Top 5 Star Trek First Officers

Here’s an idea long overdue, and harder than it sounds. Every great captain has an even better first officer behind him (or her). The first officer does more then just wait to take over for the captain. They have to run the more mundane ship functions and be there to support the captain, even if the captain is making a mistake. 

This began in the very first pilot when we saw how capable Number One was. I wish we had seen more of her (the garbage that is SNW does not count). But of the five first officers we got in the main series, how would they rank? 

This isn’t about how good a character they are, but how they specifically worked as a first officer. And let me be clear, they are all awesome I am just choosing who is more awesome than the rest. Just opinion and just for fun; of course. 

 

#5.Kira

A Bajoran first officer made sense to Sisko in the pilot and he was right. She was tough and opinionated but she always stood by Sisko’s commands. And that was it though. She was a great character who had some wonderful arcs on the show but except for stepping up when Sisko was away she never impressed me as a first officer. 

#4.T’Pol

It’s really a shame they tried so hard to push her as a sex object because T’Pol was a great character. Though she didn’t really do first officer tasks aside from standing up to Archer from time to time. But man stand up to him she did, never missing an opportunity to point out how illogical he can be. 

#3.Chakotay

I want to be fair and give this guy a break. While a boring character I think he was a decent first officer. He looked over the ship, counseled the crew, and wasn’t afraid to talk back to Janeway (though maybe not enough). Putting aside the go nowhere relationship with Janeway I like that he fully earned her trust. I know people will say I am nuts putting him here but at least he did first officer stuff besides arguing with the captain. 

#2.Spock 

I always felt like Spock spent more time being science officer than first officer. Except for take over when Kirk was off the ship, it seemed like we never really saw him do “first officer” duties. Yes there are exceptions in the 79 episodes, but my statement stands. He was a great first officer who set a very high bar that was topped by the next one. 

#1.Riker

 

Let’s be honest Riker is the one who defined what a first officer was supposed to be. He was ready to take over for Picard but wasn’t afraid to make sure that he didn’t go on risky away missions. He was responsible for problems with the crew whether it be officer issues or family issues. He took charge of everything from supervising Wesley to going on dangerous shuttle missions. And the best part? He had a relaxed social side and was a fun guy to hang with. The GOAT for a reason! 

Honorable mention to Will Decker from the first movie. And yes I’m ignoring Michael Burnham, I’ve discussed why elsewhere. Nothing against her but I hate Discovery. 

That was fun. I should do best doctor next, now that would be difficult! 

Oh ok….