Hirðir

UNITS

There are 3 different types of units: Hersar Hirðir (composed of Hirðmenn in training as well as Hersar, and typically led by Úfhéðnar or Hersar), Berserkir Hirðir (composed of Berserkir), and Úfhéðnar Hirðir (composed of Úfhéðnar). Berserkir Hirðir and Úlfhéðnar Hirðir are assigned to active duty within Jómsvíkingar (JK), Væringjar (VG) or Ásjárstjórn (AS)

HERSAR HIRÐIR

Assignment to a Hersar Hirð is open to Hirðmenn and Hersar, is not guaranteed or systematic, is based on various factors including selection as well as regional availability and suitability, and is subject to various assessments as well as a mandatory probational period.

BERSERKIR HIRÐIR

Any male who has reached the rank of Berserkr (achieved through training, self-development and most likely genetic predispositions) can apply for integration within a Berserkir Hirð, subject to various largely undisclosed requirements and assessments, including probation.

ÚFHÉÐNAR HIRÐIR

Induction into an Úlfhéðnar Hirð is a privilege available to Úlfhéðnar only (a status conferred by blood), and subjected to specific and complex rules and conditions, which are not discussed publicly.

Hersar Hirðir falls primarily under the indirect command of Berserkir Hirðir or Úfhéðnar Hirðir. Hersar Hirðir are also represented by Hirðarforinjar at the þing (Assembly) and are subjected to the jurisdiction of a Berserkir Hirð, a Úfhéðnar Hirð, or Fimtardómr (Fifth Court) for court martial.

Current HERSAR Units

There are currently multiple Hersar Hirðir within Sverðin. Specifics are not public.

Berserkir Hirðir

Berserkir Hirðir are active combat-ready units, composed of up to 18 men, led by one or two Hirðarhöfðingjar (Unit Commanders), normally Berserkir, but also possibly a Úfheðinn in rare emergency situations requiring the implementation of secondary protocols. Berserkir Hirðir are fully operational within Jómsvíkingar. The Hirðarhöfðingjar are responsible for the leadership, training and readiness of their Hirð, for the resolution of disputes within the unit, as well as for all actions and activities involving the members of their Hirð. 

Berserkir Hirðir enjoy a high level of independence and are normally responsible for their own day-to-day operations and general rules (unless the subject of secondary protocols). They are nonetheless required to comply with various stringent organizational and command rules and procedures. 

Berserkir Hirðir falls under the direct command of of a specific Úfhéðnar Hirð. Berserkir Hirðir are also represented by Hirðarforinjar at the þing (Assembly) and are primarily subjected to the jurisdiction of their commanding Úfhéðnar Hirð, and in some instances, the Fimtardómr (Fifth Court) for court martial.

Úlfhéðnar Hirðir

Úlfhéðnar Hirðir are active combat-ready and special-forces-level units, composed of 12 to 18 men, led by two Hirðarhöfðingjar (Unit Commanders), who are always Úlfhéðnar. The Hirðarhöfðingjar are responsible for the leadership, training and readiness of their Hirð, and ultimately, Hirðir under their command. They are also responsible for the resolution of disputes within their own unit, as well as for all actions and activities involving the members of their own Hirð. 

Úlfhéðnar Hirðir may fall under the direct command of one Úlfhéðnar Hirð with dominant status within the organization. Hirðarhöfðingjar of the dominant Úlfhéðnar Hirð are also Hershöfðingjar (Force Commanders), acting as commanders of Norðsherstjórn (Northern Force Command, or NHS), and are therefore in command of multiple Úlfhéðnar Hirðir as well as Berserkir Hirðir. They are also ultimately in command of Jómsvíkingar as well as Skjǫldrinn. 

Úlfhéðnar Hirðarforinjar oversee the þing (Assembly), as well as the Fimtardómr (Fifth Court).