D&D 5E Skills question

[Minsc]

I'm putting together a half orc fighter.

They get intimidate for free, and if I choose the soldier background, they get it again.

Am I throwing away a skill by choosing this background, or is there a substitute?

TIA

 

[Mouseferatu]

The background skills are basically suggestions, not carved in stone. You can take something else appropriate instead of Intimidate with the soldier background.

 

[Wolfskin]

Every time you would get a skill you already have, you gain other of your choice instead

 

[Minsc]

Thanks!

This might sound weird, but is this written anywhere?

I ask because I haven't actually met my DM yet, and want my character ready to go.

 

[The Grassy Gnoll]

PHB p125, Proficencies. Choose a different proficiency of the same kind (skill or tool).

 

[Minsc]

PHB p125, Prociencies. Choose a different proficiency of the same kind (skill or tool).

Poifect!