New California Republic Army

The New California Republic Army (often abbreviated as NCRA) is the standing army of the New California Republic and one of the largest military forces in the wasteland.The Courier: "Tell me about the NCR."Cassandra Moore: "I don't have time to discuss all the different aspects of the NCR with you, but if you want it all in a nutshell - the NCR is progress. If you wander around the wasteland you'll find all sorts of tribes, villages, and such where people spend most of their time trying to survive. The NCR gives its citizens a shot at something more. We have laws, currency, health care, government. All the things that were lost. It's not perfect, but it's worth protecting, which is why we also have the largest military in existence."(Cassandra Moore's dialogue) Its reputation and ability were forged in the constant conflicts with raiders such as the Great Khans and Fiends, as well as conflicts with established polities, like the Enclave, Brotherhood of Steel, and Caesar's Legion.
==Background==
The origins of the army are not detailed, but by 2241 it was the largest standing army in New California, composed of several divisions, including special (mechanized) cavalry and other mechanized units. The New California Republic Rangers, originally an independent paramilitary force, were incorporated into the military in subsequent decades, becoming an indispensable element of its operations. Until the containment operations against the Enclave at Navarro, following the destruction of their headquarters, the Army's primary foes were raiders, such as the Fiends, Vipers, and Great Khans. Decades of fighting an asymmetric war against them turned the Army into a powerful instrument of foreign policy. The Army has continued to grow and serve NCR's interests, securing its expansion and protecting territories under its control. Following the death of President Tandi, it has also became an instrument of expansion, further developing its numbers. In 2253, the retaliatory Pacification of the Mojave was carried out by an overwhelming force of three battalions, in a protracted war that lasted seventeen years. Soldiers of the army distinguished themselves, including future President Aaron Kimball.Fallout: New Vegas Official Game Guide Collector's Edition p.458: "Important Dates2248: President Tandi takes ill and dies at the age of 103. Her presidency has lasted 52 years. Vice-President Joanna Tibbett assumes office.2253: President Tibbett is removed from office by a vote of no confidence following her "timid" response to the massacre of 38 NCR citizens at the hands of Mojave raiders. Her replacement, President Wendell Peterson, orders three battalions of NCR infantry into the Mojave."(Fallout: New Vegas Official Game Guide; Behind the Bright Lights & Big City) 
Other notable campaigns that shaped the modern NCR Army were the removal of long-standing raider tribes such as the Vipers and the Jackals at Owen's Lake in 2269, the Brotherhood War that raged from the late 2250s/early 2260s for over two decades, and the confrontation at Hoover Dam in 2277, commonly known as the First Battle of Hoover Dam.Aaron Kimball: "They suffered through water shortages, raider attacks, and the Brotherhood War. Like our mighty Sierra Nevadas, they endured. But the time came when they could no longer shoulder the burden alone. Twelve years ago, they called out for help, and the republic heard them. Troopers and rangers, just like you, answered the clarion call. Men and women stepped forward to say, "I will carry the weight." And at Owen's Lake, we made true on our promise, driving out the raider tribes to establish a lasting peace in the eastern Sierra Nevadas. We carried the weight, and though we left behind many of our brothers and sisters on that battlefield, it did not break us."(Aaron Kimball's dialogue)
By 2281, the NCRA was the single largest military force in the wasteland, rivaled only by Caesar's Legion. Organized into regular Army divisions and battalions, specialist units like a sharpshooter-skirmisher battalion, and additional Ranger battalions,NCR Ranger action reports the NCRA has thousands of troops at its disposal, enough to absorb the continued loss of one thousand troops each year in the Mojave Campaign alone and still retain operational capability.The Courier: "That's crazy."Hanlon: "Maybe fifty rangers will die on that dam. We lose over a thousand troopers every year. Being here is crazy. Getting out's the only sane thing to do."(Hanlon's dialogue) However, the effectiveness of its operations was hampered by the influence of brahmin barons. Although they only had one vote at the ballot box, their wealth made it easy for them to influence decision makers to protect their interests at the expense of the general population or ongoing military operation's: Heavy infantry units, soldiers with normal and salvaged power armor suits, were deployed on the home front to protect the barons' ranches from small-time raiders, while rank-and-file troops are sent to the Mojave to maintain the occupation, often without proper service rifles or body armor.The Courier: "What about the troopers?"Hanlon: "You've seen it yourself. Some of them don't even have proper service rifles or armor. Our heavy infantry, power armor units, they're back in NCR territory protecting the interests of Brahmin barons against small-time raiders. Brahmin barons only have one vote at the ballot box, but they have a lot of money to throw around."(Hanlon's dialogue) 
The ongoing occupation of the Mojave coupled with Legion's deliberate lack of activity resulted in negligence. The quality of training among soldiers deployed to the theater deteriorate: Replacements are shipped out with merely two weeks of training, just to maintain the occupation, with these poorly trained conscripts routinely subjected to harsh disciplinary measures, rather than competent command.The Courier: "Administrative discharge? What does that mean?"Arms merchant: "It means my C.O. was an asshole, and I told him to eat shit. He ordered me to flog a couple "deserters." Those kids didn't desert. They just got liquored up on the Strip and missed roll call. I don't know what else the brass expects... half these kids don't get more than two weeks of training before they ship 'em out here."(Arms merchant's dialogue) As a result, when the Legion launched operations to secure beachheads on the western bank of the Colorado River to pave the way for the Second Battle of Hoover Dam, the occupation forces had few resources with which to respond, leading to the Searchlight Sabotage, and the subsequent fall of Nelson and the destruction of Nipton. Only in the face of the approaching Battle did Army command finally wrangle enough support to redeploy heavy infantry and veteran Ranger units to the frontline, bolstering the Army presence.Appearance of high level heavy troopers and veteran Rangers in the final chapter of the game.
==Organization==
The units of organization are battalions, divided into companies, platoons, and squads.The Courier: "And what do you want me to do?"Lanius: "Our forces are better equipped to take objectives than hold them. I do not wish to defend this place if another option exists. Our opponents follow a strict chain of command, which is both a strength and weakness. I intend to use you to strike at that weakness. Find the enemy commander, this General Oliver. Kill him or his resolve. Do this, and his cowards will retreat, leaving the dam to us."(Lanius' dialogue) Typically, they are led by a sergeant or other non-commissioned officer.Hayes: "I'm Lieutenant Hayes of the New California Republic Army, 5th Battalion, 1st Company. What's your business?"(Hayes' dialogue) The Mojave Campaign began with the deployment of three battalions of infantry to the desert at the behest of President Wendell Peterson.NCR emergency radio broadcast: "Deploying battalion 14 to the southwestern flank." Military bases of the army (typically called camps) are always under the command of a commissioned officer (usually a major, e.g. Polatli or Knight at Camp Forlorn Hope and Mojave Outpost, respectively). Larger field camps are under the command of a colonel (e.g. James Hsu and Cassandra Moore at Camp McCarran and Hoover Dam, respectively). Under the Kimball administration, male military officers have been promoted disproportionately to females.Fallout: New Vegas Official Game Guide Collector's Edition p.457: "EqualityBy law, the NCR prohibits persecution and discrimination on the basis of gender, ethnicity, sexuality, or religious belief (so long as said religion does not advocate violence). Legal protection of Ghouls and other mutants was added in 2205, though enforcement of these rights has been spotty. For the most part, the NCR's practices live up to its ideals, but there has been some retrenchment since the death of President Tandi. Aaron Kimball's popularity was amplified by a reactionary undercurrent, especially among males, calling out a need for a "strong man" to lead the NCR forward. In the years since Kimball took office, male military officers have been promoted disproportionately to females, and discourse arguing the differences between males and females has reappeared."(Fallout: New Vegas Official Game Guide; Behind the Bright Lights & Big City)
===Chain of command===
:See also: List of Army servicemen
The NCR Army has chosen to emulate the rank and file of the pre-War United States military, as well as the division into officers, non-commissioned officers,McGee: "I'm from Hub originally, but it's been a long time since I saw it. I'm on my second tour here. Most Non-Commissioned Officers are."" and enlisted personnel. Advancement can be swift, especially in active combat zones. It usually takes four years for a soldier to reach the rank of captain, but a vacancy may result in an early promotion. Going beyond the call of duty and demonstrating exceptional leadership may also result in accelerated promotion.
* General. The highest rank in the Army, responsible for commanding entire theaters. For example, General Lee Oliver commands the Mojave Campaign.The Courier: "The president has departed safely."Cassandra Moore: "Good, his death could have had a major impact on morale. This whole affair was ill-advised from the start, and I for one am glad it's over. While you were out, General Oliver arrived and briefed all senior officers regarding a change in our strategy. I'm not at liberty to divulge what was said, but I've been instructed to send you to him immediately. He's set up his camp in the office area at the south end of this power plant. Dismissed."(Cassandra Moore's dialogue)Colonel Cassandra Moore would've been promoted to the rank of Brigadier General in post-endgame play, under the NCR ending: The Courier: "How have things been since the battle?"Cassandra Moore: "Surprisingly good. Our forces have managed to secure the region with little resistance, and trade should soon reach an all-time high. The brass was particularly surprised by the lack of domestic threats in the area. They were prepared to spend months pacifying known troublemakers. When they found those threats absent, they turned to the man in charge of the area, but Hsu being Hsu, he denied having anything to do with it. So now the men have to answer to Brigadier General Moore, and both they and I have you to thank for it. We made a good team. I hope we can work together again in the future."(Cassandra Moore's dialogue)
* Colonel. These officers typically command entire portions of the region, delegated by superior officers, and not always neatly delineated. For example, Colonel Cassandra Moore commands the garrison stationed at the Hoover Dam,Cassandra Moore: "I command the garrison here at the dam, yes, but Colonel {shoo}Hsu over at McCarran is technically in charge of the area's forces." while James Hsu is responsible for troops in the New Vegas area, operating out of Camp McCarran. Their areas of responsibility overlap and Moore may deal with security threats in areas formally under Hsu's command, like Freeside.King's GambitCourier: "Is Moore in charge of all the NCR troopers out here?"Hanlon: "No, and thanks to General Oliver for that. Colonel {shoo}Hsu is at McCarran. Most of the New Vegas troopers are under his command."
* Major.Dhatri: "For my effort, I was promoted to major. Not quite the way I'd have wanted it."(Major Dhatri's dialogue) These officers may lead large combat operations (such as the ill-fated Bitter Springs policing action),The Courier: "You were at Bitter Springs, I'm told."Dhatri: " The major in charge at the time made a bad call - he thought Bitter Springs was full of Great Khan raiders, so we surrounded the place. By the time any of us realized there were civilians down there - women and children - the shooting had already started. The major froze up at the news, and we couldn't get another word out of him. I took over and salvaged the situation as best I could. For my effort, I was promoted to major. Not quite the way I'd have wanted it."(Dhatri's dialogue) forward operating bases (eg. Camp Forlorn Hope under Major Polatli),Sniper nest location strategic outposts (eg. Mojave Outpost under Major Knight), and special assignments, like relief for refugeesThe Courier: "Are you with the NCR military?"Elizabeth Kieran: "Yes, I'm a major in the supply corps, which is where this food and water comes from."(Elizabeth Kieran's dialogue) or bounty missions.Major Dhatri during Three-Card Bounty.
* Captain.Typically commanding full companies, captains may also assist superior officers in various affairs, such as overseeing logistics (eg. Cpt. Ronald Curtis),The Courier: "What do you do here?"Ronald Curtis: "Officially I'm in charge of Bravo Company. But since General Oliver has Bravo and most of our forces here garrisoned, I'm free to do other things. So I work with Colonel Hsu on logistics. Patrols, supply lines, reinforcements, that sort of thing. Lately it's been less about that and more about figuring out how that information is getting leaked to raiders. It's a big base with a lot of unhappy soldiers. They get stir-crazy. Hard to separate the malcontents from the actual culprit."(Ronald Curtis' dialogue)The Courier: "How many years have you been on this assignment?"Ronald Curtis: " Caesar sees threats before they're even aware of him. He sent me long before we moved to occupy the eastern riverbank. And now all my work, all the waiting, is about to pay off."(Ronald Curtis' dialogue) enforcing discipline among troops (such as Captain Pappas of the military police),NCR military police: "I heard some of the Troopers are sneaking up on the rooftops and lounging around and drinking beers instead of working. They'll be in a world of trouble if Captain Pappas catches them."(NCR military police dialogue) and commanding refugee camps (such as Captain GillesThe Courier: "What is this place?"Gilles: "This is the Bitter Springs refugee camp. We've been maintaining it for a few years now, ever since Caesar's Legion started seriously pushing west. Most of the people here were displaced by the Legion's advance. At first there weren't many, but lately it's been more than we can handle."(Gilles' dialogue) and Captain Parker).The Courier: "What exactly is this place?"Parker: "This here's where folks go when their luck runs out. Drifters up from the Republic, locals that can't turn a dime, drunken reprobates from all around. If you don't have the caps to get onto the Strip, odds are you'll end up here."(Parker's dialogue) 
* Lieutenant.Courier: "Who are you?"Carrie Boyd: "Not big on reading nametags, huh? That's okay, my name is long and difficult to pronounce. Ready for it? It's Boyd. Lieutenant Boyd to my friends. Colonel Hsu has me handling the policing duties for the base. I've told him he could make my job a whole lot easier if he would just let me shoot anyone who talks back to me, but you know how colonels can be."(Carrie Boyd's dialogue) Divided into a "full" lieutenant and the junior second lieutenant,Boulder City Memorial officers bearing this rank lead NCR Army units in battle, ranging from specialist squads (such as Lieutenant Gorobets who is in charge of 1st Recon's Alpha Team and other Camp McCarran sniper teams),The Courier: "Where is Lt. Gorobets?"Dhatri: "Out in the yard. Gorobets coordinates our sniper teams. He's been gunning for Nephi for weeks now. Only thing he hasn't had is willing bait. Don't have enough troops to order anyone beyond the fence. Not anymore, anyway."(Dhatri's dialogue) to entire companies and garrisons (such as Lieutenant Hayes and Lieutenant Haggerty)The Courier: "This is public property and I can do as I please here."Haggerty: ""(Lieutenant Haggerty's dialogue) Lieutenant officers may also be assigned to specific duties, such as policing, internal security, and patrols (such as Lieutenant Boyd, Lieutenant Romanowski,The Courier: "Why are these fields being guarded?"Romanowski: "A lot of the crops grown here support the various NCR camps in the region - McCarran, Golf, and Forlorn Hope, to name a few. We can't have wastelanders popping in here for a free meal, so my squad and I are assigned to keep things from going to hell."(Romanowski's dialogue) or Lieutenant MonroeCourier: "What's going on with the Great Khans?"Monroe: "One of my patrols was on its way back from Novac when it came under fire from the Great Khans."). Medical officers may also be granted the rank of lieutenant (such as Lieutenant Markland).
Non-commissioned officers are officers who have not chosen to pursue a commission and promotion to higher levels of authority. In the Mojave Campaign, many NCOs are career soldiers, and frequently are on their second tour. Sergeants typically assist commissioned officers, such as their company and platoon commanders, in their duties, including disciplinary action. In some contexts, a sergeant's rank is a formality, bringing with it no extra responsibilities or powers (eg. Sgt. Bitter-Root in Alpha Team).Bitter-Root
* Master Sergeant.
* First Sergeant.First Sergeant Astor's log
* Staff Sergeant.Arms merchant: "Staff sergeant, Third Platoon, Bravo Company. I was at the Dam when the Legion hit us, three years back."(Arms merchant's dialogue) Aside from assisting officers (including carrying out disciplinary punishments like flogging), staff sergeants may also be responsible for compiling reports.Balmoral, NCR Ranger action reports
*Sergeant. Sergeants are the most common non-commissioned officers. Like other grades of sergeants, they assist commissioned officers in the field, and may also be assigned squads to carry out specific assignments, such as establishing forward camps (Sergeant BannerCamp Guardian daily log), managing supplies (Sergeant Contreras),The Courier: "Have you noticed anything suspicious lately?"Carrie Boyd: "Now what kind of MP would I be if I didn't notice anything suspicious? I've had soldiers go AWOL, break-ins, thefts, you name it."The Courier: "You said there have been thefts?"Carrie Boyd: "Yeah. We keep coming up short on our weekly supply inventory checks. Guns and ammo, mostly. Not the kind of things you like to see go missing. No witnesses yet. I've got my money on Sergeant Contreras, who's supposed to be in charge of distribution, the little weasel. But he's too slick to let anyone catch him doing it. We've searched his possessions a dozen times. Nothing."(Carrie Boyd's dialogue) or leading squads in combat operations (Sergeant LeeLee: "I'm Sergeant Lee. Lieutenant Hayes radioed ahead to say you were on the way. We've got surprise on our side, and that's about it. Once we blow a gap in the fence, we've got to pour on the fire and keep them disorganized. Our goal's to take out their leader, some assbag named Eddie. With the ringleader gone, the rest will fold. That's all the briefing you're going to get. Let's go."(Lee's dialogue)). Some sergeants may exercise authority comparable to a commissioned officer: Sergeant McCredie at Camp Golf leads the Army component of the garrison, in lieu of a lieutenant or captain.
Enlisted ranks form the bulk of the New California Republic Army. 
*Technical Sergeant.Reyes' character name: Tech Sergeant Reyes A high enlisted rank, technical sergeants may be responsible for operation of sensitive equipment and compiling reports, without subordinates (such as Technical Sergeant Reyes).The Courier: "What do you do here?"Reyes: "I handle communications for Camp Forlorn Hope, compiling reports I've received from the Rangers at Camp Golf as well as the brass at McCarran. "(Reyes's dialogue)
*Corporal. Senior enlisted troops, corporals are leaders responsible for their squads, ensuring their readiness and executing orders from non-commissioned officers.The Courier: ""Mags: "[SUCCEEDED] You really think so? Hell, I guess it's worth a shot."(Mags' dialogue)The Courier: "Sounds like you aren't too fond of your squadmates."Mags: "Yeah. I mean, no, they're okay people, but they don't care, y'know? They don't have any ambition. No drive. They're slacking off, and that reflects badly on me."(Mags' dialogue) As senior personnel, corporals may also be assigned to positions of special responsibility, such as that of a mess officer (Corporal Farber).The Courier: "Where would you suggest I find meat in the amount you'd need here?"William Farber: " We've never really tried to go out and organize deals with merchants to supply our food. Already having an overstock of food, we haven't needed to. But we really need some good-old red meat on the menu soon, so I'm willing to divert some caps in their direction if they're open to supplying us."(William Farber's dialogue)The Courier: "Got anything to eat?"William Farber: " "(William Farber's dialogue) In some contexts, the rank carries no extra powers, beyond indicating seniority (such as Corporal's Sterling and Betsy).The Courier: "Have you always been with the First Recon?"Sterling: "Used to be a Ranger... one of the first they sent out east, back before we took the Dam. Observation and reconnaissance. We took the lay of the land, checked out the locals, and kept ourselves inconspicuous. Couple friends of mine were the first to scout the Dam. That was back in '73, if I recall. Lot of those Rangers are dead now. Vegas always chewed men up... it's just a little more literal, nowadays."(Sterling's dialogue)
*Private First Class.President Kimball: "When the republic called on the men and women of California to carry that fire across the Mojave, Jeremy Watson answered. You answered. Together, you carried the weight. And when PFC Watson's platoon came under attack at Forlorn Hope, he took the greatest risk, not only for his fellow Californians, but for California itself. He was prepared to make the most noble of sacrifices, to defend the principles of our republic, even here, on Nevada soil. His actions are a beacon to all of us who stand here today in tribute to his valor."(Kimball's dialogue)President Kimball: "Private First Class Jeremy Watson, on behalf of the senate and people of the New California Republic, it is my honor to present you with the Star of Sierra Madre."(Kimball's dialogue) The rank signifies an experienced enlisted soldier.
*Private.Strip letter The most basic and most numerous rank in the New California Republic Army. Privates make the bulk of the Army, bearing the brunt of the risk associated with its operations. This is compensated for by Army benefits. While monthly pay is low, a completed tour of duty and honorable discharge entitles a veteran to various Army benefits and makes securing a job easier.The Courier: "How'd a guy like you end up in the Army?"Poindexter: "It's a simple idea: the Army offers fiscal security and generous benefits at the cost of substantial personal risk - if you're on the front line. If you perform too poorly, they'll scrub you out. Perform too well, and you get sent to the front lines. All I have to do is ride that mediocrity gradient to a cushy, do-nothing job miles away from the war."(Poindexter's dialogue)The Courier: ""Poindexter: "[FAILED] Why would I? If this unit improves its performance, we'll be shipped to the front lines. That's hardly conducive to living a long life."(Poindexter's dialogue)The Courier: "Sgt. McCredie asked me to talk to you about getting your squad in shape."Poindexter: "That seems highly illogical. What reason would he have for doing that?"The Courier: "He thinks you might respond better to someone who isn't an authority figure."Poindexter: "This is an unexpected variable. I had hoped to coast on an easy wave of mediocrity to a cushy government pension."(Poindexter's dialogue) The Army distinguishes between two Private ranks: PVT, the "base" private, and PV2, signifying a trained soldier.
===Components===
The New California Republic's military is predominantly an infantry force, with a number of specialized divisions. Light infantry form the basic component of the Army, relying on large units of troopers deployed against the enemies of the Republic, from raider gangs and mutants to the Brotherhood and the Legion. 
The infantry have numerous specialized battalions and units exist, including: 
*First Recon, sharpshooters
*Heavy infantry units equipped with salvaged nonfunctional and functional power armor, used as shock troops,Great Khan: "The runners are saying that the NCR is sending in their elite shock troops to try and push back the Legion."(Generic Great Khan dialogue)
*Medical units, including field medics specializing in battlefield traumaThe Courier: "Medical texts? Aren't you a doctor?"Markland:" But this - the kids and the psychological trauma and all the rest - is out of my league."(Markland's dialogue)The Courier: "Why are you "sort of" the doctor?"Hannigan: "I was an NCR medic for six months, so I'm not exactly a "doctor." Still, it's more medical training that any of the other guys here. It also gives me an excuse to stay out of any raiding parties. The gang can't lose its only doctor now, can it?"(Hannigan's dialogue) and medical doctors for more comprehensive medical care.The Courier: "Tell me about yourself."Alex Richards: "I used to be a doctor back in California, but a few years back I got suckered into doing military work because it was my "patriotic duty." Back then, I, like many idealistic men before me, thought it was a great idea and was excited about making the world a better place with the NCR. Now... I just want to get back home. I've had enough fighting and fixing up soldiers just to send them right back out to die to last a lifetime."(Alex Richard's dialogue)
*Field Preparations Division, field construction and logistics unitSniper nest location
*NCR Military Police, responsible for law enforcement within the Army and areas remaining under the Army's jurisdiction, such as military bases and the Strip.
*Other logistics and support units, including quartermasters and mechanics.
===Rangers===
Originally an abolitionist paramilitary force under Chief Elise, the Rangers became a part of Republic's military operations by 2271 and the signing of the Ranger Unification Treaty, which extended NCR jurisdiction into southern Nevada. Rangers serve as the Republic's special forces and elite light infantry units, and Army soldiers can voluntarily transfer to the Rangers either at their own initiative or by invitation from Rangers. They are formally separate, using their own ranks and distinctive equipment (such as the patrol armor or the venerated Black armor), but in practice they are folded into the Army's military command. Aside from typical military operations, they are routinely used for tasks outside the purview of the Army, such as internal investigations,Dealing with Contreras or assassinations.
=== Air force===
The NCR has limited airpower, with a fleet of captured Vertibirds for special missions (with some of them stationed at border outposts, such as the one on the Long 15), with at least one Vertibird being reserved as the president's personal vehicle ("Bear Force One").Long 15 has numerous destroyed Vertibirds.You'll Know It When It HappensArizona KillerThe Courier: "Did you fly for the NCR?"Daisy Whitman: "For? No, not exactly. It was a long time ago. Things are a lot different these days, and those days are way behind me."(Daisy Whitman's dialogue)
===Mechanized units===
The New California Republic has a mechanized vehicle division, with trucks used to deliver men and materiel. Camp McCarran, as a regional hub, has a repair depot dedicated to their ongoing maintenance and service.Fallout: New Vegas Official Game Guide Collector's Edition p. 310: Truck Mechanic Area(Tour of the Mojave Wasteland) The primary limitation for the force is the supply of tires and other degradable parts that greatly limit the possibility for fielding any larger scale vehicle fleet.Fallout Bible 5: 6. About how many working or serviceable cars are there at the time of FO2? Obviously there must be more then one, since the guy in New Reno has a garage fully staffed, and most likely has a large supply of parts (I'm assuming that was what the warehouse building next to the garage was filled up with, you couldn't pick up anything off of them)Probably not too many, but I don't know the exact number. The real problem isn't fuel, it's mostly tires and other degradable parts that have gone to the dogs in the past 100 years. For every two hundred or so people, there might be one working vehicle, and even "the local clunker" wouldn't be up to factory specs. NCR is rumored to have a mechanized vehicle division outside of its farming vehicles, but the number of vehicles in the division is unknown."Fallout Bible 6; New California Republic
==Personnel==
The Army has an eligible age of 16 for military service, although volunteers this young are rare. Competence is rewarded with swift promotion, and exceptional soldiers can reach officer ranks within a year.The Courier: "How did you get to be a colonel in the NCR?"Cassandra Moore: "I joined up at a young age. Was barely sixteen when I left home and volunteered to be in the military. Got a few strange looks at first, but those stopped when I got top marks across the board during training, and became an officer at seventeen. A few years went by, my squad helped take down gangs of raiders here and there, and one day an invitation to join the Rangers arrived. Those were the best years of my life. Doing something that truly matters, and having the freedom to handle it as you see fit. Then I got injured. Everyone was very supportive. I received a promotion to colonel and given greater responsibility, but my days as a Ranger were over."(Cassandra Moore's dialogue) Volunteers already in the service may elect to transfer to the NCR RangersWhy are the NCR troopers divided 50% - 50% into males and females? Wouldnt there be more males like in real life ?Joshua Sawyer: Regular NCR troopers are largely conscripted without bias to sex, so no. Rangers are volunteers, but most of them are volunteers from among the troopers.Josh Sawyer Formspring answers or even be invited to join. 
However, despite the prospects, the Army draws most of its manpower from NCR states through conscription. A majority of the troopers, especially in the Mojave theater, are drafted, due to the need to maintain a front line along the Colorado against the Legion and against other enemies of the Republic elsewhere.The Courier: "How does spreading false intel help anything?"Hanlon: " It's been so many years that people forget about it. Conscription brings in fresh troops to die here every month. Like it's routine. Patrol the whole length of the Colorado for hundreds of miles? Holding this dam. "(Hanlon's dialogue) Conscription is egalitarian and both men and women are drafted, resulting in a rough 50/50 division of sexes among active duty troopers, in stark contrast to the exclusively male slave warriors of Legion.You've said that the Rangers are volunteer, but does the NCR army conscript people?Joshua Sawyer: Yes. The majority of troopers on active duty are conscripted. Someone has asked why more troopers don't talk about being conscripted (I think only one of the Misfits does). Generally speaking, volunteers are more enthusiastic than people who are forced into something.Josh Sawyer Formspring answersJoshua Sawyer on Formspring April 28, 2012: "You've said that the Rangers are volunteer, but does the NCR army conscript people?""Yes. The majority of troopers on active duty are conscripted. Someone has asked why more troopers don't talk about being conscripted (I think only one of the Misfits does). Generally speaking, volunteers are more enthusiastic than people who are forced into something.""JESawyer 28 Apr 12"Joshua Sawyer on Formspring March 23, 2012: "Why are the NCR troopers divided 50% - 50% into males and females? Wouldnt there be more males like in real life ?""Regular NCR troopers are largely conscripted without bias to sex, so no. Rangers are volunteers, but most of them are volunteers from among the troopers.""JESawyer responded to irenebaumann 23 Mar 12"Joshua Sawyer on Formspring April 12, 2012: "Okay lets call them "progessive" views,F2: intro of the Enclave as the bad guys,F3: Andale,FNV:2/4 human compainions are homosexuals,you yourself said you went 50/50 when portraying female to male ratio in NCR troops, and gimme a break only got 255 spaces""What does the Enclave have to do with left-wing/progressive viewpoints? I doubt there are many right-wingers/conservatives who would look at the Enclave's views and behavior and say, "Yeah these dudes are great." The Enclave doesn't map to a contemporary political group.I also don't see the connection with Andale unless "not being a cannibal" is considered a progressive stance.Two F:NV human companions are, in fact, homosexual. Also all F:NV human companions are white. With four people, you're not going to get a distribution of attributes that perfectly maps to contemporary population demographics. Finally, what's the progressive viewpoint, that homosexuals exist?NCR troopers are roughly 50/50 male/female overall because the majority of them are conscripts. That's not progressive, just probability.JESawyer 27 Apr 12"Joshua Sawyer on Formspring April 27, 2012: "33% of all IDF forces are female and 51% of all IDF officers are female. Like NCR's troopers, Israel's laws of conscription do not discriminate by sex. However, unlike NCR, Israel's mandatory service is only two years for women, three years for men, which means male conscripts stay in service longer. Israel also still bars women from certain positions, which means only men may occupy them as a career path. NCR troopers have no such restrictions.In contrast, most Rangers are male. Rangers are also volunteer-only. No one is conscripted into their ranks.NCR is the most advanced state of large size in the American southwest. Unlike Caesar's Legion, procreation and infant/child mortality were never problems for NCR. This is also why (despite the broadly misogynistic talk of ordinary legionaries), Caesar essentially forces all women into slavery, breeding, or both.Each of these governments populates its military forces according the principles of the state. NCR is egalitarian in conscription (barring corruption/evasion, though that isn't biased along lines of sex) and leaves elite positions open only to volunteers. Caesar is concerned only with efficiency; all individuals are bent toward the will of the state. The result is all-male slave army that is continually being replenished by forced breeding.JESawyer responded to MikeGolf 27 Apr 12"
Training in general tends to be limited to essential military skills. Many draftees and volunteers come from farming and ranching backgrounds, and learn to handle firearms at a very young age. Some go on to become elite sharpshooters.The Courier: "How long have you been a sharpshooter?"10 of Spades: "Shit. Long as I can r-r-remember. Had a rifle in my hand since I was three, that's what my dad always says. "(10 of Spades' dialogue) However, this has drawbacks: A significant number of draftees receiving just two weeks of training before being shipped out to the frontier. Predictably, this results in disciplinary problems particularly among troops stationed in reach of New Vegas Strip.
The NCR promises that no deceased soldier is ever left behind,The Courier: "If your husband is dead, what does it matter if you get the corpse back?"Christina Morales: "You never lost anybody, have you? Not like this. Never had to think about that person you love all alone out there, cooking in the sun like meat... NCR never leaves a soldier behind. That's what the recruiters told us. Promised us. We believed them."(Christina Morales' dialogue) but this is not always true, as seen with the case of Ranger Morales.
===Discipline===
While modern in terms of organization, corporal punishment is still used within the NCR Army. Flogging can be used as a punishment for desertion and suspected desertion. The war with the Legion and the fall-off in training levels result in it being used too liberally at times. 
Depending on circumstances, desertion in the face of the enemy is a capital offense, with the penalty being hanging.Fallout: New Vegas endings: "The Misfits' laziness caught up with them when the Legion attacked Camp Golf. Those who weren't killed in the attack attempted to flee, but were caught at Mojave Outpost, court-martialed, and hanged from the ranger monument." Desertion under other circumstancesThe Courier: "I imagine the NCR doesn't deal with deserters kindly."Layla: "Yeah, if we see the NCR, they'll be waiting for us with a bullet to the brain pan. So what are we supposed to do, just run?"(Layla's dialogue) or severe dishonorable conduct, such as armed robbery by active soldiers, can be punished through execution by firing squad.Fallout: New Vegas endings: "Driven into a frenzy by their use of psycho, The Misfits inflicted heavy casualties on the Legion during the defense of Camp Golf. At first they were commended for their valor, but eventually, desperate for more of the chem, they turned on travelers in Outer Vegas. For their dishonorable conduct, the NCR court-martialed and executed them by firing squad."
===Pay===
The pay in the army's service varies greatly. Enlisted troopers are frequently paid poorly, with privates receiving less than 200 caps in monthly wages.The Courier: ""Monroe: "[SUCCEEDED] That makes sense, and it's still more than these troopers see in a month."(Monroe's dialogue) On the other hand, the army does offer generous benefits and financial security.The Courier: "How'd a guy like you end up in the Army?"Poindexter: "It's a simple idea: the Army offers fiscal security and generous benefits at the cost of substantial personal risk - if you're on the front line. If you perform too poorly, they'll scrub you out. Perform too well, and you get sent to the front lines. All I have to do is ride that mediocrity gradient to a cushy, do-nothing job miles away from the war."(Poindexter's dialogue) Good readiness evaluations can result in the army giving raises to well-performing soldiers.Razz: "Sweet, those "readiness reports" are so good they actually gave me a raise!"(Razz's dialogue) 
==Foreign relations==
As the military arm of the NCR, matters of diplomacy are left to be decided by the civilian branch of the government, (the president and the congress). Outsiders' view of the military depends on their relationship with the NCR.
With laws enacted during President Tandi's administration, the NCR recognizes the rights of prisoners of war and approaches their care humanely and free from abuse. Most officers find these laws to be constricting,The Courier: "Why don't you just beat your prisoner senseless?"Carrie Boyd: "I like the way you think. Have I said that yet? Problem is that the NCR frowns on using that sort of tactic. There are some restrictions still in place from President Tandi's administration. But here's my favorite thing about you - you're not the NCR. Plus, for all this guy knows, you're completely insane. That's a winning combination."(Carrie Boyd's dialogue) but resourceful officers find ways around it by employing the service of outside consultants.Carrie Boyd: "You did well. I don't know how you did it without putting a scratch on him, and I'm a little disappointed personally, but it saved the NCR some face. And it could save us more than that when all is said and done. I'm gonna talk to some people when we're through here. This is about double the standard fee we'd give a "consultant," but from what I saw, you're more of an artist. So think of this as your commission."(Carrie Boyd's dialogue)
==Technology==
The Army uses computer software to coordinate and evaluate its troops,Camp Golf terminal entries; Squad readiness reports terminal: "NCRA RECORDOTRON Squad Readiness Report Databasev3.75" with radio and satellite communications providing real-time coordination of its military operations.NCR emergency radioReturn to SenderCamp Golf, the Mojave Outpost, and other outposts have satellite dishes set up for communication using surviving satellites in orbit. The Gun Runners are the primary contractor responsible for supplying the army with weapons and ammunition.The Courier: "Tell me about the Gun Runners."Alexander: "The Gun Runners have been putting rapid-fire death-dealing in the hands of anyone who needed to defend himself for over a century. We're the NCR's #1 supplier of weapons and ammunition. You might call us an unofficial branch of the army."(Alexander's dialogue) Caravans deliver weapons and ammunition in bulk from factories in the Boneyard to wherever the Army needs them.The Courier: ""Alexander: "[FAILED] Do I look like a fucking arms caravan to you? Do you think the Gun Runners keep the NCR military supplied by carrying weapons and ammo from the Boneyard out here by the armload? Get a clue. We have caravans. We deal in bulk."(Alexander's dialogue) Other companies supply the army's body armor, with the principal contractor being the Crimson Caravan company, competing with Far Go Traders.The Courier: ""Blake: "[SUCCEEDED] Well, the Far Go Traders have been trying to edge us out on the new armor contract for the troops. This could swing things in our favor. All right, let McCarran know they should expect the first shipment in a week or so."(Blake's dialogue)
===Personal armaments===
NCR troopers use mass-produced weapons made from durable materials (such as steel and wood) that perform reliably and can survive harsh treatment. The basic service weapon is a semi-automatic 5.56mm service rifle, supplemented by 9mm submachine guns, hunting rifles, varmint rifles and even caravan shotguns. High-end firearms such as marksman carbines, assault carbines, riot shotguns and .308 sniper rifles are commonly issued to veteran units, particularly in strategic locations such as Hoover Dam.NCR trooper loadouts at Hoover Dam and during the Second Battle of Hoover Dam. A limited supply of energy weapons, such as laser rifles, plasma rifles, tri-beam laser rifles and multiplas rifles, is also available, though restricted to rear echelons.Loadouts for marked men in the Long 15.
The M&A 9mm pistol is the standard sidearm of both officers and soldiers, though some can be found carrying 10mm pistols. All of these weapons are provided by the Gun Runners, who handle a majority of the weapons contracts of the Army. The standard armor consists of a metal breastplate and backplate supported by leather straps with leather shoulder protectors worn over brown fatigues. The NCR is also known to use mine tactics; Chief Hanlon is famous for it.Ulysses: ""Ulysses: ""(Ulysses' dialogue)
The heavy infantry shock units are specialized units provided with heavy weapons and salvaged power armor. Suits of T-45 power armor from the war with the Brotherhood of Steel confer superior protection. A small number of functional suits is also in service with rear echelon units.Colonel Royez' Sierra armor indicates as such. They carry heavy weaponry such as light machine guns, hunting shotguns and even heavy incinerators as well as Gatling lasers, plasma casters, Gauss rifles and even Tesla cannons.NCR heavy trooper loadouts
In addition to the regular infantry, there is an entirely separate special forces branch known as the NCR Rangers. Most Rangers wear NCR-designed Ranger patrol armor, while veterans opt for the so-called "Black Armor": a traditional Desert Ranger trenchcoat worn together with a pre-War 3rd generation combat armor and matching helmet. They also have access to weapons such as trail carbines, Ranger Sequoias, anti-materiel rifles and brush guns.
The NCR make use of salvaged pre-War weapons and equipment as well: Hoover Dam is protected by an anti-aircraft gun capable of firing flak shells to bring down aircraft.The anti-aircraft gun positioned at Hoover Dam. The NCR Army also has at least one functional Robobrain which is stationed at Hoover Dam.
==Appearances==
The New California Republic Army appears in Fallout: New Vegas and is mentioned in Fallout 2.NCR history holodisk
==Notes==
==Behind the scenes==
In the Fallout Bible, the NCR army not only employed former United States Army trucks for transport, but also several scavenged jeeps and tanks.Chris Avellone on Twitter (August 11, 2011) elaborating on his Fallout Bible 5 paragraph.: "@ChrisAvellone In Fallout Bible, it mentions that NCR have a cav. division, but also says that horses died out. Could you please explain?@Francis1605 Fallout Bible is no longer canon, but when I first wrote it, it meant mechanized cav. (a FEW scav tanks and jeeps)."
==Gallery==
Bear Force One Vertibird.png|Bear Force One
NCR 1st Recon.png|1st Recon badge
NCR trooper.png|NCR trooper
FNV NCR salvaged armor.png|NCR heavy trooper
NCRMilitaryPolice.png|NCR military police
NCRVeteranRanger.png|NCR Veteran Ranger
NCRRangerFNV.png|NCR Ranger
FNV General Lee Oliver.jpg|General Oliver, commanding officer of the Mojave Campaign
Chief Hanlon.jpg|Chief Hanlon, commanding officer of the New California Republic Rangers
Royez.png|Colonel Royez, leader of the NCR camp on Long 15
==References==
Non-game
Category:Fallout 2 factions
Category:Fallout: New Vegas factions
Category:Van Buren factions
 
es:Ejército de la República de Nueva California
fr:Armée de la République de Nouvelle Californie
pl:Siły Zbrojne RNK
ru:Армия НКР
uk:Армія НКР
zh:新加州共和國軍隊