I was tasked to providing fighter escort and scouting support for our merchant marine division, headed to three main dropoff points. Our first dropoff point was smooth sailing, with no major issues. That is, until we finished unloading at our second dropoff point in Rho. On our way to our final dropoff point we were intercepted by a large Nomad force, uncloaking on us in Omicron Zeta. Captain Asterius and myself were in charge of buying time for our merchant marine vessels to get away. Unfortunately, we both were forced to withdraw as the power of two bombers and a cruiser was just too much fighter power for myself and the Captain to handle. Most of the blame rests on my shoulders, I piloted inefficiently, and in retrospect, we would have handled much better if I was more combat-ready. Thankfully, no escort or ships were KIA in the battle. However, between now and then I have had much time to think over what I could have done differently to affect the outcome. Captain Asterius and I were informed afterward that there were further reinforcements from the Nomad hostiles waiting for us at our points of exit.
Woefully, I admit that my combat skills are sorely lacking when it comes to the real deal. Simulations are nothing compared to the harsh reality of the Omicrons. This is a major learning lesson for me and I plan to come back stronger than ever.
My Defender is repaired and rearmed at Norfolk. I am ready to go once again and my ship remains on standby.