Basic Info:
The optio (plural optiones; Latin: optio, optiōnēs, from optāre, "to choose", because
an optio was chosen by his centurion), sometimes anglicized option (though rarely, to avoid confusion with "option"), was a soldier in the Roman army who held a position similar to that of an executive officer in modern armies. The optio seems to have held a rank roughly equivalent to that of a modern lieutenant, reflective of his status as the second in command of the century in which he served. The main function of an optio
was as an optio centuriae, the second-in-command of a century, although there were many other positions an optio could hold.
Optiones were vital units in the late Roman army, as casualties were often high among centurions due to their position
at the front of the century, which made them easy targets. An optio was stationed at the rear of the ranks to keep
the troops in order. Their duties would include enforcing the orders of the centurion, supervising his subordinates, and a
variety of administration duties.
Expectations at Lafe:
The Optio is the "go to" rank holder for miles wishing to ask for leave, a pass, or contact with the Centurio.
While miles are not forbidden to approach the Centurio, it should be the exception.
The Optio is the "WATER NAZI" for the event. Every time there is a lull, a halt, or a wait,
the optio will remind people to drink water. They are to be especially mindful of potential heat and or dehydration
casualties as well as cold weather injuries.
The Optio is also the"Safety Officer" for this event; while safety is every participants responsibility, he will
be looking specifically for unsafe acts to insure that no event gets too carried away, or that no individual puts themselves
in a position to cause themselves harm or another. Ignore his word at your own folly.
The optio in the field will keep the dress for the unit, and other duties as specified by the Centurio.
In short, he should be the hardest working soldier in the fort.
The Optio is expected to know the Tactica well enough to train it!
The Optio will liason with the Tesserarius on Guard matters and may assume command of the guard if necessary
for relief with the permission of the Centurio.
