Sim, existe. Data foi "resgatado" pelos oficiais da Frota Estelar, o que o levou a seguir esse caminho também.
Data was found and reactivated on the planet Omicron Theta by the USS Tripoli on February 2, 2338, after the Crystalline Entity destroyed the entire colony on the planet. (TNG: "Datalore") His connection with Starfleet resulted in his choice to enter Starfleet Academy. (TNG: "Brothers")
Isso é revelado no episódio Irmãos :
On Terlina III, Soong expresses disappointment in his son's choice in having entered Starfleet Academy, and inquires as to his reason, to which Data replies that he wanted to repay the people who first discovered him with dedication to service.