Reflections on Old Fanfiction OCs: A Journey Through Time and Characters

Writing fanfiction is a unique form of creative outlet that allows authors to explore different realms of fiction, often delving into the lives of characters they love or even creating entirely new ones. One author reflects on their old fanfiction OCs, specifically the character of Animal, a pilot in JAG.

Evolution of a Character

As the author delves into the rich tapestry of their JAG fanfiction, they notice the character of Animal evolving over time. From a young pilot with a knack for flying F-14s to a seasoned naval officer, the character has undergone a significant transformation. Reflecting on the journey, the author understands how their own growth and better understanding of writing characters have led to a more nuanced portrayal of Animal.

Character Development

Animal's demeanor, initially characterized by irritability and sarcasm, evolves with a sense of realism. Initially, he is not afraid to confront Harm Rabb Jr., the protagonist of JAG, because he believes Harm will crash his aircraft. As the character progresses, Animal becomes more like a regular in the fanfiction, embodying a more realistic set of traits and flaws that resonate with the readers.

Biography and Achievements

Animal is born in 1958, five years before Harm. He graduates high school in 1976 and is commissioned into the U.S. Navy in 1980 after completing his degree in Military Science at the University of Rochester through the NROTC program. His career as a naval officer is marked by significant achievements, including a questionable victory over MiGs and Su-27s in Iraq, earning him a second and third award of the Distinguished Flying Cross.

Medal of Honor and Future Deployments

His squadron, the VF-41 Black Aces, is transferred to the Pacific Fleet in 1995, and Animal becomes a recipient of the Medal of Honor for his daring rescue operation in North Korea. During the investigation, he proves to be resourceful, with his skills and determination warranting a second and third deployment. In one of these deployments, he scares off a MiG 29 from strafing refugees over Kosovo. Following these commendations, his career progresses, leading to a CAG tour and an O-6 deep-selection. Eventually, he is frocked to RADM and takes charge of the Naval Strike Air Warfare Center Command in Fallon, Nevada.

Career Progression and Future Goals

The author acknowledges that during his career, Animal has managed to stay active despite being a MOH recipient, indicating a fast-track to higher ranks. The character's journey is a testament to his dedication and skills, reflecting a realistic career path for a Naval officer.

The Character Ribbon Rack

Conceptualized as part of the character development process, the Character Ribbon Rack serves as a visual representation of the achievements and recognitions that Animal has earned throughout his career. This rack, with its substantial size indicating his commendations, stands as a reminder of the significant milestones he has accomplished. The author humorously suggests a crude mix of a face generated by Artbreeder and Admiral Harry Harris' head, adding a personal touch to the character's evolution.

Conclusion

Reflecting on the old fanfiction, the author cherishes the memories of creating characters like Animal. The journey of character development showcases the evolution of both the author and their characters, making fanfiction a truly enriching and entertaining endeavor.