— 5 —
Bull Bromley might not be quick on his feet, but he is loyal. "Of course we'll volunteer, sir. It's what a Slammer has to do."
"Good," the Colonel agreed. "I was hoping to hear you say that. You two are the only officers I have right now capable of leading such a mission." He turned to Smyth. "You may as well give the warning order to the men, Lieutenant. While you're at it, stop by Operations and see if they have any news for us."
Second Lieutenant Pete Smyth gave Colonel Hammer a sharp salute that seemed out of place with his tattered uniform. With a brisk stride he left the Colonel's office.
As Bromley started to follow him, Colonel Hammer raised a hand. "One moment, Lieutenant. I heard about the reason for the fight you two had. I don't approve." He paused. "Lieutenant Smyth is young and probably won't stay in service with us, but I took you for a career man. I guess I was wrong." After a moment he added, "I might be wrong in sending you two out now after what happened. If you don't trust Smyth or you can't work with him, say the word now and I'll have him relieved. Young Beirne's his platoon sergeant. He'll do the job almost as well." He looked Bromley in the eye. "Just say the word and I'll have Smyth sent back to the guardhouse."
Hammer's eyes pinned him, demanding an instant answer. Time was critical. Bull found himself contemplating two images: the haggard, grinning face of Pete Smyth as they finished their last battle with the Raiders; and the scowling, angry face of Pete Smyth as he tried to beat Bull into the ground.
If Bull removes Pete Smyth from command, turn to section 7.
If Bull decides to keep Pete in command of the infantry platoon of Team Foxtrot, turn to section 8.