The Office of Special Trial Counsel: Honoring the Plank Owners Who Built a New Standard of Military Justice
The Office of Special Trial Counsel: Honoring the Plank Owners Who Built a New Standard of Military Justice
The U.S. Navy’s Office of Special Trial Counsel (OSTC) represents one of the most significant reforms in military justice in decades. These custom handcrafted wooden plaques beautifully capture that moment in history.
Featuring the official OSTC emblem — a powerful design with a globe, scales of justice, and a sword, encircled by the words “OFFICE OF SPECIAL TRIAL COUNSEL” and the timeless motto “FIAT JUSTITIA” (Let Justice Be Done) — these plaques honor the founding members who helped stand up this critical new organization. » SHOP NOW «
What Is the Office of Special Trial Counsel?
Congress created the Office of Special Trial Counsel through the Fiscal Year 2022 National Defense Authorization Act. The Navy OSTC reached full operational capability in late December 2023.
Unlike traditional military prosecution, the OSTC operates with independence from the chain of command. It reports directly to the Secretary of the Navy and holds exclusive authority over “covered offenses” — primarily serious victim-based crimes such as sexual assault and other violent offenses under the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ).
Key features of the Navy OSTC include:
Expert, specialized, and ethical prosecution
Independence to ensure fairness and remove unlawful influence
Highly trained Special Trial Counsel selected for their experience in military justice
A worldwide presence supporting the Fleet
The OSTC’s mission is clear: deliver justice that strengthens good order and discipline while maintaining the trust of Sailors and the American public.
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The Meaning Behind the OSTC Emblem and “Fiat Justitia”
The emblem featured on these plaques is rich with symbolism:
The globe represents the global reach of the Navy and the OSTC’s worldwide responsibility.
The scales of justice symbolize fairness and balance.
The sword stands for the authority and strength of the law.
The rope border evokes naval tradition and unity.
The Latin phrase “FIAT JUSTITIA” — Let Justice Be Done — serves as a powerful reminder of the office’s core purpose. It reflects a commitment to impartial, principled prosecution that prioritizes truth and accountability.
Plank Owners: The Founders of the OSTC
In Navy tradition, a “plank owner” is someone who serves as a founding or early member of a new ship, squadron, or command. These custom plaques recognize three outstanding Special Trial Counsel officers who earned that distinction during the critical stand-up period of the Office of Special Trial Counsel.
Their service dates (spanning 2023–2026) coincide with the office’s transition from concept to fully operational reality. As plank owners, they helped shape policies, build teams, and establish the high standards that now define the OSTC.
These plaques are more than decorations — they are lasting tributes to the dedication, professionalism, and leadership required to launch an entirely new independent prosecution office.
Craftsmanship That Reflects Professional Excellence
Each plaque is meticulously carved from wood, showcasing:
The detailed OSTC circular seal with raised globe, scales, and sword
Clean, professional engraving of titles and service periods
The distinctive “FIAT JUSTITIA” banner
The natural wood grain combined with precise laser or CNC carving gives these pieces a timeless, dignified appearance worthy of the important work they represent.
Why These Plaques Matter
In an era of significant military justice reform, the Office of Special Trial Counsel stands as a cornerstone of independence, expertise, and accountability. These plank owner plaques serve as a tangible reminder of the people who answered the call to build something new — something better — for the Navy and the Sailors it serves.
They embody the spirit of Fiat Justitia: a commitment to let justice be done, fairly and without compromise.
