How does a trait average well above RSCA send a message in a detach fitrep? I mean I would figure if it's below average that's a headshot, but wouldn't you expect it well above?
It's just a subtle way for the CO to say to the board that he/she really thought highly of you. CO's typically have the FitReps scored so the RSA stays the same. When the CO writes a 1 of 1, that score will still count againt that CO's RSA.
When you record is reviewed the reviewing Officer can see what your trait average was and what the Reporting Seniors Average was (at the time the FitRep was signed). So, if the CO is willing to give you very high marks (which will inflate his average) most folks on the board will see this as a good thing and MAY mention it while you are being briefed in the tank.
If your score is below the CO's average, you can expect that to be mentioned as well.
Remember, if you were not a superstar in the squadron, the CO won't bother giving you a high trait average since it will raise that CO's average for every other FitRep of that rank he/she signs forever.
Also, if your CO gives you the line about resetting trait averages on your detaching fitrep, and that means your own trait average dropped, isn't that considered an adverse fitrep?
Since the term "adverse fitrep" is defined loosely, I really can't give you a firm answer. If the CO gives you a score that is below his average, then he is saying to the board that you are a below average officer, in his/her opinion. CO's are very familiar with the system and will know what their RSA is when signing FitReps.
LSS: If you are a strong performer in the squadron, you can expect competitive FitReps with hard breakouts (EP's). If you are in this category, then you can expect the CO to give you high marks on your detaching FitRep.
If you are not a strong player, then you can expect your detaching FitRep to have lower marks. It may have flowery language and call you the next John Paul Jones, but a below average score is what the board will see.