Publication:Unearthed Arcana/Military Character Background

Military Background
The activities associated with this background include broadly defined military missionis. The raid activity, for example, covers everything from young Vikings on their first pillage to elite commandos striking behind enemy lines. Except for all-out war, none of the activities implies continuous assignment. Most soldiers spend much of their time training, guarding, and hanging out in the barracks.

Military recognition takes two forms: decorations (medals, fancy uniforms, tattoos, and the like) and rank (encompassing traditional military ranks and sometimes noble or honorific titles). In each case, the recognitioin check DC is modified by the character's base attack bonus. Rollong a natural 20 on a recognion check gives the character a double promotion or a more prestigious decoration.

Example Ranks and Decorations
The following military ranks are typical of a national army in a fantasy kingdom. Designing your own command structure and unique decorations is a good way to make your game world seem more real.

Ranks (Lowest to Highest): Armsman, Sergeant, Sergeant Major, Lieutenant, Captain, Makor, Colonel, General.

Decorations: Three-Star Cluster (for valor), Ivy-Oak Medallion (for service to the realm), ribbon of Scarla (for bravery under fire), Iron Gauntlet (for unsurpassed heroism).