Vanguard [VMGX] - Organizations - Roberts Space Industries

History

Vanguard Mercenary Group: History and Major Events
Founding and Early Years (2602 – 2610)
• 2602: Vanguard was founded by Commander Elias Stroud, a former UEE Navy officer disillusioned by the corruption and inefficiency he witnessed within the UEE bureaucracy. After retiring from the military, Stroud gathered a small group of like-minded veterans who shared his belief in honor, duty, and the protection of humanity from external and internal threats. They named the group “Vanguard,” symbolizing their role as the front line of defense for human civilization. • 2603: Initially, Vanguard operated as a private security contractor, protecting trade routes and colonies in the outer systems. They quickly earned a reputation for their integrity, taking jobs that aligned with their moral values, often working pro bono to help struggling colonies fend off pirate raids or alien incursions. • 2605: Vanguard was involved in Operation Iron Fist, where they successfully defended the remote human colony of Linton IV from a large Vanduul raiding party. Their efficient coordination with local law enforcement and the UEE Navy earned them praise, and this victory cemented their reputation as a reliable ally to the UEE.
Expansion and UEE Alliance (2610 – 2640)
• 2610: Recognizing Vanguard’s growing influence and effectiveness, the UEE entered into a formal partnership with the group, contracting them to assist in military operations and peacekeeping missions in frontier systems. Under this agreement, Vanguard maintained its independence but operated closely alongside UEE military forces in regions where formal UEE presence was lacking or overstretched. • 2615-2620: During the Tevarin Rebellions, Vanguard played a key role in assisting UEE forces, providing special operations support during the Siege of Elysium IV, a decisive battle that helped end the Second Tevarin War. Vanguard’s ethical approach stood out during the conflict, as they were known for sparing non-combatants and helping integrate captured Tevarin soldiers into the UEE rehabilitation programs rather than executing them as some other mercenary groups might. • 2625: Vanguard establishes its first permanent base of operations on the planet Hades III, in a neutral system. This base served as their logistics hub, training ground, and home for families of Vanguard members.
The Vanguard Code (2640)
• 2640: Vanguard’s leader, Elias Stroud’s son, Captain Daniel Stroud, officially codified the group’s values into a formal doctrine known as the Vanguard Code. This code emphasized honor, duty, and protection of the innocent. It also prohibited taking contracts from criminal organizations or oppressive regimes. From this point on, Vanguard only accepted jobs that aligned with their moral principles, rejecting high-paying offers from pirate clans, corrupt corporations, and extremist factions. • 2645-2650: Vanguard expanded their ranks, recruiting former UEE military personnel who wanted to continue serving humanity but were frustrated by the politics of the military. Their growth allowed them to operate in multiple systems, providing security services to frontier worlds and acting as peacekeepers in disputed territories.
The Battle of Hades Gap (2660)
• 2660: Vanguard faced its greatest challenge in the Battle of Hades Gap, where a coalition of pirate factions attempted to seize control of a key jump point between UEE space and Banu territory. The pirates aimed to destabilize trade in the region. Vanguard, with limited support from UEE forces, led a defensive campaign to hold the jump point. Outnumbered and outgunned, Vanguard relied on superior tactics and guerrilla warfare to hold off the attackers until reinforcements arrived. • Casualties were high, but Vanguard’s successful defense of Hades Gap not only secured a major trade route but also boosted their prestige. Their actions in the battle became legendary, and they were awarded the Imperator’s Cross, a prestigious UEE honor typically reserved for military personnel.
Post-Hades Expansion and UEE Trust (2670 – 2700)
• 2670: Following the Battle of Hades Gap, Vanguard established a permanent alliance with the UEE military, acting as a rapid-response unit for emergencies in frontier space. They continued to build a reputation for taking on difficult missions that the UEE could not always handle directly due to political or logistical reasons. • 2682: Vanguard assisted in quelling an internal uprising on the human colony Vero IX, where local corruption led to civil unrest. Rather than taking a heavy-handed approach, Vanguard worked closely with the UEE Advocacy to root out corrupt officials while protecting civilians. Their focus on minimizing civilian casualties and restoring order won them widespread support from both the public and UEE government. • 2690-2700: The group’s size and influence grew considerably. They developed elite special forces units trained in anti-piracy operations, counter-terrorism, and alien engagement tactics, particularly focusing on Vanduul incursions.
Vanduul War and Present Day (2710 – 2950)
• 2710: Vanguard became heavily involved in the Vanduul War, with their forces regularly engaging Vanduul raiding parties along the outer systems. Their adaptability in facing the unpredictable and relentless attacks of the Vanduul earned them the trust of frontier worlds, which often turned to Vanguard for protection over the overstretched UEE military. • 2745: During the Battle of Vega II, Vanguard’s tactical intervention helped save the planet from total destruction when a Vanduul fleet launched a surprise assault. Vanguard coordinated the defense with local forces and UEE military, buying time for civilian evacuations and managing to cripple several Vanduul capital ships. • 2780-Present: Vanguard remains one of the most respected mercenary organizations in the galaxy, known for their unwavering commitment to honor and justice. They continue to take on high-stakes contracts, often working closely with UEE forces and local law enforcement to protect human interests across the galaxy. Their refusal to abandon their ethical code, even in the face of immense challenges, has made them both admired and feared.
The Vanguard Code
1. Honor above all: We fight with dignity and respect for life, even in the chaos of war. 2. Duty to humanity: We exist to protect human life and civilization from those who seek to destroy or enslave it. 3. Justice before profit: We do not take contracts for personal gain but for the greater good. 4. Loyalty to the innocent: We protect those who cannot protect themselves, regardless of their station or wealth. 5. Never break the Code: Our word is our bond. To violate the Code is to forfeit one’s place in Vanguard.
Vanguard’s history is intertwined with key events in the Star Citizen universe, from their roots in defending colonies from Vanduul raids to their position today as a respected, moral force for good amidst the lawlessness of the frontier. Their legacy as warriors with a conscience sets them apart from other mercenary groups, making them a symbol of hope in a dangerous galaxy.

Manifesto

The Vanguard Manifesto
Preamble
In an era where humanity teeters on the edge of chaos, and the stars are filled with threats both foreign and domestic, we, the members of Vanguard, declare our unwavering commitment to protect the innocent, uphold justice, and safeguard the future of our species. We are not just mercenaries; we are the shield and sword of civilization, standing resolute against the darkness that threatens to consume all we hold dear.
This manifesto serves as our guiding light, a statement of purpose, and a call to arms for those who still believe in honor, duty, and the protection of life. We stand apart from those who seek wealth at the expense of others. We are the Vanguard, and we march forward with purpose, driven by the higher ideals of justice and humanity.
I. Purpose and Mission
We, the Vanguard, exist to serve as defenders of humanity and the ideals upon which our civilization is built. We are independent of political corruption and corporate greed, operating with the sole mission of preserving life, law, and liberty in the face of adversity. Our actions are not governed by profit, but by principle. We seek not only to protect, but to inspire others to rise above the baser instincts of fear, power, and greed.
Our mission is threefold:
1. To Defend: We protect the weak, the innocent, and the defenseless, whether it be from alien threats, criminal forces, or internal corruption. We stand as the line between chaos and order, ensuring the safety of those who cannot defend themselves. 2. To Uphold: We enforce justice where others falter. In systems too distant or too fragile to receive regular protection from the United Empire of Earth, we bring the rule of law. We do not turn a blind eye to suffering or injustice, and we ensure that those who break the law are brought to account. 3. To Inspire: Our actions must reflect the highest ideals of honor, duty, and sacrifice. We aim not only to fight battles but to set an example for others—be they soldier, civilian, or fellow mercenary—showing that one can stand for justice even in the darkest of times.
II. The Vanguard Code
We hold ourselves to a higher standard. The Vanguard Code is not just a set of rules, but a philosophy by which we live and fight. It defines who we are and ensures that no matter how grim the battlefield, we do not lose sight of our humanity.
1. Honor Above All: In battle, we are lethal, but we are also just. We will not become the monsters we fight. We show respect for life, and we do not wage war without cause. Our integrity is unshakeable, and we hold ourselves accountable to the highest moral standards. 2. Justice Before Profit: Our cause is not for wealth or personal gain. We will never take contracts from those who oppress, exploit, or enslave others. No amount of credits is worth the cost of our principles. We fight for justice, not for the highest bidder. 3. Duty to Humanity: Our loyalty is to humanity and its continued survival in the face of both alien and human threats. We recognize that the safety of our species transcends politics, borders, and ideologies. We are united by a shared responsibility to protect human life wherever it is threatened. 4. Loyalty to the Innocent: We do not distinguish between the powerful and the powerless when it comes to defense. Those who are vulnerable or voiceless—colonists, traders, refugees, and civilians—are as worthy of protection as any UEE officer or corporate executive. We fight for them, for they are the heart of civilization. 5. Courage in the Face of Darkness: The galaxy is full of horrors—Vanduul raiders, pirates, rogue factions—but we will not be swayed by fear. We stand our ground where others would flee. The darker the night, the brighter our resolve burns. We will not retreat from our duty, no matter the odds.
III. Independence and Integrity
Vanguard operates independently from any single governing body, though we are proud allies of the UEE military and law enforcement. This independence ensures that we are free from political manipulation and corporate corruption. Our loyalty lies with our values, not with the shifting tides of power or wealth.
In all our dealings, we maintain transparency and fairness. We do not engage in illegal activities, and we hold ourselves to a standard of accountability that is beyond reproach. Each member of Vanguard must adhere to these principles, or they forfeit their place among us.
IV. The Path Forward: Protecting the Future
We stand at a crucial moment in history. The threats we face—be they Vanduul invaders or corrupt human forces—are unlike any humanity has encountered before. Yet, we remain resolute. We believe in a future where humanity can thrive, where peace can be achieved without the sacrifice of freedom, and where justice prevails even in the outermost reaches of the galaxy.
To achieve this future, we must remain vigilant. We must continue to grow, training new generations of warriors who understand the importance of the Vanguard Code. We must expand our reach, offering protection to those systems and colonies that the UEE cannot adequately safeguard. Most importantly, we must never waver in our belief that we can make a difference. One battle, one mission, one act of courage at a time.
V. A Call to Arms
To those who read this, we extend a call to arms: If you believe in honor, in justice, and in the protection of humanity, there is a place for you among us. We do not fight for glory, nor for wealth, but for a cause that transcends all such fleeting rewards. We fight because it is right.
We are the Vanguard. We are the shield that stands between humanity and extinction. We are the sword that strikes down those who would bring suffering and chaos to the stars. And we will not rest until the galaxy is secure, until every innocent life is protected, and until justice prevails in every corner of the UEE.
Join us, and together, we will ensure that humanity has a future worth fighting for.
Signed, The Leadership Council of Vanguard  / Imperator’s Cross Recipients /  Defenders of Hades Gap /  Guardians of Vega II
This manifesto not only outlines the values and mission of Vanguard but also serves as a rallying cry for those who wish to stand against injustice and fight for the greater good. It reflects Vanguard’s dedication to maintaining higher moral standards and their focus on protecting humanity from both external and internal threats. NEVER FALL BEHIND WITH THE VANGUARD.

Charter

Charter of the Vanguard Mercenary Group
Article I: Name and Identity
1.1 The official name of the organization shall be the Vanguard Mercenary Group (hereafter referred to as “Vanguard”).
1.2 Vanguard shall operate as an independent, ethically driven mercenary group that provides military, security, and peacekeeping services throughout the galaxy, with a primary focus on defending human life, supporting law enforcement, and upholding justice.
Article II: Purpose and Mission
2.1 The purpose of Vanguard is to protect human life, uphold justice, and support the United Empire of Earth (UEE) military and law enforcement efforts, particularly in regions where formal UEE presence is lacking or ineffective.
2.2 Vanguard’s mission is guided by a set of core principles that prioritize the defense of the innocent, the pursuit of justice, and the maintenance of ethical conduct in all its operations.
2.3 Vanguard shall engage in military, security, and peacekeeping contracts, provided such contracts align with the moral standards set forth in the Vanguard Code (see Article VI).
Article III: Organizational Structure
3.1 Leadership Council The governing body of Vanguard shall be the Leadership Council, responsible for making strategic decisions, approving contracts, and ensuring adherence to the Vanguard Code.
3.1.1 The Leadership Council shall consist of:
• Commander-in-Chief/Founder: The highest-ranking official, responsible for overall leadership, decision-making, and maintaining the integrity of Vanguard’s mission and values. • Chief of Operations: Oversees the internal structure of Vanguard, managing the ranks and roles of all members, ensuring that operational needs are met and the chain of command remains clear and efficient. • Recruitment Officer: Responsible for recruiting new members into Vanguard, managing applicants, conducting outreach to potential recruits, and ensuring new personnel align with the ethical standards of the organization. • Marketing Officer: Oversees public relations, branding, and outreach, ensuring Vanguard maintains a positive image. The Marketing Officer also manages donations, sponsorships, and public-facing campaigns to support Vanguard’s mission.
3.1.2 Members of the Leadership Council shall be selected from within the ranks of Vanguard, based on merit, demonstrated leadership, and commitment to the Vanguard Code.
3.2 Operational Divisions Vanguard shall be divided into specialized units based on mission type, with each unit having a designated commander responsible for its members’ performance and conduct. These divisions shall include, but are not limited to:
• Special Operations Unit: Focused on elite combat, anti-piracy, and counter-terrorism missions. • Security and Law Enforcement Unit: Provides defense, law enforcement assistance, and peacekeeping services. • Logistics and Support Unit: Handles transport, supply chains, and logistical support for operations. • Reconnaissance and Intelligence Unit: Specializes in gathering and analyzing intelligence data for strategic operations.
Article IV: Membership and Recruitment
4.1 Eligibility Membership in Vanguard is open to all individuals, regardless of background, who demonstrate a commitment to the principles outlined in the Vanguard Code. Recruits must pass rigorous physical, mental, and ethical evaluations to ensure alignment with Vanguard’s mission.
4.2 Training and Induction All recruits must undergo a comprehensive training program under the oversight of the Recruitment Officer. This program shall include combat training, tactical planning, and instruction in ethical decision-making based on the Vanguard Code.
4.3 Code of Conduct All members of Vanguard are required to abide by the rules and regulations set forth in the Vanguard Code. Violations of the Code shall result in disciplinary action, up to and including dismissal from the organization.
4.4 Ranks and Promotions Vanguard shall operate on a star-based ranking system, with promotions based on demonstrated skill, leadership, and adherence to Vanguard’s values. The rank system is as follows:
• Zero-Star Rank: Initiate – Entry-level members undergoing training and evaluation. • One-Star Rank: Guardian – Full member of Vanguard, responsible for basic mission duties. • Two-Star Rank: Sentinel – A more experienced member who has demonstrated leadership potential. • Three-Star Rank: Protector – Mid-ranking officers in charge of small units or teams within Vanguard. • Four-Star Rank: Warden – Senior officers responsible for entire divisions or large operations. • Five-Star Rank: Marshal – Top-level leaders who advise the Leadership Council and manage high-level strategy across all Vanguard operations.
Promotions are approved by the Chief of Operations in consultation with the Leadership Council.
Article V: Governance and Decision-Making
5.1 Leadership Council Authority The Leadership Council holds supreme authority over all matters within Vanguard. All major decisions, including strategic direction, resource allocation, and personnel matters, shall be decided by a majority vote of the Council members.
5.2 Contract Approval All contracts offered to Vanguard must be reviewed and approved by the Leadership Council. The Council shall evaluate each contract to ensure that it aligns with Vanguard’s moral principles and does not violate the Vanguard Code.
5.3 Disciplinary Measures The Leadership Council reserves the right to conduct internal investigations into any alleged misconduct by Vanguard members. Punishments for violations of the Vanguard Code range from temporary suspension to permanent expulsion from the organization.
Article VI: The Vanguard Code
6.1 The Vanguard Code is the ethical foundation upon which all Vanguard operations are conducted. The Code ensures that Vanguard’s actions remain just, honorable, and focused on the greater good.
6.2 Principles of the Vanguard Code:
• Honor Above All: Every action must reflect the highest standards of integrity and respect for life. • Justice Before Profit: Contracts that conflict with Vanguard’s moral values will be rejected, regardless of potential profit. • Duty to Humanity: Vanguard’s loyalty is to humanity as a whole, with a focus on the preservation and protection of human life. • Loyalty to the Innocent: Those who cannot defend themselves are deserving of protection, regardless of wealth, status, or location. • Never Break the Code: Violating the Vanguard Code results in immediate disciplinary action and potential expulsion.
Article VII: Operations and Deployment
7.1 Contracts and Engagements Vanguard shall accept contracts from governments, corporations, and other organizations, provided the objectives align with Vanguard’s ethical standards. Under no circumstances will Vanguard accept contracts from criminal entities, oppressive regimes, or any group involved in illegal activities.
7.2 UEE Alliances Vanguard maintains a formal alliance with the UEE military and law enforcement agencies, providing auxiliary support for defense, peacekeeping, and emergency response operations. This alliance does not compromise Vanguard’s independence.
7.3 Humanitarian Missions In addition to military and security contracts, Vanguard shall conduct humanitarian missions, including disaster relief, refugee assistance, and colony defense. Such missions may be undertaken pro bono, depending on the needs of vulnerable populations.
Article VIII: Resources and Funding
8.1 Funding Sources Vanguard’s operations shall be funded through a combination of contract payments, government subsidies (where applicable), and donations from individuals or organizations that support Vanguard’s mission.
8.2 Resource Allocation All resources, including ships, weapons, supplies, and personnel, shall be managed by the Chief of Logistics. Resource allocation shall prioritize the most urgent and morally aligned contracts, with transparency in all financial transactions.
8.3 Financial Oversight The Leadership Council is responsible for overseeing all financial matters, ensuring that resources are used responsibly and in accordance with the Vanguard Code.
Article IX: Conflict Resolution
9.1 Internal Disputes Any disputes among Vanguard members shall be resolved through mediation, overseen by the Leadership Council. In cases of severe misconduct or ethical violations, an internal tribunal may be convened to determine appropriate disciplinary action.
9.2 External Conflicts In the event of a conflict with other mercenary organizations, corporate entities, or governmental bodies, Vanguard shall attempt to resolve disputes through diplomacy and negotiation whenever possible. Force shall only be used when all other options are exhausted.
Article X: Amendments and Revisions
10.1 Amendments to the Charter This charter may be amended by a two-thirds majority vote of the Leadership Council. Any proposed amendments must be consistent with Vanguard’s mission and the principles outlined in the Vanguard Code.
10.2 Review Period The Leadership Council shall review this charter every five years to ensure that it remains relevant and in alignment with Vanguard’s evolving mission and ethical standards.
Signatories
We, the undersigned members of the Leadership Council of the Vanguard Mercenary Group, do hereby affirm our commitment to this charter and pledge to uphold its principles in all our actions.
Commander-in-Chief: GimmeurKindeys,  Chief of Operations: REDACTED, Chief of Logistics: Markus Halek,  Chief of Intelligence: Selene Atheon,  Chief of Training Gareth Quinn
Dated: 01.07.2700
This charter formalizes the structure, operations, and principles of the Vanguard Mercenary Group. It serves as a legal and ethical framework for the organization, ensuring that all actions remain consistent with their mission of defending humanity, upholding justice, and operating with honor.

Vanguard / VMGX

History

Manifesto

Charter