ALPHA ZULU 69 MEMOIRES

 

Chapter 086 – A Decision of Destiny

 

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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:

 

*Adam Mann: Four Star General, 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 Malinois: Master Sergeant, U.S. Army – Alpha Zulu 69 War Dog

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: Captain, Israel Defense Force (Mossad Kidon)

Beauty Malinois: Master Sergeant, U.S. Army – Alpha Zulu 69 War Dog

Billy Bob Vance: Staff Sergeant, 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 Williams: Staff Sergeant, U.S. Army – Alpha Zulu 69 (Deceased lover of Doug Meat)

Danny Henry: Four Star Brigadier U.S. Army (Base Commander Fort Connor)

Dillion Dwight: Colonel, 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: General (4 Star), U.S. Army – Protector of Dale Gordon Longdick-Allman

Frazer Sullivan: One Star Brigadier General, U.S. Army (Human Resources for Fort Connor Alpha Zulu 69)

*Gloria Worthington: aka "Mama Bear" Board Chair of Worthington Industries (a major multi-national defense contractor)

Gerald Isaac: Captain, U.S. Army – Security for Tommy Longdick-Allman

Hank Henry-Jones: Adopted Son of Bob Jones & Danny Henry

Hayao Kinugasa, Captain: U.S. Army (Aide to General Meat and General Goodman)

Jacob, David & Uri Leib: Wards of Luke & John Worthington (Israeli Nationals)

Jamie Bob Vance: Love of Aiden McIntyre

Jamison Miller: One Star Brigadier General, U.S. Army (Human Resources for Worthington Executive Security)

Jason Allman: Four Star General, U.S. Army – Base Commander of Fort Connor

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 Worthington: COO R&D of Worthington Industries

Juaquin "Jay" de Vázquez: Son of Manual de Vázquez

Juan Martinez: Major (2 star) General, U.S. Army – Security for Mario Garcia

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

Luke Worthington: CEO of Worthington Industries

*Magnus Savage: Colonel, U.S. Army – Alpha Zulu 69 Medical Trauma Surgon

Mark Roberts: Captain, U.S. Army – Security for Bobby Longdick-Allman

Manuel de Vázquez: Physicist/Engineer - Worthington Industries

Mario "Mani" Garcia: Son of the President of Mexico (Adopted son of Juan Martinez and Roger DeSoto)

*Mason Allen: Six Star General of the Armies, U.S. Army – Alpha Zulu 69

Matt Longdick: Four Star General, U.S. Army – Base Commander of Fort Connor

Maximillian (Max) Malinois: Master Sergeant, U.S. Army – Alpha Zulu 69 War Dog

Noah Meat-Goodman: Adopted Son of Doug Meat and Steven Goodman

Michael "Allen" Roberts: Adopted Son of Matt Longdick and Jason Allman

Oliver Winter: Colonel, U.S. Army – Adjutant for Generals LongDick and Allman

*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: Lieutentant General (3 Star), U.S. Army – Base Commander of Fort Connor

Rod LittleFeather: Staff Sergeant, U.S. Army – Alpha Zulu 69 War Dog Handler

Roger DeSoto: Major (2 star) General, U.S. Army – Security for Mario Garcia

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

Taylor and Tyler Worthington: (aka T&T) (Adopted sons of Logan Worthington and Alex Meat-Goodman)

Viktor Jannson: Colonel, U.S. Army – Adjutant for Generals LongDick and Allman

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)

 

*=Gone but not forgotten

 

 

Dale was devastated and his feelings at the moment was to resign the Presidency and retreat to Fort Connor to be with Duke and his family. As Dale was boarding Air Force One he was surprised and pleased to see his good friend the Chaplain relaxing and waiting for him. The Chaplain smiled at Dale and commented he was taking a shopping trip to Washington and decided to get some luxury transportation instead of using and Alpha Zulu Lear Jet. Dale was well aware of the devious nature of the Chaplain he loved and knew he would face a one on one heart to heart with the man he respected as much as his fathers.

 

"What troubles your soul, my son?"... The damn of emotions burst forth which Dale couldn't share with even his closest of friends in Washington. Dale had no problems putting his life on the line but to lose Duke would be a fate worse than death. The head of the security detail for POTUS advised the pilots to take the "long way" back to Washington. This was only going to be the start of the healing process and Dale needed to invite the Chaplain to stay at the White House for an extended visit with his old friend.

 

The Chaplain had barely settled into his private room in the 3rd floor residence of the White House when his com went off announcing he had a secure call from General Allman. "Chaplain, you are AWOL. I should have you court martialed for desertion except the men of Fort Connor would revolt on me." That was your official reprimand as your commanding General. As the father of the President, take whatever time you need and do what you do best. We all know if anyone can help Dale it is you. You have the prayers of every man at Fort Connor with you and if we can do anything you only need to ask.

 

Dale realized he needed help and considering his life was lived in a goldfish bowl and under the microscope of the White House Press having his good friend the Chaplain as a "guest" was the best option available. Over the next few weeks with the help of our beloved and trusted Chaplain Dale made a return to the loving son and partner we all knew existed. Finally, Dale was able to separate Dale the President from Dale the "Partner" and member of a loving family.

 

Duke was making a slow recovery under the care of a demanding taskmaster who would give no quarter. His word was law and he had 200 men who would enforce every dictum. The five stars on his shoulder were useless and even us six star generals confided in him RESISTANCE IS FUTILE!

 

Doc finally approached us and advised us as fathers that a visit from Dale might be appreciated. I didn't know a President could clear his schedule so fast and Marine One was on the White House lawn before we terminated the conversation. Shortly thereafter Air Force One was requesting permission to land and a smiling POTUS deplaned with a delinquent Chaplain who was welcomed as a returning hero.

 

A security detail escorted POTUS to medical to be with Duke and the Provost Marshall informed our errant Chaplain his presence was required in front of his Commanding Generals. As a security detail accompanied him to our residence Matt and I stood in front of our good friend and advised him he was guilty of desertion. You now can plead your case. He admitted he was guilty as charged and would accept whatever punishment we felt was adequate.

 

Matt and I smiled at each other and then announced our judgement. "You are required to pick up the popcorn and attend our family movie nights for the next month." Now, join us in some twenty year old single malt Scotch Whiskey so we can celebrate your accomplishments. Over some smooth single malt we extolled the virtues of how great his assistant Chaplain was. He is more than a pretty face and hot body. Our only recommendation is for you to tell your assistant and your aide to quit shacking up and commit to man and God. "With Pleasure Sirs!"

 

When Dale walked into Duke's room the love between them exploded. Everyone on base could feel it and we were so happy for the two men who were "family" to everyone on base. Dale quietly asked Duke if he could touch him without causing him pain. Duke's outstretched arms answered the question and ask their lips met the sounds of intimacy and passion ruled over any sounds of pain or discomfort.

 

Doc finally had to intercede with our lovers and admit "enough is enough". Turning to his "Command-in-Chief" he advised he would give Duke a 48 hours parole provided they both agreed to nothing physical. He didn't need all his work undone by a pair of out of controlled "teenage" lovers. I'll monitor Duke and if I even think you two are ignoring my guidelines Security will be returning him to Medical regardless of the time of day or night. AGREED? (Like they had any better option?)

 

The entire base erupted when Duke and Dale walked in to join them for lunch. They went to each squad and thanked them for being the wonderful family which they cherished. Duke quietly admitted he was exhausted as they reached the table and joined Matt and me. We enjoyed a quiet meal and then asked them to accompany us back to our quarters. "We understand Doc's guidelines and we hope you'll stay with us for the next 48 hours." Both men were in tears and they knew how much we still loved them as members of this unique family. We did a lot of talking and crying and Dale unloaded his heart sharing with us how the Chaplain had helped him though this recent trauma in his life. "Dads, I'm asking you to talk with Logan and have the man nominated for the Presidential Medal of Freedom. I guarantee you it will be approved. I'd give him the Medal of Honor if it was possible but we have to be realistic." "CONSIDER IT DONE!"

 

Matt and I sent the young one off to bed and adjourned to our bedroom, closed the door and set the lock. I trusted my son to follow Doc's guidelines and they needed time to talk as partners in love and decide upon their future. All too soon Dale would need to decide whether to run in his own right for the Presidency. He wouldn't do it without Duke at his side. We knew Duke was the "crutch" what gave Dale the strength to face each day. We loved the man as our own son and would do everything to support whatever decision they made.

 

The forty eight hour parole ended all too soon and Dale kissed Duke goodby as he returned to the tender loving care of our medical taskmaster. We walked Dale across base and hugged and kissed an embarrassed "President" as he boarded Air Force One and returned to the constant battles he faced in Washington. Within a few weeks he knew Duke would be at his side and the love they would share he knew would be for eternity.

 

Dale was surprised when he look at his appointment calendar one morning and saw an unscheduled meeting with both Luke and Logan Worthington. (What are those two up to this time?) As Logan brought up a 3D presentation on the conference room big screen Dale was in awe at the proposed "Museum" to the men and Generals of Alpha Zulu. The money for the construction had already been pledged and there would also be a public campaign to help the public feel they were also part of this project. "What do you need from me?" Besides you, Duke and your fathers at the dedication we need the speech of the century from your lips. We know you can motivate the nation and truly dedicate this to the men of Alpha Zulu. Dale had received many high honors in his life but this was an honor which made him feel so unworthy yet demanded he excel to meet the challenge. Give him the dedication date and he would assure the attendance of his fathers!

 

Matt and I knew something was up when Luke and Logan deplaned DOD1 and requested permission to meet with us after they talked with Duke. They both assured Doc that they would do nothing to stress Duke but he needed to know what they were doing. Within the hour everyone at Fort Connor would know the plans of these two former imps. Duke praised the two men and would only encourage his partner and help him to meet his part of this dedication.

 

We two Generals of the Armies were demonstrative not wanting this much attention about our lives and commitment to Alpha Zulu. "Your Commander-in-Chief will demand your attendance so RESISTANCE IS FUTILE!"

 

Congress unanimously voted the funding to maintain the memorial when it was turned over to the government after construction. The project was a GO and now Logan was in CEO mode to make this project a reality. Ahead of schedule and under budget was a new first for any project for any government agency. Luke was indeed proud of Logan. I thought back to the day Logan ended up bare assed over Luke's knees with behavior modification liberally applied. Logan had truly matured into a man not only of business but of dedication to his fellow man. The men of Alpha Zulu always gave him a warm welcome as their friend whenever he was at Fort Connor. He glowed at their praise knowing it came from their heart.

 

The dedication ceremony was attended by every leader of the free world and even China and Russia. The Prime Minister of Israel attended and Ari headed his security detail. We all knew what Alpha Zulu contributed to world peace even if it couldn't be told publically. Looking over the dignitaries assembled it was a sea of world leaders and members of the ambassadorial community in Washington. Government security agencies were having a meltdown and I was glad I wasn't the ringmaster of this circus. Matt and I were happy to be the window dressing for Dale and Duke. These damn gaudy uniforms brought us too much attention. When we were questioned we only praised the accomplishments and greatness of the men who proceeded us. Matt and I had been forced to learn the politics of Washington and today wasn't the day for a "Foot in Mouth" FUBAR!

 

The Secret Service wasn't breathing easy until Dale and Duke were back in the White House "bubble" and Worthington Executive Security felt the same way about the Worthingtons and our Family reaching the Penthouse. The day was physically exhausting and getting out of these uniforms was our first priority. The boys didn't need instructions to explode from their Suit and Tie requirement for public appearance. They relaxed with a massive battle of video games with the Penthouse super high speed internet giving them a distinct advantage over their opponents.

 

We adults relaxed in the common area consuming far too much "Nectar of the Gods" not to mention facing the "Anvil Chorus" for those of us who elected to relax with Pa Vance's Elixir (Moonshine). The fantastic Marriott Prime Rib was catered in the Penthouse and an ample supply of hamburgers for the junior members of the clan who had yet to appreciate a delicious five star meal.

 

The next morning as we attempted to relax in the quiet and solace of the Penthouse our children had no mercy on us as they came screaming into our arms and covered us with hugs and kisses. Matt and I could only look at each other and accept the results of our actions the previous evening. We both knew the men applying the mallets to our brains would eventually grant us parole so time to enjoy our children and suffer in silence.

 

Without warning our coms issued a screaming alert notifying us of an urgent message. "Dads, would you join me in the White House immediately. Please and thank you." Now what fire did we need to put out that had Dale in Presidential ass kicking mode? We would find out shortly and I hoped we could meet the expectation of our son.

 

As Matt and I were immediately escorted into the Situation Room we saw the destruction obviously sustained by the "Castle". Juan's request for two suburban armored vans equipped with concealed Mini Guns saved every ones asses. We had a few injuries but at current count over 50 hostiles had been neutralized with extreme prejudice. We need you two Generals on site to support our Colonels and manage the press who want an exclusive to this "blood bath". The local police are totally bent out of shape not to mention a few "concerned neighbor groups". Dale's closing comment was to men hoping I had been paying attention to Matt and his advice as to dealing with the media and public. I need you two to put out the fire not to pour gas on it. Understood? "We serve at the pleasure of the President!"

 

A Marine helicopter was on the lawn of the White House to ferry us to Andrews. I was shocked to see our behemoth fueled and waiting for us to board. Dale wanted to impress the media with our arrival and our concern as to the recent events. (Why did I know our damn dress uniforms were already on board?)

 

Little did we know Military Transport had our Beast in the air before we ever reached the White House. It would be waiting for us when we landed in Boston. We made it from our behemoth to our Beast with a minimum of attention but the police escort to the Castle left no doubt as to who was in town.

 

Matt and I had to gather all the intelligence available before we faced the press. We knew we faced a hostile environment and I knew I had to be a proud father of a wonderful son in addition to a General of the Armies. I scheduled a press briefing at 1300 hours the next day giving the media enough time to make the evening news. I spent an hour outlining the incursion and the appropriate action taking by the commanders of the Castle. Any person in the United States has the right to defend their home if attacked by an armed intruder. These people attacked a secure residential facility and deaths resulted. The training and professionalism of our Alpha Zulu men resulted in no collateral deaths. I praise their actions and will be making recommendations to the President for appropriate recognition.

 

I continued to emphasize the Castle was a secure family residence to protect family members of individuals who we felt were necessary to the security of the United States. Our role is to protect these young people and allow them the best education they can receive. We will respond to any hostile act but we won't initiate any. Our rules of engagement are clear... make a hostile act against anyone we protect and our role is to neutralize the aggressor with extreme prejudice.

 

Finally, three hours later the media circus ended so they could make their news deadlines. I finally got out of these damn uniforms into normal wear and went to have a long personal chat with Juan and Roger. In no way did anyone question what you did in fact I've only heard praise from anyone in Washington and the Pentagon as to your actions. This "dog and pony" show was meant to show the total support of the White House and the Pentagon as to your actions. Don't be surprised if you don't get called to Washington to be presented with a Star on your shoulders. Congress won't tolerate domestic terrorism and that is exactly what you faced.

 

Luke concurred with our assessment as to the actions of Juan and Roger. Within a month they were invited to the White House and in front of the White House Press Dale lauded their accomplishment in the Boston terrorism attack. He was proud to introduce the two newest members of the General Staff of the United States Army. Brigadier General Juan Martinez and Brigadier General Roger DeSoto. The White House "Sharks" were out for blood and rating. Juan and Roger handled them like pros. Finally, POTUS closed the news conference and we all retired to the Oval Office.

 

Offering us an ample support of the Nectars of the Gods (Yes, Dale had inherited one of our bad habits) he asked if they were ready to take their oath of office. I gladly administered their oath of office and was never prouder of two men as I was of these two fine men who I considered as part of our family. They thanked everyone for their support and for their "stars" but they wanted to return to Boston and their command. They were indeed loyal to their men and I insisted they make time to visit Fort Connor soon in their schedule. "Failure will be consider insubordination!"

 

The intelligence agencies were given an immediate directive to find out who or what was backing such a massive incursion on United States soil. Dale wanted answers and he wanted the answers YESTERDAY! Dale would nationalize the National Guard if he heard of a proposed attack on Harvard. The final death toll of the incursion reached seventy five individuals and to the shock of everyone in the intelligence community they were all well educated star students from school though out the country. What could bring such star students from across the country and train them to be domestic terrorists. Juan and Roger were going to earn those stars and I hoped it didn't cost the lives of our dedicated members of Alpha Zulu.

 

In a private TOP SECRET briefing Luke showed us proof that every person had a picture of Mani's lover with comments written on the back that gay men in athletics was an offense against God. We now knew WHY we just didn't know WHO! Juan and Roger had the fun of telling two lovers they now had door to door security protection and if they objected POTUS would sign an Executive Order putting both of you in protective custody at Fort Connor. As we all know: RESISTANCE IS FUTILE!

 

By the end of the day Mani's lover had been fitted for his now mandatory wrist com and Doc would be landing in the morning to chip him with little explanation. Mani held him and asked his lover to trust these people. They have protected us with their lives and ask so little in return. Besides, you have a sexy ass and I don't mind sharing it with our good friend just so you spend the night in bed with me and only me. Even with a sore hip Mani got his ass destroyed that night and both men had ear to ear smiles at breakfast.

 

Matt and I finally returned to Fort Connor and it felt so wonderful to actually sleep in our own bed. Even with a nearly full grown teenager it was wonderful to have Bobby wrap his arms around his fathers and smother us with hugs and kisses. How, I hope he never grows up and feels too old to hug and kiss his old man. Just as Matt and I were exiting breakfast our coms sounded off and announced we had a secure call from SecDef. (At least Luke let us finish our meal.) Your adjutants have your go bags in your jet and I'll meet you at the White House. God Speed!

 

Talk about a security briefing... the one common dominator which became evident with every terrorist was donating all their assets to an ultra-conservative national religious organization. Their doctrine preached against homosexuality and all deviant behavior (their words, not mine). The organization had established a training camp in a South American country with tenuous diplomatic relations with the United States. Special Forces would be attacking this compound at dawn and hopefully salvaging enough proof to be able to indict the religious leaders on domestic terrorism charges and close down the church operations across state lines. We are walking on a tightrope with the potential of violating first amendments rights. I will be meeting with the Attorney General and the entire Supreme Court asking for their expiate opinion of our proposed actions. I have no wish to curtail religion in America but domestic terrorism under the guise of religion cannot and will not be tolerated.

 

We sat in the Situation Room watching a live feed of the attack on the training base. It was done with overwhelming power and what resistance was quickly neutralized. To every ones shock documents abounded connecting the homophobic church with the terrorist. We panicked when the intelligence staff attached to the army group announced in horror a major incursion of approximately 150 well armed and trained men would happen at 0700 hours local time TODAY!

 

General Martinez was quickly advised of the pending attack and started to take appropriate action. The arrival of a division of Army Special Forces neutralized any resistance or attempted to take as many prisoners as possible. If the terrorists were lucky they were captured by the Army Special Forces and faced long federal jail terms. Alpha Zulu security functioned under a kill order for any hostile acts.

 

The Governor and Mayor were livid and frankly Congress backed the action of the White House and the Pentagon. The Governor asked for an immediate hearing in front of the Supreme Court which heard the case and ruled that National Security (which was so obvious in this case) ruled over States Rights.

 

The Castle was now respected as a KILL ZONE and Alpha Zulu became window dressing to many of the brain trust students who would be so essential to the future security of the United States. Juan and Roger received their second star soon after all the dust settled. The media circus centered around the trial of the religious leaders and the long term federal jail sentences they received. Club Fed wasn't an option and they served hard time. A warning went through the entire religious community. The United States had freedom of religions... Freedom for everyone! Violate a person's individual rights and you will answer for your actions. Dale learned from what we his fathers taught him years ago: Actions have reprucussions!

 

Our "little boy" Bobby was growing into a fine young man and it was no surprise when he came to Matt and me and announced he was in love with Mark. Why should that surprise us, he was his constant companion and bound at the hip 24/7/365. We asked Bobby if he had told Mark how he felt. Bobby was terrified that Mark would reject him and I told him to let me work on the problem.

 

It was now time for POTUS to pay back a few favors. He needed to invite his little brother to the White House and have a long "big brother" chat with Mark about his intentions with his "little brother". As Duke settled the pair in the Lincoln Bedroom Mark was invited to the Oval Office and Duke slipped Bobby a small box and asked him to wait in the Rose Garden.

 

To say Mark was quaking in his boots as he rose to attention as his Commander-in-Chief entered the room would have been an understatement to the max. At ease, be comfortable because we have much to discuss. Dale was blunt and to the point. Everyone at Fort Connor knows that you and Bobby have a fantastic sex life. But, I want to know as his brother what are your intentions. Is Bobby just a way to get your rocks off or do you really care about him?

 

After the shock of the question registered he looked at the determined look on the face of Dale and Duke and knew he had no choice but to answer truthfully. "Even if it means a court-martial and being kicked out of the Army I'm in love with that wonderful man!" Dale and Duke looked at Mark and only expounded: "You have a hell of a way showing it to that wonderful boy!" Get your ass out of here and you'll find Bobby in the Rose Garden. Either tell him how you feel or resign your commission.

 

Mark felt like he was walking to his death and being rejected by Bobby was a fate worse than death. He would gladly take a bullet for Bobby but being rejected by him was always in the back of his mind. Mark was always concerned Bobby would find someone better to love and he would only be his protector. Mark only wanted the best for Bobby even if it meant losing him. The moment of truth was NOW and he had to face his demons and admit his love to this wonderful boy.

 

Mark wrapped his arms around Bobby as the tears streamed down his face. What did Dale say to you? I won't stand for him making the man I love cry! (Love, did he say LOVE?) Between sobs and tears Mark confessed his love for Bobby and asked him to be his partner for life. However long we are allowed to walk upon this earth I want every day to be with you. Bobby reached in his pocket and pulled out the small box Duke had given him. Inside he found two simple gold bands. Mark and Bobby walked hand in hand back to the Lincoln Bedroom and consummate their commitment to each other for this life and the next.

 

Dale looked at Duke and commented "Mission objections have been successfully completed". He then look at his schedule and commented he had 35 minutes before his next meeting. Both men made a quick exit to their third floor residence and consummated their commitment to each other in this life and the next. Love abounded in the White House.

 

At dinner that evening Duke suggested they video conference with Fort Connor before Mark ended up in the stockade and Bobby ended up with a week of garbage pail duty. The Fort Connor Grapevine had already announced the pending nuptials and their 200+ Brothers-In-Arms were ecstatic at the news. As Mark quietly apologized for not asking the approval of his commanding officer first we told him we had been advised by our COMMANDING OFFICER the nuptials had been approved at the highest level of government. Now all you have to do is pass the premarital counseling of the Chaplain and he isn't an easy pushover. I expect both of you back at Fort Connor as soon as you can drag yourself away from the Lincoln Bedroom.

 

As Mark and Bobby exited the White House the next morning Mark turned to Dale and Duke and gave them a sharp snappy salute with his heartfelt thanks. Dale informed him that isn't how we do it is this family as he and Duke wrapped their arms around the committed couple. Welcome to our family!

 

Why wasn't anyone surprised when as they separated from Dale and Duke their smartphones went off and an appointment for 1500 hours today was scheduled for their first session of premarital counseling. Damn, four star generals even if they are Chaplains still have plenty of pull. RESISTANCE IS FUTILE! Live with it!

 

Just when I thought life was getting dull, boring and easy I should have someone shoot me in the foot to remind me my life will never been dull and boring so long as I have these damn six stars on my shoulder. My wrist com went off advising I had a secure video call from Logan. Connect it to my office.

 

Joining Logan on the Video Com in my office he told me he needed my assistance. Only Matt and I could solve this problem and the life and future of a beautiful young man will depend upon the two of you. Damn, Logan is playing hard ball... he definitely is learning his negotiating tactics from Luke.

 

OK, Spit it out... what do you need from the two of us. Two of Logan's close friends were killed in a head on traffic accident last night. Both the father and the mother were killed outright and their son is currently fighting for his life in the ICU. His parents made me his guardian if anything should happen to them and I'm asking the two of you to help me. I know nothing of being a parent and he needs the love and experience of the two of you. As soon as he is out of the ICU and can rationalize what is happen I want the two of you to join me so we can offer him the security of Fort Connor.

 

Send me a secure link to his information and I'll ask Doc to review his medical treatment. Give us till tomorrow and we'll give you an answer. Like you, we only want the best for this young man.

 

Matt was in tears and told me we had to try and help this young man. We asked Doc to join us after dinner and give us his impression as to the injuries he received and what he would face medically. Doc was blunt and honest that even wearing seat belts and having multiple air bags his body received traumatic injuries. He faced a few serious surgeries to repair some fractures and his estimate was 4-6 weeks in the hospital before we can transport him to Fort Connor and start a rehab program.

 

When we asked him if he was up to the challenge... Doc only gave us his stern look and commented he couldn't refuse this young man more than you two can. So, get on the com and tell Logan we are 100% committed to this young man.

 

Matt and I decided to pull in one of our many favors from POTUS. Conferencing with Dale we asked if he had any available time Saturday morning. He could have time available at 1000 hours, what did we need. Dale and Duke were in tears and assured us he'd have Luke and Logan in tow when he arrived. Plan on staying with Duke and me Saturday night and we all can work out a plan to help our new "puppy".

 

Luke and Logan broke the news about the death of his parents on Friday night and when we arrived on Saturday morning it was all too apparent he had spent most of the night crying. He retreated into himself when Luke and Logan walked in and then in shock when we two joined him. I introduced ourselves and then introduced our son and his partner. "Mr. President, Why, How..." Dale held his hand and talked to him as a friend. First, we want you to heal both your body and your mind. Second, we want you to be part of our family. Third, the Generals you see here are my dads. They have raised a fantastic family and you'll never find better people as your new parents.

 

We all know you are going to be in the hospital for some time so here is a secure laptop which will put you in direct contact with Luke, Logan, Duke, me or the Generals when you need someone to lift your spirits or just be a friend. We will visit as much as possible and you will never be alone.

 

Our new "son" was again in tears but this time tears of happiness. We all knew we'd have a long road but the men of Alpha Zulu had traveled it before and we knew they would all rally to help this young man. Matt and I had a restless night in the Lincoln Bedroom and talked frankly with Duke and Dale questioning if we were the best choice to help this young man.

 

Duke asked for permission to speak freely? (After all, we still were his commanding officers.) GRANTED! "You two are the best parents I have ever known in my life. The peers I had growing up would have done anything to have parents the likes of you two. You have given your lives to serve this great country and still raised a fantastic family. The world will never know all that you have done. No one could do they job you have already accomplished in your life. No one can help this young man better than you. Now does your son need to kick you in the ass to get you motivated?" NO SIR! (Damn, Duke has learned Dales negotiating tactics and bad habits.)

 

Matt and I returned to the hospital the next day and as we held the hand of our new charge we attempted to assure him our only motivation was to help him to become the best person possible. We were shocked that he had spent the night surfing the web and reading all he could about us and Alpha Zulu. We weren't shocked when he asked if we were gay? YUP! We are two happily married gay men. We weren't shocked when his next comment was he had no idea if he was gay, bi or straight. We assured him as we had all our sons we only wanted the best life possible for him and that he acted as a responsible sexual adult when the time came.

 

Alpha Zulu is all gay men? Yes, 200+ strong who will protect you with their lives. No man will accost you or attempt to seduce you. This has never happened in the history of Alpha Zulu and that is something no heterosexual military base can claim. If anyone tried, I have a 70 pound war dog that will have his balls for an appetizer before I ship him off for a long term at Leavenworth.

 

There are only two inviolate rules at Fort Connor. RESPECT for everyone and NEVER touch anything that can go boom. Break one of these rules and you'll find your naked body over my knees and behavior modification painfully applied to your bare ass. (At least I know the kid can smile.) The comment never fazed him.

 

We video conference with him every day and some days two or three times if he was really down. When we visited Washington we never failed to visit him in the hospital. He kept us well appraised on everything they were doing medically and he had no idea our ever present Doc keep us current from his medical cohorts.

 

The day finally arrived when a smiling young face appeared on my video screen and he announced the doctors were kicking him out tomorrow. If you are really serious about me living with you at Fort Connor I'll be discharged by 1500 hours. IF? You little imp, remarks like that would get your ass swatted if you were 100% healthy. Doc ordered a Wheelchair Transport for our guest from the hospital to Andrews and he was met by a demanding taskmaster with a wheelchair when he deplaned. I whispered to our guest that any argument was futile. He rules with total impunity. We all have to accept it and live with it, even we generals. You couldn't ask for a better medical person on your side.

 

When we visited our new guest in Medical he was still rubbing his hip and commented that Doctor gives a mean shot. Sorry, we should have warned you. I've been meaning to send him back to school to take a refresher course. That brought a hearty laugh from our guest which grabbed his ribs in pain.

 

Doc walked in and ordered quit laughing. He turned to us and told us our visiting time was over. You two know where the door is, USE IT!

 

Matt and I walked hand in hand to our quarters knowing we had accepted a challenge which would make Mason Allen proud. Helping this young man to have the best future possible. We two generals now had a new son for the rest of our lives: Michael Allen Roberts... our new teenage son.

 

 

 

TO BE CONTINUED...

 

Constructive comments are appreciated and welcomed

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