Starfleet turns 40

USPA NEWS - Since 1974 Starfleet International has provided fans a method to reach out and be part of something larger than themselves. Starfleet has approximately 4,800 members worldwide, with the majority residing in the USA.

Starfleet International is divided in Regions with Chapters as the local level unit. There are around 250 such chapters and size of each chapter along with what activities each does is as varied as the members themselves. Memberships are $15 USD per year for individuals and allows one to join a chapter or just receive membership materials. Materials include a newsletter published quarterly, membership handbook, Vessel Registry (chapter listing), printed ID card and certificate along with some discounts at selected merchants and companies.

Starfleet is not just about Star Trek, but about the vision that Gene Roddenberry had of the future. Members have raised over $100,000 for various charities along with volunteering time and effort for local community projects. Among the achievements listed are Recognized by Guiness Book of Records as the world's largest Star Trek fan club, the first Star Trek fan club with a chapter in Cuba, participated in an Advisory Committee for the Star Trek Online game, to name a few.

There are many things to do in Starfleet. One of the most favorite is the Starfleet Academy which has thousands of courses to choose from. There is also the Starfleet Marines, Special Operations, and just about everything in-between. Once per year there is an International Conference which brings many of the members a chance to place a face to the name of those they have been in contact with, along with meeting old friends. The 2014 conference is in Chicago and you can find more info at this link. http://www.ic2014.com/.