Here we are finally, Launch time.

I can remember back to the day I watched the countdown timer on Cryptic's website hit zero and the popup window alerted me that it was Launch time.  I, then, remember how their website nearly crashed from the subsequent reload of a few thousand eager Trekkies trying to find out what the announcement was about.  I was so excited to sign up for the Star Trek Online forums that night and spent the next several days forum whoring like the best of them.  I can't believe it's been almost two years since then.

During those first few days on the Star Trek Online forums, I wondered where the GLBT gamers were at, after posting a question asking if the community was present and receiving too many negative comments, I knew that a GLBT fleet would be necessary.   After making a small post in the Fleet Registration Station, we were started with a small coalition of dedicated Trekkers and MMO enthusiasts.

Since then our small coalition has grown to a thriving community of 300 gaymers.  What we have here today is thanks to all of you.  The dedication and energy you have shown in Stonewall Fleet has pushed us to grow and expand.  If it wasn't for all of you coming on the forums and talking in the chat room, we wouldn't be where we are today.   Actually seeing that community grow and be involved is what keeps the Admiralty wanting to give your more to do, keep you engaged and help you fulfill your wishes.

There have been so many actions that have awed me since we opened Stonewall Fleet.  The organization of the members to purchase and distribute Del Taco codes to all those who didn't live near a location was inspiring.  The part that I find most amazing is that the idea was created and carried out without any Officer involvement.  Only members working to help other members carried it through.  This is a wonderful example of the spirit of Stonewall Fleet.

The creation of our logo by Halish, the gathering of game info for the Beta Forum by XanderXY and others, the contribution of articles to the site from Tavoron and Bfelczer among other items, helped create a distinct culture within Stonewall Fleet.  I can't thank all of you enough for that.

Beta was so much fun.  I remember power leveling using the Federation-Klingon team exploit to instantly get into PvP thanks to MisterOrf.  If it hasn't been for that night of leveling I wouldn't have been able to make Commander in Closed Beta.  I loved teaming with people in Open Beta and securing sectors, when I wasn't working on Fleet stuff.  I really enjoyed Beta, but I'm so glad it and the character wipes are over.  I'm so excited that we're finally at Launch.

I'm very proud of Stonewall Fleet.  I'm proud of what we stand for.  I'm proud of how we've grown.  I'm proud of what we've accomplished.  What we have here today is truly a testament of what the GLBT community can accomplish when it sets a goal.

Thank you so much for your dedication and hard work over the last year and a half.  We wouldn't be here today if it wasn't for each and every one of you.

See you in-game,
NicholasJohn16

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