Thanks to those both here and on the DL board whose tips enabled me to match for Gold Medallion. The status was invaluable as I hit a delay LGW CVG on my first trip and misconnected. Everyone else going to Vegas on the flight was rebooked for the next day but Delta rebooked me proactively the same day via MSP. Compensation miles were also added without me having to ask.
The status also got me lounge access at LGW in Terraces (still trying to figure that one out-but it was appreciated).