Midshipman Henry Gallant at the Academy — H. Peter Alesso

As I retire as Fleet Admiral of the United Planets, I consider it my duty to reveal the internal struggles that helped shape my character while I was developing into a naval officer. From my arrival at the Mars Space Academy as a naive lad of fifteen, I persevered through two grueling training years until my deployment to active duty aboard the battlecruiser, Repulse.My memories of those years are often blurred by volatile emotions. But I will endeavor to recall them as objectively as possible so that those who come after me may learn from my missteps.While my appointment to the academy was exciting, I arrived penniless and friendless. At first, everything was bewildering and overwhelming. I had no idea how this journey as a naval officer would end, nor did I ever dream of someday reaching my current rank. Still, the extraordinary trials and ordeals I endured during those nascent days serviced me well as I prepared to face the professional and personal challenges to come.The greatest truth I have learned is . . . courage is contagious.Sincerely,Henry GallantFleet Admiral of the United Planets