesserarivs Profile description Tesserarivs is one of the most important functional positions in the Centvria. He is responsible not only for the security of the military camp, but also for personal property, assets, and the people staying there by day and by night. Tasks and duties Contrary to appearances, this function is not limited merely to assigning night guards. Below is the full scope of tasks that this functional soldier must undertake : Excvbia Nocta - Night Guard Tesserarivs designates two contvbernivm tents (in special cases fewer or more) that will perform night guard duty. Taking their course into account, it is recommended that these tents should have at least four men. He passes this information to the appropriate decanvi in the middle of the day, giving them the password for that day - tessera. A soldier serving in the camp as a Latin teacher - magister latinae - may be helpful in preparing the password. Guard's attire At the evening assembly, the Tesserarivs informs the soldiers about the required minimum equipment that must be carried during guard duty. Customarily, this is full equipment (including helmet and armour), although night guards are exempt from carrying pilvm and scvtvm, though these must be within the guard's "reach" in the event of an unexpected attack on the camp (see below). Duties of the guard Tesserarivs reminds the guards each time of the duties incumbent upon them and personally supervises their performance. The guard : Walks around the camp more often than he sits in one place, patrolling the area. On the order of the command, patrols the designated area near the castrvm. Ensures the safety of the people and equipment located in the camp. Guards the entrance to the camp and does not admit outsiders who do not know the password. In the event of special guests appearing, he asks the Tesserarivs or other higher-ranking officers to make a decision on the matter. In the event of detecting a sudden or approaching external threat to the camp, he immediately informs the Tesserarivs or another higher-ranking officer. Supervises lighting in the camp - fires, oil lamps and tallow lamps. Additional duties : The guard of the first shift must ensure that lighting in the camp is prepared sufficiently in advance (about 2 hours before the night guard begins) and that the camp lighting is maintained at full strength. The guards of the second and third shifts maintain the amount of camp lighting at their own discretion, so that the most important points of the camp remain visible. The guard of the last shift must ensure that the camp is cleaned, especially around the kitchen. He must also chop wood and light the fire in the kitchen. At the end of his service, he wakes the Centvrio or another officer according to earlier instructions from the Tesserarivs . Warning !!! The guard is under a categorical prohibition on consuming alcoholic beverages  both during his service and before his service on the designated day Division of guard shifts : Within each selected contvbernivm assigned to night service, the highest-ranking soldier, that is the decanvs , distributes the individual guard shifts at his own discretion, assigning one soldier to each guard shift from his own tent. The guards are divided into 4 shifts. They begin at about 23:00 and end at about 7:00. However, time during guard duty is measured "by eye" until water clocks are brought from Rome, which will make this procedure easier for us. In particular : o Excvbia Prima - from 23:00 to 1:00 o Excvbia Secvnda - from 1:00 to 3:00 o Excvbia Tertia - from 3:00 to 5:00 o Excvbia Qvarta - from 5:00 to 7:00 Warning !!! 15 minutes before the end of a guard shift, the replacements must be woken so that they have time to put on armour and prepare for their duties. No pairing of guards other than that designated by the Tesserarivs is permitted. Excvbia Qvotidiana - Day Guard Tesserarivs is also responsible for protecting the camp from dawn until dusk. The camp remains closed at all times except for designated short periods during the day when it is open to visitors. To maintain this state of affairs, the Tesserarivs assigns guards at his own discretion. Guards are particularly important when the unit leaves the camp for a longer period of time, for example for : battle, a march, drill displays, etc. Tesserarivs ensures that the soldiers and/or civilians left in the camp are able to provide proper protection and discusses with them the places where they are to remain during the absence of the main vexilatio. It is important that the Tesserarivs make good reconnaissance in the camp ahead of time, so that he does not have to look for suitable people at the last minute, nor appoint people who have other important duties that could conflict with the above. Full cooperation with the staff officers in this area is recommended. Defence of the camp against threat The legion's camp must be protected by the army 24 hours a day. For this reason as well, the role of the Tesserarivs is invaluable. He identifies possible threats (also using information obtained by the specvlatores ) and carefully prepares, in consultation with the Optio or the Centvrio , a plan for defending the camp against an unexpected attack, which is highly probable especially at night. For this purpose : He discusses the action plan with the guards. Whom are they to call ? When are they to raise the whole camp ? Which places are they to defend and not abandon at any cost ? etc. At the evening roll call, he announces the initial defence plan for the camp, according to which, in the middle of the night, each soldier will know where he is to run first after leaving the tent and wait for orders. During an immediate threat, he is the first to run to the designated place in the middle of the camp. He gathers the soldiers and sends them to various defensive sections of the camp until command is handed over to higher-ranking officers, for example the optio or  centvrio . Warning !!! It is important that everyone understand the seriousness of the situation and report as quickly as possible, with full commitment, to the designated sections, holding at least a sword (gladivs) and a shield (scvtvm) in their hands. Warning !!! In the event of a sudden attack, if equipment is not at hand, instead of wasting time looking for weapons, a soldier grabs anything that can be used for fighting, whether: a shovel, dolabra, stick, or even a helmet/pot/pan for beating the aggressor! Assigning kitchen duties - cvlina Tesserarivs , having full knowledge of which soldiers have day or night guard duties, also assigns individual soldiers to all-day kitchen duty (if possible, preferably an entire contvbernivm or contvbernia ) For this purpose, he works directly with the Medicvs , who knows the condition of sick legionaries who, as unable to participate in training / displays / marches / battles, will be assigned permanently to the kitchen, perhaps even for the entire duration of the camp.  He informs the Frvmentarivs of his decision, responding to the quantitative needs reported by the aforementioned. In exceptional situations, for example: a large evening feast in the camp, he may assign additional soldiers only for that occasion (or even an entirely new shift for that evening to serve during the feast). Reporting Tesserarivs meets with the staff officers at least twice a day (first and foremost with the Centvrio ) in order to present a report on the duties assigned to him and to consult the following matters : what day and night guards will be assigned ? According to what principle will night guards be assigned on that day (for example as punishment or as a reward). the list of guards should be available on a separate wax tablet (tabvla cerata) and left in the headquarters. what tessera has been designated ? The Centvrio should receive a copy of the tessera on a scrap of papyrus. what is the plan for the night defence of the camp ? how have the assigned soldiers fulfilled their tasks so far ? when will an unannounced inspection of the night guards be carried out ? At least once per event. is cooperation with the Frvmentarivs proceeding without disruption ? Tesserarivs takes part in staff councils and briefings in the morning and/or evening, which customarily take place in the tent of the Centvrio . Warning !!! Tesserarivs may not leave the camp without first making sure that all duties assigned to him have been delegated to the appropriate soldiers and that centvrio has full knowledge of this matter. For discussion and development Prepare graphic guidelines concerning the defence of the camp during night attacks External links Legatvs Legionis Tribvnvs Laticlavivs Tribvnvs Angvsticlavivs The position of Tribvnvs Militvm Angvsticlavivs (lit. “military tribune of the narrow stripe”) was one of the pillars of legionary command during the imperial period. He was an officer of the equestrian order (ordo equester), belonging to the main staff of the legion, subordinate to the Legatvs Legionis ( Legatvs Legionis ) and cooperating with the Tribvnvs Laticlavivs (a representative of the patrician families serving an internship) and with the camp prefect ( Praefectvs Castrorvm ). In practice, the Tribvnvs Angvsticlavivs was a professional officer whose experience and knowledge of military life were of key importance for the functioning of the legion. Authority in the Roman army was based on the so-called “Imperium” (from Lat. “imperare” 'to command; to rule') , which by definition was the highest and sovereign scope of military, civil and religious power of higher officials in ancient Rome, formally granted by the people (in the Republic) or by the Emperor (in the Principate). It included: military command (imperium militiae) supreme criminal jurisdiction, including the right to issue death sentences the right to issue orders binding all citizens the right of coercion (coercitio maior) Every person holding imperium could decide over life and death and impose the highest penalties. Officers below the Legatvs, such as the Tribvnvs or the camp prefect , did not possess authority at the level of “Imperium”, because they performed functions at the level of a military official, not at the level of a magistrate. Every action of theirs was subdelegated by the Legatvs to whom they were subordinate. Instead of imperium, they held the so-called Potestas.   The Potestas of the Tribvnvs included: command over detached units (cohorts, vexillatio) administrative and disciplinary supervision the right to issue orders to soldiers on behalf of the Legatvs limited coercitio minor (e.g. disciplinary penalties), since the highest penalties (such as the death penalty) lay in the decision of the person holding “Imperium” MAIN DUTIES: Tribvnvs Angvsticlavivs performed administrative and disciplinary functions, which included: supervising fortifications and guards (cvstodiae), issuing night passwords (signa nocturna), control of drill and punishments (disciplina militaris), preparing reports (tabvlae divrnae), enforcing sentences The main tasks of the Tribvnvs included: supervision over training and soldiers' discipline order in the camp and, in cooperation with Praefectvs Castrorvm , the necessary logistics  direct command over part of the legion during tactical operations keeping records and lists of the legion's strength (tabvlae legionis), control of pay disbursements (stipendium) and bonuses (praemia militiae), accounting for supplies and armament , coordination of communication within the legion – receiving and transmitting the orders of the Legatvs, issuing and receiving night passwords (signa nocturna) – a communication system which, according to Polybius (VI.34), consisted in passing a tablet with an order from manipulus to manipulus, keeping daily reports (relationes diurnae) and reports on health, readiness and discipline, participation in the council of war (consilivm militare) together with the Legatvs , Praefectvs Castrorvm and senior Centvriones (primipilares). TACTICAL DUTIES: In military operations, the Tribvni Angvsticlavii served as sector commanders or cohort coordinators, and were an essential link in the command structure. They did not command independently like the Legati , but their decisions often determined the tactical effectiveness of the entire legion. Their tasks included: supervision over maintaining the Legion's order and formation (e.g. acies triplex or acies duplex), command over a cohort or a group of cohorts, responding to local threats and the orders of the Legatvs, maintaining morale and discipline during combat, controlling the rotation of soldiers and reserves, signalling manoeuvres through signa and tvbae. Each Tribvnvs, as a middle-ranking officer, had under his command: at least one cohort 2 cohorts in the legion's formation on the battlefield (~1000 men), or one cohortes milliariae, e.g. the first cohort of the Legion an auxiliary cohort (avxilia), including mixed mounted and infantry units (cohors eqvitata) or a detached unit of several cohorts assigned to various tasks which, because of their scale (often much smaller than a Legion), did not require appointing a Legatvs to command them. DUTIES IN THE CAMP (CASTRVM): In the camp (castrum), which formed the heart of legionary life, the tribunes had their quarters near the praetorium – the commander's tent. The main role of an officer in a Roman camp was to supervise assigned work. Soldiers under the supervision of Centvriones competed with one another between their units in a race to carry out orders. Soldiers tried to please their immediate superiors, the Centvriones tried to please their Tribvni, and the Tribvni tried to please the Legati . Within the Castrvm, the Tribvnvs also dealt with: assigning guards and patrols (stationarii, vigiliae), conducting recruitment into the army inspecting fortifications and gates (porta praetoria, porta decumana etc), supervising storehouses (horrea, armamentaria), and organising daily briefings (contiones). inspection and control of cohorts – daily at dawn (prima vigilia), supervision over combat training and drill (disciplina militaris), participation in councils of war (consilium), assessment of reports from Centvriones and verification of pay, equipment and supply lists, maintenance of morale and organisation of the reading of orders (edicta). The Tribvnvs performed a public function – he recruited soldiers for the army, conducted recruitment into the army from among citizens and non-citizens, supervised the process of incorporating them into army corps and the formation of new units. On behalf of the Legatvs , he presided over inspections of the units (recognitio) and verified their state of readiness. As guardian of order and discipline, the Tribvnvs, when a newly formed unit (Legion or Auxilia) first established camp or before the beginning of a campaign, received an oath from each participant. In order to maintain quality and motivation, the army had to be provided with proper food, care and training. All these aspects had to be coordinated by the Tribvni, because the success of military expeditions depended on the efficiency of the legionaries. The soldier not only faced the enemy and the potential wounds he might suffer in combat, but also had to cope with disease, difficult weather conditions, crises and the collapse of morale. The Tribvnvs was also responsible for the proper placement of guards (stationes) and the security of the camp at night . In cooperation with Centvrio and Optio , they established the camp defence plan and the rules for the functioning of the guards, and all these arrangements were put into practice through the Tesserarivs . Discipline and judicial authority The Tribvnvs was the representative of the Legatvs in matters of discipline: he had the right to convene military courts and issue sentences for cowardice, insubordination, drunkenness or desertion. In this sense, Tribvnvs Militvm was both an officer and a military judge, which shows how closely the legal and military aspects of service were then connected. Punishments, however, did not concern only soldiers, but also included junior officers: Centvriones , Optiones and those subordinate to them, as persons responsible for the functioning and discipline of the unit. All imposed penalties were based on “potestas” of the Tribvnvs, who administered them by authorisation of the Legatvs or the Praefectvs . The gravest offences included desertion, loss of standards or signs, or the flight of an entire unit from the battlefield, regardless of circumstances and the enemy's advantage, if there was no commander's permission to withdraw. Often the only proper punishment for this was death and disgrace through oblivion. This approach meant that the steadfastness of legionaries depended not only on discipline, their iron will and desire to win, but also on fear of their own commanders and the severe punishments associated with such offences. Soldiers feared their commanders more than the enemy on the other side of the battlefield. Apart from punishments, however, there were also obligations to reward deeds worthy of praise, ranging from public verbal commendations and the recognition of comrades to material or monetary rewards. Praefectvs Castrorvm Cornicvlarivs Profile description Cornicularius  - senior military and administrative official serving as the chief assistant to a legion commander, governor, or high-ranking officer. He belonged to the group of the most important staff non-commissioned officers ( principales ) and was responsible for organising the work of the office and supervising administrative personnel. The duties of the cornicularius  included maintaining military documentation, controlling orders and reports, supervising scribes, and coordinating the administrative affairs of the unit. This function was of great importance in the daily operation of the Roman army, whose efficiency was based on an extensive military bureaucracy. The position was often entrusted to experienced soldiers with strong organisational and writing skills. Cornicularii could serve both under legion commanders and in provincial administration, where they acted as trusted military officials.   For discussion and development External links Immvnes Additional important specialists within the century. Frvmentarivs Profile description Frvmentarivs is the main liaison between the civilian kitchen crew and the rest of the legion. His duties include ensuring food supplies for the entire camp and providing the resources necessary to carry out this task, such as wood, cooking ingredients, oven operation, and so on. Frumentarii were a special group of soldiers in the Roman army, originating from the legions, whose original task was to supply the troops with food ( frumentum , meaning grain). Over time, however, their role expanded significantly. Officially, they performed logistical and administrative functions: they transported supplies, conveyed orders, and acted as couriers between units and the central authorities. While supplying the legion, they also gathered information about the activities of enemy forces and peoples, so they may be described as spies. They operated throughout the entire empire, collecting information, tracking suspects, and carrying out secret orders of the emperor. Their equipment did not differ significantly from the standard gear of a legionary — they carried typical weapons, such as the sword ( gladius ), and light protective equipment. Due to the nature of their tasks, they often travelled in less conspicuous gear. The pay of the frumentarii was higher than that of an average soldier, due to their special duties and the trust placed in them. They also received additional benefits, such as easier access to promotion and privileges. !!! T O B E F I N I S H E D !!! Tasks and duties in the camp Leading the legionary section assigned to assist in the kitchen Frvmentarivs : After consulting the kitchen crew, he determines the number of kitchen assistants needed for the given day, who will be assigned from among the rank-and-file legionaries. For this purpose, he cooperates directly with the  Tesserarivs , to whom he reports the need and from whom he receives information about the soldiers assigned to this task for the entire day. He is required to take part in staff councils (Consilivm) in order to learn the day's schedule and the established times of activities and displays (he records the schedule on his tablet). He passes this information to the kitchen section, which organises its own council, gathering at his signal. During this internal council: the kitchen group establishes the course of the day for the civilian section in accordance with the schedule previously set by the Legion Staff. The Frvmentarivs , together with the head of the kitchen, decides at what times people may go into town / attend photo sessions / watch displays, when breaks are ordered, and at what times selected persons will be needed to assist in the camp. These arrangements are within the authority of the Frvmentarivs and the head of the kitchen section and are entirely independent of Staff decisions. the kitchen section prepares a list of the planned menu for the mealtimes of the given day In exceptional situations, for example a large evening feast in the camp, he may request additional soldiers only for that occasion, or even an entirely new shift for that evening to serve during the feast. He supervises the legionaries selected for a given day to assist in the kitchen, including: informing them about the tasks to be performed, for example: washing dishes, chopping wood, cleaning in the dining area - popina , lighting the fire, helping carry purchased supplies to the cellarivm , and so on assigning and supervising all these tasks, helping and motivating them to work efficiently. If necessary, he assists the kitchen crew on trips to the nearby Vicvs in order to supply the camp with the food and drink needed for the coming days. Supply of water and food Frvmentarivs is, broadly speaking, responsible for ensuring that the legionaries do not go hungry or thirsty. Therefore : He passes the soldiers' daily programme to the kitchen section and helps plan the times at which meals should be issued. He is responsible for continuously organising drinking water for the legionaries, both so that it is available during the day in the popina during and between meals, and also in situations when the legion sets out for training, parades, or other activities outside the camp. He monitors water supplies and is responsible for replenishing them in the storage area (aqvarium) before they are exhausted.   In exceptional situations, for example when the legionaries march out on a long and distant patrol, it depends on him whether the troops receive any dry provisions, and he reminds them to take a personal supply of water with them. Other kitchen-related duties He is responsible for oil lighting in the popina during evening meals. Reporting Frvmentarivs submits at least one report per day to the Centvrio , for example in the evening, informing him about the efficiency with which tasks were carried out during the day and about any problems that occurred. In particular, he reports whether all assigned soldiers showed activity and conscientiously performed the work assigned to them. External links Magister Campi Profile description Magister Campi was a soldier responsible for ..... blah blah blah (historical information about pay, clothing, etc.) !!! ARTICLE REQUIRES COMPLETION !!! It has not yet reached even a basic version. Tasks and duties in the camp Magister Campi , from the earliest hours after reporting to the camp, conducts reconnaissance among the Decanvi , looking for soldiers who have no or very little knowledge and skill regarding legionary drill and military commands. Reporting Magister Campi submits a report ... For discussion and development  appoint one? or an entire team of magistri campi?  there are probably too many topics here; one instructor is not able to handle all of them: drill, display choreography, fighting with the gladivs, throwing the pilvm, sling, bow, wrestling, etc. External links Medicvs Profile description Medicvs serves as a field physician and provider of first aid in the army, where he is responsible for the general health of all persons participating within the Legion. The army had its own hospitals and surgeons, who often treated patients better than their counterparts in the cities. Each legion had its own medical team, qualified in treating wounds and injuries sustained during military service. They were able to diagnose the danger posed by a particular wound, when to leave an arrowhead in the body, and when to attempt to remove it. The legions also had their own well-equipped hospitals, and many of the instruments used by the ancients are still used in modern medicine. Tasks and duties The duties of the Medicvs include: Providing first aid in the case of serious injuries Dressing minor cuts, disinfecting wounds, administering medication for injuries and other ailments that do not require professional medical consultation On the battlefield, dressing the wounded: both real wounds and simulated ones. Keeping a list of the injured and the “wounded”, together with medical opinions and recommendations. During battles and displays During displays and battles, the Medicvs withdraws at appropriate moments to the rear of the fighting units, where he begins dressing the lightly wounded, who are quickly able to return to the battlefield and take part in the fighting again. Once all those able to return to the front have been treated, the Medicvs proceeds to examine those in serious condition, performing simulated procedures close to the audience so that they can have close contact with and insight into the actions that took place in the ancient world. Daily running of the camp Medicvs has his own station, where he presents all procedures, surgical instruments and dressings used in ancient times. He conducts displays related to surgery and the treatment of various diseases / wounds on persons assigned by the Centvrio as part of the “living camp” at the field hospital station (Valetvdinarivm). It is the duty of the Medicvs to have in his resources, or to provide by other means, the materials needed for his function. Outside displays, he is additionally responsible for providing basic healthcare for all injuries, cuts, contusions and wounds that are not dangerous and do not require the intervention of a real doctor or hospital stay. He presents all health problems, exclusions from certain activities, and a list of such persons in the form of a report in the Praetorivm to the Centvrio or Optio . Staff meetings Medicvs reports in the morning and evening to the Centvrio / Optio on the health condition of the “fallen” or “wounded” soldiers and gives recommendations concerning their level of activity for the following days, according to his current and best professional knowledge, together with predictions regarding their further ability to participate in displays and in the life of the Legion. Additionally, he may provide a list of activities that are inadvisable for a given person with their current injuries. For discussion and development External links Cvstos Castrorvm Profile description Cvstos Castrorvm is the guardian of camp order, responsible for organising the construction of the castrvm, supervising its appearance, and maintaining order throughout the event. He ensures the proper placement of tents, the efficiency of work, cleanliness, signage, lighting, and the readiness of the camp, reporting the state of preparation to the Centvrio. !!! T O B E C O M P L E T E D !!! Tasks and duties in the camp Construction of the camp Cvstos Castrorvm , after agreeing the camp plans with the Centvrio : directs the construction of the camp in such a way that it is built as efficiently and quickly as possible, lays out the camp streets (ropes, groma), divides construction crews into sub-teams so that they are neither too large nor too small for the assigned tasks, teaches how a team should deal with a given undertaking as efficiently as possible (for example, that the hammer should remain constantly in use, while another person should stand behind the “hammer man” and tie the guy rope), instructs others on the need to maintain proper distances between tents and to drive in tent pegs precisely, so that the tents have evenly tensioned guy ropes, continuously supervises the construction of the camp, checking whether there are any delays, whether people know what they are doing, and reallocating human resources until the construction is fully completed. supervises the many structures being erected simultaneously and teaches others, rather than taking part physically in the pitching himself, so that he can constantly follow what is happening and react when necessary. continuously monitors the distances between tents and whether the guy ropes are being tied correctly ensures that we do not dig deeper than permitted by the organiser Daytime functioning of the camp During the following days of the camp, he is fully responsible for its overall appearance, checking for example: whether the fencing is being maintained in proper condition ? whether the tents are properly tensioned ? whether cleanliness is being maintained in the camp (rubbish, plastics, and other non-historical items) ? whether unused wooden parts of tables / tents / sudes etc. are lying around unnecessarily ? whether tables / benches are in their proper places (for example, whether they have been carried back in the morning from the area of the fire to the Popina ) ? whether the sign in front of the camp with the inscription “Rapax” is clearly visible ? He assigns selected persons or entire contvbernia to carry out the above current tasks, which must be completed as a matter of urgency. He is also responsible for the signage of the entire camp. Each contvbernivm and every other tent must have a sign with an appropriate inscription informing about its function. In the morning and in the evening, he also checks the appearance of the camp with regard to elements that should be taken care of by other function-holders, and, if necessary, reminds them if something has been omitted or not done on time, for example: whether the artillery has been deployed in the appropriate place (or hidden away for the night) ? whether the signiferi have set out (or put away) the legionary standards and captured trophies ? Additional evening fire-related duties Every evening, he ensures that the assigned nearest night watch — excvbia prima — begins lighting the lamps in the camp on time. If necessary, he assists the Tesserarivs in teaching the soldiers how to light and maintain effective illumination. Before the feast, he deals with setting up the tables and benches and arranges additional rich lighting — lanterns around the tables and oil lamps on the tables. Every evening, he lights the oil lamps in the Popina. Reporting Cvstos Castrorvm reports to the Centvrio in the morning and in the evening, after the necessary works have been completed, on the readiness of the camp for inspection. For discussion and development Historicity of the function — whether this is an actual function performed by a legionary or one created for the needs of our group The duties include many things that fall under other function-holders — guarding the standards (signiferi), lighting oil lamps at night (Tesserarivs), guarding the artillery (Optio Ballistarvm) Position in the camp hierarchy — what place this function occupies in the chain of command Whether “Immunes” means actual exemption from some daily duties, or whether it is only a way of organising all roles in the camp External links Cornicen Profile description Cornicen – a military trumpeter responsible for transmitting sound signals by means of a curved horn called the cornu . He belonged to the auxiliary personnel of the legion and played an important role in command and in maintaining discipline on the battlefield and in the military camp. The duties of the cornicen included signalling orders concerning the march, attack, retreat, change of formation, and daily camp activities. The sounds of the instrument made it possible to transmit commands quickly over long distances, especially amid the noise of battle. Cornicines were specially trained soldiers of considerable importance for efficient communication in the Roman legions. In iconography, they were often depicted with a large, semicircular horn resting on the shoulder. Tasks and duties For discussion and development External links Tvbicen Optio Carceris Profile description Optio carceris was a non-commissioned officer responsible for supervising the military prison ( carcer ) and guarding prisoners.  The duties of the optio carceris included, among others, guarding detained soldiers and prisoners of war, organising guards at the prison, and carrying out orders connected with military discipline. This function reflected the extensive administration and strict disciplinary system of the Roman legions. Tasks and duties During a campaign, the Optio Carceris is directly subordinate to the Centvrio and supervises all aspects of the camp’s operation Reporting Optio carceris takes part in staff councils and briefings in the morning and/or evening, which customarily take place in the tent of the centvrio . For discussion and development External links Ceteri officiales (mvnerarii) in castris Other functional soldiers in the camp. Decanvs Profile description Decanvs , commander of a squad ( contvbernivm ), is usually an experienced soldier who plays a special role in the training and upbringing of those under his care, the so-called contvbernales. He is responsible for their discipline, the atmosphere of service and work, the level of culture, social conduct, military order and training. Decanvs is obliged to observe military discipline and has specific authority over the soldiers from his tent, especially in taking disciplinary action and distinguishing the soldiers subordinate to him. As the senior-ranking soldier in the absence of another decanvs : he is authorised to order a soldier to stop violating military discipline; he is obliged to inform that soldier's superior of this fact. Required skills: Leading and commanding the squad, including assigning tasks, defining objectives, and holding subordinate soldiers accountable and assessing them. Knowledge of the equipment and weapons used by the squad. Use of individual equipment and weapons. Operation of shared equipment used by the entire squad. Application of training forms and methods enabling the assigned objective to be achieved. Tasks and duties in the camp Warning !!! In the camp, the structural division of the organisation that is Leg XXI Rapax is quite different from outside gatherings. At the event, the Centvrio appoints legionaries who will serve as Decanvi . Ideally, those concerned should be informed of this before the event, both of their own appointment and of the preliminary list of soldiers who will be assigned to their tent. Such knowledge is very useful, as it allows the Decanvs to prepare much better for his role. Decanvs , as a functional soldier, has a number of duties connected with caring for his contvbernales, that is the members of the contvbernivm who live with him in one tent. He is responsible for training, maintaining military equipment and gear in working order, shaping proper interpersonal relations, and ensuring that safety rules are observed during the execution of tasks. Below is the main scope of tasks assigned to the Decanvs under camp conditions. Legionary equipment One of the basic duties of the Decanvs is to ensure that those under his care are properly equipped both for the combat part and for everyday functioning in the camp. He determines as early as possible, if possible even before the event, what equipment shortages his men will have, and makes every effort to have them filled. He ensures that shortages are filled both in the combat part, meaning weapons, and in the civilian part, for example eating vessels, a sleeping blanket and other necessary items of equipment. He checks necessarily on the soldier's body  the quality and fit of the equipment, in particular: whether armour has a complete set of straps; whether the helmet sits properly on the head and will not move during marching or running; whether the metal parts of the weapons are kept properly clean; whether individual pieces of equipment are suitable for safe and dignified use. Legionary training Decanvs is also responsible for assessing the level of training of those under his care and for filling identified gaps as quickly as possible. He determines what training deficiencies his men have, both with regard to: the basics of drill; knowledge of the general choreography of displays; skill in handling weapons. From the beginning of the gathering, he works intensively to bring his soldiers up to standard as quickly as possible in the areas where deficiencies have been identified. Depending on the situation: basic gaps in knowledge and skills among those under his care may be corrected by him independently; more advanced deficiencies, such as training in military group formations, he urgently reports to the appropriate  principales in the camp, for example the  Magister Campi  or Optio , as a need for urgent training of specific soldiers. Latin An important element of service in the camp is also basic knowledge of Latin , especially within the scope used during drill, reporting and the daily functioning of the unit. Decanvs checks knowledge of the basics of Latin in the following areas: cardinal numerals; marching and camp commands ; names of individual equipment and camp elements; phrases needed for giving reports. If deficiencies are found, he seeks to remedy them himself or reports the need for additional training to the appropriate functionary, for example the magister latinae . General conduct of the legionary Decanvs is responsible not only for the military preparation of his men, but also for their proper conduct, order and compliance with the rules binding throughout the entire camp. He teaches and supervises: that soldiers keep order in the tent, especially the proper arrangement of sleeping places; that they maintain order in front of the tent, especially with regard to putting away shields and pila; that those under his care inform him of every departure from the camp and of the probable time of return; that non-historical items are mostly kept outside the camp, for example in cars; that nicotine products are used only outside the camp and only in places designated for this purpose; that they do not consume alcoholic beverages with an alcohol content above 0% during the time of day forbidden by the camp commander;  that they do not use modern devices in the camp, such as flashlights or mobile phones, at any time of day; that they behave with dignity and in accordance with the rules of social conduct binding in Leg XXI Rapax. Warning !!! Decanvs should respond immediately to all signs of neglecting order, violating discipline, and behaviour that lowers the historical standard of the camp. Additional duties In addition to duties directly connected with the equipment, training and conduct of his men, Decanvs must constantly oversee the organisation of work of the entire contvbernivm . Decanvs especially keeps in mind at all times that he must: always know where his soldiers are. at all assemblies, place himself at the front, but arrive last himself, helping and mobilising his contvbernales to report as quickly as possible as an entire group. mobilise his soldiers to active work and learning. motivate his soldiers so that they perform all duties exemplarily, for the glory of the contvbernivm and the whole of Leg XXI Rapax. fairly assign night and day guard duties, if such a task has been assigned to the contvbernivm. instruct legionaries leaving the camp when they must return at the latest, and then monitor this and react early enough in the event of possible delays. Reporting To carry out all tasks assigned to him, the Decanvs has at his disposal a number of other functionaries in the camp, whose assistance he should use. Proper reporting and cooperation with the functional staff are an important element of his service. In the day-to-day functioning of his contvbernivm, he cooperates with other functionaries, in particular: with the Medicvs , in matters concerning the health of members of the contvbernivm; with the Magister Campi , in matters concerning the need for additional training of soldiers, especially in a larger group; with the Centvrio , in matters concerning the organisation of service and the programme for the next day. He continuously passes information to his superiors about the condition of his contvbernivm, observed problems, equipment shortages, training deficiencies and organisational matters requiring a higher-level decision. Decanvs takes part in staff councils and briefings in the morning and/or evening, which customarily take place in the tent of the centvrio . Warning !!! Decanvs should not leave matters concerning his contvbernivm unreported to his superiors if their nature exceeds his own competence or ability to act. For discussion and development Complete detailed guidelines concerning reporting, especially the scope of reports submitted to the Medicvs, Magister Campi and Centvrio. Prepare a model scheme of Decanvs responsibility for the contvbernivm throughout the entire event. External links -- none -- Capsarivs Profile description Capsarii – orderlies and medical assistants, responsible for providing first aid to wounded soldiers on the battlefield and in military camps. The name derives from capsa – a container or bag in which they carried bandages, instruments, and medical supplies. The duties of capsarii included dressing wounds, transporting the wounded, and assisting military physicians ( medici ) during procedures and treatment. They operated both during combat and in legionary infirmaries ( valetudinaria ), forming an important element of the Roman medical care system. Capsarii were usually soldiers with basic medical training. Their presence in the legions attests to the high level of organisation of the Roman army and to its developed approach to the treatment of wounded soldiers. Tasks and duties Reporting For discussion and development External links Magister Latinae Profile description Magister Latinae is a soldier responsible for training legionaries in the Latin language. (historical information on pay, clothing, etc.) !!! ARTICLE REQUIRES COMPLETION !!! It has not yet reached its basic version. Tasks and duties in the camp Magister Latinae “smuggles” the Latin language into the camp life of the legion in various ways, so that the soldiers learn the necessary words and phrases not only during formal Latin lessons, but also through a range of games and activities. Training boards In the popina there are wooden boards with basic Latin words, arranged thematically (food, etc.). In their free time, soldiers can use them to learn the necessary vocabulary and improve their knowledge. They form the basis for questioning before every meal (more on this below). Information signs in the camp Signs are distributed throughout the camp, describing the tents (praetorivm, popina, lvpanarivm...) as well as marking the tents belonging to each contvbernivm (con Vagini, con Holi...). This makes it easier to move around the castrvm and helps people find the appropriate tent as quickly as possible. In addition, the main camp artery (via praetoria) is marked, as are the entrances to the castrvm from outside, so that passing civilians remain alert and know what lies ahead of them. Games and activities Latin lessons Magister Latinae , together with the Centvrio , conducts camp Latin lessons. During them, the soldiers learn the basics of the language as well as vocabulary used on a daily basis in the camp. The basics of declension and the fundamentals of verb conjugation are explained. The lyrics of marching songs are studied together, so that the soldiers know what they are singing and how they should sing it. Testing knowledge Magister Latinae questions every legionary on their knowledge of Latin before each meal. Depending on the level of knowledge, these may be questions about basic words (water, sword, cup...) or more complex expressions or sentences. If the person questioned gives an incorrect answer or gives no answer at all, he returns to the end of the queue to take the test again. The time spent waiting in the queue is suggested for revising knowledge from the boards ;) Reporting Magister Latinae submits a report ... For discussion and development 1. Whether Magister Latinae submits reports to the praetorivm; if so, what he should report 2. What games and activities can be introduced in order to improve the soldiers’ knowledge of Latin more effectively (I suggest the song “head, shoulders, knees and toes” in Latin — Venator) 3. As with Cvstos Castrorvm, this is a function created for the needs of the group, so it is not possible to describe its historical importance, equipment, pay, etc. External links Specvlatores Profile description Specvlatores are a reconnaissance sub-unit operating within military units, assigned special tasks ranging broadly from scouting to ensuring the army’s success even before battle. They carried out their missions in small detachments in order to conduct intelligence-gathering effectively. Their ranks could even include local warriors and guides serving in the auxiliary forces of the Roman armies. Their main task was to gather information for the legions concerning the activity of the enemy army and terrain conditions. They were a unit of the Roman army whose task was to collect as much information as possible about the enemy, his forces, and his actions through covert operations. !!! ARTICLE REQUIRES EDITING AND COMPLETION !!!  Tasks and duties Specvlatores are the equivalent of modern “commandos” assigned to special tasks. They have a broad range of duties, including carrying out: reconnaissance missions, including mounted long-range reconnaissance, and scouting along the Legion’s marching route and in its area of operation, reporting all suspicions and irregularities, such as detected traps, terrain and natural hazards, and obstacles affecting the march of the units. sweeps of the surrounding area in order to detect enemy forces, gather necessary information about their location, activity, numbers, and their weak and strong points. marching far ahead of the head of the legion, securing the route and removing terrain obstacles in order to facilitate the passage of the troops sabotage of enemy machines, camp fortifications, or other strategic objects selecting a favourable site for the construction of a camp, which must provide: a source of water natural defence in the form of, for example, an elevated position, a rocky slope… etc. interrogations and torture of prisoners / deserters in order to extract the required information spreading rumours within the enemy faction and disseminating propaganda. Construction of the camp Specvlatores mark out the site on which the camp will be raised before the Legions arrive. After selecting the terrain for the castrvm, they immediately establish the layout of the tents and the course of the fortifications in cooperation with the Cvstos Castrorvm and the Centvrio . They then proceed, together with the soldiers, to supervise the course of the works. Creating plans for battles and demonstrations Before each battle, the Specvlatores inform others about and outline a situational plan of the place where the clash is to take place. They provide information primarily on: the shape of the terrain and ways of using it to the advantage of the Legions the numbers, mentality, habits, types, and morale of the enemy troops possible locations of ambushes and hidden enemy positions Daily duties The head of intelligence manages the unit subordinate to him and organises at least one intelligence operation per day — and, in exceptionally threatened regions where the Legion is stationed, as many as two per day — as well as additional missions assigned by the command, in the number and scope determined by the Centvrio or Optio . In consultation with the Tesserarivs , and based on his knowledge and reports concerning threats in the area, he outlines a draft plan for the defence of the camp in emergencies requiring armed intervention. They designate assembly points, defensive positions to which individual Contvbernia will be sent, and special tasks such as the protection of the civilian population working within its area. Staff meetings The head of the intelligence network submits a situational report to the officers in the Praetorivm on the state of security of the army and the threats present in the area. He informs them of all changes, suspicious activities in the vicinity, and the proposed safe marching route. External links Optio Lvdorvm Profile description Optio ludorvm is responsible for the technical side of conducting the Legionary Games, as well as for the overall preparation of all elements required for them. Tasks and duties In the week before the Games Optio lvdorvm , together with a selected technical team, prepares the technical items required for carrying out the individual competitions, placing them in one location so that they will later be easily accessible. He teaches the team what the individual competitions involve, and ensures that they know what must be prepared for each of them and what follows after what, in order to prepare efficiently.  He assigns each technical assistant to one of the teams for which that person will be responsible. The technical assistants must remind their teams when the Games take place, what they need to bring with them, and, between competitions, ensure that the teams prepare quickly and efficiently for the next one. Immediately before the Games On the day of the Games, Optio lvdorvm , together with the technical team, carries and prepares the items required for conducting the competitions near the arena, sorting them appropriately so that they can be exchanged quickly and efficiently. He reminds everyone that each team must be complete and that they must remember to appear on time. During the Games His duties during the Games themselves include ensuring that the competitions are prepared efficiently. He supervises the technical assistants, who continually remind the teams what the next competition is and what they must have ready. The most important aspect is time: there must be no overly long break or standstill between contests. In addition, he totals the points after each competition for submission to the judge, checks whether the competitors are breaking the rules, and in such cases disqualifies the attempt. After the Games After the contests of that day have ended, Optio lvdorvm , together with the team, cleans the arena and carries the equipment back to the appropriate place in the camp. It is important to count everything to ensure that nothing has been lost or damaged along the way and that everything has been put in order. In the event of any element breaking down, he ensures that the necessary repairs are carried out as quickly as possible. Technical team Eight technical assistants are required - 4 team technical assistants — each assigned to a specific team; they help prepare the arena for the competition and ensure that the teams know what the given competition involves and that they are prepared in advance (selection of competitors, appropriate clothing or lack thereof…) - 4 audience technical assistants — each assigned to   the audience; they help encourage the individual teams during   the competitions, distribute coloured banners and standards, and ensure that all of them are returned at the end Teams and competitors For the Games, teams are designated and assigned one of the colours (Avrati, Prasini,   Rossati, Venetii). Each team must have five competitors plus   a standard-bearer with the team standard. The competitors must arrive in full equipment; at least one must have a helmet, sword, belt, and shield. If a team from the audience takes part, both the standard and the equipment must be prepared by the technical assistants, above all by the team member responsible for them. Items required for the competitions Brought by us — balls, 4 pairs of skis, 3 long and thick ropes, puppets, a straw dummy, blindfolds,   sticks, a Centvrio dummy, 16 small rope circles. To be prepared on site — cylindrical logs in sufficient quantity to form a route several metres long, a “bridge” Description of the competitions Skis Five competitors stand on the skis prepared at the start line; the standard-bearer with the standard stands behind them. The competitors’ task is to reach the straw dummy, go around it, and return to the start line. The end occurs when the full length of the team’s skis crosses the start line. During the race, interfering with other teams, pushing, and similar actions are permitted. Required items: four pairs of skis, rope to mark the start-finish line, straw dummy to go around  Centvrio throw In turn, four competitors from each team line up at the start line. Gripping each of the dummy’s limbs, they throw it as far as possible without crossing the start line. After the distance is measured (counted by the dummy’s phallus), the technical assistants indicate to the standard-bearer of the given team that he should use the standard to mark the throw distance on the side line. Once all teams have thrown for the first time, they have an opportunity to improve their result with a second throw. The technique of the second throw is unrestricted; a comic approach by the teams during the second attempt is a welcome addition. Required items: Centvrio dummy, rope to mark the throwing line, and rope to mark the throwing distance Blind man One competitor from each team is blindfolded, while the rest of the team, without crossing the start line, shout instructions telling him how to reach his equipment (helmet, shield, belt, and sword) and then the Centvrio. The competitors must remain blindfolded at all times, must put on the listed pieces of equipment, and the game ends only after they have embraced the Centvrio walking or standing in the arena.   Required items: rope to mark the start line and, in the case of an audience team, equipment for that team Cavalry / horses Four competitors from each team strip down as much as possible (no shoes and no sharp or hard elements). Paired in twos, one competitor climbs onto the back of another, and at the signal they move against the opposing team. The competitors must knock both riders of the opposing team down (the rider may not touch the ground). The team with the last rider still on his horse wins. After the first two fights, there is a match for third place (the losing teams from the previous two fights), followed by a match for first place (the winning teams from the first two fights). Required items: none Pontes longi In the arena, we arrange a route several metres long from logs. The teams run along it one after another, avoiding the technical assistants, who try to knock them off the route using puppets and balls. A competitor who touches the ground before the finish line is disqualified. After the first round, the teams have a second attempt; a comic approach is suggested for the second try. Required items: logs, rope to mark the start, rope to mark the finish, rope to mark the area for the interfering technical assistants, balls and puppets for the interferers. Spinner At the start line, the competitors place their forehead against a stick held in their hands, so that its other end touches the ground. At the signal, one competitor from each team makes ten rotations around his own axis, picks up a rope circle from the ground, and runs towards the straw dummy. He places the circle over it and returns to the start line. When he crosses the line, the next competitor from the team starts and does the same. The end occurs when the last competitor from the team crosses the line. Required items: rope to mark the start, straw dummy, 16 rope circles to throw onto the straw dummy, 4 sticks For discussion and development External links Scriba Profile description Scribae – scribes and clerical officials working in the praetorium , that is, the headquarters of the legion commander. They belonged to the administrative personnel responsible for maintaining military and official documentation. Their duties included drafting orders, reports, pay lists, soldier records, and staff correspondence. Scribes played an important role in the functioning of Roman military administration, which was based on an extensive system of written orders and reports. Scribae were usually educated soldiers or freedmen with the ability to read and write in Latin. Although they did not perform combat functions, they constituted an important element of the legion’s organisational support and command apparatus. Tasks and duties The duty of the scriba  is to write down on papyrus all necessary materials, such as, for example, the list of soldiers.  For discussion and development External links