Firstly, download SH3Cmdr R2.4 from my sig. Also get the skin pack add-on if you want randomised ship skins to appear based on date.
If you use GlobalExplorer's SH3Gen (more info here
http://www.subsim.com/phpBB/viewtopi...ghlight=sh3gen ), then you will need the SH3Cmdr patch. If you *don't* use SH3Gen, then you don't need the patch.
BTW GE, what does the "Gen" actually stand for?
They're exclusive tools, but with the SH3Cmdr patch they can work together harmoniously.
SH3Cmdr can be installed mid-patrol, although I would recommend first using when you're next back in base. It picks up existing careers.