Post 361: To Be, or Not to Be

Stardate: 070803.1700
Title: To Be Or Not To Be?
Author: Dr. David McKenna
Scene: Bridge/ Main Conference Room
Time: Prior to Runabout Hiawatha Departure
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David walked firmly across the bridge, still noticing that there weren't many people here at this hour. Much less then he expected, anyway. He took a seat at the mission specialist station, and activated the personnel information management system.

As the shift began to turn over and more officers began to arrive, however, David decided he needed a more secluded location in which to file this particular report. He took advantage of the fact that the main conference room was currently empty, and sat down in front of the computer screen at the head of the table.

“Computer, open personnel record for Captain RJ Gilmore”

Less then a second had gone by, when the requested information appeared on the display screen, however, this was only the general public information – name, rank, station and official portrait. David then opened the psychological and medical reporting component.

“Computer begin an entry, authorization McKenna, 158 Yankee Zulu”



“Psychological Report, 070803RJG, as ordered by Captain Katherine Denora, Chief Psychological Officer – Command Officers, Starfleet Command, conducted by Lieutenant Commander David McKenna, Starfleet Command, Bajoran Sector.

The primary material relied on for this report and recommendations are observations of the behaviour and actions of Captain Gilmore, as well as analysis and logging of projected emotions accompanying the observed behaviour. Secondary material used is the manner and style of interaction between the Captain and various members of the ships crew.”

David continued. “It is my professional opinion that Captain Gilmore is a highly competent and effective command officer, as well as being quite a remarkable individual. He displays, in his own way, empathy for his crew while maintaining the distance and esteem of a Commanding Officer. Captain Gilmore has, in the recent past, had to dramatically redevelop his lifestyle and command style to fit that of the Flagship Captain, this accompanied with his medical procedures, see attached medical report, would make any officer seem anxious. Captain Gilmore has displayed that he is the right person for this Captaincy.

However, it is further my opinion that Captain Gilmore would greatly benefit from some Rest & Relaxation time while this ship is in orbit of Trill. It is recommended that this leave be not less then 72 hours but preferably 168 hours. It should be noted that this R&R is not a request, but a requirement of the final recommendations, to which Captain Gilmore has accepted.”

“I therefore uphold and confirm the appointment of Captain RJ Gilmore as Commanding Officer of the USS Independence.”

“Computer, save this to the Captain's record, an open a channel to Captain Katherine Denora, Starfleet Command,”



“Captain Denora, a pleasure to see you Ma’am”

[You too David, how is your assignment proceeding on the Independence?]

“Assignment is complete Ma’am, report is filed.”

[Very good, get the earliest transport you can back to Bajoran Headquarters.]

“Ma’am, that is what I wanted to quickly talk to you about, as you know my assignment at Bajoran HQ is up at the end of the week, Acting Captain Zanh has offered me a position on the Independence as a Medical Officer. I believe I can achieve great things here as well as be of great use. So if it is possible I would like to be released early to stay on the Independence.”

[Well David, that certainly is a shock, but knowing the circumstances on the Independence, I don’t really think I can say no. You will be sorely missed in this Command. Good luck David, and please do keep in touch. You will always be welcome under my command and in my home.]

“Thank-you Katherine, and believe me, I will be keeping in touch… farewell Katherine.” said David as he touched the virtual face of his former Commander.

Lt. Commander David McKenna
Starfleet Command, Bajoran Sector
(Now Acting Supervising Medical Officer)
USS Independence NCC-90791