The Commonwealth -1- Issue 12: December 2014
The Commonwealth -2- Issue 12: December 2014
@ttention ^ll h^nds ...
Welcome to the last regional newsletter of 2014. I am prepared to argue that 2014 has been the best year for Region 20 since our reactivation in 2010. Our roster has grown, we broke the two-hundred member mark (briefly – here's hoping we get some renewals when things settle down with the database) and we are getting noticed. But numbers are just numbers. I’d rather have ten active members in the Region, then 10,000 members on the R20 roster. Numbers look good – smiles on faces in photos look better. And we have had some fun. The Alba, Iceni, and Cuchulain have been out there at Dublin, London, Milton Keynes, Edinburgh, Belfast among others, providing lots of great photos whilst flying the flag for their chapters and SFI. We came together, with a lot of our fellow UK clubs and groups for FCD at Leicester and of course, we finally did it – we delivered that elusive regional event. It was a great start to something really special, and it was a great honour to be the sitting RC for this event, my thanks to Rich and the team for again, making the event into the success it was. Of course, we’re a fan club and it’s a hobby for us all. Among the events we have let our hair down, is the Banquet, the SFBall and the aforementioned FCD. For the first time, a member of the Regional Staff, Scott Peter represented us at the IC. Truly, Region 20 is here to stay. December also sees the six month point of my run as Regional Coordinator. There have been hiccups but, overall, it has gone smoother than I ever thought possible, and this is thanks to the patience of you all. My thanks to Scott Peter, Rich Sams, Pat Stoneham, Anni Potts, Amanda Barrow, and everyone else who has contributed at Regional level. I never wanted a post of authority, but if my stint is as enjoyable as this one, those Admiral’s Bars don’t seem so bad… (at least, not yet). That being said, it’s come to my attention that a person felt that the region wasn't inclusive to them. Fair play to that person, they addressed their concerns with me, they still weren’t happy, and I offered them a solution. It has started a dialogue and we have acted upon that. However, it’s come to my attention that other people within region 20 feel that the region isn’t inclusive to them. Therefore, if we are going to make 2015 an even better year than 2014, we
The Commonwealth -3- Issue 12: December 2014
need to hear from you our members, weather its getting involved with open posts at regional level, sending in articles for the newsletter, or coming to me with your personal concerns please speak up. With your valuable feedback, Region 20 can keep boldly going forward. I would not be where I am today without inclusivity, so I want to ensure that Region 20 is a fair, fun place. I wish you the best for the Holidays and I look forward to seeing you in 2015.
Dan
FLEET CAPTAIN Dan Adams
Vice Regional Coordinator
"To Thine Own Self Be True"
@@cckknnoowwlleeddggeemmeennttss Our thanks go to this issue's
contributors (listed alphabetically):
LCDR 'Panda' Barrow USS Stargazer
Lt Cdr John Brogan USS Alba
FCAPT Dan Adams USS Stargazer
Keith Callaghan USS Cuchulain
CRMN Damien Devlin USS Cuchulain
Lt Pat Stoneham USS Stargazer
LCDR Anni 'Zig'Potts USS Stargazer
CMDR Eilidh Montgomery USS Alba
LTJG Alan Whelan USS Cuchulain
The Commonwealth is the newsletter of STARFLEET
International, Region 20. Unless otherwise stated, all
articles are the property of the author. Any opinions
expressed are solely those of the author and may not
reflect the opinions of the editors, STARFLEET Region
20 or STARFLEET International.
Star Trek and all related trademarks are the
exclusive property of CBS. They are used here without
permission for entertainment purposes only.
IIssssuuee DD^̂tteess Issue Date Deadline for
Submissions
SPRING
SUMMER
AUTUMN
WINTER
March
June
September
December
18 February
22 May
22 August
22 November
Please remember that the Editor only
edits the magazine so unless you make
submissions, the Commonwealth will
be very small indeed. All submissions
are welcome, but the Editor reserves
the right to edit, postpone or not to
publish a particular item.
Submissions should be sent to
[email protected]. Many thanks.
LTCdr Anni Potts
Chief of Communications
20th Fleet
The Commonwealth -4- Issue 12: December 2014
In this Issue ...
Attention all hands .............................................................................................. 2 Acknowledgements....................................................................................... 3 Issue Dates .................................................................................................... 3
In this Issue ... ...................................................................................................... 4 Twin Tribble Rescue Mission ............................................................................... 5
History ........................................................................................................... 5 Case Notes..................................................................................................... 6 COMPETITION TIME!..................................................................................... 6
DSTL 2014 ............................................................................................................ 7 STARFLEET Medical, Region 20.......................................................................... 10
Stardate: 2014.10.18 ~ Ebola Virus - Update .............................................10 Breaking News from around the Region.....................................................11 Currently Appointed CMOs .........................................................................12
STAFF VACANCY.................................................................................................12 Deputy Assistant Surgeon General, Region 20..................................................12 Looking back at – Star Trek: Nemesis................................................................13 Aboard the Cuchulain ........................................................................................15 Captain's Log, USS Stargazer..............................................................................17 Captain's Log, USS Cuchulain .............................................................................18 Cuchulain Crew Profiles .....................................................................................19 SCIENCE REORT: How is Eye-catching Space Technology Helping to restore
Human Sight?.....................................................................................................21 A new beginning ................................................................................................22 A Fond Farewell .................................................................................................23 The Banshees at the Hive ..................................................................................24 The Secret of The Venture PART TWO...............................................................26 So what is "Member Services" about? ..............................................................35
A A A Cover photo by Beata Izabela Miller.
I wouldn't normally put myself on the front cover of anything, but as this is a
special issue of the Commonwealth for me (as you'll find out later), I felt this
photo said everything about what being a member of the USS Stargazer and
Region 20 means to me. Thank you, guys, for making this so great.
Zig
The Commonwealth -5- Issue 12: December 2014
Twin Tribble Rescue Mission
Chief Medic^l Officer: Sub-Comm^nder T'V^h'L'Q^'YiN
TOP SECRET - CL@SSIFIED
SPECIMEN: Polygeminus grex (NOT to be confused with
Megalopyge opercularis)
COMMON NAME: 'Tribble'
HOMEWORLD: Iota Geminorum IV
STATUS: "Rescued"
CONDITION: Ready for Fostering
ATTENDED BY: Chief Medical Officer, Sub-Commander T'Vah'L'Qa'YiN
HHiissttoorryy These identical Twin Tribbles were rescued from the Qochbe'wl experimental
facility located in the southern tip of the Uhq'ra Mountains by the crew of the ill-
fated USS York. As identical twin specimens of this specie is not a natural
phenomena, the extraction team believe that only one of the creatures is a
Polygeminus grex. The other is thought to be an Allasomorph.
The Commonwealth -6- Issue 12: December 2014
CC^̂ssee NNootteess On return to the USS Stargazer the twins were
immediately placed under twenty-four hour guard in
the converted Cargo Bay 5. Access was strictly limited
to essential personnel.
After prolonged and extensive surgery the binding
device joining the two creatures together was
successfully removed. Further studies have identified
the joining device as a neural inhibitor.
The specimens were placed in the cellular re-
generator for thirty days. Their survival rate was
estimated of 30.075%
Recovery has been a very slow progress and it is
believed that their fur will never grow to the normally
luxuriant and vibrant lengths seen in wild specimens.
Engineering have been able to develop an artificial
voice box for the twins and a recent outing to the
Regional Summit 2014 proved that they had now
recovered to a point that they were almost ready for
re-homing. Unfortunately, one of the twins was
damaged by an over-enthusiastic delegate which has necessitated further
remedial surgery for a replacement voice box.
Recovery from surgery was hampered somewhat as the uninjured specimen
appeared to be constantly nudging the injured specimen; separating them
completely only reduced them to emitting high pitched squealing.
Four of Four was assigned to 'holding' duties and several days of missed rest
cycles motivated her to construct a 'sling' device in which the twins could nestle,
seemingly content.
As Four of Four must return to her duties and the twins are now fully
recovered we need to locate a suitable foster home for them.
CCOOMMPPEETTIITTIIOONN TTIIMMEE!! Sub-Commander T'Vah'L'Qa'YiN is looking for names for the adorable duo. The
winner will then have the honour (and responsibility) or adopting the duo. To
take part, simply eMail your name and suggestions to [email protected] .
Closing date is Christmas Eve. Winner to be announced on 10th January 2015.
An Allasomorph in its
natural state
The Commonwealth -7- Issue 12: December 2014
DSTL 2014
Lt Cdr John Brog^n, USS @lb^
Stardate 201410.03 at 1400hrs saw 'Doors Open' for an event known as either
Destination Star Trek 3 or Destination Star Trek London, but before Doors Open,
for those of us who had booked in advance, (and I had a Lieutenant's Silver
Package), at 1130hrs there was a private viewing of The Wrath of Khan, followed
by a Q & A session with the movie's director, Nicholas Meyer.
But, if I am to tell the story of DSTL, 'warts and all', I would have to report that
my first day started at 09:00 when I had to report to the Box Office to collect
duplicate tickets because the Lieutenant
Package, ordered at £225, failed to arrive in
the post. Still, after two attempts and a few
more gray hairs, I had my paper ticket, which I
now had to take to the Ticket Office to
exchange for my plastic pass and where I
would also collect my goody bag.
The goody bag is worth a mention. It's a
soft, black plastic type bag bearing the DST3
logo etc, secured with cord drawstrings in such
a manner that the bag could be worn like a
rucksack. Inside, were a number of items
including a signed photo of actor Jeffrey
Combs who, despite playing nine different
characters in Star Trek, was most famous as
the Vorta clone, Weyon, in DS9, and the photo was in character. There was also
a glossy magazine-style official programme, a button badge, a lanyard for the
security pass and a silver (not real silver) coaster with the DST3 logo and dates,
and various flyers for stalls within the venue. I also received a rolled up poster,
which I lost so quickly that I do not remember seeing it after the first 10 minutes
and never saw what the poster was. Ah well, somebody benefitted there.
So as well as this bagful of goodies, my Lieutenant Package included a ticket
for a TNG Enterprise bridge photo shoot, a ticket for a Borg regeneration booth
photo shoot, a Jeri Ryan talk and Q & A (pre-chosen) and a Bill Shatner talk and
Q & A (also pre-chosen).
Having collected all my goodies, it was back to the hotel (which was about
500m from the London Excel) to change into uniform and get stuck in. Following
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The Wrath of Khan, I had nothing else pre-booked until the Opening Ceremony
hosted by Jonathon Ross at 1900hrs, followed by the Party with the Stars at
2100, so it was into the main arena where all the Star Trek stars we know were
busy signing autographs, and doing photo shoots.
On the 'free' stages on Friday afternoon was 'Tomorrow is Yesterday' bringing
the tech of Trek to life, with David Coplin, Chief Envisioning Officer at Microsoft,
'Welcome to DST3' with Max Grodenchick, Aron Eisenberg and Casey Biggs,
'Women of Star Trek' with Suzie Plakson, Hana Hatae and Alice Krig, 'History of
Star Trek Costumes and Uniforms' with Martin Netter, 'My Time on Star Trek'
with Jim Moorhouse and Larry Nemecek and much more.
The Opening Ceremony was at 1900hrs on the Friday, hosted by Jonathon
Ross, and consisted of short interviews with all the Trek stars and directors who
would be appearing over the
weekend.
The climax to Friday was the
Party with the Stars, which took
place from 2100hrs onward in The
Fox Pub, right next to the Excel.
Entertainment was provided by
The Enterprise Blues Band
comprising of Steve Rankin,
Vaughn Armstrong and Casey
Biggs (Vaughn played Admiral
Maxwell Forest in
Star Trek: Enterprise, whilst
Steve and Casey were
Cardassian officers in
Deep Space 9). I have to admit, the only stars I saw mingling in the Party with the
Stars were Anthony Montgomery, who played Travis Mayweather in Enterprise,
and Max Grodenchik: Rom, the Ferengi engineer and brother to Quark on DS9. I
actually managed to spend several minutes chatting to Max as he moved around
the room talking to people. The party went on 'till late' as they say, but for me it
had been a long enough day.
On the Saturday I had nothing pre-booked other than a photo-shoot on the
The Commonwealth -9- Issue 12: December 2014
TNG Enterprise Bridge and one in a Borg
regeneration booth. Those and a
talk/Q & A session with Jeri Ryan of
Voyager. So, mostly, the Saturday was
spent wandering around the stalls and
displays that filled this large arena. I was
able to meet up with Region 20 crew
members from the USS Iceni and USS
Cuchulain. Interestingly enough, I ran
into Max Grodenchik again, as he
wandered around the arena in full Rom
costume. I thought this was a good touch
by him as people on a budget who could
not afford photo shoots could at least
get one picture with a Trek star.
All Saturday there was a lot happening on the various stages as the stars gave
their talks and demonstrations. Around the walls were the autograph booths
where the fans could have photographs signed or, indeed, the photo shoot
booths where one could briefly meet your hero and be photographed with them.
Jeri Ryan gave an excellent talk with anecdotes about her time on Voyager
and took many questions, joking with those who got a moment to speak with
her. I don't know quite what I was expecting, but Jeri's voice is pitched higher
than Seven of Nine's and she is funny and bubbly and there is none of the
seriousness of Seven of Nine. I thought she was a lovely lady.
Sunday was another day of talks, displays and shopping until it was time to go
to my last pre-booked event; a talk with Bill Shatner. Again, this was highly
amusing. Bill is a great talker and spoke with humour and affection of his
experiences, getting quite serious when he spoke of his love for horses.
So that was it. After the Bill Shatner talk it was almost over. There was thirty
minutes shopping time left as the stall holders tried to get a last few bucks, but
all else had closed down. As I left for the final time, playing over the music
system was the novelty song Star Trekkin' which made No. 1 in the UK in 1987.
There was much more to this weekend than I have been able to report in this
short piece. For me the highlight of the weekend was meeting Max Grodenchik
twice on a personal level and not on a supervised 30-second photo shoot or
autograph session.
Before I close, I would say to any of you reading this that if DST comes to
London again you should (and I will) make every effort to get there. It is a superb
experience.
The Commonwealth -10- Issue 12: December 2014
ST@RFLEET Medic^l, Region 20
LCDR @m^nd^ B^rrow @ssist^nt Surgeon Gener^l – Region 20 Chief Medic^l Officer – USS St^rg^zer
As Assistant Surgeons General in the STARFLEET Medical Corps, we represent the
visible concern of STARFLEET for members on issues related to public health,
specifically health promotion and disease prevention. In our assigned region, we
work with and collaborate with health science / medical leadership to bring
important health promotion and disease prevention information to chapter-level
health science / medical points-of-contact (e.g., Chapter CMOs) for the benefit of
the local membership.
Our current Surgeon General is Major General Oliver Savander SR. The
Surgeon General reports directly into the Vice-Commander, STARFLEET (VCS).
NEWS ... NEWS ... NEWS ... NEWS ... NEWS ...
SStt^̂rrdd^̂ttee:: 22001144..1100..1188 ~~ EEbbooll^̂ VViirruuss -- UUppdd^̂ttee As I write today the threat of a
world wide pandemic is bubbling
just under the surface and it
would seem, the Ebola virus is
knocking gently on the doors into
the UK.
Ebola virus disease, formerly
Ebola haemorrhagic fever, is a
severe viral haemorrhagic fever
The Commonwealth -11- Issue 12: December 2014
(VHF) caused by a virus of the filovirus family.
There are five distinct species of Ebola virus, of which four have caused
disease in humans: Zaïre, Sudan, Tai Forest and Bundibugyo. Reston ebolavirus
has caused disease in non-human primates and pigs, but not in humans.
On the 14th October 2014, Public Health England is helping to roll out
enhanced screening for Ebola starting at Heathrow, then Gatwick and St Pancras
(Eurostar) in passengers that Border Force officers identify as having travelled
from Sierra Leone, Guinea and Liberia.
Passengers will have their temperature taken and complete a questionnaire
asking about their current health, recent travel history and whether they might
be at potential risk through contact with Ebola patients. Based on the
information provided and their temperature, passengers will either be given
advice and allowed to continue their journey, or undergo a clinical assessment
by PHE staff and if necessary be transferred to hospital for further tests.
Source: Public Health England
BBrree^̂kkiinngg NNeewwss ffrroomm ^̂rroouunndd tthhee RReeggiioonn From: CMDR Michael Hartley
CO - Shuttlecraft York NCC 7991/01:
Date: 15th
October 2014
CMDR Hartley passed a three-day First Aid at Work course. The training provider
was Green Cross Training. There were two parts:
• Practical side covered DRABC/Recovery, CPR, and Bandages.
• A Theory Exam: There were 6 questions and a discussion.
CMDR Hartley found the course to be very good and informative.
The Home of the @SG – R20 on F^cebook
The ASG 20 Facebook page received a very welcome face lift in the form of a new
banner design. I would like to record my very grateful thanks to LCDR Anni 'Zig'
Potts for rescuing me (and the group) from my very poor efforts.
The 'Home of the Assistant Surgeon General R20' Facebook group have
covered a wide variety of topics ranging from:
• Osteoporosis (hairline fracture of vertebrae)
• HRT Therapy
• Predicting and Preventing Infectious Diseases with Google Earth
• Hair Loss (and the benefit of wigs)
The Commonwealth -12- Issue 12: December 2014
• Cancer – and feeding tubes
• MRI scans
• Plus a very interesting article on 'hookworms' as a 'cure' for celiac's
disease
Region 20 Ch^pters: CMO / Medic^l Dep^rtment Report's
Each month I am required to submit a ASG-R20 report into the Surgeon General.
This report briefly summarises the various activities in the medical and science
departments in the Chapters. If you are a CMO or Science Officer in your Chapter
I would love to hear from you.
CCuurrrreennttllyy @@ppppooiinntteedd CCMMOOss • USS Alba: LTJG Sandy McNeillie-Welsh
• USS Stargazer: LCDR Amanda Barrow
ST@FF V@C@NCY Deputy @ssist^nt Surgeon Gener^l, Region 20
An opportunity has arisen for a Deputy Surgeon General – Region 20.
The ideal candidate will have already have completed the OTC course, will be
a member of good standing and will already serving within their chapter in the
Science, Medical and or Counselling departments.
Duties to include:
• Updating and expanding the ASG R20 webpage with news worthy
articles.
• Keeping an up to date list of current CMO's within the Region.
• Help to compile the monthly Regional Report.
• Deputising for the ASG – R20 as required.
Candidates must have the permission from their Chapter CO before applying for
the post.
In line with all Regional appointments - candidates will undergo a 'vote of
confidence' after a two year term has been completed. To apply: please forward
your resume to: LCDR A Barrow email: [email protected] .
The Commonwealth -13- Issue 12: December 2014
Looking b^ck ^t – St^r Trek: Nemesis
FC@PT D^n @d^ms, USS St^rg^zer
Recently at my local gaming store in Mansfield, I played some more 'casual'
games of Star Trek: Attack Wing using the scenarios that come with some of the
ships. One of those missions was 'Destroy the Scimitar' which, is based on
Nemesis. It is different in that it is a cooperative mission so there is no
competition. Instead, two friends and I tried to blow up that pesky Romulan ship,
and managed it on our fourth attempt.
When I got home, I decided to fire up the DVD player and take a fresh look at
this much derided piece of Trek Lore.
Derided seems like a strong term, but Marina Sirtis and Levar Burton have
both been very ciritical of the film in the years since its release.
Billed as 'a generation's final journey', it saw the Next Generation Crew and
the Enterprise-E embark on a mission to Romulus, and the first appearance of
The Commonwealth -14- Issue 12: December 2014
the Remans led by Prateor Shinzon, played by Tom Hardy.
I think that the plot holds up pretty well compared to some of today’s
blockbusters. It does feel like it owes a lot to the Wrath of Kahn, and while I
enjoyed this repeat viewing, I still have some issues with it.
Despite the marketing slogan about being 'a generation’s final journey', I can
only assume that there was some hope of the movie franchise continuing.
Otherwise, why would they be so keen in killing off Data and hinting about a
possible resurrection? Surely it would have been better to have a TNG equivalent
of the 'signing off' scene at the end of ST6. It would have been more satisfying to
see Data stand side-by-side with the crew as they ride off into the sunset.
It’s not even the fact that Data died that rankled me but rather that his death
was so evocative of Spock’s sacrifice, (isolating his comrades from danger as he
chooses to sacrifice
himself, followed by a hint
at resurrection). It would
have been much better to
have Data be killed at the
hands of the Remans only
for Picard to rise above his
instinct for revenge.
My only other problem
is the search for parts of B4
on the planet—the people
on the planet seem to be pre-warp. Surely joy riding around the planet in the
Argo isn’t the best way to protect the prime directive?
It is wonderful, though, to see the crew together, slipping on the characters
for the last time. Patrick Stewart is comfortable with the character of Picard, and
Data’s scene with the apparently witless B4 is heart-breaking.
Tom Hardy, while not being the best Picard lookalike in the world, exudes
menace in his role as Shinzon, who became more bestial as his DNA unravelled.
This is a film for set pieces, and there are some great ones in this film. While I
have already expressed my concerns, the Argo scene is great aesthetically. The
Scimitar is a beautiful, if scary, monster of a ship. The ramming scene was
another delight.
Overall, any film going against a Lord of the Rings film was going to struggle
and, thus, even if this film had been more of a fan favourite like TWOK or First
Contact, its box office takings would probably still have been lower compared to
the Middle Earth Behemoth. However, I found rewatching the film to be a most
enjoyable experience.
The Commonwealth -15- Issue 12: December 2014
@bo^rd the Cuchul^in
Keith C^ll^gh^n, USS Cuchul^in
In the early part of 2014 I was introduced to the USS CUCHULAIN, captained by
Alan O'Shea, by my sister-in-law, Laura Murphy. I was always interested in sci-fi
movies and games but when Cuchulain arrived, to me it was another chapter in
my life opening up. My first outing on the Cuchulain was such a great time. I
slotted right in and felt like I was there for a long time. On my way there, I was
complimented by strangers on my Wrath Of Khan uniform: "Hey! Nice Star Trek
uniform wee-woo!" So
that was a boost on my
first outing.
Since then, I have
managed to do the
Ensign's exam with more
to follow in time
hopefully.
The Wrath Of Khan is
my favourite Trek movie
so with what my all-I-can-
get-my-hands-on budget
allows, I have included in my uniform
badges, boots, phaser a Star Trek 2
communicator and my Cuchulain comm
badge, which has pride of place on my
uniform. I have been to quite a few
Cuchulain outings and always felt part
of a great team, always with lots of
laughter.
There is nothing like dressing up at
parties and conventions and people
asking, 'Can I get a photo of you?" and
the best is the expression on people’s
faces, especially children, whether it’s in
amazement, shock or genuinely afraid,
it is all good fun.
The Commonwealth -16- Issue 12: December 2014
I have a few Cosplay costumes too, some parts bought and some made (with
many layers of skin and clothes either burnt or glued together). Those costumes
include Predator (I’m planning
to improve my Predator
costume greatly; it’s all work in
progress at the moment),
Wrath Of Khan full uniform and
accessories, and Terminator
(Arnold mask, T800 and a T2
leather jacket) and my latest
Gears Of War. I always had an
interest in movies and games
that my costumes came from—
like my Gears Of War costume.
It is my motorbike gear painted
and lacquered and I added led
lights from Lidl and some EL
wire with controllers, airsoft
gloves painted. All the
motorbike gear, including the
trousers from Lidl, were painted
sliver with a light coat of black
to try get a battle effect. When
it comes to Cosplay, there are
always people there to help and
offer advice. I never miss a
shopping opportunity, no matter
where or when, to buy gadgets
because you just never know when they will come in handy.
In August at Dublin ComicCon, I joined the USS CUCHULAIN as Marcus Fenix
from Gears Of War for a few photos. It's always a superb event to see lots of
fantastic costumes, and it is great to see a lot of members from the Cuchulain in
uniform too. It creates a really good impression of a well organised group, and
it’s a great feeling to say that your part of such a massive worldwide community.
I’m rally looking forward to many more Cosplay parties and conventions in one
of my many costumes.
The Commonwealth -17- Issue 12: December 2014
C^pt^in's Log, USS St^rg^zer
FC@PT D^niel @d^ms
It’s been a fantastic few months for Region 20’s
longest serving chapter.
TREK FIRST is something I believe in
passionately. Star Trek inspires people. Whether
it’s a child or teenager inspired to go into
engineering or science fields, or artistic ones like
performing, writing or other artistic endeavours,
Star Trek inspires, even if it’s just having fun. Our crew have been getting out there for the
Stargazer, representing the chapter at Sheffield Film and Comicon, DSTL, the
Starbase 24 Banquet and the regular Manchester and Leeds meet ups. It's always
fantastic to get out there and see what our crew get up to. Our crew have all
been busy on the Academy too, particularly our star navigator, Ensign Kathy Ball.
Away from events, both our CO and XO have become part of the Star Trek
Attack Wing scene in their local areas. Playing this game is a fantastic way to
meet new people and chat.
Christmas is coming too. It's always been a special time for my 'trek-ness'. If I
remember correctly, I first started to enjoy Star Trek during the early autumn of
1993. That Christmas, I was properly introduced to the original series crew
during a festive showing of Star Trek 6, perhaps my favourite to feature the
original cast. With Christmas came Christmas money, and I spent it on two Trek
VHS tapes (remember those?) and so it came to pass that I saw in 1994 watching
Worf trying to escape from a prison camp. This was also when my family realised that this was more than a phase, so I
had more Trek videos, models, watches and other gifts than you could shake a
tribble at. I particularly remember spending that Christmas morning watching 'All
Good Things' in my pyjamas. Ah! Happy memories.
Anyway, I look forward to seeing the rest of the Fleet out there in 2015!
FCAPT Dan Adams
CO, USS Stargazer
'To Thine Own Self Be True'
The Commonwealth -18- Issue 12: December 2014
C^pt^in's Log, USS Cuchul^in
FC@PT @l^n O'She^
Since putting back to Starbase for our refit, I must say
that I am very pleased with our new state of the art
Nova Class vessel and we have resumed our mission
to seek out new life and new adventures. Special
thanks to Head of Special Operations, SCPO Jonathan
East, for all his hard work at ship yard design stage
and to Cuchulain comms officers, LTJG Karen
Bebbington and Gianandrea Commande for their gallant
effort in getting our new look website up and running;
fabulous job. 2014 was a very busy year for the Cuchulain and
crew, with attending various events throughout the year from Invasion Belfast to
Starbase 24 Banquet—too many to mention, but I am sure you will hear more on some
of those adventures from other members too in this issue.
The Cuchulain is very proud to see the launch of the second chapter in Ireland, the
USS Caroline, and we were delighted to send a detachment to Belfast to support their
launch event. The Caroline are moving along very nicely. We are proud to be Caroline's
support ship and we wish her God speed on her journey.
The Cuchulain is also very pleased to participate in a sister ship arrangement with the
USS Charon, NCC-80111, all the way from North Carolina in Region 1, the home of SFI.
This journey of cultural exchange and friendship reached an all-time high when my XO,
Captain Frank Kiernan, and friends were lucky enough to travel to the States to attend
Dragon Con when he met up with the Charon's CO, Commodore Scott Gibson, and some
of his crew which was a great experience. Closer to home, I am pleased to see the
beginning of our marine unit's training with manoeuvres in the field at a specialist indoor
training facility at the Hive in Dublin, which was thoroughly enjoyed by all.
December is a very busy time for the Cuchulain with us gearing up for our annual
Christmas Party and immediately after that, for our hardened marines, more training at
Airsoft as well as lots of new events planned for 2015. Watch this space!
I would like to take this opportunity to wish the Cuchulain and her crew, the RC and
his team and all chapters across Region 20 a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year
and hope that 2015 is your best year yet.
FCAPT Alan O'Shea
CO, USS Cuchulain
DOIC, 391st the Banshees
The Commonwealth -19- Issue 12: December 2014
Cuchul^in Crew Profiles
CRMN D^mien Devlin, USS Cuchul^in
Hello folks. I am Damien Devlin a crewman and operations officer on board the
mighty USS Cuchulain. Some of you may already know me as the IRISHTREKKIE
from YouTube. Just to give you a bit of a background about myself, I hail from
Galway in the west of Ireland and I am a
father, a husband, a YouTuber, musician,
artist, a science fiction fanatic ... and the
list goes on. Call me a nerd or a geek, I
wear each badge with pride.
To pay the bills I work in the tech.
industry, which is right up my alley. Over
a year ago I started my YouTube channel
founded on reviewing 'The Star Trek
Starships' magazine, as a hobby. It has
since evolved to be much more than I
had expected and a great community has
emerged. This is also how I came to find
the USS Cuchulain.
I love science, space, gaming and
technology and my family are great
supporters of my interests. I love to set
up my telescope and search for distant
planets and stars letting my imagination
take flight. This feeling also comes true
when I watch science fiction such as Star Trek, Babylon 5, Stargate, Battlestar
Galactica and so many more.
The ideals that Gene Roddenberry promoted in the Star Trek universe:
equality, respect, science and exploration are the very same attributes I find here
at the USS Cuchulain. And that is why I joined her crew in early 2014.
What does the future mean for me? More YouTube, more USS Cuchulain and
more sci-fi. You folks are the best. Set phaser to FUNFUNFUNFUN and live long and prosper.
You can find Damien's YouTube channel at: www.youtube.com/irishtrekkie
The Commonwealth -20- Issue 12: December 2014
Ensign L^ur^ Murphy
My name is Ensign Laura Murphy a member of the Cuchulain medical team. I live
in Dublin and I am new to SFI but I have been a Trek fan my whole life. My
passion is Cosplay. As much as I enjoy participating, my favourite thing about
Cosplay is meeting people, talking to them about the work they put into their
Cosplay and how much they enjoy doing what they love. I love meeting people
are conventions and seeing how creative they are and putting their own spin on
well known characters. Social
networking is great for watching the
build from beginning to end,
especially when I see it at a
convention in person. I have tried my
hand at Cosplay, to make some parts
of my outfits. My Ewok costume was
almost completely homemade, my
walking stick came from a storm
damaged tree I cleaned and
varnished and the furry ears sown to
a scarf.
My favourite Cosplay has to be
my Original Series Starfleet uniform. I
Cosplay as a Vulcan. I really enjoyed
wearing it at Dublin Comic Con and
enjoying the camaraderie of the
other Star Trek fans I met there. I'm
always on the lookout for new ideas,
I recently bought a Next Generation
uniform and hope to have a uniform
from every series.
My prized possession is my
assimilated Tribble, a gift from my
brother in law. He was assimilated using LED lights and tubes. I had been leaning
towards more Star Wars for Cosplay, but with the various seasons of Trek, the
possibilities are endless with ST. My sister has been Andorian and I would love to
try that or Klingon or Bajoran.
A A A
The Commonwealth -21- Issue 12: December 2014
SCIENCE REORT: How is Eye-c^tching Sp^ce Technology Helping to restore Hum^n Sight>
Lt P^t Stoneh^m, Science Officer, USS St^rg^zer @rticle courtesy of Kelly Both^m of the Europe^n Sp^ce @gency
Laser surgery to correct eyesight is
common practice, but did you know
that technology developed for use in
space is now commonly used to track
the patient’s eye and precisely direct
the laser scalpel?
If you look at a fixed point while
tilting or shaking your head, your eyes
automatically hold steady, allowing you
to see clearly even while moving around. This neat trick of nature is a reflex and
we are usually unaware that it even happens.
Behind the scenes, your brain is constantly interpreting information from the
inner ear to maintain balance and stable vision. An essential feature of this
sensory system is the use of gravity as a reference. Most species on Earth, going
back as far as the dinosaurs, rely on it.
But how do astronauts in space cope when the inner ear can no longer rely
on gravity? How well do astronauts focus on a computer screen when floating
by, and how do they judge speed?
To investigate these questions, a team led by Professor Andrew Clarke based
in Berlin, Germany, designed a series of experiments to measure astronauts’ eye
movements as they worked on the International Space Station.
Researchers needed a robust method to track the eyes without interfering
with the astronaut’s normal work. The answer came in the form of a helmet
feeding high-performance image-processing chips similar to those found in
consumer cameras.
Lost in sp^ce
Ten years ago the first astronauts used the device on the Space Station, followed
by more than four years of experiments.
The results showed that our balance and the overall control of eye
movements are indeed affected by weightlessness. These two systems work
The Commonwealth -22- Issue 12: December 2014
closely together under normal gravity conditions, but become somewhat
dissociated in microgravity.
The findings point to the entire sensory-motor complex and spatial
perception relying on gravity as a reference for orientation. After a flight, it takes
several days to weeks for the astronauts to return to normal.
B^ck to E^rth
In parallel with its use on the Space Station, the engineers realised the device
had potential for applications on Earth. Tracking the eye’s position without
interfering with the surgeon’s
work is essential in laser
surgery. The space technology
proved ideal.
"This eye-tracking
equipment is being used in a
large proportion of corrective
laser surgeries throughout the
world," explains Prof. Clarke.
"In addition, a commercially
available version has also been
delivered to a large number of
research laboratories in Europe
and North America for ground-
based studies.
@ new beginning
Well, this is the last issue of "The Commonwealth" ... but don’t panic! After
discussions between the captains of the Region, the decision has been made to
change the name of the newsletter.
What to? Well, that’s where YOU come in. It was felt that the current name
didn’t accurately reflect the interests of the Region, so what do you think would
be a better name? Send up to three choices to me at [email protected] by
6th December. Members will then be asked to choose from a list of eligible
entries and the winner will get a special prize.
The Commonwealth -23- Issue 12: December 2014
Rules
1. Up to three entries per member. If more than three entries are submitted,
three will be selected at random.
2. All entries must be sent to [email protected] Entries sent via other eMail
addresses, Facebook etc. won’t be counted.
3. Choices may be vetoed for reasons of appropriateness, taste or availability. If
a choice is vetoed, the member will be contacted with the CO copied in
explaining why.
4. If the winning entry is submitted by more than one person, the winner of the
prize will be determined by a random draw between those that submitted it.
So don’t just be good, be original!
The deadline for submissions is 22:00 hours on 6th December 2014.
@ Fond F^rewell
LCDR @nni 'Zig'Potts
And with the new name for The Commonwealth will come a new editor because
this is the last issue of the Regional magazine that I'll be producing—and before
the speculation and rumours start, it's got nothing to do with changing the name
of the magazine. I too will be submitting suggestions. So why this move?
I've had the privilege of pulling the Commonwealth together for the last two
years but now, but I think it's time I let somebody else has a go. After all, unless
we step aside, it'll be the same old people doing the same old stuff all the time,
and that's not good for the Region. By allowing others to have the chance to do
things, it gives them the opportunity to flex their wings, try something new or
develop their skills. It will also help to keep the Region vibrant, allow it
to develop and grow with its membership.
So, if you fancy a go at editing the magazine
next time around, please contact the RC,
Dan Adams at [email protected] .
So, is that it from me? Nope! I still have the
Member Services role, which I hope to be developing,
so I shall still be seeing you out there, and submitting
stuff to the magazine.
The Commonwealth -24- Issue 12: December 2014
The B^nshees ^t the Hive
LTJG @l^n Whel^n, USS Cuchul^in
St^rd^te 2014.11.09:
Greetings readers,
My name is LTJG Alan Whelan and I am a member of the USS Cuchulain
senior command team and a reservist in the 391st The Banshees, the Cuchulain's
Marine Strike Group.
On Earthdate 9th November the crew of the USS Cuchulain gathered at a
secret Starfleet training facility known as The Hive for their first operational
training session as marines: The Banshees.
We arrived by shuttle and transporter from various sectors across the country
not knowing what to expect but ready for anything; budding hardcore marines
one and all. We gathered in the Dublin suburb of Tallaght on a cold Sunday
afternoon for what promised
to be an eventful day. We
were a mixed bag of seasoned
Mil Sim'ers and complete first
timers. The excitement levels
were high as we were granted
access to the Hive for the first
time. Section 31 marshals took
us through some basic safety
and information procedures
required for an enjoyable session. We then received our squad assignments, Red
Squad under the command of Captain Alan O'Shea and Blue Squad under the
command of Captain Frank Kiernan.
With an even mix of experienced and novice players across both squads, we
changed into our combat fatigues, put on our war faces, grabbed our weapons
and made our way into the battle arena for our first glimpse of the place that
would see so much blood, sweat and tears lost in the next few hours. War truly
is hell.
Our first skirmish took the form of an assault on a fortress, with Red Squad
attacking and Blue Squad defending. Red began with a murderous frontal assault
and some testing flanking manoeuvres. With pellets flying in all directions, Blue
The Commonwealth -25- Issue 12: December 2014
Squad managed to hold their position for a gruelling twenty-two minutes until
they were charged by crewman Stephen O'Neill in a berserker style action
worthy of Klingons or Remans. First game to Red Squad. Blue Squad lost all souls.
Relatives were informed by subspace communiqué.
Second session had the roles reversed with Blue attacking and Red defending
for all they were worth. Again the action was fast and brutal. Over the cries of
the wounded and through the fog of battle, two of Blue Squads members,
LTJGs Alan Whelan and Gianandrea Comnende managed to take Red Squad's fort
in seventeen minutes. Game Two to Blue Squad.
After this we took a break to mourn our lost comrades, to visit the fresher,
hydrate and reload from our ammo caches. The battle weary marines of the
391st were treated to some hot chow flown in for them through heavy AA by the
brave pilots of the Cuchulain's waverider craft. These same pilots seem to also
moonlight for Dominoes Pizza.
When combat recommenced, Red and Blue Squads found themselves in a
situation where an unstable quantum torpedo mysteriously materialised in their
area of operations. Both squads were instructed by the S.31 marshals to move
this explosive device into the opposing team's zone and maintain the device
there for thirty minutes. This was a pitched battle with both sides bravely
carrying the device back and forth on numerous (short) occasions. When the
allotted time ended the device was unfortunately found to be in Blue Squad's
area. Win number two for Red Squad.
The final test of both of the 391st squads mettle came with a fast and furious,
highly tactical session which saw the marines attempt to capture each others
armbands, each trooper having been supplied with three armbands. The pace of
this game was extremely fast with the flow of battle moving rapidly across a
multi level arena. At the end of this testing game, all captured armbands were
counted and Blue Squad were announced the winners. Win number two for
Blue Squad.
With both teams apparently evenly matched, we were released by our
Section 31 handlers. Though the day had been tough, a great time was had by
all. We then left to return to the Cuchulain as we had received orders from
Starfleet Command to resume our mission to chart Sector 742. When next the
Cuchulain returns to Earth, the Comnander of the Banshees plans to improve on
his marines formidable skills with further training at the Hive and the Predator
proving grounds.
Space just got a bit more dangerous. In space everybody hears the Banshees
scream !
The Commonwealth -26- Issue 12: December 2014
The Secret of The Venture P@RT TWO
@ sci-fi seri^l ^dventure CMDR Eilidh Montgomery, USS @lb^
Ch^pter Three: The Ceremony Tiberius MacAlpin left Captain Galen’s quarters in something like a daze. The
events of the morning had taken him completely by surprise and he didn’t quite
know what to make of what had occurred. He walked back to the large glass-
domed atrium which was filled with people busily coming and going. He stopped
in the centre by a large water feature that glowed with ever-changing fibre-optic
lights as the water flowed in its constant cycle. He sat on one of the marble seats
set into the base of the feature and raised his wrist to his mouth. He spoke the
call signal for Lashinda Levack into the minute transmitter and waited until her
voice responded in his ear.
"Can we get that coffee now, Lash?" he asked, trying to keep his voice from
giving away anything.
"Of course. What’s up? You sound a little strained."
"I’ll tell you when we meet. I’m at the fountain. Want to go to the usual
spot?"
"I’ll be there in ten," she responded. "I have something to finish off before I
can get away."
"I’ll be waiting." He smiled at the sound of a kiss in his ear and knew that she
had probably kissed her transmitter to make that sound so clear. "Love you too,"
he added as he ended the transmission.
The usual spot was a coffee bar in the open plaza outside Headquarters.
Tiberius was waiting there when Lashinda came hurrying up.
"Sorry, Tibby," she said. "I didn’t have a break time coming up. I had to beg
for a break ... that’s why I had to finish what I was working on ... to have a good
reason why I could take a short break." She leaned over and kissed him. "I can
stay as long as it takes to drink a large latte."
He returned the kiss and smiled.
"I’ll order." He returned a short moment later with a latte for Lashinda and a
strong black coffee for himself.
When they settled, Lashinda looked at him. "What’s up? You were called to
The Commonwealth -27- Issue 12: December 2014
see the Admiral. Is something wrong?"
"No, nothing is wrong," Tiberius replied slowly. "I can’t tell you really ... I had
a shock. That is all."
A A A Captain Galen glanced at his reflection in the mirror and silently thanked God
that his illness did not show in his face. He needed time to get used to it. Perhaps
there was just a wee shadow under his eyes but no one would be looking that
closely—he hoped. All eyes should, tonight, be on young MacAlpin. There would
be surprise, shock even at the news. Surprise would be an understatement. Even
shock would not quite fit the bill; people would be stunned. MacAlpin was
young, not extremely young but very young to be promoted directly from
Lieutenant to Captain and to be given, for his first command, the fleet’s newest
ship. And a ship surrounded by so much controversy. The name itself would be
enough, Galen thought, to wring a gasp from the assembled people.
Jealousy even, maybe. There were some who were due for promotion and
would perhaps feel that they had been overlooked. And there was, of course,
the old story everyone knew, details apart, the closed case of MacAlpin’s father
and the destruction, under mysterious circumstances, of the Venture.
The hall was packed, filled with the buzz of many voices. It was not every day
that a new ship was commissioned and the secrecy regarding this launch fired
everyone’s imagination. Everyone was agog to hear the news.
The hall looked out onto dry dock but the bay doors were closed and there
was not a glimpse of the new ship. Excitement was rife and there were many
speculations flying around the room.
The crew of the Magellan came in. Captain Galen and Commander Ross first,
with Lieutenant alongside. Those closest to the group as they entered saw that
Galen was looking tired, although there was nothing in his demeanour or lack of
spring in his step to give any hint to it.
They took their seats and Commander Ross leant over to the Captain.
"Any idea what is going on, Xander? Is it to do with those meetings you’ve
been attending?"
Xander Galen nodded.
"I’d been lying to you if I said I had no idea," he replied. "And yes ... all those
meetings."
Some of them had been legitimate meetings with Admiral Malabaare and the
Admiralty Board. Others, he had told them were meetings, but they were
meetings of a different nature. Meetings and consultations with doctor after
doctor, specialist after specialist, trying in vain to find a treatment. He had not
had the heart to tell Commander Ross, and they had been good friends for many
The Commonwealth -28- Issue 12: December 2014
years now.
And of course, the reason for this commissioning. He, like MacAlpin, had been
sworn to secrecy. Not an inkling of the news was to leak, especially the news of
MacAlpin’s sudden shock promotion. That would have the room in an uproar.
MacAlpin was nervous. He managed to hide it though, even from Lashinda
who came up now to sit beside him.
"Hey, Tibby. Where have you been? I was looking for you," she said, reaching
across and squeezing his knee.
"Lash! Don’t! Not when people are looking!" Tiberius MacAlpin’s face turned
red. Galen glanced across and smiled.
"He was with the Admiral this morning," he said.
"Oh! You broke our date to see the Admiral?!" Lashinda’s voice was teasing.
"Should I be jealous?"
"Lash!" MacAlpin was horrified. "She’s an Admiral! You think I’d risk my
career—" He broke off, seeing the twinkle in her eyes. "Oh, you’re teasing me.
Anyway, you knew I was going to see her."
Galen and Ross laughed.
Lashinda Levack settled back in her seat.
"So, what’s all the secrecy about?"
"You’ll see, Ensign," Captain Galen said, leaning back in his seat and sighing
slightly.
Commander Ross seemed about to speak but stopped himself. No, he
thought. If there was anything wrong, Xander would have told me.
Just then the doors at the back of the hall opened and the senior officers
came up onto the platform and took their seats. They sat talking among
themselves while the buzz of expectation rang around the hall. Admiral
Malabaare had not come in yet and the proceedings would not get underway
until she arrived. There was still ten minutes to go before the ceremony was due
to begin and everyone knew the Admiral would arrive exactly one minute before
time.
After what seemed like ages, the door opened again and Admiral Malabarre
entered and took her seat. As the clock chimed the half hour, complete silence
fell and Admiral Malabaare stood up. She looked around the crowded hall at the
sea of faces before her. Some old, some young.
"We are all here for the same reasons," she said. "To open a new chapter in
our history, a wonderful, exciting chapter—to launch a new ship—a new chapter
in starship design. To honour the long and dedicated service of one officer and to
mark the start of, what we hope will be, the long and distinguished career of
another officer. So, a launch, promotions and awards are the order of the day.
The Commonwealth -29- Issue 12: December 2014
We will begin with the launch of the new ship."
She turned to Admiral Cheng.
"Over to you, sir." She took her seat and Cheng stood up.
Galen shifted slightly in his seat. He was feeling a little uncomfortable. It
seemed his retirement from active service was going to be announced in public.
This would cause some stir, he knew. He hoped Commander Ross would not be
upset. They were good friends but he had not told him anything at all.
And that the Magellan was to be decommissioned, that would be a shock. In
the normal way of things, Ross would be given the Captaincy, but the crew were
being transferred to the new ship and Ross was not getting the Captaincy. He
was to remain First Officer while young MacAlpin was promoted over his head.
Ross leaned over.
"You okay, Xander?"
Galen nodded.
"Yes, just a little stiff. These chairs are not comfortable after a time."
Admiral Cheng was continuing and moved to the lectern.
"Thirty years ago, a prototype of a new ship was launched ... and lost on her
maiden voyage. Today, we remember the Venture and her lost crew as we
launch Venture II."
There was a gasp around the room as Cheng pressed a button on the lectern
and the blinds over the big glass windows overlooking dry dock lifted and the
new ship was finally revealed.
The older officers, who remembered the launch of the first Venture, looked at
each other. She was exact in every detail, the blueprints had been followed to
the letter, to the smallest detail.
Captain Galen thought of his friend, MacAlpin’s father, who had held the
command of the fleet’s newest ship and on her first voyage, had to make the
decision that no Captain ever wanted to make: to destroy their ship wiping out
every life on board, and for no recorded reason.
He guessed MacAlpin would be thinking of his father too—the disgrace that
surrounded him, no one knowing whether it was deserved or not , and knowing
that in one way, he bore his father’s shame just for being his son.
Admiral Cheng turned himself and looked at the new ship, massive and
beautiful against the night sky. There was a very long silence as everyone looked,
as though spellbound. Then Cheng looked back.
"With the commissioning of this ship, we must also announce the
decommissioning of another."
This caught everyone’s attention again and every Captain in the room was
afraid for their ship. No, not my ship! went through the mind of every man and
The Commonwealth -30- Issue 12: December 2014
woman in the room who captained a ship.
"But," Cheng was continuing, "that will be later. Firstly, there are a couple of
items we must go through. Admiral Malabaare ... over to you."
The little woman stood up again.
"Long service to the Fleet must be rewarded, especially when it is drawing to
its close. In this case, however, this career draws to a close, from active service
only. This officer has chosen to retire from active duty and accept a position on
my staff."
Everyone looked around, wondering who it was. Commander Ross suddenly
had a sinking feeling at the bottom of his heart. It was Galen, it had to be. He had
not been looking well but brushed off any references to it. It was common
knowledge that he had spent some time recently in hospital. He must be retiring
through ill health, which meant it was serious. And he had said nothing to him—
his closest friend. Did that mean he was getting the Magellan? He knew that was
what should happen. He glanced at Galen. Galen turned his head slightly and
saw Ross looking at him. He flushed a little and looked away. Admiral Malabaare
was going on.
"Captain Galan, join me please."
Xander Galen stood up and marched smartly to the dais, mounted the steps
and stood facing her. He saluted.
"Captain Galen. Your career has spanned almost five decades and has been
filled with success, promotions and awards. Your name is ranked among some of
our finest captains and they teach our cadets about you. It will be with mixed
feelings that you take on your new roll. Please accept your Long Service medal."
She reached up and pinned the medal on his uniform. Then she picked up
rank pins. She reached up and attached them to the collar of his tunic.
"It is with great pleasure that I promote you to Rear Admiral."
Galen’s pale cheeks flushed a little. He saluted.
"Thank you, Admiral. I appreciate the opportunity to continue serving for as
long as I am able."
"Dismissed," she said softly. She watched him turn and leave the dais.
Galen retook his seat. Ross leant across.
"Xander?"
"Not now," Galen said, looking him right in the eyes. "I will tell you the truth
... later."
Admiral Malabaare turned her attention back to the assembled officers.
"I know you will all be intrigued to find out whom her Captain is, and who is
being assigned to her as crew. She is fitted out for deep space missions and
designed to be away from base for a greater length of time. Admiral Cheng ..."
The Commonwealth -31- Issue 12: December 2014
Admiral Cheng stood up.
"The crew of the Magellan are to be assigned to Venture II, with all ranks and
positions remaining as they were aboard the Magellan."
Commander Ross looked at Galen.
"I’m not getting the Captaincy?" he mouthed. "But ... after you ...?"
Galen shrugged slightly. He was glad that he was not to be the one to
announce this. Ross would be a good Captain, but like himself, he had refused
promotion time and time again to remain serving with Galen. Just as he himself
had with his friend MacAlpin. Now that he was to leave active service, Ross could
be forgiven for thinking that the time was right to accept a captaincy.
Admiral Cheng looked around and then continued.
"I am sure now, that you are all desperate to learn who has been given the
captaincy of this new vessel. A lot of thought has gone into this due to the
nature of this ship’s first mission, which at this moment in time is classified.
However ... Lieutenant MacAlpin, step forward please."
There was a gasp around the room as MacAlpin stood up and approached the
dais. Ross turned and looked at Galen.
"You knew!" he hissed. "They are giving that ship to MacAlpin? After what his
father did?"
"Shh!" Galen hissed in response. He was watching MacAlpin receiving his new
rank. "I am proud of him right now. He deserves a break. He has suffered so
much because of what it is surmised that his father did. What if everyone was
wrong? Now let him have this moment. I know you are disappointed but they
must have reasons. I will discuss it with you later."
He turned back, looking across at MacAlpin who was shaking hands with the
Admirals before saluting and leaving the platform.
Ch^pter Four: The Re^ction Tiberius MacAlpin came back to his seat and flopped weakly into his chair. He
was still stunned—absolutely and totally stunned. He felt numb, almost as
though he had been sat there all the time, watching someone else on the
platform. His head was swimming. He barely even felt Lashinda reach across and
hug him warmly, or saw the dirty look that Commander Ross shot him. He felt his
hand clasped warmly and raised his shocked eyes. It was Galen who had taken
his hand.
"Well done, kid," he said. "You deserve it. You will make a wonderful
captain." Although he had already known that he was to be promoted, he had
not quite allowed it to sink in until that moment. Looking around from the dais
and seeing the equally stunned faces looking up at him, that is when it had
The Commonwealth -32- Issue 12: December 2014
begun to really hit him that all this was true.
MacAlpin shook hands numbly. He did not even bother to point out that, at
thirty four years old, he was no longer a kid. He no longer heard the remainder
of the speech from Admiral Malabaare. Part of him was so shocked that he could
not believe it was true; another part wanted to scream and jump up and down.
He had longed for this with all his heart. To captain a starship, just like his father
had, like his father’s friend, Xander Galen, like all his heroes over the years;
those special, privileged men and women he had idolised as a child. He was not
stupid. He knew that the entire room was stunned. He knew there were officers
and crewmen and women who remembered his father all those years ago. It did
not take a genius to know that there were many mixed feelings, the
predominant one being surprise and shock. But some, he knew, would be
wondering why, when his father had been condemned as a coward and a
murderer, why on earth his son had been given the new ship. The exact same
ship that, thirty years ago, that his father had destroyed on her maiden voyage.
An untested ship, the only records available were the weekly regulation logs that
had been submitted to Headquarters before that fateful day.
He barely heard Admiral Malabaare announce that the ship was to be
christened. Galen leaned across as everyone stood up at a sign from the senior
officers.
"Stand up!" he hissed.
MacAlpin looked around and then sprang to his feet. A button was pressed on
the lectern and, in the best age old tradition that even in the thirtieth century
was still adhered to, a bottle of champagne was swung and broken against her
hull. Admiral Malabaare spoke a clear voice, "I name this ship Venture II. May
God bless her and all who sail in her."
There was a loud cheer that rang around the hall, ringing in the rafters.
Whatever everyone was thinking, it was a splendid sight to behold a new ship
and to be present at the commissioning. After the cheers, came the applause.,
and then silence as the vessel, manned by a specially chosen crew, slid silently
from her docking bay and out of the big open doors of dry dock and out into
space.
Admiral Malabaare summed up all their thoughts with her next words.
"And all I ask is a tall ship, and a star to steer her by."
MacAlpin smiled softly to himself. He had heard those words from the
ancient poem by Masefield many times before, and he quoted another line
under his breath, "It is a wild call and a clear call that may not be denied." That
summed up his feelings as to why he had followed his father’s footsteps against
his mother’s wishes. The call his father had felt called him also, and he had
The Commonwealth -33- Issue 12: December 2014
dreamed of little but having the command of a starship for himself—it could not
be denied.
Then one of the officers, an old class mate of MacAlpin’s raised a cheer for
the new ship’s equally new Captain.
"Three cheers for Captain MacAlpin!"
The cheers were given and MacAlpin hung his head in embarrassment. He
was not ashamed by the blackness that surrounded his father’s memory—he had
always maintained that he was innocent but right now, it was very much in his
mind. He only had to look at Commander Ross’ face to know exactly what that
man was thinking. He knew Ross had expected to take over from Galen one day,
not so soon perhaps, but one day, and to have that promotion, that chance of
the captaincy he dreamed of snatched away from him ... He could have been left
the Magellen. MacAlpin did not know why that was not the case. Why could
Ross not have been given his own command? Instead, he had to put up with a
man who now resented him for his First Officer! As if things were not tough
already! An already tough situation instantly made harder.
The proceedings finished when Admiral Malabaare announced that the
postings for the crew members assigned to the new ship would be found on the
screens in the main vestibule. Everyone stood up and saluted as the senior
officers withdrew and then, with much talking, the hall was vacated.
The vestibule, or the plaza as it was generally known, was a wide open area,
flanked by cafes and small shops, almost like an old railway station or shopping
mall. At one end of the plaza, high up on the wall, were screens where postings
and other information were displayed.
On the way out of the assembly chamber, MacAlpin put his hand on Galen’s
arm.
"Would you grab a coffee with me? We need to talk. You too, Commander
Ross."
Ross looked at the younger man.
"I have duties to attend to. Excuse me, gentlemen." He strode off.
"Forgive him," Galen said softly. "You know as well as I do what his problem
is! I will talk to him."
MacAlpin nodded.
"It is a shame. We have served together for long enough. I thought he liked
me, but I don’t need him to like me ... just to do his duty."
Galen put his hand on the younger man’s shoulder.
"He will do that. He is a good officer. Now, that coffee ..."
The two men crossed to one of the small coffee shops and sat down at a table
and put in their order via the tabletop tablet ordering system. When the coffee
The Commonwealth -34- Issue 12: December 2014
arrived, Galen leaned back in his chair and sighed.
"Ah! I need this ... I was getting thirsty in there."
MacAlpin nodded.
"Xander? How much did you know? Before the ceremony, I mean ... did you
know that I was to get the Venture?"
Galen nodded. "Yes. I knew." He sipped his coffee. "I was to have been given
the command of the Venture, but you know that I am dying; I have a few years
left at best."
"Don’t say that!" MacAlpin interrupted, his face pained.
"It is true. There is no cure ... not on Earth, and I am too old to start chasing
around the Universe seeking a cure which may only be a myth." Galen smiled
kindly. "It is a part of life, son. Anyway, I wanted the best officer to succeed me,
and no, that was not Commander Ross. He is too impetuous to make a good
captain. He is a good First Officer ..."
MacAlpin nodded.
"I understand. But why me?"
"You will make a good captain. Do you remember that time when Ross and I
were both injured in that attack that put us both in sickbay for three months?
You took command of the ship. You negotiated a truce with the race that
attacked us and set up a trade agreement. All the crew reported how good you
were. I was impressed, and very proud of you." Galen looked down at the coffee
mug in his hands and then looked up. "You are like your father. He was an
excellent officer and one of the best captains I ever served with despite what is
said now. As you know, I refused my own command many times so that I would
remain serving with him."
MacAlpin sighed. "Ross will make it hard for me. He’s your friend."
"Ross will behave as he should," Galen said. His tone boded ill for
Commander Ross if he should behave in any way that was unacceptable in his
position. "I will talk with him. You must understand, it was always assumed that
he would get the Magellen after I retired. And then, on hearing it was to be
decommissioned, the prospect of a new ship to command would thrill anyone ...
and to lose that ... you’re not the only one to dream of it, kid. We all do, every
single one of us."
MacAlpin sighed again.
"He is a good officer and I always looked up to him. I just feel that somehow,
it won’t be the same."
"Of course it won’t. You will be the captain and he must take his orders from
you. But also, he must help you and advise you. That is his duty. That is assuming
that he has been posted along with you. Perhaps your crew are all to be new."
The Commonwealth -35- Issue 12: December 2014
Galen finished his coffee and leaned back.
"Time for another? Or perhaps you should go and join a certain young lady
who has been sitting by the fountain waiting for you ever since we left the hall."
MacAlpin looked up and saw Lashinda patiently sitting waiting. He waved to
her, beckoning. "She can join us for one more."
Lashinda hurried across and sat down with them. "I’ll have a mocha," she said
as Galen tapped at the tablet.
TO BE CONTINUED ...
So wh^t is "Member Services" ^bout>
LCDR @nni 'Zig'Potts
It's not just half of the old Recruitment and Retentions role—I'd like to think it is
a little bit more than that: a role developed to help ensure that you get the Trek
experience that you are seeking from your membership, to help ensure that you
are not missing out on some of the great stuff that is going on.
Most of our members have this sort of information fed down to them by their
CO, but if you are a member who has chosen not to be part of a chapter, then
Member Services will be particularly important to you to ensure that you aren't
left out. Don't worry, I'm not going to try and strong-arm everybody into joining
a chapter—that's not the object at all, but having said that, if you would like to
join a chapter, I can help you with that too.
Additionally though, I am here to help you so if you have a problem or just
wish to pick someone's brains about something, so please do just ask me. I
should be able to help with most things, or find out the best person to speak to,
and for those delicate matters, yes, we can speak in complete confidence. I'll
even ask questions on your behalf and protect your anonymity if you feel a little
awkward about something.
Well, th^t's ^bout it for this issue. The next issue is out 1st M^rch with the de^dline for
submissions being 18th Febru^ry. [email protected]