ALPHA ZULU 69 MEMOIRES
Chapter 158 Torture and Rescue
PLEASE MAKE A DONATION TO NIFTY
Your donations keep this website operating and available free to us users
Donations can be made at: http://donate.nifty.org/donate.html
This story is an original work of fiction. Names, characters, businesses, places, events, locales and incidents are either the products of the author's imagination or used in a fictitious manner. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, or actual events is purely coincidental. This is a free electronic story. No part of this electronic story may be reproduced or transmitted in any form by any means electronic or mechanical including photocopying, recording or by any information storage and retrieval system, without written permission from the author. If you are not of legal age in your location to view and read adult material, please close out of this story and delete any material you have downloaded or copied to your computer.
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
Ambrose Abbott: Colonel, U.S. Army - Protector for Johann Emmanuel
Amell Scholz: Aide and former lover of Cardinal Dominic
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
Enapay Perez: Colonel, U.S. Army - Protector for Piero Bianchi
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
Johann Emmanuel: Adopted son of Cardinal Dominic
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
Piero "Peter" Bianchi: Son of the Grand Master of the Knights Templar
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)
The last recollection I had before passing out was watching our brave pilot being torn apart by multiple bursts of automatic rifle fire. His gun was drawn and he was attempting to protect us. I then blacked out into oblivion.
I started to arouse hearing the screams of Abe and the stench of tobacco. We were hanging in a deserted Tobacco barn somewhere in the rural south. Stripped naked and hanging by our wrist suspended off the floor of the barn... as my eyes started to focus I could see Abe's beautiful body writhing in agony as he was being given countless electrical shocks from a car battery.
One of the battery cable clamps was dug into his balls and penis and the hostile took great pleasure touching the other live cable all over Abe's body. The screams emanating from Abe's mouth were tearing me apart. I loved this man and wished it was me being tortured instead of my lover. It was obvious these hostiles not only hated gay men but definitely had no love for any man of color also.
I knew as soon as the Worthingtons learned of our crash, Yuuto would have determined our locations through our implanted chips and an Alpha Zulu black op rescue team would shortly arrive. These hostiles better hope our Alpha Zulu team terminates them with extreme prejudice because if any survive, I'll tear there nuts off and feed them to our War Dogs.
Suddenly, an explosion rocked the barn as the main door exploded from its hinges being destroyed. "Flash Bangs" inundated the barn disorienting both the hostiles and us Generals. Among a barrage of small arms fire the sound of our "bull pup" automatic rifles was so distinct. I knew Alpha Zulu had arrived and Abe was now safe.
As Abe and I were wrapped in blankets, medics sedated Abe considering the agony he was in from being tortured. We were immediately transported to Bethesda and Walter Reed National Medical Hospital. Abe had been brutally tortured and I had felt so helpless hanging from the barn beams not being able to help the man I love.
The physical injuries would take months to repair and I only hoped between our dedicated doctor at Fort Connor and our talented Chaplains they could repair the emotional trauma which I knew would haunt Abe far into our future together.
Military Intelligence and Worthington Intelligence both had no idea whether the hostiles were after T&T or us Generals. Considering all the hostiles were killed in the rescue we may never know. POTUS issued a dictum after this fiasco... Luke, John, T&T and us Generals would only be transported to Camp Phoenix by a trio of Army Attack Helicopters. The Worthingtons were now to be protected by Military Fighter Jets when they traveled by fixed wing transport.
POTUS also directed the Army Corps of Engineers to immediately construct a landing strip for the Vertical Take Off and Landing (VTOL) "Worthington Actual" adjacent to Camp Phoenix. The Worthington Board of Directors immediately authorized a second VTOL plane for use by the Senior Worthingtons.
There was no doubt in my mind when the DNA results are returned it will show our old foes The Biker Gang are again back in action with more money than brains. We have no idea of how much money the radical branch of the Knights Templar had funneled into their coffers but apparently the Bikers are still well funded.
Abe and I spent three months at Walter Reed before we could return to Fort Connor. Abe shuddered anytime he heard a gunshot and could barely stand me touching him. His psyche had been severely traumatized, and it was tearing me apart there was so little I could do to help the man I loved.
I confided in Doc that Abe couldn't stand to be touched sexually and that it was impossible for me to induce an erection in a man that was always "standing at stud" before he was tortured. Doc admitted the tests performed while we were hospitalized showed there was no permanent nerve damage and the impotency was psychological not physiological. This will take time, be patient.
Abe and I had daily individual counseling sessions with a Chaplain and weekly joint counseling sessions. The entire base at Fort Connor would do anything to help us and what was helping the most was when one of our intuitive Wolf Dogs jumped into bed one night and refused to leave. Abe had the best night of sleep since our abduction with his arms securely wrapped around a furry mutt who I now owed a big box of doggie treats.
Say what you will about "Pet Therapy" but it was what sent Abe on the "Road to Recovery". Doc noted an improvement in him physically and the Chaplains commented on the improvement in his mental health. I knew we were over the hump when Abe voluntarily returned to daily PT with the men and started to firm up his beautiful black body I loved. I now knew the mind of my lover was also on the road to recovery.
I knew the start of the final stretch of Abe's recovery was the morning when our furry bed companion left for his morning constitutional Abe rolled over in bed, wrapped his arms around me and I could feel his monster erection nuzzled between the cheeks of my ass. As he slowly slid into me, I cried knowing how much I was in love with this man and he was finally returning to me. We had so much trauma in our recent life I questioned us remaining in the military. Something Abe and I needed to discuss when we have finally conquered this ordeal.
One morning as Abe and I were enjoying breakfast with our Senior Staff, OPS announces: "Air Force One on final approach to Fort Connor". As we rushed to finish our meal and meet our guests at the air strip, Air Force One made a perfect landing and not only POTUS, but SecDef, Luke, John and T&T joined us at Fort Connor.
Asking for a meeting in our secure conference room, we knew this had to be of major importance for these people to collectively visit Fort Connor.
As our conference room was locked down to a secure mode, POTUS started by saying none of us assembled can even start to imagine what you two have recently experienced. Even reading the glowing reports of your recovery we all know the future holds episodes of PTSD. There has been much speculations and discussion of late whether you two will ask for to be placed on inactive status. And, frankly... none of us could blame you if that is your wish.
Generals Martinez and DeSoto (Commanding Generals of the Castle) have asked to retire and are deserving of it. But, if you two wish to go on inactive status I want to offer them your six stars. They are truly worthy of the honor and responsibilities that come with your stars.
I don't need an answer now, but take a week and then let either SecDef or myself know. The Worthingtons will be staying at Fort Connor for a few days and I know you trust their wise counsel. Do what your hearts feels is right, you have done more for the people of America that could have been ever expected.
SecDef and I need to return to Washington and face the political battles. Our prayers are with you to make the decision that will be the right decision for two men I greatly respect and admire.
We walked POTUS and SecDef back to Air Force One with every soldier we passed snapping to attention and saluting out of respect and pride. As soon as Air Force One had lifted off T&T smiled from ear to ear and only commented: "When do we eat"? That had Abe and I roaring in laughter and it was the first time in months I actually heard Abe laugh.
We spent the next few days freely discussing the options with our good friends the Worthingtons. Our investments and stock portfolio made our financial future secure but the question still remained do Abe and I want to stay on active duty. The Worthingtons were unanimous whatever our decision, they would always be there to help us in any and every way possible.
Abe and I were in agreement, we needed to make a trip to Boston and meet with the Generals at the Castle. Asking T&T to borrow one of their Corporate Jets, we needed a low profile visit and there was no way of being "low profile" landing our flying billboard at Logan Airport.
Landing in Boston prior to dawn, an Armored Vehicle with armed security met us and transported us to the Castle. We enjoyed a wonderful breakfast with the men at the Castle and we apologized for not visiting more often. You Generals do such a fantastic job we just didn't feel the need to evaluate your command.
As we settled into the Castle's office, our good friends looked us straight in our eyes and commented: "You didn't fly all this way just to sample our food... WHAT GIVES"!
I thought both Generals DeSoto and Martinez were going to pass out when I told them Abe and I were considering going to inactive status and POTUS was considering "gifting" them our Six Stars.
The 20 year old Single Malt Nectar of the Gods was broke out as both of our friend were indeed in shock. "This is what happens when we ask to retire?" I only turned to my good friend and commented: "Who ever said life in the Army was fair?"
Abe and I have decided to go to inactive status the only decision is how and when. We want to do it with the least amount of trauma to everyone concerned. It would be disastrous for all of us to leave the Army at the same time. If you two aren't interested in our stars then we need to replace you and start training some new men to be able to run Alpha Zulu down the road. We won't desert a program we have given our lives to build.
The look on the General's faces made it all too clear they had no interest in our Stars regardless of what incentives POTUS offered. "We want to spend time with our children and hopefully grandchildren in the near future." Frankly, I couldn't blame them.
We thanked the Generals for their candor and hospitality. We planned to enjoy another great meal at the Castle and then slip back into Washington as unobtrusively as we left it. Asking T&T if the "Bed and Breakfast" was available for the night, we would be arriving back in Washington late this evening.
Our Armored Limousine and a mass of security met us at the Worthington Executive Airfield. Joining T&T at their Penthouse they hoped our trip was productive. Yes, and NO! General DeSoto and Martinez are going to retire, and they have no interest in our Stars. Abe and I want to go to inactive status but won't consider it until the new commanders are brought onboard at the Castle and we can train replacements for our command at Fort Connor.
Abe and I plan on meeting with POTUS and SecDef in the morning and advising them of our decision. Now, if you'll break out that 100 year old brandy you guard and cherish so much, we'd appreciate a night cap and a soft comfortable bed for the night.
Sometime during the night the entire penthouse was awoken by screams of terror and it was coming from Abe. Abe had his first attack of PTSD which we all knew would eventually happen. As we secured from ALERT status, I held the man I loved and kissed him passionately. As I held him in my arms the rest of the night, I wish I had borrowed one of our "furry mutts" to accompany us on this trip.
Our 0500 hour body clock went off and to our surprise T&T were already up and functioning. Yes, miracles do happen and it was a sacrifice they would willing make to help two men they respected and loved.
The Marriott Room Service was in shock that T&T were ordering "Brunch" so early in the day but the Worthingtons wanted to join us at the White House and show their support of our decision.
As the four of us joined POTUS and SecDef in the Oval Office we shared with them our decision. We were requesting inactive status but only after Generals DeSoto and Martinez had been successfully replaced at the Castle and we had replacements trained for us at Fort Connor.
We would be having our HR Dream Team immediately start the search for these four replacements. POTUS only commented: "How do you replace the irreplaceable"?
Returning to Fort Connor, Abe still had too many nights of waking in terror and his body coated with "cold sweat" trembling with fear. My "hero" who would face down armed intruders had constant "Night Terrors". The trauma of his abduction and torture lasted long after his abductors had met their eternal judgement. I thought, if the roles were reversed Abe would be the one comforting me. Abe was targeted for torture first because he was gay and BLACK!
Asking our HR Dream Team to join us at Fort Connor we wondered how they would cope with their new assignment. As we locked down the conference room to "secure mode" we commented General DeSoto and Martinez are retiring. We need to find two replacements for them to administer the Castle and you can offer them Silver Eagles as inducement to accept the offer. You know what we are looking for so go do your "Boolean thing" and find the men.
Also, Abe and I have decided to go to inactive status so as you are searching for replacements at the Castle, if you happen to find some worthy candidates for our six stars, make a short list for our consideration and recommendation to POTUS. We want to bring them onboard and nurture them before dropping the bombshell of being our replacements.
We have no wish to desert the Alpha Zulu program without having adequate replacement leadership in place.
Current rank for these four opening isn't a consideration. Sergeants have made it to six star Generals before and if we find that to be true again, SO BE IT!
Only the Worthingtons, POTUS and SecDef know of these decisions so consider this task Classified Top Secret until we have selected the men. I hope you'll enjoy another great meal here at Fort Connor before we kick you Generals out to start on your "quest". Keep us appraised of your results.
It was way past the six months for the Protectors of Piero and Johann to receive their Silver Eagles. The had been understanding and hadn't broached the subject with our Base Commander at Fort Connor. Asking both men to stay after our morning staff meeting, Abe and I apologized for the delay in not following through on our commitment to you deserving officers. If you are ready, I'd like to schedule your Commissioning Oath for retreat on Friday. I'm certain there are two imps who want to be part of this important moment in your lives.
As Abe and I were recovering from our abduction, our little nymphomaniac Piero had worked his way through all eight squads and had an ass every man in Alpha Zulu wanted to enjoy. The only man he hadn't seduced was his protector. Why, no one knew but this was soon to change.
Captains Ambrose Abbott and Enapay Perez would soon be Colonels in the United States Army. The entire base at Fort Connor was in a joyous mood of celebration at the promotion of these now two loved officers. The Mess Staff went overboard with the celebration feast which exceeded that serviced even when POTUS was in residence.
As we gathered for retreat on Friday, every man was in his dress uniform as Abe and I administered the commissioning oath to these two deserving men. Even we would be surprised at what the future held for one of these two deserving men.
Each of the imps proudly held the bible for his protector as both men committed themselves both to man and God swearing their sacred honor to protect and serve our great nation.
Our HR Dream Team was efficient in finding two Captains who were the perfect fit to command and lead our men stationed at the Castle and administratively deal with the imps in residence. Asking to have them transported to the Worthington Penthouse they knew they had fallen down the rabbit hole as they entered amid a mass of armed security to the opulence which had been created by "Mama Bear".
T&T asked our guests to be comfortable, rest, relax and dinner will be served at 1900 hours. Our sons Luke and John Worthington will be joining us this evening. Even only being Captains, they were well aware, as most in the military are, what the name of Worthington means. They wondered why were they basking in the opulence while their men were battling insurgents in the middle east.
With the arrival of Luke and John, the Marriott Chef served a five star dinner of prime rib and of course their world famous Raspberry Cheesecake for desert. Relaxing in the Penthouse Great Room, T&T only commented... "Tonight is social, no talk of work... Tomorrow we will talk business"!
Our two Captains were well relaxed on T&T's 20 year old single malt Scotch whiskey. They adjourned each to his room and relaxed as the warmth of unending hot water cascaded over their naked body. Sliding between silk sheets they couldn't believe how wonderful it felt on their naked skin. Someone needed to pinch them just to prove this wasn't a dream.
As their body clocks went off at 0500 hours, the Penthouse was deathly quiet. As room service wheeled in an urn of Strong Black Coffee, room service advised the Worthingtons had ordered brunch for 1000 hours.
The two Captains enjoy the coffee provided and proceeded to catch up on Emails they had been procrastinating answering. There is no way they could share with their former command what they were now enjoying. They felt so unworthy considering what their men were enduring each day.
Finally, around 1000 hours the Worthingtons stirred from their bedrooms to the smell of fresh coffee delivered again by Room Service. They thanked the Captains for being so considerate, something the Generals lacked when they visited.
A knock at the door and our two Captains abruptly snapped to attention as we two six star Generals entered the Penthouse. "At ease Captains!" Let us enjoy this fantastic Marriott brunch and then we'll talk business.
As the four Worthington and we Generals spent the next few hours getting to know each person and not just their military accomplishments our two Captains were in shock when John abruptly asked the question: "What is your sexual preference?"
Looking like a deer caught in the headlights of a speeding car knowing they had little time left on this earth... each man candidly admitted he was GAY! John thanked them for their candor.
"Let's take a break, refresh ourselves, rest and then we can enjoy a fantastic Marriott dinner. We'll talk more this evening.
As the Captains adjourned to their bedrooms, we discussed with the Worthingtons our initial opinion of our two prospects to run the Castle. The Worthingtons were impressed as were we Generals. We'd come "clean" with the Captains after dinner and see if how the "shock and awe" rattles their cages.
Dinner was a wonderful seafood buffet provided by the Marriott Chef and if Abe and I would miss anything it would be the fantastic food served at Fort Connor, Camp Phoenix, the Castle and of course the Penthouse.
Retiring to the Great Room after such a wonderful meal, T&T served more than an adequate supply of Scotch to liberate the tongues and minds of those present.
Captains, we have to be totally honest with you. We have a residence in Boston called the Castle where former imps reside while attending Harvard. These are high risk individuals and this is not a "baby sitting" service. You will be protecting the future leaders and members of our brain trust that make our military great. Loss of any one of these individuals could be devastating to our country and cost our military thousands of lives.
We are asking you to accept the leadership posts and to join Alpha Zulu in command of the Castle. You will have huge shoes to fill as there are two four star Generals retiring who will be impossible to duplicate. Don't try to replace them, be yourselves and implement your own policies and programs.
You will be in charge of Alpha Zulu men who have been battle hardened over the years by numerous hostile incursions trying to abduct or kill the imps we protect. If you will accept this challenge, we offer you an immediate increase in rank to full Colonel in the United States Army.
As both men were in shock, I asked them to adjourn for the night and talk with their families and/or men they trusted with their lives. We'd need their answer in the morning and T&T advised our guests to reset their body clocks for a 1000 hour wake up call.
Our Captains failed to get much sleep that night. Talking with their families and friends they spent the balance of the night surfing articles in the Boston Globe regarding the Castle and were shocked at the number of hostile incursions that had incurred. The truly now believed... This wasn't a "baby sitting" service!
As both men commented they joined the Army to serve our great nation and if the Generals felt they were the right men for the job they would do their utmost to fulfill our expectations.
Advising our Captains they would be spending the next week in Washington being fitted for their new uniforms and ballistic armor. Don't be shocked if you have a "command performance" with POTUS. He doesn't micromanage Alpha Zulu but he takes an in-depth interest in all that is done by Alpha Zulu.
Thanking T&T for their hospitality and saying goodbye to Luke and John, Abe and I had a mountain of paperwork to catch up on at Fort Connor. We'd advise the Generals at the Castle of your arrival and you will be mirroring them for the next 60 days. When we announce the retirement of Generals DeSoto and Martinez, we'll give you your commissioning oath as a full Colonel.
The Generals at the Castle thanked us for being so prompt in finding competent replacements for them. The men deserve the best and I know our HR Dream Team only selected the best men to replace us.
I only hoped all the men of Alpha Zulu would understand when we announced our separation from Active Duty in the near future. Now it is time to motivate our HR Dream Team to find replacements for us Six Star Generals.
As our new Captains finally reached Boston and were warmly greeted by the Commanding Generals of the Castle. They started their orientation as to the nuances and their administrative responsibilities. As for your role in defending the Castle, you both are seasoned combat soldiers... if you find a weakness that needs to be addressed DON'T KEEP IT TO YOURSELF!
Suddenly, without warning, a major explosion rocked the Castle. Imps attending class were "sheltered in place" by their security detail and the imps in residence were quickly locked down in the Castle Panic Room.
A truck attempted to break through the main entrance to the Castle and once the protective pop up barrier was activated, the van exploded as it struck the barrier. Two guards on duty received significate injury but would make a complete recovery. I only wish the same could be said for our main entrance to the Castle.
A twenty foot deep crater now existed where the main entrance was located and the pop up block was blasted into pieces. The first concern was to PROTECT THE IMPS. Then we needed a replacement barrier and temporary repairs to the main entrance until full repairs could be completed.
SecDef was proactive and within hours aerial cranes delivered two M1A2 Abram tanks one paced on each side of the destroyed entrance assuring no hostile force would use this destroyed entrance to the Castle. Yes, it was OVERKILL, but POTUS and SecDef were making a statement. They would use the full resources of the United States Military to defend our soldiers and especially members of our future Brain Trust.
Our Captains worked hand in hand with our Alpha Zulu Soldiers and the Army Corps of Engineers repairing the damage done at the Castle and installing a new barricade at the main entrance. When the work was finally completed the Generals contacted us and ask us to join them at the Castle and give the Captains their commissioning oaths as full Colonels in the United States Army. Then we could announce the retirement of Generals DeSoto and Martinez.
The soldiers stationed at the Castle had bonded quickly with our new Captains as they worked hand in hand repairing the damage to their "home". The men stationed at the Castle were sad to learn of their Generals retiring but were ecstatic to learn their new Captains were to be Colonels and heading this "Band of Brothers" stationed at the Castle.
This incident gave our HR Dream Team a breather and lessened the stress of having to immediately find replacements for Abe and me. They knew we'd never step down and leave Alpha Zulu in a time of need. They were so correct.
But, now we were back to normal operations and both Abe and I commented to our HR Dream Team to get their collective asses in gear and find our replacements. "You can't retire so get with the program!" DISCONNECT! (Abe and I were learning bad habits from SecDef and POTUS.)
Finally, after a long and exhaustive search of over 50,000 applications from soldiers requesting posting to Alpha Zulu and doing countless Boolean searches of the entire military personal data base our Dream Team announced they have found candidates to replace us. How do you want them to proceed.
Three officers and two non-commissioned officers were selected for us to interview. "Cut their transfer orders and billet them at the Washington Marriott." We'll interview them at the Worthington Executive Offices and see how they cope with the shock and awe and the new surroundings definitely will enhance anything we have done previously.
As our five candidates arrived at the Marriott, the manager warmly welcomed them and escorted each to a separate room. Advising them to feel free to order from room service or enjoy our dining room and put the charges on your room. "You are the guests of Worthington Industries and anything I can do to make your stay enjoyable I am available 24 hours a day."
Our HR Dream Team assured us every indicator of each man lead them to believe he was GAY. But, as you well know, it isn't any career enhancement to announce to the military one is gay so I'm know they are flying under the radar. We both were shocked that our HR Dream Team nominated Colonel Enapay Perez as a candidate to replace us.
Talk about a "Review Board"... Luke, John, T&T, SecDef, Abe and Me. Intimidating was an understatement. SecDef never flinched when the first question out of John's mouth was to ask each man his sexual preference. Not only did we want to know the answer to the question but how he answered it was even of more importance.
After five days of interviewing candidates, the seven of us were in agreement recommending two individuals to POTUS as our replacements. One Colonel and one Command Master Sergeant. These two men were in for the shock of their lives as a Colonel knocked on their door at the Marriott and advised each of the men we selected, they were to report to the White House and the Oval office.
POTUS was about to see how they reacted to stress and he wanted to know the real man not just the military faηade they presented each day to the Army. For each man to have a two hour interview with POTUS was unheard of with the demands upon POTUS each day. Finally, after a week of contemplation, POTUS video conferenced with us and approved our selection.
Get these two men to our friendly tailor and get them fitted for their Dress Alpha Zulu uniforms. Join me at the White House on Friday morning and we'll announce to the sharks your retirement and introduce your replacement. Encourage the Worthingtons to join you. They are an integral part of Alpha Zulu even if they are civilians.
As the Worthington remained in the Oval Office and watched on closed circuit TV, POTUS asked our two candidates and us Generals to join him with the White House "sharks". Sticking his head in the Press Room he asked the Press Secretary if he could have a few moments with the press.
"Ladies and Gentlemen, the President of the United States"! (Having no idea of what was now going to happen.) POTUS announced with regrets he was accepting the requests of Generals of the Armies of the United States to be placed on inactive states. These men have too much knowledge and experience to totally leave the military and I will only accept their request if they agree to permanent teaching positions at West Point. (How does one say NO to POTUS in front of reporters representing media from around the world.) Damn, POTUS is one sly S.O.B.
POTUS continued... It is my extreme pleasure to Nominate Colonel Enapay Perez and Command Master Sergeant Sebastian Guerrero to the rank of Six Star General of the Armies of the United States of America and Ambassadors at Large for the President of the United States. The look of shock on the faces of both men matched the one on us learning of our posting to West Point.
The Press Room erupted in questions and the White House Press were living up to their reputation of being "SHARKS"! After facing off the Sharks for over two hours of questioning, the Press Secretary concluded the interviews and we all retreated to the Oval Office.
Our two new Generals collapsed in shock at what had just happened. Abe and I turned to POTUS and only commented: "West Point"? POTUS only commented this nation needs your knowledge and experience. Enjoy your senior years in relaxed comfort and security contributing to the young men who will be the future leaders of the Army.
Turning to our two new Generals, POTUS apologized for the shock they just received but there is no easy way to find out you are receiving the highest rank in the United States Military.
There has been exhaustive research done on each of you and there is no doubt as to both your ability and willingness to serve our country. You will be billeted in T&T's Penthouse at the Marriott and we'll have people briefing you before you face the Senate committee which has to approve your appointments. Plus, you'll need to be fitted for your Mess Dress and Ambassador Uniform. Our political party controls both houses of Congress, so your confirmation is a given. But, expect the minority members of the committee to pick you two apart. Just be yourselves and answer truthfully and from your heart.
As Abe and I returned to Fort Connor to face our men and confirm our retirement. We acknowledged we would miss each and every one of them and had selected two fantastic officers to replace us. Have the same faith and give them the same respect you have given us all these years. Alpha Zulu is more than any one person whether it be a private or a General. We all are dedicated to protect every imp in our charge and to serve our great Nation.
The endless number of Presidential and cabinet advisors prepped our Six Star nominees and the Briefing books were piled high in T&T's Great Room. Our two new Generals had little time to sleep as they were constantly studying all the material presented to them. They were preparing themselves for a worse case scenario with the Senate committee and if by chance it was a pleasant experience... at least they were prepared.
The day of the Senate confirmation hearing arrived and both men would have been terrified if they had known it was not only being carried live by 95% of the media in the United States but also by the international media and televised on the Web so it could be viewed by the entire world.
As the committee was gaveled into order, the Chairman asked if the nominees had an opening statement. As both men addressed the committee, they freely admitted they had no idea why POTUS nominated them for this high office. Both of us had dedicated our lives years ago to the United States Army and to protect our great nation. We pledge our lives and sacred honor to fulfill our destiny as ordained by God. Senators, we will answer any questions honestly and to the best of our ability. Only God knows what has been ordained for us.
After a two hour committee session in the morning and a four hour session in the afternoon, the Chairman gaveled the question and the majority of the committee (down party lines) approved the nominations to the full floor of the Senate.
As we all sat in the Penthouse Great Room the next morning watching the Roll Call Vote of the Senate to Confirm the two new Generals. We weren't surprised the vote went down party lines and approved by the majority of the voting Senators.
Almost immediately, the Penthouse phone rang and T&T announced the White House Operator for our two new Generals of the Armies of the United States. POTUS congratulated them and asked them to be at the White House at 0900 hours on Monday to take their Oath of Office from the Chief Justice of the United States.
The Worthington were all smiles as they continually congratulated our two new "Generals". As Luke and John retrieved two beautiful mahogany cases which Abe and I knew contained their new dress sabers and even we were appalled at the beauty of the gifts. Our sabers were indeed spectacular but technology in new construction allowed for more detail and personalization. These were unique and beautiful items I knew our new Generals would cherish forever.
Abe and I joined POTUS, the Vice President, SecDef, and the Joint Chiefs as the Chief Justice of the United States gave each man his Commissioning Oath as a General of the Armies of the United States in the East Room of the White House. Between the Press, Power Brokers, Politicians and foreign ambassadors the Secret Service had to be in "melt down" over the number of people invading the White House.
Abe and I retreated to the Penthouse to join the Worthingtons. After we escorted our new Generals to Fort Connor and the Change of Command ceremony we would be relocating to our retirement at West Point. T&T assured us if we didn't visit often we would be getting a Presidential Directive to get our asses back to Washington. Don't ever forget you have been our friends first and foremost and you always will be.
Our new Generals were exhausted after a night of socializing with the rich and powerful of Washington and starting to understand the nuisances of meeting the diplomats from around the world. Our new Generals quickly learned the value of the Penthouse as a sanctuary from the media who were ever after them for a comment.
They would find as we did the Penthouse and Camp Phoenix were truly sanctuaries and the Worthingtons the best friends anyone could have in life.
Before we four Generals relocated to Fort Connor, Luke and John wanted to give our new Generals a complete tour of the Worthington Executive Offices, the Worthington Foundation and the new Worthington Research and Development facilities. They would soon learn how invaluable Yuuto was in helping them when Alpha Zulu needed assistance.
The Generals were astonished at the facilities and at how quickly it rose from destruction. One man was given the credit and that is Yuuto. Yuuto is invaluable to the security of our country and truly is a national treasure.
The Generals spent the next sixty days mirroring Abe and me and day by day we turned over more control of Fort Connor and Alpha Zulu to them as we felt comfortable they could deal with the responsibilities. We had no intention of dumping our responsibilities in their lap and taking the first jet off base. Yes, we would miss our flying billboard, but we would find flying first class damn comfortable and with few people shooting at us.
The only objection ever expressed to us by our replacements is that Doc gives one mean shot. We needed to send him back to school. (Oh, how both Abe and I could relate!)
The day finally arrived that Abe and I passed our command to the new Generals who we now considered our friends and colleagues. We assured them we were as close as their coms if we could ever be of assistance.
The men of Alpha Zulu threw a fantastic "going away party" for Abe and me and then lined the path to our airfield. Every man snapped to attention and saluted out of love and pride for the two of us. We would always be a family and Abe and I truly had a band of brothers.
As we boarded a Worthington Executive Jet we flew off to West Point and our destiny. Little did Abe and I realize what we had yet to accomplish for this country we loved.
TO BE CONTINUED...
Constructive comments are appreciated and welcomed
Email to: ibnMichigan@gmail.com