The Orb 71: They're More Elite Than You Are

Red Squad.

Cadet Training Squadron 47, as it is formally known, is an elite group at Starfleet Academy that receives special treatment, and thus is the object of desire for many Cadets. They played a pivotal role in Admiral Leyton's attempted coup on Earth in "Homefront" and "Paradise Lost," and they operated a Defiant-class starship behind enemy lines in "Valiant." Along the way they raised a number of questions about the wisdom of Starfleet Academy establishing and nurturing a group that saw itself as above the rules. In this episode of The Orb, hosts Christopher Jones and Matthew Rushing discuss Red Squad, its role in education at the Academy, its seductive nature, the dangers it could pose to the stability of Starfleet, and how it was used in storytelling.

 

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Chapters

Cadet Training Squadron 47 (3:00)

Is Red Squad Good for Starfleet? (7:14)

Let's Go On a Joy Ride Around the Federation! (14:57)

Premature Responsibility (19:00)

The Seduction of Red Squad (25:05)

The Arrogance and Ignorance of Office (32:07)

A Great Idea for Storytelling (37:31)

Closing and Feedback (39:47)