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ОглавлениеChapter 4
I wanted the meeting early Monday morning. The overhead read:
Monday 5 July 2127
Alpha Company exercise Briefing
As I walked into the small theater at 7:00 a.m., Katie hollered, “On your feet!” Everyone jumped to their feet to attention. As I walked to the stage, I saw everyone was studying me.
Karen and Adam were at attention. Katie hollered, “At ease, sit down.”
“I’m Colonel Preston. This briefing is to give you information for the upcoming exercise.”
Jeff Carlson asked, “Are you to be the commander for this exercise.”
“No, 2LT Karen Rivera will command the exercise.”
“Sir, I heard this exercise may be our last exercise.”
“No, not your last exercise. Just your last exercise in the infantry training brigade if we win.”
Paul Bryant asked, “Sir, what do you mean?”
“If we win, both battalions will be graduated and released to my command.”
Amy Macula asked, “What does that mean?”
“I’m commander of the 289th Infantry Regiment. Everyone in First and Second Battalions will be assigned to my Second and Third Battalions. If there are no further questions, 2LT Rivera will brief you on the upcoming exercise.”
Karen stepped forward as a holographic projected map showed the exercise area.
“We will be on defense first. This is the area to be used. As you can see, it is a small, lightly wooded plateau. A small creek runs from southwest to northeast, just south of the defensive area. The area is an army reserve training camp that has not been used for years. Defense will be set up in the northern central area, two platoons line abreast. The Third Platoon will be a reserve. A machine gun with a five-man fireteam in support will watch over the creek. We will set up a two-tier defense, with fighting positions supported by crew-served machine guns. We’ll set up trip flares twenty meters in front of our positions to give advanced warning. Engagement will be on my command only.”
“Why not open up when we see them?”
“I don’t want our positions revealed early. I may need to shift platoons to be effective.”
“Even the machine guns?”
“Especially the machine guns. Ten meters to our front will be kill zones. If we can get the enemy in there, the machine guns will open up and cut them to ribbons.”
“What if they don’t bite? How do we react?”
“We can slide the kill zones by repositioning the machine guns. Now, for the assault. We have to draw the soldiers to the west.”
Sandra Collins stepped in. “They should have trip flares set out. Let’s set them off.”
I responded, “They may be hard to find.”
“What if we carried some of our own? We could set them off to draw attention.”
Karen responded, “That’s a good idea. Five soldiers with two trip flares should work. The rest of the company will attack across the creek into the defensive area from the East. Colonel, anything to add?”
I grabbed a large file folder off a table and walked in front of the table. “This is our battle plan.” I dropped the folder in a trash can as everyone gasped. “The plan only works if the enemy does everything we want. We must be ready to adjust our battle plan as we fight. Who has been trained in night fighting?”
Everyone just stared at me until the smallest girl in the company, Corporal Samantha Meyer, broke the spell.
“Sir, do you mean fighting at night?”
“I mean how to engage targets at night.”
“We’ve fought at night, but no one said how to engage targets. We just shot at lit up pop-up targets on a range.”
“Then we will show you how to engage targets Wednesday night. If there are no further questions…that is all.”
Katie hollered, “On your feet,” as I left the stage and out the theater.
I had to wait on Katie to come out of the theater. Once in the car, Katie spoke up. “Do you know what you did in there?”
“I hope I inspired them to do their best and win the exercise.”
Jamie jumped in. “You did more than that. They will follow you into hell itself.”
“I think you’re exaggerating a bit, Jamie.”
Katie countered, “No, Jamie’s right. They see you as someone who cares about them. This is all for them.”
“Katie, this is so I can get the regiment together.”
“No, Katie’s right. This is to get the troops out of the training brigade. We seem to learn faster than most soldiers. The commanders just don’t understand us. Can you get them out of the training brigade?”
“No, however, I can get Jane Minder to get them out.”
“Who is she?”
Katie jumped in the discussion. “She is the assistant secretary of the army for manpower and reserve affairs. She’s my sister.”
Jamie asked, “You mean she’s your sister?”
“I’m sorry I said that. Jamie, please don’t tell anyone about this.”
Jamie smiled. “For you, my lips are sealed.”
“By the way, Jane and me have a good relationship. She’ll see the troopers are treated fairly.”
I entered the briefing room. The Platoon Sergeants and Squad Leaders were waiting. I turned on the holographic map of the area.
“This is the area for the exercise. We will set up a defense of three Platoons abreast. Third Platoon will have to bend with the creek. We will use trip flares twenty meters to our front. We will put a kill zone 10 meters to the front of 1st and 2nd Platoon. The trip flares will tell us where they are at.”
“LTC Reynolds do we open fire when we see a flare?”
“Open fire when you see the enemy. I will put everyone where they should be prior to the exercise.”
“What about the unit being released from training?”
“Colonel Preston doesn’t have the authority to release you from training.”
“Then what difference does it make if we win or lose?”
“This will be proof that you aren’t ready to leave training.”
“So you think we need more training.”
“You still have a lot of training to do yet.”
“I think Alpha Company will split their forces to attack the west flank and the central front. We will be ready to cut them down.”
Paul Wiseman asked, “When will the attack come?”
“They will attack late night in darkness. There will be only 12 percent illumination during the exercise.”
Dale Richards asked, “What do you mean?”
“There will be very little light to see by. The flares will show where they are.”
“Then we open fire on them.”
“The next three nights, we will shoot targets on the range at night. That will give you some idea how hard it is to engage targets at night.”
I looked at my Platoon Leaders.
“I need you to work up where to place troops and machineguns.”
“Yes sir.”
I watched my leaders leave. Thinking how easy it will be.
Monday night, I took Katie, 2LT Karen Rivera, and the rest of my staff to a rifle range to learn night fighting skills. We were greeted by Major Thomas James with a salute. “Howdy, Colonel Preston.”
“How are you doing, Tom?”
“I’m doing great. I made the lieutenant colonels list. I should pin them on in September.”
Katie interrupted us. “Do you know every officer in the army?”
Tom responded, “Jim doesn’t know every officer, but every infantry officer knows Jim. Jim trained a lot of us while we served under him.”
“I see, it’s nice to see all Jim’s friends.”
Tom asked Katie, “So how long have you been in the army?”
“I…um…well…”
I interrupted “Tom, you wouldn’t believe me if I told you.”
“It’s just she looks so young.”
I told Tom, “No older than one of your lieutenants.”
Tom’s eyes got big. “And she is a lieutenant colonel?”
“Jane approved her promotion, and I approved her promotion.”
“Wow, I guess she is good if you approve it.”
“This is my staff, CPT Candice Johnson, CPT Paul Gonzales, MAJ David Jones, and CPT James Barlow, and this is 2LT Karen Rivera. They need to learn how to teach night engagements skills to troopers.”
Tom looked at me. “I take it this is for the exercise.”
“Tom, you know about that?”
Tom responded, “Everybody knows about it. LTC Reynolds is going to lose to you.”
“I’m not commanding the soldiers during the exercise.”
Tom asked, “No, then who is?”
“Karen, one of the soldiers in the Alpha Company.”
Tom looked at Karen. “I hope she can win. I have $200 on the exercise.”
“That’s why we’re here. My staff needs the skills to teach the company night engagement skills.”
“Jim, I’ll be back in ten minutes. If you all will follow me, I will brief you. Staff Sergeant Carson will give you all a safety briefing.”
Tom returned after the briefing. “So, Jim, how did you get this assignment.”
“I’m not sure how I was picked for this unit.”
Tom smiled. “This assignment could be your ticket to general.”
“It just might be my last unit. I have a feeling I might be ready to retire after this.”
“Jim, you could be a general after this unit.”
“Maybe, however, I just feel I’ll retire after this unit. Tom, why don’t you talk to Karen Rivera? Tell me what you think of her.”
“I might just do that.”
As we watched the firing range, the targets were lit up to show them where the targets were. The range sergeants had illuminated paddles. Red is for hot range, and white is for clear range. The tower announced, “Range sergeants, give me a ready paddle please.” One by one, the paddles turned red. Suddenly, the range went dark. The tower announced, “Firers, watch your lane.” The pop up targets weren’t illuminated. My staff was confused; some fired some rounds, some did nothing. After five minutes, the range sergeants cleared the firing line. MAJ James got on the loudspeaker.
“Not so easy, is it? So what you have to do is identify your targets with your peripheral vision. You can’t see the target if you look straight at it. Once you identify the target, put your sight over the target and shoot.”
Once again the tower announced, “Range Sergeants, give me a ready paddle please.” One by one, the paddles went red. The range went dark, and the tower announced, “Firers, watch your lane.”
Suddenly, there were shots all over the range. I saw some targets falling over. They took a fifteen-minute break and then went back to the firing line. This time, there was more shooting. This time, the range was cleared. All rifles were cleared of all ammunition, with the bolt locked back and the rifle on safe. Tom briefed my staff on their performance.
“Well, not too many shots on the first firing order, very few hits. The last firing order had a 41 percent hit ratio, which is outstanding. Now you can see how to train soldiers to engage the enemy at night.
After a quick dinner, we set up for the next firing order. Tom put my troopers in charge, with his sergeants overseeing the training. Katie took charge and directed the training. I saw Tom talking to Karen. Karen seemed pretty animated as she talked. I resisted the urge join the conversation.
As we drove back to the bachelor officer quarters, everyone was talking about the upcoming training. I was thinking of the Second Battalion becoming my Third Battalion. Training records showed no one stepping up to take command. I needed a commander for the battalion. I knew lots of officers. I just needed to find one who could let the troopers excel in their duty. I thought this would be a hard search.
“So, Katie, what do you think of Tom?”
“His question caught me off guard. I didn’t know how to answer.”
“Just tell the truth. By the way, you won’t get promoted for the next ten years.”
“Why not?”
“The army has a hierarchy. You just passed several layers in your first year.”
“What do you mean?”
“Most officers start at second lieutenant. Then they’re promoted to first lieutenant, then captain, then major, and lastly, lieutenant colonel. Each promotion takes two to four years to obtain.”
Katie’s eyes got big. “I see.”
“Tom respects my opinion, but he sees you as inexperienced, untrained, unable to lead. My opinion changed his mind.”
“How did you do that?”
“I have been in the infantry my whole career. I’ve been in wars and seen leaders come from the least likely individuals. I have the experience to know who has leadership and who can learn it.”
“So you making me a lieutenant colonel means I have the leadership to lead the regiment in your absence.”
“Now you begin to understand. It’s not about age, it’s about leadership—the ability to inspire your troopers to succeed.”
“Thanks for believing in me.”
“Well, you really earned the promotion. However, I need a commander for the Third Battalion.”
“What about the soldiers in the battalion?”
“None of them show the leadership we need.”
“So you have to get someone from outside the unit.”
“Yeah, but I need the right commander. I have to keep looking for the right person.”
“What about Tom?”
“I don’t think he would like to be under a lieutenant colonel with more time in rank than him, but has less than a year in the army.”
“But he seemed to take me well.”
“Maybe. I’ll talk to him after the exercise.”
Karen jumped in. “He tried to trip me up.”
I asked, “What do you mean?”
“We talked about tactics. He tried to trip me up with possible variations the enemy could use.”
Katie asked, “So what happened?”
“I countered everything he threw at me. I think he respects my abilities.”
“Well, if you win, Tom should treat you to a good dinner.”
“Why?”
“He has $200 on the exercise. He wanted to see if you had a chance to win.”
I instructed Jamie to drop off everyone off at the BOQ. Then she dropped me off at my quarters.
“Jamie, drop off Karen, and you both get some sleep. We have to get the alpha trained tomorrow night.”
“Yes, sir.”
I watch them pull away, and then I went to bed.
“So, Karen, are you ready to take command of the Second Battalion.”
“Jamie, what do you mean by that?.”
“Karen, I’ve seen the colonel work. I know he sees a lot in you.”
“Jamie, I think you are wrong. Maybe captain, but not lieutenant colonel.”
“He got Katie promoted. I think he will promote you to be the battalion commander.”
“He was just talking of getting someone outside to command the battalion.”
“No, he doesn’t see anyone to lead the Third Battalion. He knows who will lead the Second Battalion. I think it will be you.”
“Well, I don’t know. Let’s just get through this exercise first.”
On Tuesday morning, I was in a pickle. How do I get myself into such situations? I was sitting in Bill’s office with LTC Steven Reynolds and 2LT Karen Rivera. Steven looked at me and asked, “What is she doing here?”
Bill cut him short. “Steven, I called her here.”
“Sorry, Colonel Carlisle. What’s this about.”
“Sorry I’m late, gentlemen. So let’s get down to business.”
I turned to see MG Pat Saunders enter the room, closing the door.
“It seems this has been blown all out of proportion. There seems to be a quandary about these soldiers. I’ve seen the training reports. They’re ready for graduation.”
“Sir, regulations state soldiers need six weeks of basic infantry training.”
Bill added, “Yet these troopers are way beyond basic tactics. They seem to learn faster.”
MG Saunders cut him short. “Well, it’s out of our hands now.”
Bill asked, “What do you mean?”
“Jane Minder will be here Monday morning. She will inspect some training, then be here to oversee this exercise. After the exercise, she will make a decision on the status of these soldiers.”
“Sir, she can’t do that.”
“Yes, she can do that. She’s seen the training status of these soldiers, to include discipline. In fact, I hear she promoted a soldier with less than a year in service to lieutenant colonel.”
Reynolds said, “She doesn’t know what she’s doing.”
“However, she does have the authority to transfer and or promote personnel.”
MG Saunders called up a holographic map of the exercise area.
“Alpha Company will defend this area highlighted first. Bravo Company must make their attack within four hours after they arrive. There will be a break, and then Bravo will defend the area, and Alpha Company will make their attack the next day. I want to get this over in three days. Are there any questions? Then you’re dismissed. Jim, can you stay for a minute?”
“Sure, Pat”
I turned to Karen and whispered to her and she left.
“Jim, I didn’t want to make a scene, but the young soldier shouldn’t have been here.”
“Pat, she’s going to command Alpha Company.”
“No, you will. You have to be there.”
“I’ll be there, but Karen will have full command of Alpha Company. Karen has beaten Reynolds four times. She’s that far advanced.”
“You do have a stubborn streak in you, Jim. OK, she can lead the battle. You still have to be there.”
“I wouldn’t miss this for all the money in the world.”
“Jim, the exercise is set for next Tuesday, June 24.”
Wednesday night, we trucked Alpha Company to the night fighting range. I watched as the troopers got off the truck and went to the bleachers. Once everyone was seated, I walk up.
“Good evening. How is everyone doing?”
There were a lot of different responses from the troopers.
“Tonight, we will train you on night engagements. These skills will help you in your military career. LTC Katharine Wilson will start the class off.”
“Thank you, COL Preston. If you look at this chart, you can see how the eye works. Now when the light fades, the cone of the cornea goes inactive. The area around this cone becomes active. Due to low light, you may not see colors. This is normal and should not be a cause for concern. To engage targets, you can’t look directly at the target. You need to look to the left or right of the target.”
A trooper was waving his hand above the group.
“Trooper, stand up and tell me your name and then ask your question.”
“Gerald Moore, sir. Don’t these rifles have electronic sights on them?”
“Come here, trooper. Maybe you can show them how it’s done.” I handed Private Moore a rifle. “Jim, please put up the targets for lane #17.”
In a minute, all targets were up. I pointed PVT Moore in the right direction. “Jim, light up the targets for two minutes.”
All the targets gave off a soft glow as they were lit up.
“Don’t do anything yet.”
The lights went off, and the range was dark again.
“Now, PVT Moore, show us how it’s done.”
PVT Moore put the rifle to his shoulder and looked. “The sight isn’t working. I can’t see anything but a snowy static.”
“Here, try this one. Maybe you’ll have better luck.”
PVT Moore put the second rifle to his shoulder and looked. “It’s the same thing. The sight isn’t working.”
“That’s OK, PVT Moore. Return to your seat.” I watched PVT Moore return to the bleachers.
“Now you can see that electronic sights don’t work in low light. Night vision electronic sights will burn out in daylight. That is why you need the skills to fight at night.”
“Thank you, COL Preston, for the targets. Now, if there are no further questions, let’s get you all lined up for firing orders.”
Katie arranged the troopers into firing orders. 32 troopers per order. All 160 troopers were done in five firing orders. My staff made sure they learned how to engage at night, giving out pointers when needed. We watched them leave for their barracks.
“Well, I’d say they did pretty damn good.”
Jamie added, “They have a good teacher.”
“Jamie, a teacher is only as good as their students. Let’s get back and get some sleep. There is more training to get these troopers up to the standards we need.
Early Thursday morning, I met my staff at headquarters. “Katie, take Bravo Company First Battalion to the these grid coordinates. I’ll bring Alpha Company out to fight a company-on-company training exercise. Let’s see what they can do.”
“Yes, sir, how will this work?”
“I’ll bring Alpha Company from the north toward your position.”
Thursday morning, I walked into Alpha Company barracks. A Private Anderson and a Corporal Winters were on duty.
“Attention! COL Preston, how may we help you?”
“I want everyone outside in five minutes.”
I turned around and walked outside. I didn’t have long to wait. Karen was the first one out. I pulled Karen out to the front of the formation as the troopers formed up.
“I want you to form up the company. If you’re a platoon leader, pick someone to fill in for you. Once the company is formed, do an about face and I will report to you. You will salute and report the company is formed. I will return your salute and order post. On post, walk to your right just past the company and I will take command.”
“Yes, sir.”
When the company was formed, Karen called them to attention and then did an about face. I walked to Karen. Karen saluted and reported, “Sir, the company is formed.”
I returned her salute. “Post.”
I waited for Karen to post. “At ease.”
“Sir, what’s going on?”
“The arms room will be open in a few minutes. You will go down and get your weapon and return to formation.”
A SGT Carson came out the door. “Sir, we’re open now.”
“You heard the sergeant. Get your weapons.”
I watched as the troopers went to get their rifles. Alpha Company slowly reformed up with their rifles.
“Sir, what about our field gear?”
“You don’t need it, we have some ready for you. Now, get on the trucks. We’ll head out to the field.”
I lead a convoy of seven trucks to training area E-7 at the crossroads of Red Diamond Road, Plymouth Road, and Helmet Trail. When we arrived, Karen formed up the company. I let Karen run the show with Alpha Company. I needed them to see Karen as a commander. This would make the transition to battalion commander for Karen easier.
“Adam, as First Platoon leader, I want you to be my XO.”
“Yes, ma’am, I’ll cover your back.”
Karen turned about and saluted me. “Sir, Alpha Company is formed.”
I returned her salute. “Post.”
After Karen posted, I looked over the company.
“I want you to draw your field gear here. Get it on and then form back up for a briefing.”
I watched them all line up and receive the field gear needed for the exercise. It took twenty minutes to complete.
“Now down to the southwest is Bravo Company First Battalion of the 289th Infantry Regiment. They will be your opposition for today. When I get word they are ready for you, 2LT Rivera will form you up, and you will engage their defense area. There are twenty of my staff and officers to referee the battle. They are impartial but know how important this upcoming battle is for us. You can use whatever tactics you wish. Be warned, this group completed their training at the infantry school, so they won’t be easy to beat. We provided you with some handheld radios for each platoon leader and LT Rivera. LT Rivera, go ahead and figure out your tactics.”
“Yes, sir. Platoon leaders, gather around.”
I watched and listened in to her briefing. It was simple and to the point. The platoon leaders then briefed their platoons on the tactics and orders.
“OK, 2LT Rivera, move your company out to the southwest.”
“Yes, sir.”
I walked to MAJ David Jones. “Dave, let’s get the drones up and watch how they do.”
“Yes, sir. Markus, let’s get them going.”
We watched the monitor as Karen lead Alpha Company against Bravo Company. Karen had them spread out three platoons on line with three troopers out front as scouts.
“Dave, they’re really close to Bravo Company. Oh look, they stopped.”
“What’s she doing now?”
“She’s detaching two platoons to move south. Karen knows where Bravo Company is at.”
As we watched, Karen directed Third Platoon to attack Bravo Company from the north. In a minute, we saw half of Bravo move north to get into the battle.
“Jim, what is Geoffrey doing?”
“CPT Miller is going to get his ass handed to him.”
As we watched, the firefight to the north got more intense. With Bravo Company’s attention to the north, First and Second Platoons attacked north into Bravo Company’s area. Suddenly, Bravo Company started to lose lots of troopers. CPT Geoffrey Miller suddenly realized the shots from behind him wasn’t his company. By the time Bravo Company’s troopers turned around, the battle was lost.
I called CPT Paul Gonzales on the radio. As I talked to Paul, I could hear Katie screaming at Geoffrey over his poor performance. I walked down to the defensive position as fast as I could. By the time I got there, it was all over. I charged over to Katie within a couple of inches and unloaded as loud as I could.
“What the hell is your malfunction! You call yourself a leader! You couldn’t lead Girl Scouts out of a paper bag! That was the most pathetic showing in all my years in uniform!”
I looked at the shocked face on Katie.
With a smile, I asked, “Did you enjoy that?”
“No, it’s unfair to blame it on me.”
“True, but expect it to happen. These troopers aren’t well trained yet.”
“But they lost the battle, broke ranks to move to a fight out of their area.”
“If you want to discipline a trooper due to poor performance, you do it in an office, not out in public. You don’t embarrass troopers in public. It undermines their authority. It can also cause you to lose the respect of your troopers. Continue to do this, and these troopers won’t serve you.”
“I’m sorry, I didn’t know. The academy did it in an office. We don’t have one here.”
“Then you pull him aside and quietly talk to him about his company. Right now, you owe all those troopers an apology.”
Katie looked down at her feet. “Yes, sir. I’ll go do it now.”
Katie turned about and walked over to CPT Stanley. Stan started to get the troopers up.
“As you were. I’ve come over to apologize for the chewing out I gave you and the troopers. It seems we all need more training. I’m sorry for all the yelling and screaming I did.”
CPT Miller looked at Katie. “I agree with you. We do need more training. We got our butts handed to us. We’ll do better next time.”
“Katie, give us forty-five minutes and then conduct your attack.”
“Yes, sir. Start our attack in forty-five minutes.”
I walked back to Alpha Company. David was watching Karen get her defensive position ready. CPL Samantha Meyer was showing Karen the best places to set up the machine guns. Samantha was doing a very good job. I wanted to ask Karen if there were alternate positions set up, but I just watched. Suddenly, Karen called her platoon leaders to her. After pointing out alternate positions, she turned to me.
“Colonel, we’re ready for them.”
“Dave, give Katie the green light.”
“Yes, sir. Bravo, you can start your assault.”
“Dave, get the drones up, start them at Bravo’s start point. Keep them in sight, but don’t let Karen know where they’re at.”
“Yes, sir. Markus, get them up.”
I used my tablet to watch the battle. As the drone flew northeast, I looked for Alpha Company. Where did they go? I watched Geoffrey stop his company and split them up to attack from three different directions.
“I know where they’re at, but I can’t see them. Geoffrey knows they’re out there, but he is going in blind.”
As we watched, Bravo was hit from short range. Bravo stepped into a kill zone and was getting hit hard. Damn, she’s good and knows her troopers. The battle lasted only a few minutes. Katie walked up to us.
“Damn, she’s good. I couldn’t see her soldiers. They were well camouflaged—good cover and concealment. Handed us our butts again.”
“Katie, have a lunch ready for us when they get their rifles cleaned.”
“Yes, sir. I’ll let the mess hall know.”
I walked to Karen. “Get them formed up.”
“Yes, sir. You heard the Colonel, let’s get formed up.”
I watched them quickly form up. Karen called them to attention and then turned about. I walked to Karen.
Karen saluted me. “Sir, the company is formed.”
I returned her salute. “Post.”
After Karen posted, I said, “At ease. We’ll head back so you can clean your rifles. After which, we will get some lunch at our mess hall. On my command, fall out and then fall in on the trucks. Fall out.”
I stopped Karen. “Come with me.”
I followed Jamie to the wolverine for the ride back. “That was very good. Do that in the exercise, and LTC Reynolds will get his butt handed to him.”
At the barracks, I helped the troopers get every weapon cleaned. When all weapons were turned in, we left for the mess hall.
“Karen, I want you to sit with me. Your troopers need to see you as a leader.”
“Yes, sir.”
I surveyed the field with Karen. First Platoon was on our right, Second Platoon on the left, and Third Platoon was our reserve. I watched Karen check each fighting position and check the alternate positions. Samantha pointed out the best positions to for the machine guns to Karen. Once done, Karen met with the platoon leaders to give final instructions. The right flank, if hit, was to slow the enemy and then fall back to the northeast while Second Platoon provided supporting fire from the center.
Karen looked at me. “Well, we’re as ready as we can be.”
I told her, “Come with me to the command post to wait on the attack.”
“It’s so dark out. I wonder if we can hit anyone.”
“Karen, don’t worry, your troopers are well trained. Just relax and think of something else.”
“Yeah, well this waiting is hard. How do you do it?”
“Karen, you just have to understand the enemy is coming, and he will fall into your trap in his own time.”
LTC Steven Reynolds gave his troops orders to move to attack positions. As First and Second Platoons moved north in the eastern area to creek, Third Platoon moved north in the western area. A decoy was to be done by Third Platoon while First and Second Platoons conducted a major assault. Suddenly, a trip flare went off.
LTC Reynolds called Third Platoon. “What is happening?”
Karl Weber answered, “We tripped a flare sir.”
“Is there any response from Alpha Company?”
“No, sir, they are not doing anything”
“OK, continue the operation.”
“Yes, sir”
When First and Second Platoons reached the turn in the creek, they followed the creek to try to infiltrate Alpha Company’s position.
Karen and me waited for two hours, with nothing happening. Suddenly, a trip flare on our right flank went off.
“They’re on our right flank.”
“Hold on, Karen, let’s see what develops. Get First Platoon ready for the attack.”
Suddenly, smoke grenades went off, obscuring our vision. The firing started. Karen ordered open fire. After thirty seconds, Karen ordered First Platoon to fall back to secondary positions. Second Platoon started to engage targets as First Platoon fell back. I watch Karen as the attack unfolded.
Karen hollered, “I don’t get it, there is barely a platoon attacking.”
“Maybe this is a diversion.”
Suddenly, the machine gun at the creek rattled off a dozen rounds. A flare launched over the creek showed two platoons attacking. I watched Karen go into action.
With First Platoon in the lead, machine gun fire sounded from the west area. Another minute or two, half of Alpha would be moving to the firefight. Suddenly, a machine gun opened up. Dave Master’s MILES went off with half of First Platoon’s soldiers.
Janet McCoy saw the flare outline all her soldiers of Second Platoon. Everyone was trying to get out of the creek or get shot. However, once out of the creek bank, they found themselves in a crossfire.
Karen hollered, “Paul, move your machine gun behind First Platoon to defend against the attack. Adam, your Platoon will hold the right flank. Cesar, move your Third Platoon by the creek.”
I watched as both platoons were raked by machine gun fire in the creek. Bravo Company got thirty troopers past the creek only to get caught in a crossfire. The attack only lasted for another two minutes, and then it was over.
The observers reset everyone’s MILES gear, and then Alpha Company went to the assembly area for lunch.
“You did really good, Karen, but now comes the hard part. We have to make an attack.”
“Well, I hope my plan works out.”
“We’ll see soon enough.”
Tom came up to us to tell us the results of the evaluation.
“It seems LTC Reynolds ran into a buzz saw. Alpha Company had 16 percent causalities, Bravo Company had 92 percent causalities. If you can do better than Bravo, you should win.
Wednesday night was our attack. Karen sent one fireteam of troopers to start a distraction on the west. The rest of Alpha moved to the east end to move north to the creek to prepare to cross the creek in an attack. We waited for our lone fireteam to start the diversion. We watched a trip flare go off. Suddenly, the whole west side of the battlefield erupted into a mass of gunfire. A parachute flare launched over Bravo showed about forty troopers out in the open.
As LTC Reynolds watched, a trip flare showed a handful of soldiers. Reynolds gave the order to open fire. Every soldier fired at the trip flare, hoping to get a hit. Half of the soldiers moved east to get into the fight. A parachute flare lit up the area.
Suddenly, Karen hollered, “Charge!” Everyone ran across the creek, firing as they ran. Stevens command post was overrun in a minute as we slammed into Bravo Company. Troopers were dropping left and right on both sides.
LTC Reynolds heard “Charge!” behind him, turning in time to see most of Alpha Company coming at him. I stopped in front of him as Alpha Company troopers ran past to engage what was left of his company. It was so frantic that MG Saunders called a stop to the exercise. LTC Reynolds was yelling and cussing at me for the attack.
LTC Reynolds yelled, “You won’t get these damn brats. I’ll see to that.”
I smiled at LTC Reynolds. Only time will tell who wins this one.
“Karen, get the company formed up. Then get them on a truck for the trip back to the barracks. Get their weapons cleaned then get some rest. I have a meeting Friday morning with Col Carlisle in his office.”
I walked to the staging area where Jamie is parked. I get in and turn to Jamie.
“Drop me off at my quarters. I need to get some sleep. Tomorrow I need to check on the barracks. They need to be ready for our troopers to move into.”
“Yes sir.”
Jamie drops me off and leaves. Time to get some sleep. My alarm sounds at 0500. I crawl out of bed and into the shower. I get dressed for duty. I go to the kitchen to make a cup of coffee. At 0730 I hear Jamie honk the horn. Leaving my quarters Jamie drives me to work. In my temporary office I read reports on the barracks. Katie comes in to talk.
“How did it go?”
“We won both sides. I just need to wait for them to declare the winner and release the troopers.”
The rest of my day just dragged by.
Friday morning, I was in Bill’s office with LTC Reynolds, MG Saunders, and Jane Minder. MG Saunders started the debriefing.
“Alpha Company was more successful in this exercise. They took less causalities than Bravo Company.”
LTC Reynolds stammered, “W-With all due respect, sir, Alpha Company used pyrotechnics to distract my company.”
“You used smoke grenades, but nothing was restricted from being used.”
LTC Reynolds just glared at me. Jane moved next to MG Saunders to speak.
“COL Preston, the soldiers of both battalions will be transferred to your command as of 0600 hours tomorrow morning.”
“Thank you for the troopers.”
“LTC Reynolds, you will have new orders on Monday. Promotion orders to colonel will be here in the morning.”
Pat stopped me. “What did you tell the young soldier before she left?”
“I told her we have the exercise in the bag.”
After we left the office, I stopped Jane. “Can I get two sets of promotion orders tomorrow.”
“For who?”
“Karen Maria Rivera for command of Second Battalion, and Thomas Patrick James.”
“Why the orders for MAJ James?”
“I want him to command the First Battalion. I will shift Pam over to the Third Battalion.”
“Then I will see you in the morning with the orders.”
Saturday morning, I picked up the orders from Jane.
“What if he doesn’t want the battalion?”
“I know Tom, he will jump at the chance to get a battalion.”
“I hope you know what you are doing.”
“Thanks, I’ll let you know.”
I went with Jamie to Alpha Company barracks to find Karen. When we found her, I grabbed her bags.
“Follow me.”
“Yes, sir. Where are we going?”
“To pick up Tom and then to my office.”
Tom was waiting for me. As he got in, he said, “If it isn’t the Tiger of Fort Benning.”
I turned to Tom. “Tom, I want you to take command of my First Battalion.”
“Me, I’d love to take the job, but I don’t get promoted until September.”
“Jamie, to my office.”
As Jamie drove, we talked about the exercise. When we arrived, my staff was waiting. Once in the headquarters, I gave the orders to Candice to post as I pinned on the rank.
“Attention to orders, Thomas Patrick James is promoted to the rank of lieutenant colonel effective 27 June 2127.”
“I should have seen this was coming.”
“Candice, if you please.”
“Attention to orders, Karen Maria Rivera is promoted to the rank of lieutenant colonel effective 27 June 2127.”
Karen stood with her mouth wide open. Katie smiled as she watched me pin on a silver oak leaf and remarked, “It’s not a matter of age, it’s a matter of leadership.”
“Here are your orders as commander of your battalions.”
Karen stammered “I… I don’t understand.”
Jamie squealed, “I told you so.”
Tom looked at her and said, “You’ve proven you can command a battalion.”
I looked at them both. “Well, right now, we need to identify a battalion XO for both of you.”
Karen look at me and asked, “Can it be anyone?”
“It has to be someone that can lead the battalion in your absence.”
“Then Adam Palomalu is my choice. I trust him to do anything.”
Pam entered with a questioning look.
“Pam, you and Sherri Winslow will take over Third Battalion.
“We will. OK, sir.”
“Tom, any ideas as to who you want for XO?”
“Well… I do, but she isn’t an infantry officer. Robin Wagner, she’s in Fort Lewis, Washington.”
“Why her?”
“Robin put in for infantry training but hasn’t gone yet. However, she is well versed in infantry tactics.”
“Well, let’s go talk to her. We’ll leave Monday morning.”
“OK, I’ll pack tomorrow.”
“Katie, hold down the fort while I’m gone.”
She responded, “As always, sir.”
We landed at 9:00 a.m. in Tacoma, Washington. A rental car was waiting for us. As I drove to Fort Lewis, Tom called Robin.
“This is CPT Wagner, how may I help you?”
“How about dinner tonight?”
“Tom, how are you? Where are you?”
“I’m on my way to see you.”
“You are? What’s going on?”
“Did you ever get into infantry school?”
“No, why the interest?”
“Can you give me your building number?”
“Go to building 2224. See you in a few minutes.”
It seemed to take longer to get there.
Robin Wagner was a tall African-American. She was surprised to see me.
“Robin, this is COL Preston.”
I shook her hand. “It’s a pleasure to meet you.”
“Thank you, sir. What is this about?”
Tom looked at Robin. “Can we go for a walk, we have a job for you.”
“Sure, let’s go.”
Robin grabbed her hat, and we followed her out. Across the street was a huge field twice as big as a football field. We crossed and walked into the field.
“Tom is the commander of my First Battalion. He has a job for you.”
“What, the S1 officer?”
Tom looked at Robin. “No, I want you to be my XO.”
“You’re kidding, right?”
“If you say yes, Jane Minder will have your orders here in an hour.”
“I haven’t been trained yet.”
“We will train you with some of the best.”
“Really? OK, I’m game.”
I called Jane to let her know what I needed. Jane sent the orders in fifty-five minutes. When we got back, Robin was called into her commander’s office. I stood by and listened in as her commander yelled at her. I called Jane and told her.
“I’ll call LTC Jefferson.”
I watched as a SGT Roberts knocked on the door. It took a couple of minutes for SGT Roberts to announce the call. LTC Jefferson picked up the call. “This is LTC Jefferson.”
I watched the color drain from his face.
“Good morning, Madam Secretary. Yes, Madam Secretary. Yes, Madam Secretary. Yes, Madam Secretary.”
He looked out at me and then to CPT. Wagner. “CPT. Wagner, you’re dismissed.”
As we walked out of the headquarters, Robin asked, “How did you do that?”
“Sec. Jane Minder is a good friend. She also doesn’t like someone being chewed out because of something that is out of their control. Now get your things and let’s get to the airport.”
We returned to Fort Benning with Robin. Katie was commanding First Battalion through drill and ceremony marching. I enjoyed watching troopers marching. God, did they look good. Katie had done a great job with them. Teaching troopers to march in formation with precision is hard work.
“Robin, get settled in then return to my office so we can discuss your training.”
“Yes, sir, I’ll be back in an hour.”
I watched Katie put another trooper in charge of the formation.
She came to me. “The ceremony will be in about two weeks. Next week, we will activate the unit battalions. I started marching them in formation.”
I looked at her. “Have you marched in a parade before?”
“No, Paul got some of his friends from other units to help teach us how to do it.”
“Good thinking. They are doing a great job. Come with me, we have things to do.”
When we got to my office, we looked at the details for the ceremony. I informed Katie, “The colors are cased until we’re activated. In the ceremony, the colors will be uncased to represent the activation of our unit.”
“Will we be standing long?”
“It should only be two hours or so.”
Katie’s eyes got big. “Wow, that’s a lot of time in one place.”
“That’s if everything goes right on time.”
“What do you mean by that?”
“I’ve waited four hours before a ceremony started. The general was four hours late for the ceremony.”
Robin walked into our meeting.
“Robin Wagner, meet Katharine Wilson. She’s my XO. We were just going over the ceremony.”
“How do you do, Robin?”
“I’m excited to be here.”
“Robin, Tom will be in charge of your training. You will do field exercises from squad to battalion level. We will see to it you get training prior to each exercise.”
“OK, now what happens?”
“Let’s go outside and check on the parade practice.”
I led the way outside and across the street to the parade field. Once there, I noticed the troopers were not as sharp as earlier. I looked for and spotted Tom, Karen, and Pam.
“Commanders, form your units. Anyone not in this regiment, come talk to me.”
A dozen sergeants came to me. I thanked them for their help, asking if they could return in the morning. As they left, Candice saluted and reported the unit was formed. I returned her salute.
“At ease. As you all know, we will be activated in about two weeks. We will practice so we look sharp in a pass and review.”
“Sir, why do we have to do all this marching? We look pretty good marching.”
“When I arrived, you all looked very good. When I came out of my office, you all looked terrible. Ranks not aligned, troopers out of step. We will quit for today and continue tomorrow. Staff meeting after this formation. Commanders, take command of your units.”
As I walked to the staff conference room, Katie ran to catch up.
“What is the staff meeting for?”
“We need to map out training for the soldiers. Training teams will come here to conduct training. I would like to see the troopers sent to get training with other soldiers.”
“I agree, however, Father is afraid of letting the soldiers have too much freedom.”
My phone rang. “Hello, this is COL Preston. Yes, I can do that. We will try to get it out on a timely basis. Good, talk to you later.”
“Who was that?”
“Three guesses, and the first two don’t count.”
“Don’t tell me—Dad.”
“You got it. He wants to be sure to get the results of all training.”
When we reached the conference room, everyone else was right behind us. Once they were seated, I started. “I have four command sergeant majors that served with me coming.”
Katie looked at me. “I thought you wanted to promote from within the unit.”
“Normally I do. However, these individuals know how a battalion runs. Their expertise will help their commanders run their units better.”
Karen looked at me. “When will they be here?”
“They will be here tomorrow morning. They came because I’m here.”
Tom asked, “Do they know about the units?”
“No, I will lay everything out for them. I will let them decide on whether to stay or not. In front of you is the training agenda. Please open.”
When they opened the folders in front of them, they found only blank paper. Karen smiled. The others were confused.
Tom spoke up first. “I guess we are here to try to set up training.”
“Tom, you’re correct. We need to make sure the troopers are trained from fire team to battalion level. Once we get them properly trained, we will do some regiment level training.”
Pam asked, “How do we get the whole regiment into the field?”
“We don’t, for the moment. We train the battalion staff with the regiment staff with only headquarters and headquarters company and staff. As for the whole regiment, we would need the National Training Center in California. Now, let’s get started with a training plan.”
It was a hard five hours working on a training plan for my unit. It was far from done, but it addressed the training all my troopers would need. We decided to continue on Tuesday.
“Tuesday at 1000 hours in the morning, parade practice formation to practice marching. At 1400 hours, we will practice the ceremony to include pass in review.”
I was in my office early Tuesday morning, looking at all the troopers in all three battalions. Suddenly, Jamie poked her head in my office.
“Colonel, there are four command sergeant majors here to see you.”
“Thanks, Jamie. Let Katie know, and send them in.”
I stood up to shake hands with everyone. In they walked; Arthur Kilbert, Ronald Fox, Carl Shelton, and Michael Underwood.
“I want to thank everyone for coming.”
When Katie entered, everyone’s eyes grew big.
“Gentlemen, this is my XO, LTC Katharine Wilson.”
Ron remarked, “She looks so young.”
Katie looked at Ron. “I would thank you for that, but I’m twenty-three.”
They looked at me for an explanation.
“We’re reactivating the 289th Infantry Regiment. However, LTC Thomas James, MAJ Robin Wagner, and myself are the only veterans in the unit.”
Mike stood with his mouth open.
Carl looked at me. “What about battalion commanders?”
“You will meet them in a staff meeting. I want to talk to you before then. Most of the troopers are under twenty-five years old.”
Arthur spoke up, “How do you run a regiment with teenyboppers?”
Suddenly, Karen stuck her nose into my office. “Oh, sorry, sir.”
“Come in, Karen. Gentlemen, this is LTC Karen Rivera. She beat LTC Reynolds in a field exercise and now commands the Second Battalion.”
Carl smiled. “You got lucky.”
Karen stared at Carl. “No, I knew what tactics Reynolds would use. I just needed to out maneuver him.”
“Gentlemen, don’t get me wrong. They are young, but they are smart, fast learners, and willing to take instruction.”
Carl looked at me. “I don’t know about the rest of you, but this is the stupidest, craziest, most unattainable job we’ve been offered. Jim, I’ll take the job in Second Battalion.”
I looked at Carl. “I haven’t made any decision just yet.”
“Well, I want to go to Second Battalion. If she can beat a veteran, I want to help her get even better.” Karen blushed a deep red.
Jamie stuck her head in the door. “Sir, the staff is in the conference room.”
Ron asked, “Where do the battalions go after training?”
I told them, “The regiment will stay together for the present. Let’s go meet the rest of the staff. Jamie, show them to the conference room please, I’ll be there in a couple of minutes.”
“Yes, sir. Come with me, please.”
I wanted them to have a little time with my staff. After five minutes, I walked to the conference room. I stopped outside the room. There were four very animated discussions. I watched everything transpiring. Mike stood over Pam, talking about training the battalion. I finally entered the conference room and closed the door a little hard.
“Has everyone made introductions?”
Pam looked at me. “Yes, what’s on the agenda?”
I scanned the room. “We need to finalize the training plan.”
Carl looked at me. “Are we included in the discussion.”
“I expected you four to look it over when done, but if you want to stick your nose in now, take a seat.”
With my now extended staff, we worked for the next two hours on a training plan. The work started out slow. Mike tried to take over the training plan; however, Karen and Pam kept Mike in check. At the end, we had a training plan that we all liked.
Ron looked at me and asked, “So who is the regiment command sergeant major?”
“Ron, I’m not sure who wants to go where.”
Arthur voiced his mind. “I don’t mind women in the infantry, so it doesn’t matter where I go.”
Suddenly, Robin entered the room with papers for Tom to sign.
Tom started, “Art, I’d like you to meet my XO, MAJ Wagner.”
Robin turned to Art. “So you must be Arthur Kilbert. I can’t wait to see if you are as good as the hype the colonel put out.”
Art looked at me and then Robin. “And I’ll see if you can cut the mustard.”
Robin smiled and left the room.
“Well, Art. You want First Battalion?”
“Sir, in the last war, I worked with women partisan. I’ll take First Battalion.”
Mike and Ron looked at each other. Ron looked at me. “Guess I’ll take the regimental slot. Mike can take the Third Battalion.”
I wrote down the decisions and passed it to Jamie. “Jamie, pass this to Jane Minder for orders.”
Carl smiled. “Got Jane doing things for you.”
“Why not pull strings while I have them?”
“Friday the eleventh is the activation ceremony. We started parade practice last Friday. We will have practice at 1000 hours this morning. I want the battalions to practice on their own this morning on marching. At two this afternoon, we will practice the ceremony to include the pass in review.”
Ron asked, “How many soldiers in each battalion?”
“There will be 625 troopers in each battalion formation, the regiment HHC will have 120. I think we should select them randomly each day of practice. This will give us extras. If any get sick or injured, we’ll have replacements.”
Walking outside, the battalions were formed, going to attention as we came out. We watched as the battalion commanders took command of their battalions. I walked to Katie. Katie turned around and saluted, I returned her salute.
“Sir, the regiment is formed.”
I looked over the whole regiment, proud of all the young troopers in front of me.
“At ease. We will practice marching this morning. This afternoon, we will practice the ceremony to include the pass in review. Each battalion will have 625 troopers selected at random. We will practice only three hours each time. Commanders, get your marchers sorted out and march them counterclockwise. Commanders, take charge of your units.”
I saluted my commanders and went to Ron and Katie to watch the practice.
Each battalion and regimental headquarters and headquarters company was sized up by their CSM, tallest to the right front to smallest to left rear. As all three battalions and headquarters and headquarters company marched, the NCOs watched, made adjustments in posture, rifle sling hand placement, and replaced troopers as needed. At the end of three hours, they looked pretty good. We dismissed everyone for lunch to be back at one for more practice. I told Katie to stand in for me during the afternoon practice.
After lunch, I looked all over for Jamie with no success. I went to ask Katie if she saw her. I saw Jamie march by in HHC formation with a grin a mile wide. Katie walked up. “What’s up?”
“I was looking for Jamie. I found her in the HHC formation.”
“Jim, would you like me to pull her out?”
“No thanks. She had a big grin on her face. I’ll drive myself.”
I decided to drive my own car to meet Bob at post headquarters to coordinate for several 75mm cannons for the salute battery. When I arrived, there were several government cars parked in front. Going to Bob’s office, I passed four Secret Service agents.
“I’m glad they were here to see you.”
“Thanks loads, Jim. What can I do for you?”
“I wanted to coordinate for the salute battery. I guess that’s been done.”
“The president will be here to activate your unit. Jim, we’ll have the battery ready for the ceremony.”
“Thanks, Bob. How about you and Julie joining Katie and me for dinner Friday night?”
“Jim, Friday night will be perfect. Julie would love to get out of cooking. I know just the place to go.”
At Wednesday morning staff meeting, I noted a more organized meeting.
“I’ve seen improvement every day they practice.”
Karen noted, “Those sergeants know how to get the best from our soldiers. I now see why you brought them here.”
Pam added, “They have earned the respect of the troopers. They are eager to learn from these veterans.”
“I met with Bob yesterday to coordinate a salute battery. I was passed by four Secret Service agents.”
Tom went white. “Oh no, not again. Please tell me he’s not coming.”
Karen was stunned by Tom’s response. “Tom, what does this mean?”
“What Tom is trying to say is that the president is coming to the ceremony.”
Katie looked at me. “What is going on?”
“The president came to a training graduation as a senator. His comments almost caused a riot. We were serving in an infantry training battalion.”
Pam sighed. “Let’s hope it goes smoothly this time.”
“Amen to that. If there are no other items, let’s end the meeting.”
With nothing said, everyone got up and left the room.
“Katie, can I see you for a minute?”
“Sure.”
“You are invited to dine with Bob and his wife, Julie, on Friday night.”
“Wow, OK. What time?”
“I’ll pick you up at 5:30 p.m.”
“I’ll be waiting, Jim.”
I picked up Katie at 5:30 p.m. She looked lovely in a blue dress, light blue shoes, and a royal blue shawl.
“Ready to go?”
“I want to thank you for the invitation.”
“Save the thanks for after dinner. You may have a change heart.”
Katie gave me a strange look but was silent during the drive. Bob and Julie were waiting for us when we arrived. I shook Bob’s hand and then hugged Julie.
“Bob, Julie, it has been a long time. How have you been doing.”
“We’re doing good, how about you?”
“I’m doing great. This is Katharine Wilson.”
We were escorted to a table in the back of the restaurant. Once seated with menus, Julie seemed antsy.
Julie looked me in the eyes. “Jimmy, you sure have balls.”
“Excuse me?”
Bob almost dropped his drink in his lap. “Julie!”
Julie went on. “Well, he fought a battle to get his soldiers free.”
Katie remained silent, smiling.
“Julie, I didn’t fight the battle. I was there, but the troopers fought the battle under the command of Karen Rivera.”
Bob looked at me. “You mean to tell me you didn’t give any commands.”
“I said nothing to my troopers. Karen did everything.”
Julie replied, “She must be real special to beat Steven.”
“So much so that she is commander of the Second Battalion. Surprised that she is a battalion commander, Bob?”
“My god, Jim, you should have veterans commanding the battalions.”
“Thomas James is First Battalion Commander. We do have four of the best command sergeant majors in the army.”
The waitress came, and we ordered. Julie was sizing us up.
Julie looked at Katie. “How long have you two been dating?”
Katie turned four shades of red. I just smiled and stayed silent.
Bob scolded Julie. “Julie please, don’t embarrass the young lady.”
“Hush, Bobbie, I think they make a lovely couple.”
I smiled at Julie. “Katie is my XO.”
“Now, Jimmy, you need to remarry her then.”
“Julie, Katie is Jim’s Executive Officer.”
“What, I mean, oh I’m so sorry.”
“That’s OK, Julie. Besides, I liked seeing Katie turn red. Ow, that hurt.”
I rubbed my leg where Katie kicked me. Julie giggled at my pain.
Katie looked at me. “It serves you right.”
Everyone laughed, and the rest of the night went wonderfully.
Bob looked at me. “Jim, this assignment could be your ticket to general.”
I glanced at Bob. “You’re not the first to mention it to me. I think this assignment will be my last. I might retire after this tour.”
Bob smiled. “Well, don’t retire just yet.”
As we walked out, Katie was on my arm.
“Thanks for such a lovely night, I hope we can do this again.”
“Jim, I hope this isn’t the only time.”
As we walked to my car, I opened the passenger side door and held Katie’s hand as she entered the car. I jogged around to the driver’s side. As we pulled away, Katie was looking out the window.
“A penny for your thoughts.”
“What are we doing?”
“What do you mean?”
Katie faced me with tears running down. I touched her cheek.
“I think after the ceremony, we need some time off.”
“We can’t just leave any time we want.”
“Katie, we will be gone just two days. Tom can hold down the fort until then.”
Katie looked out the window. “We’ll see.”
When we arrived at the BOQ, I grabbed her hand and kissed her. “We will take it one day at a time.”
She gave me a weak smile and then left.
