Buck Stratton was a Human man living in the 24th century, a career Starfleet officer. By the 2370s decade, Stratton had achieved the rank of captain and served as commanding officer of the USS Yandro. In 2370, Stratton responded to retired Captain Montgomery Scott aboard the Goddard after he encountered Scotty's distress call, although the shuttle was nearly twenty four hours away from Yandro. After Scott dealt with the situation himself, he sent a followup message to Stratton, informing him the situation was under control, but refused two-way communication. This report was filed and passed along to Captain Jean-Luc Picard, who mentioned it after the USS Enterprise-D rendezvoused with the Goddard. (ST novel: Engines of Destiny)