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Post by cutter on Aug 8, 2020 17:16:35 GMT -6
I'm always thankful for the likes: the comments are a cherished bonus.
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Post by udwe on Aug 8, 2020 21:05:04 GMT -6
You still having trouble sleeping? Get really tired and go to bed ASAP so we can get more of this story!
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Post by mattman on Aug 10, 2020 21:43:53 GMT -6
I just binged all three stories in a week and created a account to post, love them keep up the good work
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Post by cutter on Aug 10, 2020 22:04:43 GMT -6
Thanks! Wow! Welcome to the board. There's a lot of good writers and a ton of good stories here. Make yourself at home and enjoy.
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Post by 9idrr on Aug 11, 2020 21:46:39 GMT -6
Thanks! Wow! Welcome to the board. There's a lot of good writers and a ton of good stories here. Make yourself at home and enjoy. Cutter- thanks for lurin' in another one. I bet that the more you write the more members we'll get. They recognize greatness when they see it. Mattman- welcome.
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Post by cutter on Aug 12, 2020 21:26:09 GMT -6
It's a team effort, 9idrr. The writers and the readers are equal partners. Without you guys, we'd have no reason to write. That said, I'm a reader too.
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Post by texican on Aug 13, 2020 14:59:32 GMT -6
It's a team effort, 9idrr. The writers and the readers are equal partners. Without you guys, we'd have no reason to write. That said, I'm a reader too. C, Without you great writers, us moar hounds would starve. Thank you for the time you spend writing for us. Texican....
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Post by papaof2 on Aug 13, 2020 16:37:05 GMT -6
It's a team effort, 9idrr. The writers and the readers are equal partners. Without you guys, we'd have no reason to write. That said, I'm a reader too. Admit it, cutter - when your muse is having a really good day, you write so you'll be the first to know where the story is going next ;-) Then you get to go back and connect the pieces...
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Post by cutter on Aug 13, 2020 17:20:38 GMT -6
There's more truth in what you say than I'd like to admit.
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Post by cutter on Aug 16, 2020 22:26:22 GMT -6
Here's a short one for the MOAR hounds. Please enjoy.
Chapter 51
(Waters summer kitchen, Noon)
“Come on in, guys. Load up a plate and settle in; we have a lot to cover.”
“Mark, I need to talk to you.”
“Let’s get through the meeting and then we can talk.”
“It’s about last night. I know who was out there.”
“Then you can tell all of us, after we cover the other things. Noah, I’m not ignoring you. What you have to say is really important, but we need to cover some other things first.”
“It’s ok, Mark; I get it. Let’s get down to business.”
(The team all fill their plates and get settled.)
“Mark, you were way too serious about this meeting, even for you. What’s going on?”
“Ok guys, I need you to hear me out, before anybody goes ballistic. I’m breaking up the team.”
“Ok, so who’s going to do our job?”
“We’re still going to do our job, just not all together. We’re expanding the teams. Sam and Sky will be paired up and leading a team of six new volunteers. Jordan, you and Sherry will be leading a second team. Noah, you’ll be with Tabby, leading a third team. Anastasia and I will be leading a fourth team. Brian’s spreading the word tomorrow that we’re looking for 24 volunteers for special training and reassignment. We’re going to train our new teams up to our standard. In time, we’ll be training all of our security people up to the same standard.”
“So we’re filling out the new teams from the security force?”
“Yes and no. I told Brian to get me 24 volunteers from in or out of the security force.”
“Mark, all the security people are older than me and Sherry, and Noah and Tabby. They’re not gonna’ follow us.”
“Then they’re out and we’ll replace them. There might be 10 people here who are as good at what we do as we are. Most of those people are in my family. Everybody here, knows very well what you four can do; that’s why you’re leading teams. I intend to bring Bob Shelling, Herman Schmidt, and Pete in on this too. I figure an ex-Ranger, ex-Green Beret, and an ex-Delta couldn’t hurt.”
“Mark, we need to get Brian and Morgan in on this too, if they will. We can handle the fieldcraft, tactics, and survival skills; but we’re going to need more help teaching the secondary stuff. The teams are all going to need medics and scary good hand to hand skills. Hey! You want me to ask Uncle Aaron to do medical?”
“That’s a great idea, Tabby. You’re right, we’re going to need as much help as we can get. Guys, this crazy plan of mine is going to push all of us to our limits, but I think it’ll help us in the long run.”
“Noah and I are in. Sherry, what about you guys?”
“We’re in, Sam?”
“It’s not going to be the same as us teaming up, but it needs to be done. What do you think, Sky?”
“Yeah, let’s do it.”
“Anastasia, you never gave me an answer last night; are you with me?”
“Seriously? Love, I’m always with you. Where you go, I go, remember?”
“Ok, we’ll start working out the training plan at our supper meeting here tonight. Noah, it’s all yours. Tell us what you know about last night.”
“Guys, we were right; there was somebody out there last night. It was Alan and Lance.”
“How’d you find that out?”
“I put Lance on the ground and scared him enough to tell me. He’s not too bright; he kind of gave himself away right off.”
“Good work. You figured it out, what do you think we should do about it?”
“Mark, I don’t know! You’re the lead!”
“Well, Little Monster, you’re about to be leading your own team; it’s time you start thinking like a leader. You can do it; what do we do?”
“I don’t know about Lance, but we could really use Alan, if we can get him back. He’s one of our best trackers and he can disappear just about anywhere.”
“I agree. Lance has potential, if he can lose the attitude. I’ll go talk to him. We need Alan, if we can get him. Sky, which one of us is going to have a better chance of convincing him?”
“I don’t know.”
“I do; it’s you. Sky, you’re his sister.”
“I’ll do the best I can.”
“That’s all you can do. Let’s finish lunch and get back to work. Supper meeting here at seven.”
(Rubycon garage, Midnight)
“What’s going on, Darlin’? Why are you still here? I was worried.”
“Huh? What time is it?”
“It’s midnight, Bobby.”
“Well, nuts! I’m sorry, Kitty. I got into this and lost track of time.”
“What are you working on?”
(Bobby points to the drawings on the table.)
“It’s a gun mount for Mark. He’s got this crazy idea to mount a pair of AR’s to this thing and use it like a light machine gun.”
(Kit looks at the drawings, really thinking about what she’s seeing.)
“I don’t know how crazy it is. Put one of these in the observation posts on top of the office and Mom and Dad’s place, and they would make anybody coming through the front gate have a real bad day. The only problem I see is ammo capacity. Sixty rounds isn’t going to give more than a few bursts.”
“Mark found some 100 round stick mags. He said he bought enough to do three full reloads for twenty of these rigs.”
“Do you mean three mags for each rifle or three plus one already in each rifle?”
“He has eight mags for each rig, giving a total of eight hundred rounds.”
“What’s he expecting, a war!?!”
“I don’t know if he’s expecting one, but he’s sure as hell gearing up for one. Did you know he split up his team today?”
“NO!”
“Yup. He broke them up into pairs. They’re going to train up enough people to make four teams. We talked about it and Mark’s right; if this goes really bad, Mark and the guys can’t keep up for long. With four teams like them, they might be able to barely keep up without killing themselves.”
“Are some of these rigs for them?”
“I think he wants one for each of the new teams.”
“They’re going to have some serious firepower! How long is it going to take you to finish that one?”
“I should have it done tomorrow.”
“Bobby, you need sleep.”
“Oh, I didn’t mean working all night. Let’s go home.”
“The kids are both asleep, if you feel like spending some quality time; but I know you have to be tired.”
“Not that tired. Kitty, I love you. I cherish you. I want you. Let’s go home.”
“Three years and you haven’t changed a bit. (Kit takes Bobby’s hand.) Come on, I’ll warm up some supper for you and then we can see what we feel like doing. Really Darlin’, if you’re too tired, there’ll be other nights.”
“No Ma’am, tonight. Hit the lights and let’s go.”
(Next morning, chow hall, Scout Sniper School)
“Mornin’ Todd.”
“Mornin’. Have a seat, Doug.” (Doug sits down)
“I swear to God; I don’t know where you put it all! You eat like a Goddamn rifle company!”
“Be careful what you wish for, Doug. God might damn something you don’t want damned, like your rifle company in the middle of a firefight.”
“Sorry, I’ll try to watch my mouth, but I still don’t know how you eat so much.”
“Hollow leg...literally. I need a favor.”
“Done.”
“You don’t even know what it is yet.”
“Then tell me so I can get it done. You’ve done me enough favors; I still owe you for Kandahar.”
“I don’t keep score, except for Josh.”
“Don’t forget, I was there. Josh wasn’t your fault.”
“I led him right into that ambush.”
“DAMNIT MAN! JOSH DID HIS DUTY AND YOU DID YOURS, AND A DAMN SIGHT MORE!”
(All conversation stops and the chow hall is deathly quiet. Todd Marshall and his reputation are well known on base. His MOH and the fact that he is still active duty with a prosthetic leg make him a living legend. A Captain walks over to the two men. He makes sure to speak loudly enough to be heard throughout the room, not that it takes much.)
“Don’t stand and don’t salute. What seems to be the problem?”
“Captain, I was there when Sergeant Marshall earned the MOH. He still occasionally needs reminding that he did nothing wrong and everything right in that engagement. He was my squad leader then and is still my friend. Sir, I was one of the wounded he helped. I’m still alive and still have use of my legs because of him. That’s pretty damned ironic, isn’t it Sir? It has been my experience, Sir, that he responds better to more forceful support. I apologize for the disruption, Sir.”
“I think we can overlook it, this time. In future, please try to do it more quietly.”
“Yes Sir.”
(The Captain walks away and the noise level in the room returns to normal.)
“Seriously, Todd, there was nothing you could have done that would have changed that day and you know it, even if you won’t let yourself believe it. Now, what’s this favor you need?”
“I need you to take my morning class. I need to go see the Old Man.”
“The Old Man? May I ask why you suddenly want to commit suicide? Nobody willingly goes to the Old Man.”
“He relayed a request to me through Major Watts yesterday; I need to present my answer in person.”
“Your funeral; good luck. Yeah, I’ll cover your class.”
(8 AM, Scout Sniper School, General Grayson’s office)
(Knock) (The PFC who is General Grason’s personal assistant ignores Todd’s knock. Todd clears his throat. The PFC does not look up as he gives his annoyed response.)
“Give me a minute; I’m busy.”
“If I were an officer, you’d be on your way to Afghanistan right now...Private.”
(The PFC looks up and then hurriedly comes to attention, and offers a salute.)
“Sergeant Marshall! I’m sorry, Sergeant! What may I do for you?”
(Todd walks slowly up to the desk. He does not yet return the salute.)
“First, you can tell me how you know who I am.”
“I, um, well, um, you’re the only person on base who has a Medal of Honor!”
“First, I don’t have a Medal of Honor; I EARNED IT. Second, every single Marine and civilian on this base is just as important as I am. Third, you would do well to find out who you are going to be rude to...before you open your mouth. Do I make myself crystal clear, Private First Class Mitchell?”
“Yes Sir!”
“I am a Non-commissioned officer, therefore it is improper and insulting to address me as Sir. I am prepared to let it slide, this time. (Todd finally returns the PFC’s salute.) Please tell General Grason that I am here to see him. I am quite certain he will wish to speak to me.”
“Yes Sergeant! (The phone rings.) General! Sergeant…”
“I am aware that Sergeant Marshall is in your office. I am also aware that he just gave you a much needed lesson in proper decorum. Send him in.”
“Yes Sir!”
“And Private, do not require me or anyone else to repeat that lesson, understood?”
“Yes, Sir!”
(Click)
“Sergeant, um…”
“Private, sit down before you fall down. Good. Now, take a deep breath and relax. You’ve had your teachable moment and have learned your lesson. I’m quite certain you won’t forget it. It’s over and past. Now then, I’m going to talk to the General; you try to have a good day. Just so you know, once upon a time, the General was my company commander. He has a great liking for cheese danish with his coffee. Do yourself a favor and get him one, now.”
“Thank you, and I’m sorry I was rude.”
“Hey, we all make mistakes. The trick is to not repeat them. Seriously, have a good day, PFC Mitchell.”
“Thank you, and good luck with the General.”
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Post by 9idrr on Aug 17, 2020 19:19:54 GMT -6
Gotta be careful or he'll trigger that po' little PFC and there'll be a Hurt Feeling Report to fill out.
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Post by udwe on Aug 17, 2020 20:36:22 GMT -6
Thank you, thank you, thank you!
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Post by texican on Aug 18, 2020 21:21:22 GMT -6
“The kids are both asleep, if you feel like spending some quality time; but I know you have to be tired.”
“Not that tired. Kitty, I love you. I cherish you. I want you. Let’s go home.”
“Three years and you haven’t changed a bit. (Kit takes Bobby’s hand.) Come on, I’ll warm up some supper for you and then we can see what we feel like doing. Really Darlin’, if you’re too tired, there’ll be other nights.”
“No Ma’am, tonight. Hit the lights and let’s go.”
Guy answers for whoppie even if he was dog tired and about to pass out.
Thanks Cutter for the chapter for the Moar Hounds.
Texican....
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Post by cutter on Aug 19, 2020 4:45:46 GMT -6
Texican, that wasn't quite what I was trying to convey, but I suppose you're right.
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Post by texican on Aug 21, 2020 16:13:43 GMT -6
Texican, that wasn't quite what I was trying to convey, but I suppose you're right. C, Your a guy and this should come naturally to you.... Remember when you were younger and the only thing on your mind.... I am 69 and still have it on my mind.... Texican....
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Post by cutter on Sept 24, 2020 22:06:56 GMT -6
Here's a little one. Fair warning, a lot of angst and some less than polite language. Enjoy.
Chapter 52
(Headquarters, Scout Sniper School, General Grayson’s office)
Todd knocks on the door. “Come.” Todd steps inside to the sight of a smiling General Grayson. Todd takes one step into the office, comes to attention, and renders a salute, which the General promptly returns, still smiling.
“Close the door, Sergeant Marshall.”
Todd closes the door.
“Come on in and make yourself comfortable. Thank you for setting my young Private straight. If I had done it, things would have necessarily been more official. I liked your way better. Want coffee?”
“Please, Sir. Black…”
“No sugar; I remember. Here you are. Todd, it’s damn good to see you! The mission went on and we did the job, but you were sorely missed.”
“Thank you, Sir, but I think you might be exaggerating a bit.”
“No Sir, I am not. You really don’t have any idea the effect you have on your troops. I heard your name every day for four months after you were shipped out to Ramstein. Todd, your troops didn’t just follow you or respect you; they loved and trusted you. Your people would have followed you anywhere. They gave the corporal who took your place a complex. Todd, he actually asked to be reassigned.”
“I wish they hadn’t followed me into that ambush.”
“That was the first time you lost a man, wasn’t it?”
“Yes Sir. I’m sorry, Sir; Josh was my friend. When I was this close to losing my shit, he’s the one I always turned to. Sir, I cost my best friend his life.”
“Tell you what, let’s forget about my star and your stripes for the remainder of this visit. I’d prefer we were just two old war buddies again, for the moment.”
“Alright, Sam.”
“Good. Now, take this to heart. What we do is dangerous. We fight wars. When we’re not fighting wars, we’re practicing fighting wars. In wars, people die; sometimes, those people are best friends. Anyone who does this long enough, loses comrades and friends. Any officer, commissioned or not, will likely have to live with troops they command, dying under their command. Sooner or later, combat officers and NCO’s will knowingly order someone under their command to their death to complete the mission, or just to keep more of their troops alive. The greatest damnation of command is that we can’t protect the men and women who follow us from everything and the mission comes first. Todd, I need to know; can you carry the sometimes cruel burden of command?”
“With all due respect, General, I led my squad straight into an ambush and got Josh killed. I still did my duty well enough that the people I led, still keep in touch with me. They still count me as their friend and respect me. Sam, every last one of them has made it a point to tell me they’d gladly serve under or with me again. On top of that, some damn fool officer decided that what I did, warranted the Medal of Honor. Just who the hell do you think you’re talking to? You want to make me an officer. I promise you Sir, I’ll make a damn fine one, or die trying! I WILL complete the mission, and do my damndest to bring my people home alive! Where in the everloving hell do you get off asking me a question like that? You know damn good and well I can handle it! f*** you, Sir.”
“And that’s why I wanted to forget rank. I figured I’d hit a nerve; and this way, I don’t have to reprimand you. I had to be sure. Todd, if I didn’t really believe you could handle it, I wouldn’t have asked you to consider OCS. Oh, and one more thing, your Gunney recommended that you be put up for the Navy Cross, and Colonel Trautman concurred. I was the damn fool officer who decided the MOH would be more appropriate. Todd, between you and me, I’m a one star General and I’d follow you anywhere, without hesitation. Look, the order to get you to become an officer came straight from the President. That President is no longer in office, but the Joint Chiefs are still very much behind the idea. They told me to get you to accept OCS, period. I told them I would ask you, encourage you, but not coerce you. Todd, if you don’t want this, don’t take it.”
“Sam, I’m game. I have one, simple condition. I will not, under any circumstances, accept a commission if I can’t accomplish all the same requirements that all the other officer candidates must accomplish. I will not tolerate, what did the Major call them, concessions. If you and the Joint Chiefs can live with that, I’m in.”
“I’ll tell them, but I doubt it’ll matter. You do realize that your specific circumstances will allow you some input into your posting after graduation? Where do you think you want to go?”
“Sam, the Marines need me right here. I’m good at what I do. I also have skills other than precision marksmanship. When I get through this, let’s see if you and I can hammer out some sort of plan to impart more than my sniper skills to the Marines who come through this program.”
“I’m thinking that sounds like a good idea. I’ll get things rolling to get you to OCS. Todd, good luck.”
“Thank you, Sir. By the way, I told your Private out there about your liking for cheese danish.”
“I heard.”
“Do him a favor for me. If he actually brings you one, cut the kid a break. If he doesn’t, send him to some rat infested shithole for a year, or better yet, send him to me.”
“Oh, definitely you. You’re more likely to make a Marine out of him and keep him in the Corps.”
“I need to get back to my duties, Sir. Is there anything else?”
“No Sergeant. I look forward to having you as one of my officers. Dismissed.”
A trade of salutes later, Todd is out the door and on his way back to the range. He feels a little taller, and strangely, more at peace than he’s felt in a very long time.
(Just after noon, the Cooper residence, Waters’ Homestead)
“Hey Mark! Listen, we’re sorry about what Lance did last night. We thought he was with you.”
“It’s ok, no harm done. Is Lance here?”
“Yes! He’s going to be here for quite a while; he’s grounded.”
“Can I talk to him, Mrs. Cooper?”
“Come on in; we’re just having lunch.”
“I can come back later.”
“No! Come on.” (In the kitchen) “Lance, Mark wants to talk to you. You owe him an apology.”
“That’s not why I’m here. Lance, things could have very easily gone sideways last night. You have no idea the danger you were in. Me and the guys were all tired, nervous, and a little trigger happy. If you or Alan had made even one mistake, both of you could have ended up dead. It’s in the past. We talked it over and are willing to give you one more chance, a last chance. If you think you can keep your temper under control and accept that you still have a lot to learn, we’d like to have you back. Right here, right now, what’s it going to be?”
“You just want to get even.”
“No, there’s nothing to get even for. Lance, I was really on edge last night; that’s my fault and I’m sorry. I want you back and have a special job I want you to take on.”
“What?”
“I split up the crew yesterday. We’re going to have four teams like ours, instead of one. Each team is going to need a medic. I want you to train with Brian and Tabby’s Uncle Aaron to be the medic for my team.”
“Why me?”
Because it’s important work and I think it will help you to see what I worry most about with the crew. Lance, I was the lead for our crew. Now, I’m going to be one of four leads for four teams like we were. My biggest fear has always been that I’d make a mistake and get one of you hurt, or worse. I’m asking you to come back and learn how to treat injuries and save lives. Hell Lance, the life you save one day, might be mine! Will you do it? I know you’re capable.”
“Mom, Dad, can I?”
“You’re grounded. We talked about this; you are not leaving this house!”
“Mrs. Cooper, I’m not telling you how to raise Lance. He earned his punishment, but don’t be too hard on him. If he still wants it, the offer will still be open when you and Mr. Cooper decide he’s made amends. Please consider one thing; if he does this, Lance will be receiving medical training at least equal to a paramedic. He will have lifesaving skills that could very well save my life or yours, if this thing doesn’t stop with Chicago. You’re his parents; it’s between you and him. Thanks for letting me come in. I need to go take care of some other things. Have a good day.”
(Mark gets up from the table and leaves without saying another word.)
(Oval Office, White House, 2 PM)
“Mr. President! We’re getting reports from Las Vegas. There has been simultaneous attacks at the Bellagio and Mandalay Bay casinos!”
“More bombs!?!”
“No Sir. Some sort of gas attack or something. They said people just started dropping dead! The first rescue personnel who tried to respond died too!”
“God help us! How many?”
“Sir, we don’t know. The first report just came in ten minutes ago!”
“Alright, get on the phone to the Pentagon, right now! I want the best bio and chemical weapons specialists we have in the air as soon as possible! I want them on the ground and I want results today! Your second call is to FEMA. I want them there before the military team gets there. I want them providing relief to our citizens, and I want them to have at least a place for the biochem specialists to sleep and eat, and set up whatever facilities they need, before they get there.”
“Yes, Mr. President!”
“I SAID NOW! MOVE!”
The aide literally runs out the door.
“Get me Carol Stevens! I want her in this office in no more than 20 minutes! Move!”
“Yes, Mr. President!”
President McCallister’s personal secretary bolts from the Oval Office. The President sits down behind his desk and picks up his phone. He has a sudden, splitting headache. He puts one hand to his forehead as he personally dials the number. He starts talking as soon as he hears the person on the other end pick up.
“General Dunford…”
“I have our best experts assembling now. I hope you don’t mind, but I made a call and arranged for two doctors from the Mayo Clinic to assist. Drivers with escorts have already been dispatched to pick all of them up and a Gulfstream V with a full F-16 squadron for escort is prepping now at Andrews. A separate plane and escort has already been dispatched to transport the doctors from Mayo. A military convoy is being loaded with anything and everything they think they might need with a second aircraft and escort awaiting it. All aircraft will be engines hot when the medical team and supplies arrive, and will be in the air no more than thirty minutes later. They have absolute priority clearance. Sir, I told the tower that these flights have priority, even over Air Force One; I don’t think they believed me. I hope you don’t mind that I lied and said that order came straight from you.”
“Perfect! That’s what I want. Well done, General.”
“Thank you, Sir.”
“No General, thank you. The American people are depending on us, and you came through for them. As the President, and a Citizen, thank you for doing all you can for our Nation’s people. I need to take care of some other things.”
“Godspeed, Mr. President. I’ll call you when our team is in the air.”
“Thank you. Also, their escort is authorized to go weapons hot at the flight leader’s discretion. The full authority and resources of the US Government are at their disposal.”
“Thank you, Mr. President. I’ll let you know.”
(Click)
“Get me the tower at Andrews. I want someone in charge, and I mean IN CHARGE.”
(Second call, Andrews Airforce base, air traffic control tower)
“Hello?”
“Stand by for the President of the United States”...
“This is President McCallister. You were given orders by a member of the Joint Chiefs to grant absolute priority clearance to an emergency military flight that will be departing soon. You were told that group has priority, even over Air Force One. I was told that you were unsure of those orders. Let me be clear. I am not aboard Air Force One, nor do I have plans to be, today. If my plans change, you will make me wait on the ground until those other planes are in the air and on their way. Do I make myself clear?”
“Yes, Sir.”
“I am unconvinced of your sincerity. Do. I. Make. Myself. Clear?”
“Yes, Mr. President!”
“Good. Thank you for your cooperation.”
(Click)
“Well, that was harsh.”
“Carol! What the Hell’s happening!?! This is the second major attack on us in less than a week! They’re using weapons that shouldn’t be available to them! I want to know who our enemy is, right now!”
“You two, give us some privacy.”
The Secret Service agent in the room and President McCallister’s personal assistant both look to the President for confirmation.
“It’s all right. Leave us, please, and close the door.”
Both leave.
“All right Carol, we have privacy. Now I want some answers!”
“And I want to give them to you, but I don’t have them! Jim, we don’t know yet! We have uncovered some leads and are tracking them down, but we just don’t know! Do you think I like this!?! Do you think I am amused that American Citizens are dying by the thousands, and I haven’t been able to do a damn thing about it!?! I’ve sent three agents and the Secret Service has sent two; FBI has sent eight, every one investigating leads. All thirteen of those agents are dead now! Thirteen agents, all found bound, with a single bullet hole in the middle of their foreheads! They were left for us to find, bound and dead! Whoever is doing this was sending a message! My gut tells me that we are not dealing with any state actor, but I can’t prove it! These people have resources and capabilities to rival our own dirty tricks departments, or any other major nation’s! Jim, whoever they are, they have money, connections, and are well trained and equipped! We’ll find them, but it’s going to take time!”
“Meanwhile, our people are dying! It’s time we don’t have, Carol! Damnit, find them! If you can’t, say so, and I’ll find someone who can!”
Carol is stunned. Jim McCallister asked her to take the job as the head of Homeland Security because of her background. She spent 12 years in Naval Intelligence, and the last 15 years with the CIA. She worked her way up from a field agent to a director in that organization. There are perhaps five people in the United States who are her equal, maybe 30 in the entire world.
“Jim, we’ve known each other for a long time. You know I’m good at what I do, or you wouldn’t have hired me, but I’ll give you my resignation right now, if that’s what you want.”
President McCallister sits behind his desk and puts his head in his hands. He’s the President of the United States. The people of this country elected him because they believed in him. It’s his job to lead them, protect them, to help them achieve prosperity and success. Jim McCallister is overwhelmed. Bush warned him this would happen, but he didn’t believe it. Carol isn’t done with him yet.
“Well?”
“I don’t want your resignation. Carol, this just isn’t happening fast enough. Our people are suffering and I can’t stop it!”
“If you can’t handle it, then maybe you should resign and hand the job over to Amy and go back to being a lying Senator! For God’s sake, Jim! You were army intel; you know how this works! Remember Nairobi in ‘13? Remember Panama? Remember Moscow in 2000!?! Jesus, that was a cluster! We almost ended up in World War III over that one! Jim, we’re dealing with an enemy every bit as sophisticated as they were in Moscow. A rogue group in Russian Intelligence was backing them, and we still nailed them! You, me, and Bob Abernathy kept World War III from happening, and not by very damn much! We’ll get this.”
“Yeah, but The New Soviet didn’t kill over twenty-five thousand Americans and turn the United States’ third largest city into a glowing, smoking hole!”
“Because they ran out of time. Jim, whoever this is we’re hunting, they have laid low and patiently built their network for years, maybe decades. The New Soviet may even be connected to this. Jim, the plutonium used in Chicago came from old Soviet nuclear weapons that were reported destroyed and would be decades obsolete.”
“It wasn’t the CIS. We know that because intelligence indicates electronic components from the US and Britain. Besides, Putin knows he really doesn’t want a war with us. Jim, he knows that any direct conflict between us and them will inevitably go nuclear. None of the nuclear powers want a direct war with any of the others, because we all know that it would escalate beyond all of our ability to control and there would be no winners. These people are deeply connected and dug in.”
“Carol, I’m sorry I unleashed on you. You’re doing the best you can. I wish Bob had survived Moscow; we could have used his help right now.”
“Me too.”
“I’m sorry to bring up bad memories. I know what he meant to you.”
“Yeah.”
“What about the Mossad?”
“Four of their agents are here working with us. They arrived less than a day after I contacted them and asked for their help. Israel was eager to render assistance.”
“Good. Is there anything I can do to make the job easier?”
“Don’t unleash on me again. Jim, you may be the President, but I can still kick your ass.”
“I’ll try; no promises.”
“We’ll see where that gets us. I need to go back to work.”
“Good luck.”
Carol leaves. The agent and assistant come back in. The agent says nothing.
“I can’t believe you let her talk to you like that!”
“Like what? Jerome, did you hear what Kelly apparently heard?”
“No Sir, Mr. President. I was standing right outside the door and didn’t hear a thing. Maybe she’s hallucinating?”
“I am NOT hallucinating! I heard what I heard!”
“Kelly, we’re trying to give you an out. Why don’t you be smart and take it. Do you understand what I’m saying?”
“Yes, Mr. President. I didn’t hear anything either.”
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Post by udwe on Sept 26, 2020 6:27:31 GMT -6
You are such a good writer, please keep it up!
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Post by texican on Sept 26, 2020 20:17:41 GMT -6
Cutter it is great to read another of your chapters.
Thanks.
Texican...
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Post by cutter on Nov 9, 2020 21:04:07 GMT -6
I'm sorry, it's been too long. I'm grateful that tonight I had both the time and the inspiration. Please enjoy the next installment.
Chapter 53
(Marshall’s Rest Homestead, Thursday, 2 AM)
(Phone rings)
“What’s wrong, Todd? Are you ok?”
“Get up; get dressed, and go get Sarah and my children right now. Get them inside the homestead perimeter, right now. I don’t care if they have to sleep on the floor. I don’t care if they have to sleep on the roof, but get them safe...right now.”
“What’s going on, Brian?”
“It’s Todd. Get dressed. Todd, we’re getting ready and you’re on speaker. What’s going on?”
“I don’t know. There’s been another major attack; I don’t know what or where. From what I’m hearing, all leaves have been cancelled across all branches, all active duty troops of all branches are being recalled to their bases, DoD is selectively recalling from IRR, and all bases are being put on alert. Brian, I’m not supposed to tell you this, but we’re being armed and equipped, with live ammo, on base. It’s like we’re about to be deployed on short notice, but nobody’s saying where to.”
“Does Sarah know we’re coming?”
“They should be ready to go now. I called her first. Brian, I don’t know what’s going to happen, but I may be out of touch for a while. Don’t worry about me, just keep my family safe.”
“I’ll do both; live with it, Little Brother. You watch your back.”
“Will do; you too. Brian, thanks.”
“You know, they’re OUR family too.”
“I know. Gotta’ go.”
“Be safe. Bye.” (Click)
“This is gonna’ get worse.”
“I know. Morgan, we’re as safe as we can get. We’re in a lot better shape than most.”
“I know. I just hope it’s enough.”
“So do I. Let’s go get Sarah and the kids.”
“Not yet. Brian, call Mark and have him get the crew together. I’d feel better with some backup.”
“I hate to do that, but I’d feel better too.”
(Waters’ Homestead)
“Brian, it’s quarter after two; what’s wrong?”
“I’ll explain later. I need you and the crew here for security escort. Gear up for trouble.”
“How soon?”
“You’re already late.”
“We’re on it, thirty minutes or less.” (Click)
“What is it?”
“Anastasia, conference call the crew. Brian’s house, thirty minutes or less. Escort duty, gear up for a fight.”
“Got it.” (Stacy starts making the call. Mark dials another number.)
“Mark, it’s two twenty and Bobby rocked my world tonight. This better be good.”
“Things just got real. Put Bobby on.”
(...)
“What’s up, Mark?”
“Brian just called the Crew out for an escort mission. Do you have any of those mounts ready?”
“I have one built, but I haven’t had a chance to sight it in. Mark, I wouldn’t trust it.”
“Then we’ll have to do without it. Sorry I woke you.”
“Don’t sweat it. Do you want me to gear up and come along?”
“I don’t think so. Brian didn’t tell me what, but I don’t think this one is going to be all that dangerous.”
“If you need me, I can be out the door in ten minutes.”
“If I need you, I’ll call; I promise. Kiss Kit for me...on the cheek. We’ll talk in the morning.”
“Ok, Buddy. You guys just be careful. Not joking here, I want all of you back.”
“Best we can. Get some rest. Goodnight.”
“Night.”
“Mark, I talked to everybody; they’ll all be at Brian and Morgan’s in the next half hour.”
“Thanks. I better get geared up.”
“I’m sorry I’m not healed up enough to be there.”
“Don’t be. Anastasia, it’s ok. This is just a simple escort. It’ll be fine.”
“I know, but watch each other’s backs anyway. I love you, Mark. Be careful.”
“I’ll be back before you know it.”
“I already know it. Be safe.” (Mark is dressed. Stacy kisses him before he walks out of their bedroom.)
(10 minutes later, Marshall homestead)
“Brian, tell me what’s going on. I need to know.”
“We’re going to get Sarah and the kids, and bring them back here. Todd called and told me to do it. Mark, he didn’t know what, but something else has happened and Todd wants his wife and kids safe. This one should be nothing, but I just wanted backup.”
“With the kids involved, I think you made the right call. Let me go fill in the Crew, and then we’ll be ready.”
“Take what time you need. We’re going by truck. We’ll take three, so there’s room for everyone and everything. I need a driver for the third truck.”
“I agree. I’ll put a pair of mine each on ATV’s for point and tail end Charlie. Two to a ride, so they have eyes forward and back. Mind if I use a couple out of the equipment barn?”
“Not at all, but why don’t you use a gator for the rear guard?”
“Good idea. Always good for the tail end to have a rear gunner. Give me twenty and we’ll be ready.”
“LIke I said, take your time.”
(Outside, the crew have all arrived. Mark’s on his phone.)
“Bobby, sorry to do this to you, but I need a driver at Brian’s. Just bring your sidearm and medpack.”
“I had a feeling. I’m already dressed. Be there in five.” (Click)
“OK guys, listen up. This is a, hopefully, simple escort mission. Our job is to see Sarah and the kids back here safe. We’re going light, so you can drop your packs; sidearm, rifle, spare mags, and medpacks only. Sam, you’re with Sky on point. I want her driving; she’s better with an ATV and you shoot better on the move. Sherry, I want you driving a gator with Jordan in the bed as gunner on tail end Charlie. Your rides are up in the equipment barn; go get them. Brian, Morgan, and Bobby are driving trucks; a pair of us will be in each of the beds.”
“We’re one short for that.”
“Jordan, Anastasia isn’t up to a fight yet. I’ll just have to manage.”
“Wanna’ bet? I’m going.”
“T, you can’t do much with that cast.”
“I can shoot and I can cover one side.”
“You don’t have a rifle.”
“He can have my AR.” (Brian hands an AR and a belt with six loaded mags to T.)
“Alright. T, you and me are in the middle truck. You get in a good position to cover the right side.”
“Sorry it took me so long.”
“Bobby, I’m just glad you came. Ok people, saddle up! Get in position and check your radios!”
(Everybody gets into their assigned vehicles. The pairs in the trucks get in the beds. Radio checks complete)
“Brian, we’re ready. Let’s do this.”
“Copy. Roll, Sky. Nice and easy, we don’t want any accidents or attention.”
“Got it. Let the sightseeing begin. Here we go.”
(The conoy rolls out at a nice, sedate speed. They have no contacts on the way. They arrive ten minutes later. Sarah and the kids are waiting.)
“Any trouble, Brian?”
“None. Are you ready?”
“We each have a seven day pack and the kids each have their favorite distraction. If we need more, we can come back in daylight, but what we have will keep us going indefinitely. We’re ready.”
“Ok, you guys put your gear in the bed of the lead truck. Callie, you and Josh get in the third truck. Sarah, you get in the lead truck with Tim. Don’t worry, guys; we didn’t have any trouble getting here and the crew is on the job.”
“Brian, did you really think you’d need the crew?”
“I didn’t think so, but it’s nice to have the backup and Mark likes to put them through stuff like this to keep them sharp.”
“Well, I’m glad they’re here. Let’s go.”
(Three bedroom cabin, Farm section near Marshall’s Rest homestead, 4:30 AM)
“Why does Callie get her own room!?!”
“Joshua, I know you’re tired, but lose the attitude. Callie is a girl and you and Tim are boys. If you were the only boy, and we had two girls, you would have your own room and she would be doubling up with her sister. The other bedroom is mine and your Dad’s, when he gets to come home. This is what we have, and we need to make it work. We’re here because your Dad wants us safe. If you can think of a way that you think is better, we can discuss it tomorrow. Right now, we all need sleep.”
“But Mom…”
“I said we all need sleep, which was a polite way of saying Go. To. Bed. I told you we can talk about this tomorrow, and we will. Right now, we sleep. Is that understood?”
“Yes, Mom.”
“Josh, I love you. I promise, if we can find a way, we’ll make it happen.”
“Night, Mom.”
“Goodnight.”
(Josh sulks off to bed. Callie and Tim are already in bed and asleep.)
“Sarah, depending on how long you guys are here, I might manage another option.”
“Mark, he’s just tired. When he gets tired, he gets cranky and argumentative. It’ll be ok.”
“That’s fine, but if he wants his own room enough, then he can get his butt busy helping rebuild our house. We had six bedrooms and will again. We get it done and you guys could move in with us for as long as you need.”
“Not very fair to you and Stacy.”
“Wanna’ bet? She helps you with the kids and you help her with the housework and getting her strength and stamina back. Sounds like a win-win to me. Oh, and Josh gets some experience in work that can make him a living when he grows up, if he needs it.”
“Do you ever just say to hell with it and do anything without a reason?”
“Sometimes. Look Sarah, you know how we work. Stacy and I are more in the adults group than the kids group here. Your kids, Kit’s kids, all the kids are kinda’ our kids too. You know how much I love all the kids. I want to do anything I can to make them happier and their lives better. It makes me happy too. Maybe I can make up a little for the things I’ve done.”
“Lay it down, Mark.”
“I can’t, not yet. Sarah, I haven’t figured out how; I may never.”
(Sarah takes Mark in a hug, so she can whisper in his ear, unheard by anyone else.)
“Then live with this. I’ll sleep better tonight, knowing that you will do anything, anything, to keep my children safe. I know, without a doubt, that you will give your life, or take one, to keep my children safe.”
“Get some rest, Sarah. And for the record, that helps.”
“Goodnight.”
(Everyone leaves. Sarah checks on all of her children, who are all asleep, and goes to her bedroom. She makes a call.)
“You have reached Sgt. Todd Marshall. Please leave your name, number, and a message. I will return your call.”
“Todd, it was a nice drive with nothing but pretty scenery. We’re all snuggled in at home now. Love you.”
(Homestead house, 5 AM)
“Guys, good mission. Everybody did great. Assuming he still wants to, once he stops hobbling around with that cast, we have a new member in the teams, unless somebody has an objection. Anybody not want T to join us?”
“Tabby and I’d be glad to have him.”
“Mark, I think any of us would be glad to have him on our team; I know Sky and I would. That said, I think he’d do best with you.”
“T?”
“Really? You seriously want me to be on one of your teams?”
“Yeah, but I’m assigning you to Jordan and Sherry, for now. I have a specific job I want you to do, and they will need you and your skills most at the moment.”
“What you wantin’ me to do?”
“Several things, but first, I want you trained as a medic. T, you’ve had to live with giving and receiving enough violence in your life. I want you to get to experience healing for a while. It won’t be all you learn or all you do, but I want you to be able to say you’re a healer, instead of just a fighter. I think it will help you come to terms with some things that haunt you.”
“God, I hope you’re right. I’m tired of the nightmares.”
“I know. I’m not sure it will help you, but it’s all I have to offer right now.”
“Worth a shot. Thanks guys, for wantin’ me.”
“No problem. As accident prone as Sherry is, you should stay plenty busy.”
“HEY! I’m not the one who almost knocked himself out by walking face first into a truck mirror!”
“OK, OK! Fine! T, I’ll keep you busy! Happy now!?!”
“A little. I’ll be a lot happier if we ever get to bed.”
“Ok, I get it. Everybody, go home. Turn off your alarm clocks. We’re off tomorrow.”
“Thanks, Boss!”
“You’re welcome, Sky. Go home.”
(Mark and Stacy’s bedroom, almost 6 AM)
“It took you a long time. Is everything alright?”
“Sarah and the kids are safe in hand’s quarters. We didn’t have a bit of trouble the whole time. We picked up a new team member. I’ll tell you about it tomorrow.”
“It is tomorrow.”
“Not until the sun comes up and I get some sleep. Turn off the alarm clock and come to bed with me. I’m exhausted.”
“Get in bed; I’ll be there in a minute.”
“Ok.”
(In the five minutes it takes Stacy to get the lotion out of the bathroom and back to their room, Mark has gotten undressed and in bed. He isn’t just asleep; he’s dead to the world. She puts the lotion on the nightstand and slips into bed next to him. He never stirs.)
(in just barely a whisper) Guess you don’t need unwinding after all. Rest, my love.”
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Post by texican on Nov 10, 2020 22:14:25 GMT -6
He isn’t just asleep; he’s dead to the world. She puts the lotion on the nightstand and slips into bed next to him. He never stirs.)
(in just barely a whisper) Guess you don’t need unwinding after all. Rest, my love.”
C,
Yep, a guy is really wasted if he turns down lotion and the rest.
Seems like something is breaking and it will not be good.
Thanks for the chapter.
Stay well and stay safe.
This election is not over and probably will not be for months. Just how bad will the violence become?
Be ready and be prepared.
God bless.
Texican....
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Post by philipkarlevans on Nov 12, 2020 17:05:18 GMT -6
wow! so much allergy in this air.
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Post by philipkarlevans on Nov 13, 2020 9:56:02 GMT -6
glad its over~no i'm not.
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Post by cutter on Jan 2, 2021 11:36:22 GMT -6
Reports of my demise are premature. Life has been totally out of control, even by 2020 standards. Hopefully, 2021 will be a little more charitable to me, us, and the world at large. My muse has been sulking and uncooperative, but here's a teaser for the next chapter. I'll get it done when I can.
Chapter 54
(Friday, 3:30 AM, Scout Sniper School)
(Knock)
“This better be good, or you’re doing a 5k run in full gear today; and I don’t care if you’re an officer!”
“Sgt. Marshall, I’m sorry to disturb your sleep, but General Grayson wants to see you, RFN.”
“Well, he’s going to have to wait until I get pants on. Give me five.”
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Post by bluefox2 on Jan 2, 2021 21:28:28 GMT -6
Reports of my demise are premature. Life has been totally out of control, even by 2020 standards. Hopefully, 2021 will be a little more charitable to me, us, and the world at large. My muse has been sulking and uncooperative, but here's a teaser for the next chapter. I'll get it done when I can. Chapter 54 (Friday, 3:30 AM, Scout Sniper School) (Knock) “This better be good, or you’re doing a 5k run in full gear today; and I don’t care if you’re an officer!” “Sgt. Marshall, I’m sorry to disturb your sleep, but General Grayson wants to see you, RFN.” “Well, he’s going to have to wait until I get pants on. Give me five.” Well, you and your muse sure know how to throw a cliff in front of us.
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Post by cutter on Jan 7, 2021 23:32:07 GMT -6
It's not everything I wanted for a chapter, but it's what my muse would give me. Please enjoy.
Chapter 54
(Friday, 3:30 AM, Scout Sniper School)
(Knock)
“This better be good, or you’re doing a 5k run in full gear today; and I don’t care if you’re an officer!”
“Sgt. Marshall, I’m sorry to disturb your sleep, but General Grayson wants to see you, RFN.”
“Well, he’s going to have to wait until I get pants on. Give me five.”
(5 minutes later, as they walk to General Grayson’s office)
“Well, Sir?”
“Well what?”
“I’m waiting for a good enough reason to not have you running with my training class this morning.”
“You really are a hard ass. Most NCO’s aren’t quite as brazen.”
“You’ve never been deployed to combat.”
“No, Sergeant.”
“That wasn’t a question, Sir. Being under fire, changes a person. My LT in Afghanistan was a helluva’ good man, and a damn fine officer. Frankly Sir, he was exhausted and battle weary and got outmaneuvered by the enemy, our Gunny and I were too, with the same results. Gunny is a good man and NCO, too. If more than two days went by that the three of us didn’t cuss each other face to face in anger, something was very, very wrong. Sir, I respect your rank, and you’ve given me no reason to not respect you personally, other than being a little too pompous when Major Watts sent you to the range to fetch me; but combat hardened troops learn the hard way to speak their minds, with or without permission. Sir, don’t mistake bravado and blunt for disrespect. When your people trust you, they respect you. They often show that trust by letting the thin veneer of decorum come off.”
“Where’d you pick up that bit of wisdom?”
“My Dad, First Sergeant Bill Marshall, Medic, among other things, Delta Force.”
“Your Dad was Delta!?!”
“For the better part of 16 years. He taught my brothers and me everything he knew. He was killed in a car wreck, about six years ago. Sir, I’ve spent my entire life, trying to live up to his example. Until the day he died, according to Dad, my brothers and I always did. Now, what about that reason?”
“Sorry Sergeant, General didn’t tell me why he wanted you in his office at half past last night.”
“HA! That’s a good one. I’ll have to remember that. Ok, you don’t have to run with us this morning.”
“You were serious!”
“I’d have been in your hip pocket the whole way, barking insults at you about everything except your Mama, family, and God...Sir.”
“Mind if I join you anyway, without my gear?”
“The more, the merrier; try to keep up.”
“Shouldn’t be a problem; I run every morning.”
“Not with my class, Sir.”
“Sounds interesting. I’m looking forward to it. What time?”
“0500, Sir.”
“That’s an hour before reville! I’ll be there.”
(General Grayson’s office)
“Sir, Sergeant Marshall reporting.”
(General Grayson returns the men’s salutes)
“Thank you, Lieutenant. That will be all.”
“Sir, I may be a little late this morning.”
“And why is that?”
“Sgt. Marshall invited me to his training class’s morning PT. Sir, I think I might learn something.”
“By all means, Lieutenant; I think it would be good for you. A word of advice, don’t be too embarrassed; I’ve seen Sgt. Marshall inspire troops to do great things.”
“General, I’m greatly hoping he will inspire me. If I may Sir, thank you for sending me to awaken Sgt. Marshall and bring him here. Sir, he has already given me a gift.”
“Gift?”
“Sir, I understand something about respect that I didn’t before.”
“Good! Try to keep up with him this morning.”
“Aye, Sir.”
“Now, if you’re finished, dismissed.”
“Aye Sir!”
(Lieutenant Mitchell leaves)
“Come in, Todd. Let’s talk...”
(Training barracks, 0500)
“Where do you think you are, the Cub Scouts!?! Fall in at attention! We have a guest with us this morning! Try to look like Marines!”
(The training platoon falls in)
“Officer on deck! Sir, do you wish to inspect the troops?”
“No, Sergeant; lead on.”
“I didn’t catch your name, Sir.”
“Pete Mitchell.”
“Ladies and Gentlemen, Lieutenant Mitchell will be joining us for our morning PT. Let’s give him his money’s worth.”
“Oorah!”
“Good! Sergeant Conner, I thought you were off PT for five days, doctor’s orders.”
(A young woman in the second row responds.)
“Doc said, my discretion. I might not be able to keep up, but I’d like to try.”
“As you wish, Sergeant, but this is PT; don’t hurt yourself, just to prove a point. Sergeant Conner, developing your sniper skills are far more important than one run, and so are you.”
“Thank you; I’ll run, but I’ll keep that in mind.”
“Corporal Mathers!”
“Y-Yes, Sergeant!”
“Relax, man; I’m not going to bite you! Platoon, Corporal Mathers is the most improved among you this week! That deserves special recognition! Corporal Mathers, you will lead the run today! Call the cadence and lead on, standard procedure!”
“Aye, Sergeant! Platoon, left face! Forward...march!”
(The training platoon marches for about 100 meters.)
“Platoon, double time!”
(The formation proceeds at the standard, ground eating pace of a normal PT run. Roughly a half kilometer into the run, Corporal Mathers issues a now familiar order.)
“Platoon, Step it up! Marshall’s pace!”
“Oorah!”
(The formation begins running about halfway between double time and a sprint. The Lieutenant is caught off guard, but adjusts quickly)
“Sergeant, this isn’t a standard pace for PT.”
“I told you my class is different, Sir. Try to keep up; we’ll forgive you if you can’t.”
“Aye, Sergeant!”
(The platoon continues like that until the last quarter kilometer. Corporal Mathers issues a familiar command.)
“Platoon! Pick it up! Move your Asses!”
(The platoon surges forward as a group at a flat out sprint. The Lieutenant is left behind in surprise. About 50 meters from the finish line, the ankle joint in Todd’s prosthetic fails. Todd stumbles. Corporal Mathers is at his side when it happens. He grabs Todd’s right arm and throws it over his shoulders, supporting him as they run. Seemingly out of nowhere, Sergeant Conner appears at Todd’s left and does the same with his left arm.)
“Leave me and finish the run!”
“Not gonna’ happen, Sergeant; we finish together, or not at all!”
“Damn, hard headed Marines! Ok, let’s do this, Move!”
(The platoon slows slightly, almost imperceptibly, so that Todd can cross the finish line first.)
“What the Hell’s wrong with you people!?! Why’d you slow down!?!”
“Simmer down, Sergeant! You know full well why they slowed down, and now, so do I. I finally, really understand what you were trying to tell me this morning. Thank you for the lesson, Sergeant Marshall.”
(Lieutenant Mitchell stands at attention and offers Todd a salute, which Todd hastily returns.)
“You’re welcome, Lieutenant. For that matter, Sir, you’re welcome to join us anytime. And for the record, it looks like you managed to keep up.”
“Barely. Thanks. Conner, go get a vehicle and get Sergeant Marshall to sick bay. Mathers, stay with the Sergeant. I think the platoon and I can find our way back on our own.”
(Both salute the LT. They respond in unison.)
“Aye, Sir!”
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