Greetings Sandman, welcome to the Vast Empire!
I'm Serpent, pleased to meet ye.
First thing to do as a new member is post a hello in the Naval Academy forum. Then one of our trainers will be along soon to tell you your next step (they are on pretty often so you won't be waiting long).
They'll guide you through an intro the VE. Until that's completed hold off on posting anywhere else.
See you around, and once again, welcome!