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| Aquila History; Book 2 | |
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| Topic Started: Jan 20 2007, 12:34 (2,459 Views) | |
| Blue 02 | Jan 20 2007, 12:34 Post #1 |
Wing X.O.
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I decided that the new year would start with a new book. The previous book will be edited to complete that year. Edit: Changed the way I do names. Edit: changed again... this time to call signs just for my fuzzy fighter... :lol: Don't ask anymore cuz it's DONE!! ^_^ Book 2 Chapter 1 Eagle Nest Air Base Ravnena, Yuktobania -by Firegal The Blue’s poker game was set to be played at MAJ Chamberlain's place off base. She was working the over night for New Year’s Eve. The game was scheduled for New Year’s; from afternoon into the evening. She also had a small thing planned at Blue to ring in the New Year should any of the guys want to have a place to hang out. If the evening was as quiet and the previous holiday was, it would be dead. Doing three shifts with limited staff was going to be extremely boring. New Year’s Eve was looking uneventful when Firegal headed in. At about 10:30, a couple of the new guys came by to sit and chat. There was plenty of stuff to much on. Firegal goes a little crazy at the end of the year, making all kinds of food and desserts from recipes handed down in her family and close friends. It’s the only time of year she bothers to take time and do baking. As midnight rolled around, a group had gathered at the rec center. FMAJ Glassman had even dropped in to say happy New Year. He was on his way back from visiting a friend and decided to stop in. He had planned to spend the whole evening with her but she had something come up and had to leave. There was a pretty good party going, though it was small. Firegal, LT Sanchez and an NG, WO Rogozinski were on for the night. Firegal and Enzo were telling stories to Sonic about “the old days” when they were in Eagles and the last year as Blues. “… And the funniest part had to be when Maestro had that heart attack when we painted the planes and there was damage to 13’s plane. Remember that Enzo?” they laughed. “Well, as I recall, you were pretty freaked out too. I think you made up some new words.” “Oh, how about that time that Maestro stuffed that bike in the plane when he brought that woman back with him from flight school. I-yi-yi!” she shook her head. “You should have heard what he said about you and that last guy… Art something-or-other…” “Hey, wait… what did he say about that?” She said with a look of curiousity. “Oh, did I say that out loud?” Enzo said. Then, to change the subject he said, “Sonic, you missed out on some really fun times. But, lucky for you, we have many more to come!” As midnight rolled around, both the champagne and the sparkling cider came out for a toast. Firegal just happened to be standing next to Warlord when the countdown hit midnight and everyone shouted “Happy New Year!” She turned to him, reached up and planted a kiss. “Happy New Year” she said with a smile. “I hope this upcoming year brings you everything you wish for.” “I hope so, I guess we’ll see.” He tapped his glass on hers, “And here’s wishing you good health and happiness for the New Year.” With his position in the wing, he had inside information on who was getting what in the next year. He happened to know that many good things would be coming her way if she wanted them. There was a time when Warlord and Firegal were inseparable. They would tell each other everything. That was before he moved up to wing. Since then, their friendship cooled off. Even though it had changed and they had moved on, there was still something between them that would always be there. It left awkwardness at times. MGEN Wolff looked over in their direction. He had been pleased with the way things were going between the two since the time in October when he spoke with them. He was sure any issues between them would subside, they would finally settle down and take the positions he had planned for them. Things were questionable when they first arrived. He felt he was always in the middle mediating. He took drastic measures the last time he got involved. Since then if there had been any problems, they seem to have been able to work things out. He preferred the way things were now and was glad they had separated. As much as people are allowed to have personal lives, it is not easy to keep it out of Aquila when they get close. They were better off this way, he was sure. Warlord was easy to keep occupied. Firegal, however, seemed to be hesitant about the changes. Thirteen had gone to the extent of reading a book on women to help him with this one. He or Warlord could run this place alone and no doubt things would be simpler. But, it was much better with her around. He was not one to mention how he feels about people, and it was no different with her. He was impressed with her and all she had to offer. Now if he could just find a way to get her to follow the plan… |
  In memory of Yellow 12, you will be missed. "The purpose of life is to live it, to taste experience to the utmost, to reach out eagerly and without fear for newer and richer experience." - Eleanor Roosevelt | |
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| Blue 02 | Jan 20 2007, 16:47 Post #2 |
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Wing X.O.
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:lol: Wait until you get older, dude! Just wait.... :lol: Book 2 Chapter 1 – Part 2 -By Firegal In the early morning hours, well after everyone went home, the entire building was silent. So much so, Enzo could hear Sonic breathing while he read the latest trade magazine. The computer systems were down for system upgrades, so there really wasn’t much else to do. But, if they didn’t look busy, Firegal would surely set them onto tasks, most likely the least done-most disliked ones. So they kept themselves out from under her view. The silence was shattered suddenly, when a scramble alert went out. All three jumped from the shock of the sudden noise. After a second it registered what it was and three were off like a shot for the hanger and into their planes. “Is this for real?” Enzo asked. The evening was frosty, but their planes were prepped and ready to go. “I don’t know,” Firegal replied. “The intel was sketchy and it said it would be the last holiday and not this one.” “I just don’t want to spend the rest of the shift sitting on the tarmac” he said with a look of disgust. “Nothing sucks more than hours just sitting.” “Ah, then perhaps you would prefer some light housecleaning when we get back?” Firegal said with a chuckle. “I can see how that would be better, given this is the point of you being here!” The three quickly went through their checks while chatting. They headed out in haste only to be held on the runway. “See, damn! I knew this was gonna happen.” Sonic had been silent the whole time. To him, this was all new. He was still trying to remember everything that has to happen. He was glad to have some time for his brain to catch up. “Sonic, how’s it going? You all set there, bud?” Firegal asked. “Yes, Ma’am. All set!” Too bad he wasn’t as sure as he sounded. Their conversation was interrupted with the command to continue. They took off to the sky and headed for the vector they had been given. They didn’t get far before they were called back. “Argh!” Enzo moaned. “I hate these false alerts.” The tower informed them that even though they had been called back, the YAF had been dispatched and were continuing. “So, see! We still may see some action!” Firegal said. “I hate being second string for YAF. They always call and cancel.” “That is because Thirteen encourages them to get us started if they even think they may want us. I believe he still gets to charge them for our time if they cancel. Think of it as paying for your TV/magazine/gaming time you had tonight.” “Well, it’s been every shift I’ve had this week. At least this one we didn’t sit too long.” The rest of the shift was uneventful. After their shift, they headed out to get some sleep before meeting up for the NG poker game. Enzo couldn’t wait. He had a huge laundry pile that needed to be done. He was running out of clothes and socks. As they left the building, he looked over at Sonic and smiled. “What?” Sonic asked with a puzzled look. “What are you looking at me like that for?” How could Enzo explain that by the end of the evening, Sonic would be doing his laundry for him without scaring the kid away from playing the game? “No reason…” |
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In memory of Yellow 12, you will be missed. "The purpose of life is to live it, to taste experience to the utmost, to reach out eagerly and without fear for newer and richer experience." - Eleanor Roosevelt | |
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| Blue 02 | Jan 21 2007, 22:17 Post #3 |
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Wing X.O.
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At Djinn's request, I am changing the way I write people's names. Now that there are two James in the wing, I guess I have to go the more formal route. Might as well start it with book 2, no?
;) Chapter 1 – Part 3 -By Firegal The Blues gathered for the poker game. MAJ Colquitt decided to come by to play tonight too. There were 6 new guys… B05, B06, B15, B16, B42 and B95. Enzo explained the rules while Colquitt and Firegal got snacks and drinks out. The important part of this, of course, is the “currency” which is pieces of paper with chores on them. Those are used to bet with instead of money. It was a way to get around the Aquila rules about gambling and money. Firegal once explained, “If you take all the guy’s money, he just ends up borrowing it back anyway. There’s no point to it.” The team building began as Enzo dealt the cards. First with the story was Enzo. “So, there I was on this warm beach, white sand, clear water and girls in bikinis everywhere! I was like 'Hey there, babe',” he winked as he acted the scene out. “ 'I bet you can't guess what I do for a living'. So then she's like 'Oh, I dunno. Are you a model?'” Firegal burst out laughing and Enzo looked over at her annoyed. She looked at him. She cleared her throat and still smiling she said, “Oh, sorry... continue...” “So..” he said as continued. “I said 'Ya, I could be, but this is even better.'” He flashed his lady killing grin. “ 'I'm a pilot, you know.' And she was like, all over me. Man, it was great.” “And now, Sonic, you see why we call him the ladies man in the squadron. Keep an eye on your sister, because he surely has his eye on her” Firegal said. “And of course, you have probably already figured out that Maestro is the story man. He's always making up stories, poems and lyrics. He wrote the words to our squadron song.” As the game started up, the four “old timers”; Enzo, LT Jones, Firegal and Eagle all played the Heierlark version of the game. They let the new guys win some of their chores back, to keep the game interesting. These guys were not as skilled at the game as Maestro had been the first time he played with the former Eagles. They had never heard of this version. It was almost too easy. Everyone was asked to share a story about a mission they had been on that was something they would never forget. At first, Firegal was reluctant. She came up with the excuse of having too many to choose from. But, finally, she decided to share. “Well, I dunno if this is something you really want to hear. But, it was the one that made me decide to learn more than just first aid. It was way back in the beginning. I started as a tech in the reserves, but I really wanted to be a pilot. So I got into a training program. In those days, women were always wanted to make sure the AF wasn't accused of discriminating against females. So, if a girl wanted in, she usually got it.” She looked down at her cards in her hand and started arranging them. “I had a really sweet guy for a training partner. He was a bunch of fun, at the appropriate time, of course, as he was very professional. But, anyway, we made it through level one training at the top of our class. Things were working out great. There was a lot of interest in us as we entered the level 2 classes. Near the end of level 2, we got special assignments. Training stuff, you know, things that level threes might do.” She sighed and looked up from her cards. “There was a drill and we were asked to be on the enemy side. We were following a couple more experienced lead planes. Our part was to be a decoy for the defenders to focus on so our “kill team” could get them. It was one of the training points the classes were taught to watch out for and they wanted to see if they remembered.” Looking back down, she played her hand. “Anyway. We followed way behind, as were instructed. And, as expected, we were soon swarmed by a couple of F-15s. We did all the stuff we had been trained to do as the enemy. That is what made being 'the bad guy' a worthwhile deal. You learn to fly like they do, making you better at getting them when you go after them... but, I'm getting sidetracked” she said as she looked at the guys at the table. They could tell she was getting to a part she wasn't in a rush to tell. “So, we were going through the maneuvers when something happened. I still don't know to this day. But... we clipped the wing with one of the attackers maybe. It was this move where you cut back on thrust and turn hard 90 degrees and punch the engines to almost drive into their side. You do it nose up or nose down with the intention of crossing over or under. All I can think of is that he planned to go one way and went the other.” Our plane was severely damaged, we had to punch out. When we landed, I quickly unbuckled the chute and ran over to my partner, who was moving slow. As I helped him unbuckle, I noticed he was bleeding pretty bad. He had a huge cut that was bleeding like crazy. I knew in an instant this was going to be a problem. I radioed for help, but we were in the middle of a training field. It was going to take a while. I tried to remember what to do, but when I got a look at the injury, it freaked me out. I felt like I froze forever.” She paused and took a sip of her drink. “It was on his side and he could not see it clearly. He kept looking at me, asking me if it was bad. What was I gonna say? 'Ya, looks like you're gonna die.' I didn't know what to say. I've never seen anything like that in my life. When I got my wits about me, I started to try to come up with ways to stop the bleeding. Nothing was working. I began to curse myself for not paying closer attention to this in first aid class. I always expected that I would have my bag of stuff with me and be all prepared. But you know, it isn't ever that way.” When the hand was finished, she tossed the cards down and looked at everyone. “The long and the short of it was he died... he didn't make it back in time. Looking back I found there were things I could have done if I had my wits about me that might have saved his life. But, hindsight is 20/20, isn't it?” She cleared her throat and stood up. “I'm getting some more drinks, anyone want anything?” |
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In memory of Yellow 12, you will be missed. "The purpose of life is to live it, to taste experience to the utmost, to reach out eagerly and without fear for newer and richer experience." - Eleanor Roosevelt | |
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| Blue 02 | Jan 23 2007, 21:02 Post #4 |
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Wing X.O.
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Chapter 1 – Part 4 -By Firegal The next to deal gathered up the cards in silence. As Firegal returned to the table, Maestro spoke. “Well, that certainly was tough, I can see that would be something you wouldn’t forget.” “X.O. to know what it means to be strong, in my opinion, is to know what it is to stay with someone, holding their hand so they know they are not alone as they die. I tell myself that I must do it, because no one wants to be alone at the end and they are grateful for my presence. But, there is nothing in this world more sobering about just how insignificant you are in this world as the realization that death will come whether you like it or not. And you are not God, no matter how many classes you take, or drills you do or battles you command.” “When you do everything right, as you were taught, with all you have been given to do it with, with all the good intent in the world and it still is not enough… that is the time you go home and hug someone and tell them that you realize just what is important in the world.” She stopped and realized how much of a downer that whole speech had been. “I’m sorry guys. I just have stuff on my mind and it’s bringing me down, and I’m bringing you down. Someone tell a funny story, please! Gawd!” Sonic spoke next. “Well, not that this is a funny story but, I think I am going to win this next hand.” Firegal laughed out loud. “You have no idea how funny that is, NG.” “Well, I would like to hear Maestro tell the story of the motorcycle in the F-22. You guys didn’t really get into that last night” Sonic said. Firegal looked at Maestro with a raised eyebrow. Maestro cleared his throat. “Ah, ya, well that is a rather long one.” “Please, X.O. do tell.” He picked up his cards and began his tale. “It started out with a trip to Heierlark for Raptor school. I met an old friend there. We hadn’t seen each other in a while. Well, you know, it was around the time of my birthday and this girl knew what I would love to have. So, she gave me this Mastumushi VX-AX Vixen Concept bike. It was too nice to leave behind. I had to take it. The problem was how to get it back to Aquila.” The hand was taken by Sonic, who felt very sure his luck at the game had finally turned around. Maestro paused the story as he collected the cards. “I know that my luck has finally turned around” Sonic said. Firegal smiled “Maybe… are you sure you want to continue or would you rather stop with what you have?” “I’m in it all the way!” Sonic said. As Maestro shuffled the deck and dealt, he finished the story. “So, I have to admit, the idea of where to put this bike wasn’t all mine. Carly is rather… creative I guess is the word.” Firegal just rolled her eyes. “Ya, that’s a word I’d use to describe her…” Maestro looked at her and paused, then continued. “So, her creative idea was to find a spot to place it. It took my skill to actually figure how to turn it so it would fit without smashing around in there.” Firegal just raised her eyebrows at him with a look. Enzo cut in with a laugh “So, imagine the crew’s surprise when they opened the bay doors and found that in there!” Maestro smiled “Ya, they were a bit surprised.” “And it took some work on my part to keep if from 13. You have no idea the deals that one took.” “The best part about having you for a C.O.” Maestro said, “is that Thirteen will automatically assume you had a part, thus you do what you can to keep me out of trouble.” “An unfair advantage, X.O.” she gave him a sly smile. He certainly earned it with what he had to deal with from her. In reality, it was probably fair. The last hand was dealt and the Heierlark four had won what they wanted. Enzo was thrilled. No laundry duty for at least a month with so many new guys. “No fear, gentlemen, I will make out the work details and post it all tomorrow” Firegal said. “Tomorrow? Nah, I need some laundry done tonight” Enzo said. “Sonic, teammate, friend… how’s about I cash this one in tonight?” Sonic rolled his eyes. “I should have known…” As things wrapped up, Maestro asked Firegal “Are we going to teach the new guys the game?” She smiled “Hell no! Not until we have more new recruits.” |
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In memory of Yellow 12, you will be missed. "The purpose of life is to live it, to taste experience to the utmost, to reach out eagerly and without fear for newer and richer experience." - Eleanor Roosevelt | |
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| Blue 02 | Feb 6 2007, 23:55 Post #5 |
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Wing X.O.
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Chapter 1 – Part 5 -By Firegal Firegal requested some vacation time. After the story that came out at the poker game, she decided to take time away and deal with the issues that were bugging her. A bunch of things were beginning to converge, family illness, relationship troubles, Thirteen reminding her about Elite Ace, year end paperwork among other things She spent some time with family and then headed to visit a friend at another squadron. They talked often on the phone, so it was nice to have the chance to spend an evening together. The original plan was to spend a couple days visiting, but there was a change of availability for him. So Firegal decided she'd spend the next day shopping and head to her uncle's place for the rest of the time off. She decided to stop in to see him at work and say goodbye. She waited in the visitor area for him. But he didn't come. Instead, all hell broke loose. The unexpected work involved the Sins and Saints. By the time someone remembered she was waiting, the news of his capture was already known at X. What!?!” she exclaimed in disbelief. “No! Not Dubit!” “Yes, ma’am, I’m afraid it’s true. The enemy rescue helicopter beat ours to the scene.” She knew what she had to do. “Do you have an idea of where he might be held?” “Yes, but why do you need to know that?” “I’m going to lead a rescue team to get him. Get your best rescue crew and an F-22 ready ASAP. Now, where is he being held?” He quickly radioed to his ground crew to ready an F-22. The rescue team had already been called in. “We believe he is being held here…” he said as he pulled up a map of a cold and icy terrain on the computer. “… There is a camp somewhere in this area. Word is that he broke out and headed into the woods. But we haven’t heard from him in a while.” “Ah, great, another cold and snowy mission. I had hoped for tropical missions when I joined the AF, but ‘twas not my luck.” “Will 13 approve?” “This is one of those ‘act now, ask later’ kinda deals. I’m hoping to be back before Y13 or S33 find out. Though, most of the time 13 seems to know what I am going to do before I do!” “Command, this is Chief, we have that F-22 ready. Can I ask who will be flying it today?” He looked at her. She cut in with “Renegade 2.” “Ooookay…” he said with a laugh. “Is that...” “Nevermind who this is. Just call me Renegade 2” she said. “Well, wish me luck!” she said as she rushed out the door to the flight line. She dialed her exec back at Aquila. “Ya, having a great time, dude. I may be out of my cell service area, so don’t be surprised if you can’t reach me.” “FG, what are you up to?” “Nevermind, I’ll tell you later.” “Just remember, we have training going on back here. You said you’d be back for this.” “No problem, X.O.!” I hung up and turned the phone off. She arrived at the F-22 after quickly changing into a borrowed X-squad flight suit and helmet. Chief was there by the ladder, waiting to see just who this ‘renegade’ was. “Aren’t you…” “Renegade 2 to you” she said to him as she started the walk around. “Humm, looks flight worthy. I hope it flies well. I tend to stress my planes to the max” she said with a grin. “No doubt you stress your management and crew back home” he said with a tip of his head. After a slight pause, he added “Ma’am” She smiled. “You’ve been talking to Warlord and my commander, haven’t you? Well, I can do what I want on my vacation.” “You call this a vacation? You need to try something else for a while” he said. “What could be better than a trip to a remote location?” She climbed up and his crew removed the ladder. As she closed the cockpit, she touched a charm she had on a neckchain. It was a Black Pearl, a small gift Dubit had given her for her birthday. She had been on a ‘Pirates of the Caribbean’ music kick. He found it and thought it to be perfect for her. “Hang in there Dub, I’m coming for you!” she said as she fired up the engines and headed out for the active runway. “You’ll owe me at least a dinner for this.” “Control, this is Renegade 2 requesting clearance for takeoff” she said, with ‘The Black Pearl’ song from ‘Pirates of the Caribbean’ playing in her head. She was ready to rock and roll. “Cleared for takeoff on runway Alpha 3-4” “Roger that, Alpha 3-4” She took off and headed for the location she had been told about. Now, to find Dubit.... |
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In memory of Yellow 12, you will be missed. "The purpose of life is to live it, to taste experience to the utmost, to reach out eagerly and without fear for newer and richer experience." - Eleanor Roosevelt | |
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| Blue 02 | Feb 7 2007, 06:13 Post #6 |
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Wing X.O.
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Chapter 1 – Part 6 -By Firegal Dawn was breaking as the Aquila Blue arrives back from training. With so many new pilots, Blue 02 had asked Blue 79 to take them all through a strike team training session using our night ops equipment. Up until now, they had only flown day training or night training with a teammate. Blue 02 was away on vacation, but Blue 79 was more than capable of handling this. Out at sea, there was a medium sized convoy of Yuke ships with supplies heading to Aquila's newly formed forward base. PM Nikanor had set this up so that Aquila could assist the YAF in handling the terrorist forces, Black December, that had become a serious problem for Yuktobania and threatened to spread across the ocean to Osea. The group had taken hold in islands off the coast and was becoming larger and more daring with each passing month. The escort was light, only a couple Yuke naval rookies. The last attack by the joint YAF/Aquila forces had damaged Black December and they were not expected to be a problem. Yuktobania and Aquila were so wrapped up in Black December; they totally missed the signs of the developing conflict between X-Squadron and the Sins and Saints until… YN 1: "Vasha 1 to Varyag 1 command." Varyag 1: "Go ahead Vasha 1" YN 1: "Sir, we have unknown aircraft approaching. Looks like maybe 4 of them? Are we expecting any visitors?" Varyag 1: "No, not to my knowledge. Intercept them while I deploy additional aircraft. Standard ROE." YN 1: "Received. Vasha 1 and 2 will intercept incoming aircraft." Radar Officer aboard Varyag: "Looks like Sea Haven aircraft sir." OIC: "What are they doing here? Get the Captain now. Scramble two more aircraft now. I have a bad feeling about this." Radar Officer: "But, as far as I know, we have no issue with anyone other than Black December." OIC: "I know this… Where is the Captain? Didn't you get him yet?" As Vasha 1 and 2 approach the oncoming S&S aircraft, the S&S planes fan out into a formation of 8. In a flash there are multiple missiles coming for both planes. YN 1: "Holy ****!! We're under attack. Their hostile! Evade! Eva…" Vasha 1 and 2 attempted to evade the incoming missiles, but there are too many. Both planes go down in flames. As the only other planes in the convoy scramble to get airborne, the S&S planes arrive firing missiles and dropping anti-ship missiles. The Naval vessel Varyag was only able to get a brief message out about their situation before they were eliminated. The convoy didn't stand a chance. It was over in moments. The S&S planes headed back to Sea Haven, leaving behind a smoking convoy of death. Hulks of metal that were once ships in a convoy were slowly sinking to the bottom of the ocean. Only a handful of sailors were able to be recovered in the few life craft that were deployed. The Yuke Navy sent out a rescue/recovery fleet. Once the survivors were debriefed, it was decided that this would not go without retaliation. PM Nikanor was contacted and the call went straight through to Aquila. |
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In memory of Yellow 12, you will be missed. "The purpose of life is to live it, to taste experience to the utmost, to reach out eagerly and without fear for newer and richer experience." - Eleanor Roosevelt | |
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| Blue 02 | Feb 7 2007, 12:42 Post #7 |
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Wing X.O.
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Chapter 1 – Part 7 -By Firegal and Thirteen At Aquila Wing Ops, Thirteen was furiously handling a breaking situation. He was one of the last to hear that a war was breaking out. He favored neither side and wished to remain neutral, but he was receiving reports that he had pilots acting on their own somehow caught up in all this. There had been peace for so long; the Aquila giant had been caught sleeping… Thirteen tore off his headset and flung it across the Operations Room. "Jesus - freaking - Christ! What the hell do they think they're doing?" Major Milheiser looked up in alarm from his console. "Sir? What's the problem?" Thirteen’s voice was acid. "The problem, Major, is that the Black Phoenix and X-Squadron have declared war, and some of our people are in the middle of it!" Pointing at the Comm Tech.....he was so incensed he couldn't remember her name, he grated, "You! Patch me into the Base P.A. system!" The young woman looked at her board and, sure enough, a strong Yuktobanian accent sounded in her low voice....."At once, General. You are on line." He grabbed the desk mic, mashed the button, and, calmly but intense with anger, opened another chapter in Aquila History. "ATTENTION ALL MEMBERS OF AQUILA WING! Due to the furor surrounding the recent declaration of war, I am raising our defense readiness condition to DEFCON2 immediately, and ordering the establishment of a Combat Air Patrol above Aquila Base until cancelled or otherwise modified. Aircraft to be armed with XLAA/XMAA, as applicable. Eagle Eye has been scrambled and will orbit the base, to provide long-range surveillance and Intercept Control. CAP pilots will follow Standard Rules of Engagement, and will not arm or release weapons without Command authority, or, as stated in the ROE, if you are fired upon. Silver Squadron, hot birds, scramble! I am also ordering our Base Security forces to arrest and confine the following personnel ON SIGHT. The use of lethal force is authorized. Silver 07 Yellow 04 Blue 02 All other members are restricted to base, and shall remain at Security Condition One - any unknown personnel are to be apprehended at once.....the use of lethal force is authorized. At this time, Aquila is to remain neutral in this conflict, until Command can gather more information. Dismissed!" Turning to the radar plotting board, he rasped "Air Defense! What's in our area?" He could hear the rising howl of powerful jet engines headed for the runway. The young lieutenant manning the Radar Ops console responded "Sir! The only thing we have in the air is a Blue training flight returning from the practice range. Other targets consist of verified Yuktobanian military aircraft and the usual commercial flights." "All right", Thirteen exhaled. "Until Eagle Eye gets on station, you have your men watching those scopes like the Eagles we're supposed to be." Turning to the room at large, he called, "What's the status of the hot birds!" Major Milheiser was up to speed, now. "Sir, Silver 83 and 75 have lifted off, and are climbing to CAP altitude." "Where's Major Glassman and Captain Bennion?" "Sir, Captain Bennion is home sick. I do not know where Major Glassman is. He signed out of the base about an hour and a half ago." "Damn," Thirteen muttered to himself, "Tom better not be mixed up in this...." Pointing to the Security Specialists flanking the entry, he grated, "Get ahold of your OOD. I want to know when Warrant Officer Pavlovski is in custody." He flopped into a chair. "Scheiss,' he muttered..... |
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In memory of Yellow 12, you will be missed. "The purpose of life is to live it, to taste experience to the utmost, to reach out eagerly and without fear for newer and richer experience." - Eleanor Roosevelt | |
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| Blue 02 | Feb 8 2007, 06:12 Post #8 |
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Wing X.O.
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Chapter 1 – Part 8 -By Firegal and Thirteen A short while later, Thirteen was pacing off his anger. He stopped for a moment to watch the flock of Blues come in for a landing. The phone call from PM Nikanor came in for Thirteen. The PM wanted him to deploy a strike team ASAP to retaliate against the attack. If possible, they were to locate a particular plane the survivors said they saw strafing the remains of the ships. The name "Hazard" was written on the side under the cockpit glass. Thirteen hung up and sighed heavily. Aquila was still trying to deal with Black December. They had taken damage in the fray and many of their planes were in repair. He would take the Blues F-35s and send the best pilots available. "Get Blue 79 on the phone and put us at DEFCON 1." "Right away sir! Blue 79 on the line..." "Jarvin, we're going to need your F-35s. Are they here or at the training base? We're going to catch up to them before they make it back to Sea Haven!" Maestro was caught by surprise. There was a lot to take in at once. First of all, the fact that the Yuke convoy was attacked while Blue was out was shocking. He quickly handled Thirteen’s requests. Warlord had been found and was told to report. Thirteen wanted to meet with both to discuss the situation with the three Aquilas who were somehow mixed up in the developing situation. Neither Maestro nor Warlord were aware of this, as they were not on base at the time of the announcement. The Blues were being briefed on the situation while Maestro was away, as it involved their commander. “What the hell is going on with Janet?” Thirteen had not yet cooled down and his tone caught them off guard. After the initial shock, Maestro realized why she had made the call from her vacation. He had a feeling there was more to her call than just a vacation check-in. Thirteen relaxed a little when he realized that neither of them had nothing to do with the mess. He dismissed Maestro with the order to have a ready team for Blue should the need arise. Just as he started to speak with Warlord about the situation, an urgent call came in. Back at Blue, the squadron was receiving the news that their commander was wanted for her part in the developing war. One of the new recruits, Warrant Officer Asvernate call sign Blackdog, took the news hard. When everyone left the conference room, he went to the hanger. Confused about what was happening, he decided to join his commander and headed out for the runway in his plane. Thirteen was alerted immediately about what was happening. "Scheiss,' he muttered again and dismissed Warlord and headed to handle this situation. He was patched through to Blackdog. "Son, if I have to come up there after you, you're not gonna like the result. I haven't even decided what we're gonna do yet, so what the hell do you think you're doing?" Gregg’s voice was gentle but determined. BlackDog had not been with Aquila long, and there were lingering questions about some of his activities. After last year's mole hunt, he didn't even want to think about spies.....one reason he had sealed Aquila Base. Now he had a new pilot taking off in one of his birds against orders. To steal it? To create an incident that would plunge his Wing into the middle of a multi-squadron conflict? Thirteen would not let that happen. Switching frequencies, he called his CAP crew. "Silver 83 and 75, this is Thirteen. Intercept the aircraft taking off from Aquila Base and escort him back. Force him down, if necessary." The responses came back "Eighty-Three, roger." "Seventy-Five, acknowledged, sir. Bring the lost sheep home." Hopefully not barbecued, thought Thirteen. |
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In memory of Yellow 12, you will be missed. "The purpose of life is to live it, to taste experience to the utmost, to reach out eagerly and without fear for newer and richer experience." - Eleanor Roosevelt | |
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| Blue 02 | Feb 12 2007, 21:39 Post #9 |
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Wing X.O.
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edit: added the last 3 paragraphs... Chapter 1 – Part 10 -By Firegal, Thirteen and Warlord Firegal had her hands full. Things were chaotic. This was turning into more than just a rescue mission, it was becoming a full-scale war. She held her own against the forces she faced, and there was some confusion about whether Dub was safely recovered or not. When she was ready to return, she heard there was another pilot who needed to be recovered. She went to assist with air support while he was picked up. When she returned safely to their base, she went to visit Dubit. He would be hospitalized for a while, but at least he was safe. She also found out she was facing some problems back at Aquila. Thirteen left a message for her to make sure she understood where things were. She decided it would be best to head back to Aquila and face the situation. Her vacation time was just about up and absence without leave would make matters worse. The retaliation plans were made and the team was dispatched as soon as the mission was set. The Aquila strike force was strong and victorious. Hazard was found, taken down and taken to a POW camp. The next mission was planned even before the first one was completed. In the operations room, Thirteen picked up the phone. "General Wolff." he said. He listened for a moment. "Okay, I'm here now. What can I do for you?" He listened some more. "Yes, I'm decided, and we're ready to go. Watch the newscasts......" He hung up the phone, then picked it up again and dialed a number. The person on the other end must have answered, because Thirteen spoke four more words. "You have a go....." Warlord walked into the operations room. “Say Bossman, I have some very interesting information about the current hostilities.” he said to Thirteen. “It seems that someone that is flying with the S&S was caught infiltrating our ranks about a Year ago.” Thirteen looked at Warlord with a puzzled look in his face. “Are you referring to our illustrious Yellow 45? I thought he was out of the picture entirely.” “That’s a negative sir. He’s still around, and with him supporting the S&S, I thought it was time for some payback. Also, we can support the allies with regards to their supply issues.” “OK Major, What do you have going on in that devious mind of yours?” Thirteen said. “Knowing you, the plans are all ready.” “Sir, I wouldn’t have it any other way.” Warlord flipped on the projector and a Power Point presentation with the title “Operation Round Hammer” appeared. “Well sir, the allies are in need of supplies, but the forces of the enemy currently occupy both sides of the entrance to the canal. To top it off, they are also blockading the passage with ships. I suggest that we engage an all out assault to destroy all air, land, and sea assets that are blocking the transit route.” Warlord continued with his plan displaying recon photos provided by Yellow 29, and a battle map of what he proposed. “Well Sir, what do you think of it??” Thirteen sat there scratching his goatee for a moment. The more he thought about it, the bigger the grin on his face. “Major, let’s do this. I’ll contact the Commanders of the allied forces. I know they will appreciate our support. Oh… and Major… Gather the troops for a mission briefing ASAP.” Warlord picked up the phone. “I want All Squadron and Flight CO’s and XO’s in the briefing room ASAP.” Within a few moments the entire staff was assembled, and Warlord started the briefing. In a matter of a couple hours, the attack force was dispatched and on their way. During that time of that meeting, a radio discussion was going on involving some sensitive information about the enemy war plans. When the briefing was over, Thirteen and Warlord were immediately notified of the situation. They both looked at Firegal who was still in the room with her executive officer. Both were talking about who would be available from Blue for missions. She felt the stares and looked up. “What?” “Major Chamberlain, we need to talk.” |
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In memory of Yellow 12, you will be missed. "The purpose of life is to live it, to taste experience to the utmost, to reach out eagerly and without fear for newer and richer experience." - Eleanor Roosevelt | |
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| Blue 02 | Feb 14 2007, 15:57 Post #10 |
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Wing X.O.
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Chapter 1 – Part 11 -By Firegal and Thirteen Thirteen was well aware of Firegal’s connection to the radio station that broadcast the information. They wanted Firegal to find out where Tasha had gotten it. The three met privately to discuss it. As soon as she had information, she was to report to Intel and Ops. Back at Blue, Blackdog had been confined to quarters. However, he was bound and determined to do something. What he did not know was that Janet had arrived back on base and was meeting with Warlord and Thirteen. She explained the situation and her motivations. While noble, the fact was it was wrong, and it was causing problems in Blue. But she was needed during this war and they couldn’t have her locked away. The decision was made that she would be confined to quarters when she was not on duty. This final discipline decision would have to come after the war. While they discussed her situation, Blackdog headed out to the hanger. He took off, unauthorized, to find her. With most of Aquila either on their way to or back from missions, Thirteen was left to deal with this himself. He decided to go after Blackdog and attempt to bring him home. Only this time, he wasn’t going to be so gentle. His plane was ready and waiting as he hurried to chase the young officer. Thoughts were running through his mind; different outcomes based on whether B42 would obey and return or force Thirteen to fire on him. He shook his head. What was up with these pilots lately? He was forced from his thoughts when he heard the call. There was an enemy op force that was heading to Aquila Base to free their pilot. Blackdog was just about to meet them head on. Thirteen would be there soon, but there were not many people left at the base to back them up. Of all the times to run into this! There were only 4 planes for CAS for the ground assault. Thirteen had seen worse odds many times before. He was sure he could take these 4 on. He was almost up to Blackdog when B42 was brought down by AA fire....maybe a mobile or man-portable SAM launcher. Thirteen wasn’t sure which. But now, he was alone to face the CAS and the AA fire below. He radioed that B42 was down and that he did not see him eject. In true Thirteen style he was able to take out 3 of the enemy planes. It came down to just him and one enemy pilot. The pilot was better than most, this was going to be one that Thirteen would have to work for. “Aquila Ops to Thirteen. Sir, we have a team on their way to your location. Hang in there! We’ll have your 6 covered in short order.” The voice was not Warlord’s. Thirteen guessed that Warlord was on his way as part of the support to help him out. At least he knew that someone capable would be coming to his aid. But Warlord didn’t make it there in time. Thirteen’s plane disappeared from radar shortly before Warlord arrived. Warlord was unable to locate any sign of Blackdog or Thirteen. Hazard was rescued before the Aquila forces could get there. “Warlord to Aquila Ops. I am unable to locate Thirteen or Blackdog. There are no distress signals. We’ll continue to search.” “Negative, Warlord. There are some issues that need you here now. As commander, you are needed at the base. Leave the search to the SAR team.” Warlord suddenly felt a wave of shock rush over him. With both Thirteen and Slingshot gone, he was now Wing Commander. “Roger that, we’re returning to base immediately.” Upon his return, he was greeted in Ops by the wing staff and squadron command. He looked over at Major Chamberlain. This whole mess came down to one thing… her trip into battle. If she hadn’t done that, Blackdog would have stayed on base and Thirteen wouldn’t have gone after him…. "Well, Major," Warlord sternly said, "I hope you're happy with the results of your little unauthorized excursion into battle. Blackdog looked to you to set an example. The example he got, not only caused his death, but took away our Wing Commander." Firegal had much to say on the subject, but none of it seemed to fit that moment. After a pause, she said, "Sir, my resignation from Aquila will be on your desk in the morning. I'm very.... they, were.... you can't know how sorry I am for this." Warlord paused for a moment. Seeing her fighting to keep her composure and realizing that there were other variables involved not just her actions, he softened his voice. "Janet," he said gently, "Romme was an adult, and responsible for his own actions. Thirteen made the choice to go after him… my point here is that you projected an unprofessional attitude. It's possible that Romme thought he could get away with it too, as you seemed to. Time and time again you have been warned about taking things on unauthorized." He paused a moment to consider. He'd wanted to lock up everyone who jumped into the war that Aquila was now involved in. Trouble was, some of Aquila’s best had been involved, and he needed them now. "I don't want your resignation", he said. "What I want is for you to learn from this. When you joined Aquila, you gave command the power and right to decide what missions you fly, and when. Right now, you're too valuable a leader to lock up. It was Warrant Officer Asvernate's own decision that led to this tragedy. However, maybe you should review why the Chain of Command exists and why it must be followed, 'friendship' or not. The disciplinary actions will come after this mess is over. You are dismissed, Major." |
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In memory of Yellow 12, you will be missed. "The purpose of life is to live it, to taste experience to the utmost, to reach out eagerly and without fear for newer and richer experience." - Eleanor Roosevelt | |
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| Blue 02 | Feb 15 2007, 12:47 Post #11 |
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Wing X.O.
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Chapter 1 – Part 12 -By Firegal The official announcement was made. Warlord was Wing Commander, Draco was Wing Exec, Eagle was Wing Operations. Firefox moved up to Yellow Squadron Commander to fill Draco’s spot. There was a heaviness to the air as everyone continued with war plans. It even though Thirteen was no longer around, his presence was heavy. To Firegal, it seemed to be everywhere she went. The things she talked about with Thirteen before he was shot down were on her mind constantly. Shee headed back to her quarters feeling both sad and angry. Like the day before, she passed through the Blue rec area oblivious to those around her, retracing steps she had taken before. Again she did not see people come to attention, she was lost in thought and walking on autopilot. How much more would she be able to take before she snapped? She was dealing with a lot of crap over the mission she flew with X and her connection to the radio station. She had to start to reconsider her stance about the issue. When she knows she is right, she is steadfast in her convictions. Eventually others see her point and things go back to normal. But this is just one thing after another. And right now, she was alone in her defense. Once inside, she tossed her stuff down on the desk and flopped in the chair with heavy sigh. She had so many thoughts going around in her head. They tumbled over each other making her angry and giving her a headache at the same time. How did it come to this? How could something she was so sure was right be so wrong? She had a mission to do in a few hours. She decided since she was confined to her quarters, she may as well attempt to get some rest. What little rest she got, was not peaceful. When the alarm clock went off, she dutifully got up and went through the ritual she does before any mission. She tried to psych herself up for what she was about to do. She could only hope it would be good enough. She went straight to the flight line, choosing not to check out with Blue. She would see them when she came back. When she arrived at the theater of operation. There weren’t too many enemy planes in the area. She was hoping this would go quickly. She joined up with an allied attack formation. The battle was fierce and went on longer than expected. One particular enemy pilot was very good. Firegal found herself in a dogfight with him. He had an advantage that Firegal did not. He was fired up. The reputation of Aquila was something he had heard of and he was willing to take chances no sane person would do. His abilities outdid Firegal and she was shot down. As the war came to an end, Aquila had lost Thirteen, Blackdog, Enzo and Firegal. When the word of the end of the war reached Aquila, Sonic was searching for Enzo and the news about Firegal was that she was to be released. Thirteen and Blackdog were not found and presumed dead. Warlord addressed the remaining members of Aquila command on the end of the war and the status of the missing members. After the gathering was dismissed, he walked over to make a general announcement. As he reached to press the mic button, he noticed a distress signal on the console. Upon further investigation, he realized it was Thirteen’s signal. Thirteen was alive! A rescue mission was quickly planned and set into motion. |
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In memory of Yellow 12, you will be missed. "The purpose of life is to live it, to taste experience to the utmost, to reach out eagerly and without fear for newer and richer experience." - Eleanor Roosevelt | |
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| Blue 02 | Feb 16 2007, 06:25 Post #12 |
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Wing X.O.
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Aww, come on! It adds to your legendary status... something to tell the ladies! :lol: |
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In memory of Yellow 12, you will be missed. "The purpose of life is to live it, to taste experience to the utmost, to reach out eagerly and without fear for newer and richer experience." - Eleanor Roosevelt | |
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| Blue 02 | Feb 21 2007, 12:18 Post #13 |
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Wing X.O.
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Chapter 1 – Part 13 -By Firegal and Warlord Major Glassman left the TOC and climbed the stairs to the first floor on the Operations Building. Just as he opened the door to enter Orderly Room, Silver 29, call sign Soyuz, walked into the Building. "OK Major, what up??? My Rangers are hot and ready to rock!!" Soyuz said with a big grin. Warlord looked at the NCOIC and said. "Call the Squadron CO's in ASAP!! I want them in the CCR..... NOW!!!!" Then he, followed closely by Soyuz, entered the CCR and closed the door. "Ryan, the General is alive, at least we think so. We are receiving his distress beacon and I'm having Captain Johansen locate the position... I want the Rangers Armed to the teeth and there will be CAP and some people flying as Sandy's... Got it?" Before Soyuz could respond the rest of the command staff entered the room. While they all took their seats, the phone rang and Warlord picked it up. "Major Glassman speaking..." The voice on the other end replied. "Sir, we have a fix. Uploading the coordinates into the tactical computer and the video display now." Warlord just replied, "Thanks" then hung up the receiver. He directed Soyuz to bring the projector online. After a minute, the screen displayed a tactical map of the entire world, and a blinking red dot with some numbers appeared. He called everyone to attention and settled down the crowd. "Looks like the General might still be alive. We are receiving his distress beacon and its location is pinpointed on the map." He walked over to the display and had Soyuz zoom in. "Here is the location. It looks like a small island off the southeastern coast." "Tim” he said to Eagle, “I want you to lead the CAP with the following Silvers: Silver 39 Djinn, Silver 07 Shack, Silver 75 Wraith, and Silver 83 Kid. For Ground support, I want Max to lead with Yellow 71 Aurum, Yellow 05 Vega, Yellow 04 Fairy, and Yellow 57 Dragon. Ryan, I need you here with me to co-ordinate the ground team.” "And the Reds” he said as he turned toward Alex. “You take Red 47 Mango, Red 03 Bluwulf and Red 08 Apoc. I want an advanced recon of the area. I want you off the ground 10 minute ago." "Finally, the Blues will provide SAM suppression. I want you,” he said as he nodded toward Maestro, “Viggen, Warshark, and Blue Hound." Maestro responded with a grin and thumbs up. Janet sat there very quiet; she and Warlord had already talked briefly about her status in Aquila. He had wanted her to stay on while there was an investigation into her war actions. But she wasn’t sure it would be the right thing. She thought that perhaps she should drop down to a reserve status while being investigated. But at this time, she wanted to help out. "OK Major... What can I do? I can’t just sit and watch this go on.” Tom looked at her across the table..... "Well, if you would let me finish." He said, giving her a wink. "You, Major Chamberlain, will be accompanying the ground team since you are our best combat medic." Then Tom looked at the Command staff. "Everyone, you know your jobs... I want wheels up in 45 minutes.... Now let's get to work." Everyone started leaving the room and Janet approached Tom. "Hey Red.... Just like ol' times." Then she smiled and left the room. |
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In memory of Yellow 12, you will be missed. "The purpose of life is to live it, to taste experience to the utmost, to reach out eagerly and without fear for newer and richer experience." - Eleanor Roosevelt | |
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| Blue 02 | Feb 22 2007, 07:12 Post #14 |
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Wing X.O.
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And now, appearing for the first time... Aurum!! I lifted your response from the war tactical thread and turned it into a part of history, Y71. Welcome to the history writer's club! Chapter 1 – Part 14 -By Aurum Back at Yellow, Draco was giving the Yellow team the briefing. "Ground support mission?" Yellow 71, call sign Aurum repeated the words his flight lead had said a second ago. "That's all I need to know. I'm on my way." Following his lead, he headed for the room where the harnesses and other gear was stored. Yellow 05, call sign Vega who was by his side had some more information. "Orders to the maintenance crew are already given. They should be ready once we enter the hangar." "Same procedure as always, eh?" Aurum asked. Minutes past, they were ready. Yellow 57, call sign Dragon and Yellow 04, call sign Fairy were already on their way to take off when the other two Yellows entered the hangar where they had their planes. The maintenance crew chief came towards them, saluted, while all three kept walking. "Everything's ready sir, all weaponry attached, we just need to do the usual checks with you in the pit!" "Thanks!" Vega said. They didn't need much more to say, the crew had never let them down. Beneath the wings Aurum saw the usual sidewinder missiles, and the FAEBs. Whoever was about to interfere with their mission and had no wings, but wheels or caterpillars would surely be given a damn good reason to swear. Even though the war was over, the threat was not gone. Black December had also seen the signal and was hoping to recover General Wolff before Aquila. "Control tower, this is Yellow 05, Vega. All checks run. Nothing's wrong here. Ready for take off." "Roger Yellow 05. Yellow 71, come in and state your status." "This is Yellow 71, Aurum. I have nothing but green. All systems run perfectly. Ready for take off." "Roger that, Yellow 71." "Vega to control tower. Requesting permission to take off." "Vega this is control tower, head for runway 2. You can go up simultaneously." "Understood." Once they parked their planes on the runway, next to each other, Vega made the final readiness message. "Vega and Aurum, you have clearance to take off." "Roger that, control tower. Yellow 05, taking off!" "Yellow 71, taking off!" As they pushed the hand gear forward. The g-forces pressed them into their seats. Gaining speed rapidly, they were in the air in no time, following the vectors given to close in to the already flying Fairy and Dragon. Forming up a nice arrow formation, they where on their way for the mission area. |
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In memory of Yellow 12, you will be missed. "The purpose of life is to live it, to taste experience to the utmost, to reach out eagerly and without fear for newer and richer experience." - Eleanor Roosevelt | |
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| Blue 02 | Feb 24 2007, 00:20 Post #15 |
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Wing X.O.
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Chapter 1 – Part 15 -By Firegal Firegal met the ground team at the meeting point, there were 2 helicopters. One had the rack of scoop stretchers in it and marked for medical, the other was ground support. She approached the medical chopper and was met with a young warrant officer. She took one look at him as he saluted her and she couldn’t help the look of concern. She asked, “How old are you?” “I’m 19, ma’am. I have completed the rescue training and have certified for basic emergency medical and air transport.” “Huh… is that so? Well, I suppose you’ll do then. I was expecting someone with more experience.” She returned the salute and continued past him. He hurried in behind her. “Ma’am, if I may say thank you for allowing me to stay. I am ready to do this; I have trained for months for just such a mission…” “Save it for later, junior. How were your grades in class?” “I was tops in all my classes, ma’am” he said smiling. “And you were team lead in the drills and practicals too, right?” “Yes ma’am!” The choppers took off for the mission and she continued. “Well, that is nice but here’s my advice. I have done this many, many times. I was tops in my classes too and I was the leader and I got all kinds of letters of recommendation. But you know what? None of that matters when you are in the field. All that matters is that you can adapt and learn. I follow the rules, but not by the book. So, don’t waste your breath telling me whether something is or isn’t in the textbook, was or wasn’t done in class… we have to do what we can with what we have and get the hell out. All I want to hear from you when you are asked is how fast you are going to get the job done. Watch and learn, kid. You are about to see what you can’t learn in a classroom.” “Yes ma’am. I know about you, I heard all about you. I was honored to be chosen when I heard you were going to do this. I look forward to working by your side and learning all you have to teach me.” She looked at him. He had this silly excited grin on his face. Man, the new guys are so full of energy and excitement for the job. She found herself getting caught up in his energy and feeling energized herself. For once, the problems at Aquila were not top on her mind. The two chatted a bit on the way. She explained that the time enroute is used to prep yourself for what you may be facing. She ran over protocols, medical procedures and communication requirements that they would need to do when they arrived. He seemed ready and she was satisfied. The other chopper was ahead of theirs. It would be the first to touch down and provide cover as needed for the medical team. So far, the airborne Aquila had not encountered any issues and the location of the distress beacon was identified. The choppers acknowledged and set a course for the location. The first chopper made the approach as they were told the area was clear. But no sooner had they started to disembark when they came under fire. The chopper lifted back up as soon as the team landed. The chopper got out of range of the AA fire as the Blues who were nearby came to their aid with A2G support. |
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In memory of Yellow 12, you will be missed. "The purpose of life is to live it, to taste experience to the utmost, to reach out eagerly and without fear for newer and richer experience." - Eleanor Roosevelt | |
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| Blue 02 | Feb 27 2007, 07:00 Post #16 |
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Wing X.O.
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Chapter 1 – Part 16 -By Firegal The Blues were able to clear the area the Rangers were in. They were closely followed by the Yellows, who cleared a wider area and worked their way towards the recovery site. The Reds escorted the medical team toward the recovery zone. The decision was made to lower the two medics down and have the chopper clear to a safe zone. They would call the chopper back when they had Thirteen packaged for recovery. The two medics safely touched down and sent the chopper off. With only the equipment they could carry, they headed off in the direction of the signal. The Rangers were all around them, providing cover. They reached the beacon and found Thirteen. As medical lead, Firegal approached him and began the assessment. Junior, as she called him, was busy getting the medical equipment out and ready. “General Wolff, we are Aquila med team 1. We’re here to help you. Are you OK?” Thirteen was surprised to see her. “Major Chamberlain? Is that you?” “Yes, sir” she said as she approached him. “Are you hurt?” “Not too bad, but I don’t recover from ejections like I used to” he sounded a bit disappointed. I seem to have dislocated my shoulder and injured my leg.” Firegal keyed her mic as she approached Thirteen. “Med team 1 to medical control. I have the patient and will begin assessment. Initial assessment is alert, verbal and oriented, no gross bleeding. Will continue assessment upon patient contact.” “Hang in there sir” she said to him. “I’m going to do an assessment on you to see what we may need for assistance.” She turned behind her and called out to her partner, “Junior, get the splinting stuff and lots of padding.” She continued the assessment. The shoulder was obviously dislocated. Since the vital signs to the hand on that side were good, this would wait until he got to the hospital. There were various shrapnel wounds and bruising, nothing life threatening there either. The lower leg injury showed the signs of a shin bone break. “Well, good news and bad news, General. Good news is you’ll make it back in one pieceand with any luck the shoulder didn’t pinch any nerves or arteries. Bad news is you’ll be resting and recovering for a while. My guess is a broken shin. You won’t be flying in the ISC.” She started an IV; they splinted the injuries, got him in the scoop stretcher and carried him to meet the chopper with the help of the Rangers. With all the medical equipment in the back there was barely enough room for Firegal to provide care. She had the younger medic sit up towards the front. As wonderful as all the new electronic gadgets are, they take up valuable space that could be used by the medics for better access to the patient. Once everyone was secure, they headed back and Firegal pulled out her mint gum. “Want some? It keeps you from getting motion sick on an empty stomach. This isn’t the most comfortable ride you’ll experience.” She offered it to Thirteen who declined. She passed it up front. “Sir, I’m glad your back. But… I need to tell you something. While you were gone, I talked to Warlord about whether or not I belong in Aquila. I didn’t fair well in my mission. Luckily, my time in captivity was short. But, it gave me time to think things over. I really want things to work for me here, but I just…” she looked away for a minute, searching for the words, “I don’t seem to be what you need.” “Nonsense, Major!” Thirteen said. “I know your reasons and while they were not appropriate, I believe they were not meant in harm. However, your behavior cannot be tolerated in an Aquila Squadron. Surely you know that there will be some disciplinary action taken. You left me without many choices in this.” He paused a moment. “I do value your work, you know. I'd appreciate it if you could hold off on any decisions until I've had a chance to recover and think about this.” “Thanks sir. At the time I really didn’t see things your way...” She looked down briefly in reflection. She’s been over this many times in her head the past few days. She came back from her thoughts and addressed Thirteen again. “Just so you know… I wanted to be here as a friend to you, not as a subordinate. I wanted to make sure you were taken care of. I value you as a friend more than anything else.” She sighed. “This decision is the hardest thing for me.” And then, she changed the subject. “I have a question for you, though.” “I’m not surprised.” He smiled, she always has a question. “Go ahead and ask!” “When I was at BAF, they showed me a picture of someone; they wanted to know if I knew of her. In that picture, behind the person they showed me, was someone that looked…” she furrowed her brow, “well, like you. They said he was Strike Leader Von Wolff of the 633RD. I didn’t say a word, not to anyone. But, was that you?” Thirteen calmly replied, “Really! Well, you know the Belkans, damned militaristic idiots, everyone Von this and Von that... never can tell 'em apart. Interesting coincidence, though.” They were interrupted when the pilot called back to the med team that they would soon be at the destination. Firegal gathered up the run notes and started her radio patch to the transfer unit waiting back at Aquila. |
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In memory of Yellow 12, you will be missed. "The purpose of life is to live it, to taste experience to the utmost, to reach out eagerly and without fear for newer and richer experience." - Eleanor Roosevelt | |
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| Blue 02 | Mar 5 2007, 23:03 Post #17 |
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Wing X.O.
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Book 2 Chapter 2 Somewhere near Sea Haven -by Enzo Sonic had continued to search for Enzo while the rescue mission for Thirteen was conducted. He couldn’t leave his teammate behind. Even though the end of the war had been announced, there was no guarantee Enzo would be safe, even if he was not injured. Enzo had been injured and he was knocked unconscious when he ejected from the damaged plane. There were a few memories of the incident. One was of his F/A-22A’s computer system saying in a unconcerned voice was “Missile alert. Missile alert. Missile alert.” over and over and over again. He could also remember the loud, some-what high pitch warning tone. This sound was somewhat new to Enzo in the heat of battle and didn’t sound nearly as carefree as the lady like voice saying, “Missile alert.” These two sounds combined, however, had shaken him up for the first time in his flying career. He had experienced these sounds before but never from an opposing aircraft and never from such a long, unexpected dogfight, from his long time adversary Hazard 01. The last of his memories were composed of himself feeling the violent impact on his jet, as the missile drove itself into the lower right flank of his plane, blowing off almost the whole backside and a large portion of the right wing. Following, were the hellish heat from the fire, the unforgiving G-forces as his plane tumbled toward the forest in an uncontrollable death spin and of course his last recollection before he was rendered unconscious, the ejection. He remembered himself pulling that yellow handle, swirled with black lining, snapping his visor down then immediately being punched out of his jet at nearly 14g’s, causing massive compression on his back and a violent blackout that he would never forget. His chute opened, but he was unconscious the whole way down. He was headed for a plethora of trees, surrounded by brush, bushes, grass and dirt on the forest floor. He impacted a tree hard, falling through thin branches and bouncing off the thicker ones until one caught up and tangled in his chute. He hung there like a piece of meat in a pilots suit, helmet and all. Five minutes later, Enzo awoke. His back hurt like hell and he had trouble breathing. He had pain up and down the left side of his abdomen and chest. Other than that, he felt he had no other serious injuries and nothing that could possibly restrict his mobility completely. Then... it happened... He realized where he was. “Hahahaha. Well, f*** me, if this isn’t this a classic situation.” He mumbled with a dose of humor. “Pilot ejects, is rendered unconscious, and finds himself hanging in a tree by his chute like a God damn cow in the butcher shop.” It was this characteristic of Enzo, his ability to find humor in even the darkest of situations, that most everybody liked about him. It was just his nature. He always loved to joke around. In this instance, however, this God given gift was what kept him alive and going and also what kept him from losing all hope of living. He freed himself from his chute and fell to his knees about 4 feet onto the forest ground beneath him. “AHHH, S**T!” He said in a quiet distressful manner as he clenched his teeth in pain, wrapped his arms around the left side and tried to breathe. The fall had obviously caused a large amount of pain to his roughed up rib cage and moderately impaired his ability to breathe for about twenty seconds. As he rose to his feet rubbing his side, he grabbed some survival gear that had been lightly scattered about due to the fall and his survival training kicked in. He laughed lightly to himself, as he found he was doing things by second nature, things that would keep him alive. “Heh heh heh, And I thought I slept through my whole S.I.N.N. course.” He was talking about his ‘S**t I’ll Never Need’ course, also known as survival training. At this point though it was more like S.I.N.N.U.N. or ‘S**t I’ll Never Need Until Now’ course. Once Enzo had everything he needed, he took off in a run heading east. He had only ran a couple meters before he noticed something about 20 feet in front of him lying on the forest floor. It was one of the most important things he needed to get out of there alive, his survival radio. ’Must’ve been thrown when I hit that damn tree’ he thought. He picked it up and continued on for another 3 hours, resting occasionally for a sip of water. It was getting late and the sun was starting to disappear over the mountains that seemed to be millions of miles away. The effects it had on the sky however, were beautiful. There was a light wind and the sky glowed in an orange red color with a hint of light purple. He stood and stared off at the horizon as the calming wind blew on his face. ’It ain’t so bad out here’ he thought. It was quiet. The only sounds were mild moving of small animals, the chirp of grasshoppers, and the wind brushing against the trees creating an awfully relaxing atmosphere. Just as Enzo was about to start off once more, he heard 3 distinct booms coming from the sky. Two things crossed his mind at that instant. It was either the sounds nullifying the certain fate of pilots in a distant air battle, or... somebody was searching for him. When a pilot is shot down, and his wing man, or when another one of his fighter pilot brethren ventured out on a mission to locate the downed flyer, it was always a tradition and a sign of hope for the search pilot to simultaneously light his after burners 3 times in a row after a long luckless search before heading back to base. The 3 distinct booms that are caused by this was a sign of assurance to the downed pilot that his team knew he had been downed but he not forgotten and to keep a high morale, if in fact that downed pilot was alive. It was a major confidence booster. A way of saying, “We’re going to find you and bring you home, no matter what; alive or dead.” Enzo stood there for another 10 seconds as the life of the booms slowly passed away. Then he heard something else, a low droning sound and it was getting closer. He snapped his head up in the air desperately searching for any sign of a nearby friendly. Just then, as he was scanning the sky, he saw a small, bright glimmer in the distance.... There was just enough sun left. |
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In memory of Yellow 12, you will be missed. "The purpose of life is to live it, to taste experience to the utmost, to reach out eagerly and without fear for newer and richer experience." - Eleanor Roosevelt | |
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| Blue 02 | Mar 6 2007, 06:39 Post #18 |
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Wing X.O.
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Chapter 2 – Part 2 -by Enzo Enzo frantically grabbed his radio out of his pocket and stumbled to turn it on. After he had turned it of he started to scan the frequencies. He heard something. The beginning was choppy as he corrected the frequency, but he heard someone chatting over the radio. It was coming fron the jet off in the distance. “B-----0--ix- here, no joy on my downed lead. I’m headin’ back to base.” A huge swelling of hope took over Enzo as he knew he had a rescuer, an angel watching over him. He then opened up the frequency and began to talk. “This is 1st Lt. James Sanchez, here, call sign ‘Enzo.’ of Aquila Wing Serial number 00837593!!!” Just as he ended his transmission the over head jet was now clearly visible. It was another F/A-22A. It got closer and as it flew over, the numbers “006" could be seen on the side of the cockpit and the familiar Aquila Star was noticed on the tail. A huge smile lit up Enzo’s face. ‘An angel on my shoulders’ he thought. “Copy that, buddy!” the pilot responded, not revealing his identity that was quite obvious to Enzo by now. “I have your distress signal now. Man, it’s chirping like crazy, you must be real close!” “You just flew right over me, numb-skull!” Enzo said ecstatically. Both of the men laughed. “Man, am I glad to hear your voice! You know, you’re real lucky, Sir. I was just about to RTB!” “So, I heard. Givin’ up early, are we?” Enzo said with a comedic assurance. The plane circled back around and as it got closer the pilot rolled his plane about 100 degrees and glared with anxious eyes out of the cockpit. “I see you!” The plane rolled back level and began to rock it’s wings back and fourth slightly. “Ok man, quit foolin’ around and get me out of here!” Enzo said. “Bad news, Sir. A rescue OP is not possible tonight. The Rangers just got back from plucking the Big Cheese out of enemy territory and they need a rest from the action.” “Really? I thought Thirteen was dead!” “Nah, man. He punched out in time; was a nasty ejection though. The old man sustained some pretty bad bruises and cuts, along with a couple of broken bones.” “His hip?!” Enzo said laughing. “Hahahahaha, no he isn’t that old!” “Listen, Enzo. I’m flyin’ on vapor here, and I need to RTB. Not to mention I’m tired as hell flying CAP all day and searching for you. I’m going to head back to base and radio in that I’ve found you. We’ll have the Rangers armed to the teeth and we’ll have the party come to you first thing in the morning. You find a place to hide and keep warm, will ya? I don’t want to come back tomorrow and find out that we’re rescuing a damn popsicle.” “Copy that. I’ll be waiting for you guys. If you can remember, have the rangers bring me a beer will ya? Now go get some rest!” They both laughed. “Will do, Boss! Over and out.” “Over and out.” Enzo turned off the radio. As the plane flew over head once more the pilot rolled it again and snapped Enzo a salute. The gesture was returned. The bitter-sweet night was beginning to settle in and Enzo found a nearby natural shelter. It was a mini cave; it would do just fine for the night. He gathered some brush, removed the insects that he could, and piled it on the ground, creating a barrier from his body and the cold dirt. He then piled some extra brush to sleep under for the night. |
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In memory of Yellow 12, you will be missed. "The purpose of life is to live it, to taste experience to the utmost, to reach out eagerly and without fear for newer and richer experience." - Eleanor Roosevelt | |
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| Blue 02 | Mar 6 2007, 21:45 Post #19 |
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Wing X.O.
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Chapter 2 – Part 3 -by Enzo As the sun’s colors rose over the distant mountains and lit up the sky with magnificent tone, the beginning of a new day was marked. Enzo woke up freezing cold, it was approximately 5 in the morning. He didn’t know how cold it was, all he knew is he was damn cold despite the brush he slept under. His teeth chattered together and his whole body shook. Every inch of skin and every tiny pore on the young aviator’s body tightened around his robust muscular body. His whole body was stiff and his upper body was flexed uncontrollably. ’Perhaps it’s my body’s attempt to try and conserve more warmth,’ he thought. He clenched his fists with fingers he barely had feeling in, crossed his arms and tucked his hands away in the warmth of his abdomen. “Ni-nice mor-morning, n-now wh-where-s-s m-my Sunday ne-ne-news pa-pa-paper, m-my brea-break-fast a-and m-my da-damn cu–cu-cup o-of coffee?” He said shivering and shaking. Enzo grabbed his survival radio and turned it to frequency 0861. He had it on low to conserve its battery. He then went and kicked some of the brush he had slept on in a corner, sat in it and curled up in a ball waiting for a sound of a voice to crack, or to hear sounds of nearby aircraft. Whichever came first. About half an hour passed by when he began to hear sounds of rotors beating and chopping the atmosphere. His radio wasn’t picking up anything so he turned it on high. Almost immediately a voice was heard. “H-o-er 5-2 to 1st Lieutenant James Sanchez. Come in, 1st Lieutenant.” ... “Hopper 5-2 to 1st Lieutenant James Sanchez. Come in, 1st Lieutenant.” ... “No joy!” “I-I he-hear yo-you lou-loud n cl-clear-Hop-Hopper!” Enzo picked his stiff body up and rushed outside. He looked up and in the distance could see a whole party of helo’s. “Copy that 1st Lieutenant, give us your position.” “Where I was yesterday!” “Roger.” The rescue pilot obtained his previous position from the marked map. As the helos got closer he could make out 2 UH-60 Blackhawk helicopters’s and 2 gun ships. They looked to be AH-64D Apache Longbow’s. “Damn, they must really love me back at base,” he thought. “Hopper to Enzo, your position is not suitable for a pick up, we’ll need you to get yourself to a small nearby field for rescue. It’s about a mile and a half west of your position.” The adrenaline started to take effect on Enzo’s body and though he was cold, the hormone ceased his shivering as he began to run towards the way point. “Copy that, I’m on my wa–hey! Where’s that blackhawk going!? It just flew right over me!” “Relax, Lieutenant, Bash and his crew over there are acting as decoys. Bash will head about 2 miles east of you with a gun ship and act as a decoy rescue team to attract any enemy soldiers that might be waiting to set us up In the meantime Nails and I will stay low heading west for the pick up.” “Oh...Copy.” Enzo said sprinting and gagging for air. He had forgot that his ribs were badly bruised and it was harder to run than normal. There was some pain as he ran step by step, but he shook it off. Enzo arrived at the field while the rescue team was still en route. Out to the east, however, he could hear gunfire and explosions. “I’m here!” Enzo yelled into the radio. “Copy, ETA 30 seconds.” Both of the helos sprang out from behind the trees, but before the blackhawk landed, a figure flying high and fast was heading straight for the rescue team’s position, and Enzo could see pod shapes under the wings. The blackhawk landed about 200 yards away from him and Rangers armed with rifles and body armor jumped out and secured a small temporary perimeter. “Hopper, do you have fighter escorts to!” “...Wha-Negative!” Enzo ran as hard as he could to the chopper, things were about to get mighty ugly. “BOGEY AT YOUR 6! ... HE’S GOT BOMBS!” “Christ! Hurry up Lieutenant, we have to get out of here!” Enzo ran hard; both of the helo’s were sitting ducks. The apache was no match for a fighter. He was about 50 yards away when he noticed that he wasn’t going to make it in time nor was anybody else. The bogey was setting up for a bombing run and he was going to blow the whole place sky-high. He ran screaming and threw his hands up to the Rangers. “LOOKOOOUT! LOOKOOUT!” The noise of the fighter and Enzo’s antics caught their attention and they all snapped their heads up and saw what was about to happen. Every one of them started running for the trees and jumping behind rocks for cover. The Blackhawk was surely a goner, the apache was forced to set low behind trees in an attempt to save itself. There was nothing it could do anyways. The fighter then came in on a final approach, ready to blow everything to hell. Enzo stopped in his tracks as the plane completed one final turn and started in on a mid angle dive. Fear grabbed hold of his body. He stood there and stared right at his maker, his grim reaper, in the sky. And it stared back at him with fierce power and an unmerciful intention. Time seemed to slow down, as the attacker advanced closer, the demon sound of its engines must have meant certain death was inevitable...for everybody. Standing in the middle of the field, paralyzed with fear, his life started to flash before his eyes. Family, friends, his girl friend, wing mates, squad mates, everything he had done and everything he had worked so hard for was on his mind, teasing and saddening him. |
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In memory of Yellow 12, you will be missed. "The purpose of life is to live it, to taste experience to the utmost, to reach out eagerly and without fear for newer and richer experience." - Eleanor Roosevelt | |
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| Blue 02 | Mar 8 2007, 06:37 Post #20 |
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Wing X.O.
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Chapter 2 – Part 4 -by Enzo Then, something amazing happened...a miracle...An angel on his shoulder. Four white contrails streaked out from the clouds above and hunted the aggressor like angels hunting demons. Only mere seconds later a Raptor screamed out of its hiding spot in full burner, directly in the saddle of the bogey, gracefully and stealthily stalking it like a true raptor would, hunting its prey. Just as the demon was bent on showing no mercy, neither was the angel. The unsuspecting bogey quickly broke off the attack run, pulled into a hard turn, and shot out countermeasures for a last ditch attempt. None, not even one, of the missiles were fooled. They continued on relentlessly, and so did the pilot, following his prey, making certain of his demise. Seconds later, the missiles all thrust themselves into the belly of the beast simultaneously, causing multiple, devastating, mortal blows to the aggressor. The sky lit up with the insides of the demon and its weapons, as it turned into one huge fiery explosion heading straight for the demeaning confounds of earth. Enzo was speechless as he watched the magnificent destruction in the air. He knew who it was, he knew who saved his life, and about 10 others as well. Cheers were to be heard on the ground coming from the Rangers, and everybody else. Even from the east cheers could be heard as the gun fire ceased. Without a word or transmission, the plane flew over the rescue site and began to rock its wings back and fourth, then took off as he headed back to base, making sure no more enemies would threaten the rescue team’s voyage back home. Enzo came back to his senses and began to jog towards his ride out, holding his side. The Rangers began towards the helo as well as they were all anxious by now to get the hell out. As Enzo arrived at the helo, the decoy team flew over and he was assisted in the helicopter by the hand of a medic. He was laid down on a stretcher and examined by the medic. “Sir, the only serious injury I’m seeing as of now are the ribs on the left side. You’ll be lucky if they aren’t broken. Everything else is just bumps, cuts and bruises. Oh... wait a second, that’s one pretty deep laceration, looks like that’s gonna leave a scar.” Enzo cut in, “Hahahaha, good! Chicks dig pilots with scars!” Both laughed. “Anything else hurt, Lieutenant?” “Ya, my back is killing me!” “Ok, Sir, just lay still, we’ll have X-rays done when we get back to base.” “Sure thing...Hey, you got that beer that I wanted?!” “Hahaha, ya, we actually do! Here ya go, Sir.” James took it. “Are you kiddin’ me man! I’m not drinking this, this one is for the flyboy that saved all our a**es back there! Don’t worry, you’ll get yours too. And so will everybody else!” As they landed back at base, Blue 06, call sign ‘Sonic’ was just climbing out of his raptor. Enzo got out of the helo and his wing man, Robert, caught his eye. He walked over there in a cool manner as Sonic also saw Enzo heading his way. He stood there with a smile on his face. As Enzo approached Sonic, he threw his arms around him in a bear hug and literally picked him up off the ground, despite the pain in his side. “Hahahaha! I love you, man!” Sonic was unsuspecting and taken by surprise as he was lifted off the ground. They both laughed. Sonic took Enzo by the neck with his arm and slapped him on his back. “Hahaha good to see you, man!.” Sonic lowered his arm and they walked down the tarmac together talking. “Dude, that stunt you pulled was awesome, I thought I was toast, so did everybody else. How’d you manage to hide in the clouds without being picked up on radar by that enemy!” “Common’ James, it’s a Raptor! I used it’s stealth capabilities, of course. No way was I going to let a couple choppers go on a rescue mission, behind enemy lines, with no fighter support! I was stalking that SOB for a while, just waiting for the perfect moment to pounce. Then when I saw he was going to blow that rescue op to hell, I jumped in the saddle to stop him.” “Well, thanks, you saved my life twice back there, Rob.” “Don’t mention it, it’s what we do right? Look out for each other, you’re my lead and I’m your wing man. I always got your back” he said with a smile on his face. ... “Hey! Did you get that beer I sent with the rescue team!” “Hahaha, you bet I did.” “Hahahaha, good, how was it? Was it the sweetest beer you’ve ever drank in your life or what! Hahahaha” “Hehe, I don’t know buddy, you tell me.” Enzo pulled the slightly cold beer out from his flight suit and handed it to Sonic. “You better put that away, Rob, you’ll get in trouble for havin’ that out on the tarmac. Hahahaha. Save it for tonight, I’m buying you and the whole rescue team a round at the OC!” “Hahaha, cool, man. Count me in. You better go get yourself checked out by the base hospital, you look like hell.” “Sure thing. Catch you later tonight!” “See yah round, Lieutenant.” Enzo got checked out at the hospital and the final report was: ~ Moderate back compression ~ 4 bruised ribs ~ 8 small-medium lacerations, 4 on his right arm, 2 on his left, 1 on his leg, and 1 on the right side of his chest. ~ Various bumps and bruises ~ No severe infections He had gotten pretty lucky with his back, there have been pilots who have lost more than an inch in height due to the high downward G forces during a high speed ejection. It was determined that 1 month of back therapy would subdue James’s back pain, and that he would be able to fly in the ISC. That night, despite his injuries, Enzo was able to get out of the hospital and have a good time with everybody at the OC. He thanked Sonic and the rescue team once more and bought a round for them all as promised. All the rest of the Blues returned home safely that night and were happy to see him alive. They greeted him as such with drinks and a “couple” shots of Aquila’s very own famous tequila. Better known to all the pilots as ‘Aquila Tequila.’ There was a lot to celebrate when Enzo returned. Everyone was relieved to hear that Thirteen was recovered safely and resting up. Blackdog was recovered later that day. He was in serious condition when he was found and remained in the hospital for some time. He was granted a medical LOA until further notice. |
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In memory of Yellow 12, you will be missed. "The purpose of life is to live it, to taste experience to the utmost, to reach out eagerly and without fear for newer and richer experience." - Eleanor Roosevelt | |
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10:22 AM Nov 27
