I'd rather our defenses be overpowered than underpowered. True, no system can be completely safe from attack, but we can make it as difficult as possible. The old fort fell because it was the MC equivalent of a DF fort with a dozen openings protected by wooden doors in a world where the sieges are always trolls. This will not happen again if I can prevent it. I failed as Mayor of Tallowlashed, failed to mandate safety, failed to mandate weapons and military organization. I swear I shall not run for office again until the blood of our enemies has washed the dishonor from my beard. When I have another 9 notable kills and a Title, I may consider running again, but until that day I shall work solely to ensure our safety.
On that note, we need more military organization. This is not to criticize Wannazzaki, our brave captain of the guard, who did more than any dwarf to try to stave off The Siege of Autistic Virgins, personally making attacks on our foes with many a magma bucket and blow of his fell axe. Rather, I want a few plans made. Wanna, if you are still willing to be in charge of defense in Deepgate, I'd like to see you (once we've established ourselves a bit more) mandating training, the formation of a militia and war supplies, as well as being generally the dwarf in charge of defense. One voice (and of proven bravery) is easier to follow in a crisis and practice in acting as a group will greatly boost our combat effectiveness. Having Wannazzaki call out the marksdwarf squad when people are camping outside the fort would be a much better response than everyone just doing what they feel best.
Also, the gate. We need one way out and only /f home in to be the order of the fort. An airlock gate (with purge mechanism) will allow us to send out squads to drive away invaders without letting them slip inside like a non-airlock would. Now if you'll excuse me, I've got a moat to the bedrock to dig...