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The Executive Officer is the second-in-command of the ship or base. If something were to happen to the commanding officer, the executive officer would take command. Throughout history, Executive Officers have been thought of as the unofficial morale officers of Starfleet. They are responsible, to a certain extent for the welfare of the ship's crew. XO's need to keep the crew informed of all changes and updates as soon as possible. In addition, the XO acts as an advisor to the Captain giving advice and makes himself available for consultation when needed. While the Captain may be regarded by some as untouchable, the XO's are certainly thought of as the crew's link to him. In addition to their duties to the CO and crew, XO's oversee transfers on and off the ship, by welcoming a new crew member and providing him/her with all the information and assistance needed to begin the integration process and by sending a transferring officer's information, including if possible his/her last evaluation, to the receiving CO. Executive Officers may also settle internal disputes amongst crewmen if the matter is not considered to demand the COs attention. Executive Officers are also called upon to lead away teams to a planet or base when necessary.