I. Navy Service: The “Problem Children” (2948–2954)

Squadron 7 was activated in 2948 as part of the post-Vega fleet expansion. Originally stationed aboard the Bengal Carrier UEES Anwar, they were tasked with deep-space interdiction in the unclaimed systems bordering Vanduul space.

From the start, the “Wildcards” developed a reputation for unorthodox tactics. Their first Squadron Commander, a frantic tactician named Major “Deuces” Kincaid, encouraged pilots to modify their flight control software and break formation if it meant securing a kill.

While their kill counts were in the top 5% of the fleet, their disciplinary record was abysmal. They were the squadron that got the job done but consistently angered High Command by ignoring “Standard Operating Procedures.” They were bounced between three different carriers in five years, as traditional Navy captains grew tired of their maverick attitude.

II. The “Oberon Incident” & Deactivation (2954)

The event that ended their Navy career occurred in early 2954 in the Oberon system.

During a Xenothreat incursion, UEE Command ordered a tactical withdrawal from a civilian mining station, deeming it “indefensible” against a massive pirate capital ship presence. The order was to regroup at the jump point and leave the station to its fate.

Squadron 7, patrolling nearby, ignored the direct order to retreat. Broadcasting their famous transmission—“We’re all in”—the Wildcards engaged a Pirate Idris and its fighter escort alone. They flew dangerously close to the station’s structure to mask their signatures, engaging in a brutal close-quarters dogfight.

The Aftermath:

• The Result: They held the pirates off for 40 minutes—long enough for the civilians to evacuate—before UEE reinforcements finally arrived out of shame.

• The Fallout: While the public hailed them as heroes, the Admiralty was furious at the blatant insubordination. Admiral Bishop’s staff couldn’t court-martial an entire hero squadron without a PR nightmare, so they chose a bureaucratic solution.

• Deactivation: In late 2954, citing “budgetary realignments” and “fighter wing restructuring,” the Navy deactivated Squadron 7. The pilots were honorably discharged or offered transfers to boring logistics units, and their flight deck on the UEES Anwar was shuttered.

III. The Transfer to CSG-3 (Early 2955)

Retired Rear Admiral Glenn “Pappy” Wade, watching from the sidelines, saw an opportunity. He knew the “Oberon Incident” wasn’t insubordination; it was the exact kind of initiative he needed for Carrier Strike Group 3.

Using the Militia Mobilization Initiative (MMI), which allows registered defense organizations to “adopt” deactivated unit histories to preserve naval heritage, Wade petitioned the Naval Logistics Office.

• The Deal: Wade didn’t just buy the name; he hired the pilots. He personally contacted the discharged Wildcards, offering them a new contract: “Same ships, same squadron, different boss. And I won’t tell you to retreat when people need saving.”

• The Equipment: The Navy refused to sell their top-tier F8 Lightning heavy fighters. However, Wade managed to purchase a surplus wing of F7C-M Super Hornets. He used CSG-3 funds to upgrade them with military-grade aftermarket components, bringing them near “Mk II” specifications.

IV. Current Status: December 2955

As of today, Squadron 7 is the primary space superiority wing for Carrier Strike Group 3.

• Operational Role: They fly Combat Air Patrol (CAP) for the CSG-3 fleet and provide escort for the UEES Johnston and Argonaut.

• The “Dead Man’s Hand” Paint: To signify their break from the Navy, the squadron repainted their ships. The standard Navy grey has been replaced with a matte “Void Black,” and the tail fins feature a hand of cards (Aces and Eights—the Dead Man’s Hand) to symbolize their resurrection.

• Commander: The squadron is currently led by Captain Sarah “Dealer” Vance, one of the original pilots who led the charge at Oberon.