Yes, you're probably younger .... lol
Anyhow:
Forget the Mission Editor PDF's. Every one including the 70 page guide focuses on making Missions and I think you already know everything about that.
Peabody wrote several replies to
fitzcarraldo's question:
"How to add a campaign start in New London".
It has the information you're looking for about creating a home port base, flotilla's, missions assigned, etc
How to add a campaign start in New London
http://www.subsim.com/radioroom/showthread.php?t=191643
(most helpful for your situation I think)
How to add docks and ships
http://www.subsim.com/radioroom/showthread.php?t=182617
How to add docks and ships
http://www.subsim.com/radioroom/showthread.php?t=192665