USS Nimitz (NCC-74215)

The USS Nimitz (NCC-74215) was a Federation Defiant-class starship in service during the late 24th century.

The Nimitz took heavy damage in late 2374 in a Jem'Hadar attack. Lieutenant Andrea Riffin, the senior surviving officer, assumed temporary command and, with help of Patrick Ingrum from the USS Baldwin, successfully repaired the ship to a point where it could safely hold off a Dominion attack and return to starbase. Andrea's leadership abilities (as well as support from her crew) led Patrick to recommend her for permanent command — a move which Starfleet subsequently approved. (USS Baldwin: "Captain's View")

In 2377, the Nimitz was compromised by a computer virus an was commandeered by an unknown party, and the crew was forced to abandon ship. She was detected, and running unmanned, near Aloran IV. Patrick was able to re-take her by forcing the computer to overheat, thereby shutting down the system. (USS Baldwin: "Backdoor") After being recovered, Nimitz was returned to convoy duty. (USS Baldwin: "Like the Rain")

Background

The dedication plaque designed by author Richie Kennedy features the Edmund Burke quote "When bad men combine, the good must associate; else they will fall one by one, an unpitied sacrifice in a contemptible struggle." The popular "triumph of evil" misquote often attributed to Burke is considered to have been an adaptation of this actual quote.