John Hammond was born on New World, a satellite of the sixth world in Achenar, to a common Imperial family in 3274. His birth according to Imperial records was a difficult one, while his mother died during birth and being raised by a somewhat abusive father. As a child he often looked up at the stars to one day become a pilot like his grandfather in The Imperial Navy. John's father was willing to do whatever it takes to prevent his only son to become one, while suggesting he study to become a farmer like those around on New World. John was undeterred by his Father's suggestions.

On the day that John was supposed to leave for the Imperial Academy, luck found it's way to John as the shuttle heading for the Imperial Academy on Bell Terminal had a unfortunate accident upon take off, as the shuttle exploded and John's father felt somewhat relieved about the news, John overslept at the starport on New World and missed the shuttle. He knew for the first time that someone wanted him dead. The Imperial Authorities concluded in the investigation was ruled an accident, John knew better and knew not to trust certain bureaucratic authorities, and devised an ill fated plan.

With his supposed death from the shuttle accident, John left New World for the Pilot's Federation Academy to one day become a commander. He graduated and began his career as a Commander in 3300. As a firm believer in Might makes right, he disliked the encroachment of The Federation on Imperial controlled systems. The only thing John learned that in order for The Empire to survive, it would be an all out war with The Federation and the mobilization of all Imperial Citizens into public service.

That day almost arrived when as a officer within The Imperial Inquisition's massive mobilization of many Minor Factions and mercenaries alike, staged a blockade in the Ceos and Sothis systems. Rumor has it that John Hammond convinced the de-facto leader of The Imperial Inquisition to intercept and destroy any ships arriving in those 2 systems. John justified those rumors as a mere conspiracy theory and acted under orders. The Ceos-Sothis Incident as it was forever known, almost caused an interstellar war between The Empire and The Federation as a few minor factions decided to defect to The Federation against the odds and warnings of retaliation from loyal Imperial Minor factions. within 2 weeks of the incident, the blockade was lifted and the fight abandoned.

John Hammond made it his mission to one day get the war he truly desires.