STARFLEET International's USS Mountaineer chapter from Charleston, West Virginia, will conduct a recruitment initiative at the upcoming Cosmic Realms convention with the goals of adding to their ranks and potentially establishing a new North Central West Virginia chapter. This effort expands STARFLEET's four-decade mission of uniting Star Trek enthusiasts through community service, camaraderie, and Gene Roddenberry's humanitarian vision.

Representatives from the Crossfield-class USS Mountaineer – a science vessel reclassified as a warship during the Klingon-Federation War – will outline organizational opportunities. The chapter draws inspiration from its namesake, the historic USS West Virginia BB-48 "Mountaineer Battle Wagon," and operates under the Latin motto "audacter ire quo Montani semper liberi sunt" meaning "To go boldly where the Mountaineers are always free" in Federation Standard.

Modern STARFLEET connects thousands of members across hundreds of global chapters through diverse activities including charity initiatives, academic scholarship programs, costuming guilds, and roleplaying opportunities. The organization maintains a presence at sci-fi conventions worldwide and offers specialized divisions such as STARFLEET Academy, the Department of Technical Services, and the Marine Corps auxiliary. Currently, West Virginia hosts only two chapters: the Charleston-based USS Mountaineer and Bluefield's USS Yeager.

Prospective members may attend the Cosmic Realms presentation to learn about forming North Central West Virginia's inaugural chapter. No prior experience is required beyond an interest in Star Trek's vision of unity and exploration.

About STARFLEET International: Founded in 1982, STARFLEET International is the world's premier Star Trek fan association. With chapters across six continents, it promotes Gene Roddenberry's humanitarian vision through community service, educational programs, and fan engagement.