ALPHA ZULU 69 MEMOIRES
Chapter 152 A New Nemesis
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PRIMARY CHARACTERS:
Abraham Lincoln Washington: Six Star General of the Armies Tactical Alpha Zulu 69
Adam Mann: Four Star General, U.S. Army Alpha Zulu 69
Adrian Johnson: Six Star General of the Armies, U.S. Army Alpha Zulu 69
Aiden McIntyre-Worthington: Son of Liam McIntyre and Adopted son of Luke Worthington
Alex Meat-Goodman: Adopted Son of Doug Meat and Steven Goodman
Alexander Federova: Highly valued Russian Scientist rescued by Special Forces
Alexander Malinois: Master Sergeant, U.S. Army Alpha Zulu 69 War Dog
Alexi Federova: Son of Alexander and Petrova Federova
Andrew & Jeremy Allen: Adopted sons of Mason Allen and Jason Vance
Anthony Caruso: Four Star General, U.S. Army (Base Commander of Fort Connor)
Ariel "Ari" Rebel: General, Israel Defense Force (Mossad Kidon)
Ariel Rebel Jr. aka JR: Son of Jacob Leib
Beauty Malinois: 1st Sergeant, U.S. Army Alpha Zulu 69 War Dog
Billy Bob Vance: Staff Sergeant, Ret., U.S. Army Alpha Zulu 69 War Dog Handler
Bob Jones: Four Star General, U.S. Army (Base Commander Fort Connor)
Caleb Afolabi: Major General (2 Star), U.S. Army Fort Connor Adjutant
Carlos Martinez: Adolescent son of Juan Martinez and Roger DeSoto
Connor Best-Mann: Adopted son of Randy Best and Adam Mann
Connor McLain: Six Star General of the Armies RET Administration Alpha Zulu 69
Connor Williams: Staff Sergeant, U.S. Army Alpha Zulu 69 (Deceased lover of Doug Meat)
Dale Gordon Longdick Allman: Adopted Son of Matt Longdick and Jason Allman
Danny Henry: Four Star Brigadier U.S. Army (Base Commander Fort Connor)
Date Masamune: Five Star General of the Army, U.S. Army Protector of David Winter-Jansson
David & Donald Worthington: Adopted sons of T&T Worthington
David Leib: Five Star General, Israeli Defense Force Adopted son of Ari Rebel
David Winter-Jansson: Son of Oliver Winter and Viktor Janson
Dillion Dwight: General (4 star), U.S. Army Medical Director of Fort Connor
Doug Meat: Six Star General of the Armies U.S. Army Alpha Zulu 69
Duke Stone III: Five Star General of the Army U.S. Army Protector of Dale Gordon Longdick-Allman
Dwight Jones: Partner of Dale Gordon Strong
Frazer Sullivan: One Star Brigadier General, U.S. Army (Human Resources for Fort Connor Alpha Zulu 69)
George Battenberg: Six Star General of the Armies of the United States
Gerald Isaac: Captain, U.S. Army Security for Tommy Longdick-Allman
Gloria Worthington: aka "Mama Bear" Board Chair of Worthington Industries (a major multi-national defense contractor)
Hachiman Kanmu, Colonel, U.S. Army Protector of Hikaru Jansson-Winter Masamune Yasumori
Hank Henry-Jones: Adopted Son of Bob Jones & Danny Henry
Harold Alexander III: Colonel, U.S. Army Protector for the sons of John Allen Masters
Harold John Alexander-Masters: Son of Harold Alexander III & John Allen Masters
Harold Manfred, Captain: U.S. Army Protector of David Winter-Jansson
Hayao Kinugasa, Major, Ret.: U.S. Army (Aide to General Meat and General Goodman)
Hector Louise Roberto Montoya: Six Star General of the Armies Administration Alpha Zulu 69
Hikaru Jansson-Winter Masamune Yasumori: Son of Hito Janson-Winter Masamune and Jimmy Yasumori
Hito Jansson-Winter: Son of David Jansson-Winter and Date Masamune
Ivan Morovoza: Colonel U.S. Army Alpha Zulu 69 (Protector of Alexi Federova)
Jacob Leib: Adopted Son of Arie Rebel
Jacob, David & Uri Leib: Wards of Luke & John Worthington (Israeli Nationals)
James "Jimmy" Yasumori: Five Star General of the Army, U.S. Army Partner of Hito Jansson-Winter
Jamie Bob Vance: Love of Aiden McIntyre
Jamison Miller: One Star Brigadier General, U.S. Army (Human Resources for Worthington Executive Security)
Jason Allman: Six Star General of the Armies, U.S. Army Alpha Zulu 69
Jason Bob Vance: (Brother of Billy Bob Vance and partner of Mason Allen)
Jax Arthur King: Colonel, U.S. Army - Security for Shawn Longdick-Allman
John Allen Masters: Colonel, U.S. Army Protector for the sons of Jimmy & Hito
John Allen Masters: Son of General John Masters and Ambassador at Large for POTUS
John Masters: Four Star General & Base Commander Fort Connor, U.S. Army Alpha Zulu 69
John Worthington II: Adopted Son of Taylor and Tyler Worthington II
John Worthington: COO R&D of Worthington Industries
Juan Martinez: 5 Star General of the Army, U.S. Army Security for Mario Garcia
Juan Martinez: Colonel, U.S. Army Alpha Zulu 69 (Protector of Shawn Stone)
Juaquin "Jay" de Vαzquez: Son of Manual de Vαzquez
Lars Alison: Major General (2 Star), U.S. Army Deputy Base Command, Fort Connor
Liam McIntyre: CFO Worthington Industries & Partner of Luke Worthington
Logan Worthington: Biological Son of Luke Worthington
Lucas Daniel Fairbairn: Captain, U.S. Army Protector of Michael "Allen" Roberts
Luke Worthington II: Adopted Son of Taylor and Tyler Worthington II
Luke Worthington: CEO of Worthington Industries
Lupo Vlcak: Alpha Zulu War Dog (Czechoslovakian Wolf German Shepherd Mix)
Magnus Savage: Colonel, U.S. Army Alpha Zulu 69 Medical Trauma Surgeon
Manuel de Vαzquez: Physicist/Engineer - Worthington Industries
Mario "Mani" Garcia: Son of the President of Mexico (Adopted son of Juan Martinez and Roger DeSoto)
Mark Roberts: Captain, U.S. Army Security for Bobby Longdick-Allman
Mason Allen: Six Star General of the Armies, U.S. Army Alpha Zulu 69
Matsukaze Kumorigachi, Commanding General Alpha Zulu Program in Japan
Matt Longdick Six Star General of the Armies, U.S. Army Alpha Zulu 69
Maximillian (Max) Malinois: 1st Sergeant, U.S. Army Alpha Zulu 69 War Dog
Medvěd Vlcak: Worthington War Dog (Sired by Lupo Assigned to Roger & Jeremy Protection Detail)
Michael "Allen" Roberts: Adopted Son of Matt Longdick and Jason Allman
Napoleon Malinois: 1st Sergeant, U.S. Army Alpha Zulu 69 War Dog
Noah Meat-Goodman: Adopted Son of Doug Meat and Steven Goodman
Oliver Winter: Six Star General, U.S. Army Adjutant for Generals LongDick and Allman
Petrova Federova: Wife of Alexander Federova
Randall Masters:
Six
Star General of the Armies, U.S. Army Alpha Zulu 69
Randall Savage: Colonel, U.S. Army Alpha Zulu 69 (Protector of Steven Stone)
Randy & Robert Masamune: Adopted sons of Hito Masamune and Jimmy Yasumori
Randy Adam "RA" Worthington: Adopted son of Connor Best-Mann & John Worthington
Randy Best: Four Star General, U.S. Army Alpha Zulu 69
Randy Johnson: Captain, U.S. Army Security for Shawn LongDick-Allman
Robert Allen Gregory, Four Star General, U.S. Army Alpha Zulu 69
Robert Manning, Captain: U.S. Army (Aide to General Meat and General Goodman)
Robert Masters: Major General, U.S. Army Alpha Zulu Security
Rod Jackson: Lieutenant General (3 Star), U.S. Army Base Commander of Fort Connor
Rod LittleFeather: 1st Sergeant, U.S. Army Alpha Zulu 69 War Dog Handler
Roger DeSoto: 5 Star General of the Army, U.S. Army Security for Mario Garcia
Roger Worthington: Adopted son of T&T Worthington (Former Angel)
Roi Friedman: Colonel U.S. Army Alpha Zulu 69 (Protector of "Tod" and "PJ"
Steven & Shawn Stone: Adopted sons of Dale Gordon Stone
Steven Douglas Worthington: (aka S.D.) (Adopted sons of Robert Allen Gregory and R.A. Worthington)
Steven Goodman: Six Star General of the Armies, U.S. Army Alpha Zulu 69
Steven Robertson-Battenberg: Adopted son of William Robertson and George Battenberg
Sven Bjorn: Six Star General of the Armies RET Tactical Alpha Zulu 69
Takeda Shingen: Colonel Alpha Zulu Captain, Japanese Defense Force (Protector of Roger Worthington)
Taylor and Tyler Worthington II: Adopted Sons of Roger and Jeremy Worthington
Taylor and Tyler Worthington: (aka T&T) (Adopted sons of Logan Worthington and Alex Meat-Goodman)
Uri Leib: Biological son of Ari Rebel
Viktor Jannson: Six Star General, U.S. Army Adjutant for Generals LongDick and Allman
Wilhelm "Willy" Rogers: Colonel, U.S. Army Protector of Larry Winter-Jannson
William Robertson: Six Star General of the Armies of the United States
Yonatan Netanyahu: Colonel Alpha Zulu Captain, Japanese Defense Force (Protector of Roger Worthington)
Yuuto Meat-Goodman Kinugasa: Adopted Son of Noah Meat-Goodman and Hayao Kinugasa
"Angus" (Name Classified): (Son of a domestic terrorist in protective custody at Fort Connor)
"Biff" Jones (Name Classified): (Son of POTUS and guest in residence at Fort Connor)
"George" (Name Classified): (Senior head of the Worthington Brain Trust and Top Scientist in residence)
"Tod" (Name Classified): (Teenage son of George and protectee of Alpha Zulu)
"PJ" (Name Classified): (Teenage son of POTUS and protectee of Alpha Zulu)
Abe and I learned fast not to worry over command performances for POTUS or SecDef... just accept the reality and the knowledge these six stars are a lifetime contract. Besides, we have been good of late and no major problems. Who else could work so well with Yuuto to make this last project the success as everyone claims it is.
There were four very unhappy faces when we walked in the Pentagon Conference Room with POTUS and SecDef on Monday morning. POTUS introduced the four CEO's and felt assured they all knew the Worthingtons present on a first name basis. POTUS didn't negotiate, he dictated. "I have declared the threat to our imps an issue of National Security. We have fast tracked enlargement of Fort Connor so that any family of an imp that want's the utmost in security for them can have access to its facilities." Before you inundate me with a barrage of questions, you all know Yuuto... (You all have tried to steal him away from the Worthingtons to no avail!) he will present to the group the current design of Fort Connor and the proposed modification to accommodate the additional imps we foresee being in residence.
Yuuto and the Alpha Zulu Generals will be making presentations to all of your Brain Trust members and you have two weeks to schedule the presentations or you will find yourself in the Oval Office and you'll see a side of me you won't appreciate. NO PROPRIATORY BICKERING! I refuse to have one more imp die on my watch. If I find less than 100% cooperation and support from you four executives, you will find the full weight of the Oval Office and every federal agency brought to bear showing you the error of your ways. This isn't a threat... IT IS A PROMISE!
Yuuto spent the next three hours making his presentations and answering questions that were far above my knowledge and pay grade. As we left, I cornered Luke, John and T&T in their Limo and asked them to put a full security detail on Yuuto and his partner. As of this morning, far too many people know this program will revolve around this small former imp and the head of the Worthington Brain Trust. CONSIDER IT DONE! Turning to Yuuto I commented: "No arguments young man... you are a national treasure and the lives of many imps now depend upon you. If your partner wants to complain about the increase in security tell him complaints are to be registered with 1st. Sergeant Lupo (if he has the balls)!"
Lupo and Monster may be in retirement at Camp Phoenix but even in their senior years I wouldn't want to face either of them if they were given the command to "bring me down".
As T&T were dropping us off at Andrews, we barely made it out of the Limo and OPS announced POTUS on a voice call for either General. "Glad I could reach you before you got airborne. Tell T&T you are mooching a bedroom for the night and I need you at the White House at 1000 hours tomorrow for a security briefing. Many thanks... DISCONNECT!
T&T overhearing the conversation only commented: "You never need to ask, we were always welcome". Can we just have a seafood salad for dinner... I've eaten too much prime rib in the past few days. It is delicious but I want to appreciate it as a treat not as a staple diet.
Abe and I actually got an evening to relax and enjoy the social side of T&T. There was less stress in their lives since they stepped down from the day to day operations and even the occasional interruption from Luke or John requesting guidance was appreciated. They would always be there for their sons.
0500 hours and our body clocks went off and we forced ourselves out of bed and into the shower. At least T&T were gracious hosts and had room service deliver an urn of strong black coffee to the Penthouse at 0515 hours. Asking OPS if the 1st Sergeant was available for a chat, he was immediately on our com. Is Fort Connor surviving with us out of town for so long? The 1st Sergeant only laughed commenting the only problem he was aware of was his new Base Commander not being able to put his legs together in the morning. Our roar of laughter had T&T sticking their heads out of their bedroom commenting to quiet down, some of us are still trying to sleep.
Abe whispered in my ear our new Base Commander and his adjutant have the right idea of how to start a new day. Walking me back to our bedroom and dragging me into the huge shower, my ass got pummeled by Abe's huge love muscle as I went screaming and soaring to Nirvana numerous times. I'm married to a passionate man who I swear has a permanent hardon. (And, I'll never object to unleashing the animal in him every chance I can have.)
Arriving at the White House the Secret Service escorted us to the Oval Office. We were granted immediate entrance and it was no surprise to see SecDef in attendance but what was surprising is to see our Cardinal Chaplain joining our group. Kneeling and kissing his ring out of respect for both the man and his office, POTUS commented His Eminence has some startling revelations to share with us.
The Cardinal took the floor and tried to be brief yet thorough. Around 500 years ago the Pope in conspiracy with the major heads of Europe attempted to eliminate the Knights Templar and preempt any potential threat to their thrones. There has been much speculation regarding what happened to what at the time was the largest Army in the known world. In my pre-seminary days I majored in European History. When I was read in on the ritualistic deaths of the recent imps killed it sounded all too familiar to me and I flew to Rome and asked the Holy Father to allow me access to all the material in the Vatican Archives regarding the Knights Templar.
There has been much speculation over the years of what happened to the hundreds of knights that disappeared from Europe when their temples were raided. Few men and little money were ever located. The Vatican Archives confirmed 18 galleons of men, gold, silver and gems left from Europe for unknown locations. With the establishment of the United States in the 18th century, the Vatican investigators confirmed the knights did make it across the Atlantic Ocean and settled in the New World. Even considering a minimal return on their investments of the money that was brought with them from Europe... it has made them the richest entity on this earth.
Recent reports have reached the Vatican of a rogue sect of the Knights Templar wanting to purify mankind from all sin and to them homosexuality is a sin. This organization has embedded itself in every facet of daily life around the globe and has more money than brains. We now know where our biker "friends" are receiving their funds to purchase military grade weapons on the black market.
His Holiness has asked me to unofficially convey to you his willingness to help in any attempt to make the world a better place to live and especially to protect the lives of our precious imp.
We asked if the Vatican had any idea of the current monetary reserves of the Knights Templar our Cardinal Chaplain commented the exact figure is unknown, but the Vatican quit calculating at $100 Trillion USD.
Our Cardinal Chaplain rose and commented he would be at the Vatican Embassy if we required further assistance. (If he only knew how soon we would be taking him up on the offer.)
Returning to Fort Connor we found a beehive of activities. The Engineers were indeed fast tracking the project and considering they had built the Pentagon in under a year with what we would now consider primitive equipment I was starting to feel comfortable we would have the upgrade (refit) to Fort Connor done before the start of the new school year.
One thing was obvious, the returning imps would be wanting our heads on a platter when they see what has been done to their precious soccer field. Between tenting for new incoming soldiers and using it for a staging area for the new construction... I sure hope Yuuto put new sod for it in his budget. (If he forgot, we'll just chalk it up to normal military project cost overruns.)
OPS was elated to get a major upgrade with their high speed internet connection considering the massive addition of computers and laptops added to our network. I threatened tech support with 15 minutes as a practice dummy without pads for our war dogs if our system ever got hacked. (I made certain they knew I wasn't joking!)
We were down to the last few weeks before the re-dedication ceremony of the NEW and IMPROVED Fort Connor. Our HR Dream Team had done a fantastic job recruiting the 200 additional men and four squad sergeants. Why wasn't I surprised when they video conference and admitted defeat. They were unable to find a gay Catholic Chaplain and a gay Jewish Chaplain. If they exist, they are flying so low under the radar no one knows they are gay.
Time to pull in another favor from David Leib... reminding him what he said about the "impossible taking a little longer"... We need a gay Jewish Chaplain for Fort Connor. See if you can find a younger, open minded, eager and energetic young man who won't be terrified of a base with 400+ gay soldiers. It comes with the rank of a Bird Colonel and if he elects to stay after his six month probation we'll promote him to a Lt. General. I didn't know whether it was the smile on David's face or hearing the gears turning in his brain but I knew he had a solution to our problem.
"I have the perfect soldier for you, young, good looking, intelligent, modest, and best of all dual citizenship with Israel and the USA. I'll send you his file and if you are interested, I'll have him on the next commercial flight to Washington. DUH, do I look like an idiot... put him on the plane today if he is interested!
Bringing up T&T on the video com, I smiled at my two good friends and they knew I was up to no good. "Remember that prime rib dinner I turned down... I need to collect it from you two." Please contact our Cardinal Chaplain at the Vatican Embassy and invite him to dinner and whenever he is available Abe and I will clear our schedule and join you. CONSIDER IT DONE!
T&T had confirmation from our Cardinal Chaplain for dinner on Saturday night. Advising us to plan on staying the weekend and getting some well deserved R&R. These past few months had to have been really taxing on you and Abe. And, we'll make certain the linen cabinet is well stocked with new sheets.
Flying to Washington on Saturday afternoon I candidly admitted to Abe "I don't have another hat to attempt to pull out that elusive rabbit". This is the only option we have left so say a prayer the Cardinal can solve our dilemma.
Security escorted us into T&T's Great Room and we relaxed in the ultimate of comfort as we awaited the arrival of our Cardinal Chaplain. The four of us warmly greeted our old friend and relaxed as T&T served the Nectar of the Gods (Double and NEAT). As room service wheeled in our Prime Rib buffet the Cardinal only commented this must be a big favor to warrant such a fantastic meal. (The man has the ability to understate the obvious.)
Enjoying a wonderful meal and just conversing as old friend he was curious to know about how the refit of Fort Connor was going. He would be astonished at how the architects had enlarged the Chapel and still retained the beauty of the original building. As T&T served the 100 year old brandy along with the now famous Marriott Raspberry Cheesecake the Chaplain definitely knew this was going to be a "BIG ASK"!
Sharing with our good friend not only due to the foreseen increase in counseling but to be fair to the three major religions we have approval for three Chaplains to serve the imps and soldiers of Fort Connor. We currently have a Protestant chaplain and David Leib has recruited us a Jewish Chaplain from the IDF. We simply can't locate a gay Catholic Priest to serve as the Catholic Chaplain for Fort Connor. Any ideas... you know what we are looking for as you were a Fort Connor Chaplain yourself.
Asking T&T for a refill on the Brandy, our old friend was doing far too much smiling. Inviting us to join him for dinner at the Vatican Embassy Monday night it would give him plenty of time to "shake the trees" and see if he could help his friends at Fort Connor. Dinner at 1900 hours and dress uniforms please.
T&T requested security to have the Cardinal's limo brought to the Executive Entrance and we four thanked his Eminence for whatever assistance he could provide.
T&T were all smiles as they commented they bet we thought we'd be heading back to Fort Connor tonight... NADA! You are our guests till you leave for the Embassy Monday night.
T&T invited Luke and John for a Sunday brunch and it really was a reunion of old family friends. Mid afternoon OPS advised David Leib on a Video call for you two Generals. As T&T lowered the video screen David's smiling face appeared and he advised us our new Jewish Chaplain was on a commercial flight headed toward Washington. Giving us the flight number and arrival time he asked us to have Security meet him. Thanking David for all his help, T&T only commented we might as well have him stay at the Penthouse so HR can do his paperwork and our friendly tailor can make his new uniforms. Plus SecDef will need to give him his commissioning oath and sign off on his direct commission.
The Worthingtons only commented: "Two down, one to go"! If we were you, I'd be counting beads and saying some Hail Mary's all the way to the Embassy tomorrow night.
I do thank God every night for bringing Abe into my life. Abe is my lover, my confident, my partner in this life and the next and MY BEST FRIEND! I truly have been blessed.
Time for the command performance with our Cardinal Chaplain and we had no idea of what to expect. As we exited the Penthouse, T&T handed us a beautifully wrapped package containing a bottle of their prized 100 year old aged Brandy. At least the start of the evening was turning out to be fantastic.
Embassy security escorted us to the private quarters of the Cardinal Chaplain and we were introduced to a young priest who the Cardinal referred to as Father Dominic. Let us enjoy our meal and then enjoy this fantastic gift provided by T&T. Not something I can afford even on my Cardinal's income.
This was a good solid staple meal provided by nuns I swear were wearing habits when Mama Bear was in parochial school. The food was a delicious home cooked meal and as the brandy was served we adjourned to the Cardinal's Great Room. I asked Fr. Dominic how much the Cardinal had told him about Fort Connor and the opening we had available. Admitting the Cardinal had told him far more than he needed to be interested in the posting. The only item I wasn't told is whose cock I had to suck to get accepted.
Talk about shock... some words I never expected to hear out of the mouth of a Catholic Priest. As Fr. Dominic saw the shocked look on our faces he commented the Cardinal had been his parish priest when he was growing up and he admitted to the Cardinal in confession when he was 16 he loved to suck cock and get fucked in the ass. When I told the Cardinal of my desire to become a priest, he only encouraged me to follow God and let him guide my life. God has brought me to serve the men and imps of Fort Connor and I hope you'll ask me to be part of your team.
Fr. Dominic had completed chaplaincy school and was an officer in the Army National Guard. Once your security clearance is processed you will receive the rank of a bird Colonel and after your six month probation the posting comes with the rank of a Lt. General. If at any time during your six month probation period you feel Alpha Zulu isn't a good fit just let us know and I'll do my best to find you the posting you desire.
Our Cardinal Chaplain recommended Fr. Dominic return with us to T&T's Penthouse so our HR team could start his security clearance as soon as he returned from the tailor in the morning. He'd have the Father's personal belonging forwarded to him at Fort Connor.
As the three of us returned to T&T's Penthouse I had OPS connect me and I only quipped: "Is this the Worthington Bed and Breakfast... I need an additional reservation for the night". Everyone was roaring at my comment. I closed my remarks commenting to T&T we were successful and now have three chaplains for Fort Connor.
Only one major staffing issue to address and I knew Doc would be dragging his heels to add any permanent physicians to his staff. He likes being the king of his domain and hates relinquishing any part of it. I'd address that issue when I returned to Fort Connor.
Leaving our two new Chaplains in the loving arms of T&T and our HR Dream Team, Abe and I finally were headed back to Fort Connor and to face the last major obstacles to the upgrade of our base... DOC!
I knocked respectfully at the door of Doc's office and asked if he had time to speak with me. "I'm busy, but as long as you are here you might as well come in!" (That's our Doc.) Have you found two additional trauma surgeons to add to your staff? "Been too busy!" OK, Doc... here is what is going to happen... you have till Saturday night to give me the names of two (preferably three) trauma specialists who want to work with you here at Fort Connor. (Heaven only knows why anyone would want to work with an old curmudgeon like you.) Failure to comply with my request will find me requesting SecDef to assign TWO FEMALE SURGEONS to your staff effective immediately. "YOU WOULDN'T DARE!" "TRY ME!"
As Doc handed me the information on three trauma surgeons at Lunch on Saturday, Abe turned to me and asked what was my secret? The base pool had 50:1 odds Doc would never allow another permanent physician on staff in HIS MEDICAL!
I smiled at Abe and told him you should have more faith in your partner. Just look at the killing you would have made. "What makes you think I didn't bet on you!" Please, donate the money to the Worthington Foundation. We shouldn't be gambling with the enlisted men.
Some of the new imps had a challenging adjustment to living in a dormitory (bunker) with a vault "blast" door which got locked at night. Our Chaplains definitely earned their keep the first few weeks after we reopened for business. Eight Wolf War Dogs were really needed for an immense amount of "puppy duty" and they earned every morsel of "doggie treats" they could mooch.
When Yuuto returned from his 30 days of Sun, Sea, Sand and Sex I quietly asked him if he had increased the coverage area for Connor to patrol considering our new and enlarged footprint. "Oh, ye of little faith!" DISCONNECT!
I had to smile at our two new Chaplains when they returned from their medical intake when they arrived at Fort Connor. There were some less than flattering comments made toward me as they walked by rubbing their hip. Even for new Chaplains, Doc showed no mercy.
Shortly after the first of the week three new doctors arrived with our daily supply plane. As our new Command Master Sergeant met them as they deplaned, he warmly greeted them to Fort Connor and with the General's compliments would you join him in his office. Giving them my standard orientation to Fort Connor I informed them they would have a six month probation period at which time if they opted to remain at Fort Connor they would receive the rank of a "Bird Colonel". There was a question from one of the doctors: "Why did my previous commanding officer advise me to pack a Kevlar jock"? I had to chuckle as I commented: ASK DOC!
With the first practice ALERT we found a flaw in the new system. With 10-20 imps before it was easy to take a head count and know everyone was in the bunker before the door was sealed and locked. Now, with over 100 imps in residence (and more expected) it simply took too long to make the determination every imp was secure. Yuuto would be regretting those 30 days of Sun, Sea, Sand and Sex. I brought him up on his com and ask him how difficult it would be to write a program that would run automatically when an alert was sounded. It needed to show the number of imps located in the bunker and where any remaining imps were around the base and could be securely accessed through my secure smart phone. A very confident former imp only commented: "Is tomorrow OK or do you need it sooner?" I reminded Yuuto I still outranked his security detail. He was close to insubordination and can still end up bare assed and over my knees. My cocky little imp only commented: "I may outrank his security detail but do I outrank his WAR DOG!" Yes, Luke and John had assigned a dedicated War Dog to his security detail. I knew when to admit defeat and thanked Yuuto for giving my request his prompt consideration.
The refit of Fort Connor was completed and actually with few items that needed to be followed up when we went back to a normal routine. Before either Abe or I realized it, six months was fast approaching and we had to follow through with the new officers which were added to the staff. I met with Doc and asked how the three additional physicians were working out and Doc being Doc only grumbled... "Not as bad as I thought they would be"! Are you keeping them? Doc continued to grumble: "After spending the last six months teaching them the right way to do things and forgetting about what the Army teaches them... I'm not interested in doing it again in the near future"! (That is the most positive comment I could expect to receive from Doc.) I asked Doc if he would give them their commissioning oath as a Bird Colonel at retreat on Friday. If anyone has changed their mind about staying on at Fort Connor, ask them to see me by end of day tomorrow.
Meandering over to our Chapel I was pleasantly surprised to see our new Rabbi and Fr. Dominic in our Chaplain's office conversating as old friends. Knocking at the Chaplain's office door I requested admittance. As all three men snapped to attention, I issued the command "As You Were"... This is an informal conversation among friends. Asking our two new Chaplains if they had any desire to separate from Alpha Zulu. I was assured they felt wanted and needed by the men of Fort Connor and providing for the spiritual needs of our precious imps was truly the perfect duty assignment. I thanked them for making the decision to be part of our permanent staff and offered our four star Chaplain the option of administering their commissioning oath as Lt. Generals in the United States Army at retreat on Friday.
Five officers down and two left to go... and two very important men. Our new Base Commander and his adjutant. Finding them both engrossed in work at their desks I asked if they could spare me a few minutes of their time. "GLADLY SIR!" Your "six months" is up this week and I need to know if either of you two desire to be separated from Alpha Zulu. Abe and I have only written glowing reviews of your performance for the Joint Chiefs, SecDef and POTUS. Acknowledging they both loved Fort Connor and hopefully would soon be requesting my permission to be bound as partners for life and eternity. Be prepared to take your new commissioning oaths at retreat on Friday.
A productive afternoon but I still had a few video calls to make before I could head out for retreat. Asking OPS to see if POTUS and SecDef were available for a conference video call within minutes two smiling faces appeared on my big screen. Being warmly greeted by both men I asked if they realized this week marked six months since we rededicated Fort Connor. All our new officers have elected to stay and we have seven commissioning oaths to be administered at retreat on Friday. If your schedules are free, I hope you will be able to attend... and drag along any of the Joint Chiefs that may be available. POTUS only questioned if our new Base Commander would be in any shape to put his legs together and walk? Both men roared in laughter as they simultaneously commented: CONSIDER IT DONE!
Asking OPS to see if John Alexander-Masters was available for a video chat I was batting 1,000 as Harold and his partner appeared on my big screen. "How is General Masters doing?" Both men were candid the only thing that is keeping him on this earth is wanting to attend the commissioning ceremony of his former adjutant. We are promoting all the new officers from their probationary status on Friday at retreat. I hope the three of you will be able to attend and if your father is up to the task, I know his former adjutant would much appreciate the General administering his new commissioning oath.
And, before you try to hitch a ride with SecDef or POTUS... hit up T&T or Luke and John as my next call is to invite them and I hope their schedule is clear so they can attend.
Bringing up OPS AGAIN, I commented only one more call then I'm heading to retreat and that wonderful food that can be smelled all over Fort Connor. See if T&T, Luke and John can video conference. Success again, I must be doing something right today. I reminded my four "partners in crime" this week marks six months since we rededicated Fort Connor. All the new officers that were selected have opted to stay on at Fort Connor and will be taking their new commissioning oaths Friday at retreat. I hope you can attend and touch base with Harold and John as they will be needing transportation and our Cardinal Chaplain if he is available. Also, drag Yuuto and his partner along with you as none of this would have been possible if it wasn't for his talents and dedication to Alpha Zulu and our imps. If your schedule will allow it, plan on staying over for the weekend. Now, I have to make retreat and follow my nose to another wonderful meal. T&T only quipped: "Don't rub it in or I'll have Luke cut your food budget in half"!
I laughed at T&T knowing he'd never cut back on the food he enjoys every time he visits Fort Connor. "You do know comments like that will find you with a toasted cheese sandwich for dinner on Friday."
As Abe and I were nearly late for retreat the men of Alpha Zulu quickly learned not to get in the path of 100+ hungry imps headed to the mess hall to eat. Hungry imps would be a greater danger to their lives than an armed hostile. As Abe and I were the last in line tonight, I commented to the Mess 1st Sergeant our evening meal on Friday would be in celebration of all the new promotions being received by the Officers at Fort Conner. I'm expecting at least 16 VIP guests for the ceremony. "Thanks for the warning Sir but we are always prepared for VIP's!"
I privately admitted to the Mess Staff the quality of food at Fort Connor usually tipped the scale when it came to a conflict with any other commitment someone might have. You are truly the unsung heroes that make Fort Connor function.
At our morning staff meeting I commented to the officers present retreat on Friday would be formal dress uniforms. You might think they are arriving to celebrate your promotions but if the truth be known their motivation is probably the quality of food being served by our mess. (The entire senior staff lost it in laughter.)
As of Monday, we will have a group of JAG officers on base to complete necessary legal documents both for our new additions and also to process any revisions desired by our existing soldiers. Make certain you know what you want done with your assets and bring your will up-to-date. Also, any requests as to "advanced medical directives" or "durable power of attorney" to make medical decision in the event you are unable to do so yourself. If you haven't realized by now, Alpha Zulu isn't a "baby sitting" service.
On a more personal note I'll share with you what my predecessors shared with Abe and me... Even a small amount of money invested in a 401k each check will provide a sizeable "nest egg" when it is time for you to retire. Not to mention paying Harvard tuition for ones children.
And, the last item I need you to give careful consideration... We have in the past and will continue for as long as Abe and I are the Commanding Generals of Alpha Zulu given the option of both our doctors and our chaplains being trained in and wearing side arms. Insurgents won't care if you are wearing a caduceus or a cross on your uniform... They'll still fill your hide full of lead. And, consider the imps we have all sworn to protect with our lives. If you are interested in qualifying and wearing sidearms, just talk with the Command Master Sergeant and he'll make the arrangements for you. Abe and I will respect your decision whether or not you elect to participate in firearm training. The decision is totally between your conscious and God.
One of the luxury items I had added to the refit budget was a number of electric "golf carts" to assist providing transportation around Fort Connor and one equipped with a stretcher for the restricted use of the Medical Staff. There was a charging station located at Medical, the base commanders quarters, Abe's and my quarters and the balance were located at and charging provided through our base maintenance.
Friday mid-afternoon and why wasn't I surprised the first plane to request permission to land was Worthington Actual. Everyone made it and after looking at General Masters I was happy I had requested our electric mobility join us at the air strip. As Security verified each VIP's identification, I warmly greeted General Masters and asked if he would like the Grand Tour of our new and improved Fort Connor.
As I offered General Masters the luxury of our new electric transportation, he graciously thanked me for being so considerate. Every soldier who had served under General Masters sincerely welcomed him back and even most of the new men realized who he was seeing the five stars on his shoulders. Asking to be taken to the Chapel, he wanted to give thanks to God for allowing him this last chance to be with the men of Alpha Zulu. As we progressed around the base John was amazed at how the Army Engineers had reclaimed so much land from the sea and then constructing the additional four barracks for the new soldiers. The quality of construction had not been compromised. Yuuto was beaming with pride at all the compliments he was receiving (and rightly deserved).
As we got closer to retreat OPS advised Air Force One requesting permission to land. GRANTED! As I left General Masters in the capable hands of Abe, I rushed to the Air Strip as Air Force One came to a halt and the plane ramp extended. POTUS was first down the ramp and vouched for the remainder of guests accompanying him. POTUS pull me aside and quietly asked how General Masters health was? "Sir, the only thing keeping him alive is wanting to give his former adjutant his new commissioning oath." I'll be surprised if he makes it through the weekend.
As I was talking with POTUS, SecDef and the Joint Chiefs at the runway, General Masters asked Abe if they could go to Medical as he wanted to talk with his old friend. Doc was totally out of character as he warmly greeted General Masters. As his office door closed behind them General Master candidly admitted he doubted if he would see another sunrise. "Is there something you can give me so I can make it through the ceremonies at retreat. I want to be part of my protιgι ceremony becoming a member of the General Staff of the United States Army."
Doc slipped out the side door of his office and into the Medical Pharmacy. Returning with a syringe in his lab coat he advised his old friend this drug has some nasty side effects, but it should allow you to make it through the ceremony and our evening meal. Doc urged General Masters to take it easy when he returned from dinner as the "kickback" of this drug is going to "knock you on your ass".
General Masters was so proud as he ordered his protιgι "front and center" asking if he was ready to take his commissioning oath as a General in the United States Army. As his adjutant (lover) held the bible our new Base Commander was sworn in as a four star General. As his adjutant wrapped his arms around our new General they shared a passionate kiss as General Masters smartly saluted his old friend and then asked our Chaplain to bless the food so we could all enjoy the wonderful meal we had been smelling for the past half hour.
After we had enjoyed our meal, POTUS rose to offer some sincere comments from his heart. General Masters quietly asked if we could adjourn to our Great Room as he needed to rest. Relaxing comfortably with his children he commented this would be his last day on this earth. I have been blessed with a fantastic career, wonderful friends, a loving family and I know the world I leave is better than the world I inherited. None of us were shocked to see a glowing light form in our quarters and a beautiful Angel by the name of Roger emerge taking the General's hands walking him into eternity. "Now he belongs to the ages!"
Asking OPS to have Doc and POTUS join us in our quarters neither man was surprised to learn of the General's passing on to his eternal rest. Doc advised Harold and John he had no problem signing the death certificate. General Masters wanted a memorial service at Fort Connor for his friends and a family only internment service at Arlington National Cemetery. Our three chaplains and their two aides pulled an "all nighter" preparing a memorial service to help the men of Alpha Zulu accept the loss of their late good friend and leader. After the memorial service, Alpha Zulu pall bearers and honor guard would accompany the General and his family for a private internment at Arlington. John Allen Masters was inconsolable and only being held in the arms of his partner Harold gave him the strength to make it through this newest challenge in his life.
As our Cardinal Chaplain accompanied the Casket and family back to Washington for the graveside service at Arlington, POTUS requested airtime from the major media providers to address the nation on a matter of national importance.
Announcing the passing of General of the Army John Masters, the world has lost a fantastic man and I truly have lost a personal friend. "Under the wings of an angel where my weary heart can sleep, I can close my eyes without thinking twice, 'Cause my soul's been set free."
"I ask you my fellow Americans to join me in prayer for General of the Army John Masters and for his family in this moment of profound tragedy in their lives. "GOOD NIGHT AND GOD BLESS!"
TO BE CONTINUED...
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