“Remember.”
– Captain Spock – Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan
Memories are funny things. They remind us of our past experiences both pleasant and unpleasant and help form who we are as individuals. Some of my fondest childhood memories involve watching Star Trek movies with my Grandfather. Since both of us, generations apart, of course, served in the Navy we enjoyed the naval references and the dream of a better future for humanity.
“You’ll see stuff like that in your lifetime, son.” my grandfather said while we watched Star Trek VI. And how I wish that were true. However, I am not writing a eulogy on the fictional future of our species. Instead, I wish to share a memory from my past and ask your fellow Trekkies to share yours with us.
One of my Star Trek memories is when I went to my first convention back in the early 1990s. My best friend got me hooked on The Next Generation, and I could not get enough Trek. I saw an advertisement in the newspaper for a local Star Trek convention and became ecstatic. I saved what little bit of money I had and had my Uncle drop me off at the convention. I was so excited I didn’t know how to behave. I walked into the dealer’s room which, was pretty small compared to most conventions held today and had sensory overload from the enormous amount of Star Trek merchandise available for purchase. 
I remember buying a set of the first series of Star Trek trading cards and could not wait to get home and look at them all. After which I left the dealer’s room and walked around to the main auditorium where there was a trivia contest about to begin. I was one of five picked from the audience to participate in the contest. I only remember one question having the answer of Gul Dukat, but our group of participants won and we received $20 each. I promptly left the auditorium, headed back to the dealer’s room, and bought the second set of trading cards. When I got back home I spent quite a bit of time looking over my new trading cards and telling my friends about all the fun I had.
Memories are funny things. They can make us smile or frown, laugh or cry. Personally, I prefer laughing to crying so boldly go make your own fun memories. Engage!
We would be honored if you would share your Star Trek memories with us by stopping by either our Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram account. We also hope you will stop by and speak with us at our next social gathering or public appearance.
Until then may the great bird of the galaxy bless your planet.
Claude C.
USS Tiburon At-Large Command Staff