It happened in Church - Chapter Eighty Five – No Rest Area
It happened in Church - October 19, 1962
Chapter Eighty Five - No Rest Area
Thursday Nov 23 (continues)
Ear ache
The Colonel was in the car with the Irish Sergeant. They had an escort with lights and sirens. The good and bad news came in over the radio. General Armondy himself: “Two for three, Ears. One of the KIAs was yours. We’re moving to the rest area. The kids brought quite a payload. Other than the casualties, this will make you my boss shortly. Can I have a raise?” Armody was a clown. Everyone knew he declined disrespectfully the Chairman’s job and he wanted to stay on the front lines. He probably have more to say about whether he was a General soon. The Vermont militia had a lot of people who didn’t want promotions. From what Armody just said, he felt he was going to get his arm twisted real good real soon now. He too wanted to stay where he was with his beloved ears. Luckily, they really had no one to replace him. It wasn’t far from the ears lab to the the Pownal Rest Area. The Colonel probably could have walked the distance on air.
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Onto Rest Area
John signaled Roy to follow the General’s car. Everyone remounted. Brother Kevin played ramrod. Roy got them moving slow. Brother Kevin drove the line down and back. Upon his return, Roy sped up!
Just about as he got up to speed, there was the rest area. There was a banner that said “Vermont welcomes the Good Shepherd Classmates and Guests”.
MPs were stationed to direct traffic. Roy and Brother Kevin were directed to the building. The trucks were directed to Truck Parking. The Buses and the Rear Guard to the building. There was a company honor guard.
(They were the Honor Company just recently back from Pittsfield. As the convoy came in, they braced and saluted. These veterans had a real respect and understanding what these children had pulled off.)
All that was missing was a brass band! But in the days after the trouble, no thought one was needed. The time for foolishness was over.
At the building, they were met by some admin types. They wanted to usher them into the building. The Children and Guest were in no mood for ushering.
In the Truck Parking Area, the rifles had dismounted and were securing their perimeter. John and the Leadership weren’t about to be rolled over.
General Armody walked over and said: “Don’t worry. We’ll protect you.” John pushed his new LT ‘colonel hat’ back and said: “General, if you don’t mind, we are never going to need protecting again.” “But you’re children. You’ve got young children. Time to put foolishness aside. We need you to disarm and get an inventory.”
“General, sir, with all due respect, you’re probably used to getting your way, but we will NEVER be disarmed again. We’ve been that route. We’ve seen what Bravo Golfs do to unarmed women and children. And, if necessary, I’ll give you a lesson of what type of killers we have become. See that young lady over there, Isabella, who has been gradually separating herself from our group? As you’ve been a ‘ordering’, she’s been getting more nervous. Right now, she’s ready to kill some one. Marie and I have been reassuring her with words that are invisible to you. But on to the demonstration. See that metal trash can about ten feet behind you. Let suppose that was a Bravo Golf and he got the drop on you.” The General turned his head at John’s suggestion. There was a whirling blur that was Isabella and a loud clang erupted from the can as Isabella became a ballerina once again. The can had a mortal entry wound from a two foot dart. There was only an exit dimple. The General turned white.
John continued: “Now, I’ll grant you that she’s our best hurler. But, I wouldn’t want anyone to think they can push any of the Classmates around. They are all pretty good.” The general was regaining his composure: “Even the little ones?” John smiled: “Especially, the little ones. They are the most dedicated and have had the most time to practice. And, are anxious to prove their skills.”
There was an uneasy silence as the General rethought his “welcome” plan.
Marie broke the ice. “Well, now that you two he bulls have come to a standstill as to who’s the biggest ASS in the pasture. We have little children and people who need attention. General, do you have a doctor here to help us? We have people in need of treatment. John, get Doc Jen up here. General, can we defer the whole disarming thing until we take care of the urgent stuff? Boys?” John said “Yes, dear.”
The General knew the girl was right. They’d settle up later. He bellowed: “Where the Regimental surgeon? Medic! We have to get some one to tend to that injured trash can.” Everyone laughed and the tension was broken.
There was never any further talk of disarming. The atlatl was firmly established as a fashion accessory for the Classmates. And, become a fixture in Vermont life as time went on.
“Here, General. You told all us non-essentials to stay back.” replied the Regimental Surgeon. Gruffly, the General yelled, “Well you’re not non anymore.” The Regimental Surgeon joined them. “Well, Bones, this here lady is Top Dog and she has some injured.” Marie chimed right in: “Yes, Bones, I have, in priority order, on that first bus: One, a beating comatose beating victim. Two, our Doctor has infected feet. Three, a recovering radiation victim. Our doctor can fill you in. John is having her brought off the bus now. Fourth, we have 18 women and children that were rescued today from a slave market that need triage. Be gentle they have been traumatized. Fifth, we have some number of children on the second bus who also need triage. They have been in an underground shelter and may need nothing more than a bath, but we just got them. Sixth, split between the two buses are some college girls who seem to be none the worse for wear and tear. Seem to be very concerned about nail polish and hair brushes give all the young soldiers in the area. In need for nothing but an attitude adjustment. Can you help?” “Certainly. We’ll get right on it. With your permission, General.” The General had no time for formalities. “Bones, are you still here?” Bones stepped out and started yelling instructions. Men started running. Ambulances, from the back of the rest area, started pulling around.
The General knew his stuff. “First Sergeant!” “Here, sir!” Have the inside men sling there weapons. Pass the word that these aren’t children, but vets to be tread lightly around.” “Done, sir.” “Tell the outside watch to stay sharp. We’ve already had one mishap and I have no intention of another.” “Done, sir. I took the liberty of moving half the inside to outside duty.” Sharp fellow that First. He assessed the kids and started moving people to where they were best suited. And, didn’t bother the boss with the details.
The General was going to address the impasse when he saw a gaggle of women coming forward. The General said to no one important. “Well, that tears it. Here come the bosses.” There were eight older women. All dress in old fatigues. With name tags. But no insignia. With sidearms. And purses. Marie was fascinated with this group.
One stepped to the forefront and said “Army, can we get to work now? Have you finished playing soldier.” The General shook his head. “Yes, dear, we’re ready for the social work.”
The General’s wife was firmly in control of her part of the operation.
Several of the women fanned out to the various vehicles and started talking.
The General turned to John and Marie: “That was my wife and the some of the wives of the Regiment’s First Sergeants. Now you’ll see stuff start moving. Seriously, we need to get an accurate count of who and what you have here.”
Things were spinning out of control.
Marie addressed the General. “I know all our people. The new ones we picked up today we should meet and document.” The General agreed and had his XO split the clerks into team to inventory. He’d thought that they’d all line up and meekly check in, but that wasn’t going to happen. The checkers would have to make house calls.
The General addressed himself to John: “Well, Under Dog, any suggestions?” John thought for a moment: “General, these are all good motivated people. I found a smart strategy is to stay out of the way and be pleasantly amazed at the results. I just mess up their details. So, I just describe what the end result should look like and some how it gets done. My proof is we are standing here.” “Yes, boy, you sure are. When I first heard about this, I’d have bet my pension this would be a disaster.” “Well, it’s been a disaster looking at it from my pov. I’ve had casualties I shouldn’t have had and probably missed more opportunities than I exploited.” “Well, Son, I’ve been doing this a lot longer than you. If you had asked me about your chances, before this all started, I’d have said emphatically ‘Near Zero’! Nothing is ever truly zero. I’ve seen too many long shots come in. But, for you to move this mob from there to here, pickup a few tons of stuff, rescue gobs of people, and only have a few casualties. Hell, boy, you must have the Lord’s ear, or you’re George Patton, Hannibal, and George Washington all rolled into one. So I would not beat yourself up too bad. You can lead me anytime. Shall we go see what every one’s doing so we can pretend to be leading this parade.” “Yes, sir. If I was expecting problems, I be looking to the trucks. Lot of valuable stuff there. Marie will handle all the people issues. And, it look like she has lots of help.
John waved in the direction of the buses and the hubris was obvious. The General’s wife had a Nun and an gaggle in tow and was herding them towards the Rest Area’s truckers showers. Bones, the General’s doc, came at the double time. He was breathing heavy. “General, Under Dog, quick triage. The doc is the most urgent. My opinion is that we need to transport her quick. She’s the one that we can save.” “So, why is she not in transit.” “General, she won’t leave her patients. In case the General hadn’t noticed, these folks are a tad headstrong.” The first ambulance was leaving with an escort. “That would be the comatose fellow. He’s not going to make it.” A helicopter came in for a landing on the highway. Second ambulance raced out trying to catch up with the first. “That’s the radiation victim; he should make it.” The helicopter was taking off. The General could tell the pilot had been told to move it. The power was being applied forward as it lifted. The pilot was not observing any of the niceties with his backwash for the people on the ground. “That should be the Doctor. I told the pilot to hustle. She’s touch and go. Full case of gangrene in both feet.” “Very well, bones. Why are you here?” “Well, General, the Doctor tells me that we have TB and VD to deal with. We will begin therapeutic doses of antibiotics for both immediately. The Classmates have the TB; some of women and children, who were captives, have the VD. Luckily, the Classmates have brought their own antibiotics. And, plenty to spare. I assume this will all meet with the General’s approval.” “Good work, Bones. What about the children?” “Dirt, bumps, bruises. Nothing to worry about. If you want to be concerned, I’d schedule them all some shrink time. They’ve been thru hell. And, are very protective of one another. That’s good.”
The General summed it up. “OK, Bones, carry on. Under Dog John, how about you show me these trucks everyone is ga ga over?” “OK, General.”
And the old warrior and the young warrior walked towards the trucks.
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Sort by size
“You must be Top Dog. Nice to see a woman get her proper recognition.” Marie turned around; surprise to hear her ‘label’. There were a a bunch of woman in uniforms with no insignia. “Hello, I’m just Marie. The Vermont Militia some how gave me that name. Who might you all be?” “Well, Marie, I’m Namie. The girls call me ‘NAVY’; my dad was an admiral and I’m married to that General you ran into. This is the Old Girl’s Network. All these ladies are the wives of the Regiment’s First Sergeants. Back in Pownal, the Executive Officer’s wives are arranging things for you all. Now how can we help?”
Marie liked NAVY right off. No pretense; just ready to do the dirty work.
“Well, we rescued Sister Mary Margaret and her group of First and Second Graders. They were stuck in a shelter for six weeks. And, need a scrub. They are paired with a clean Classmate, who assigned to ensure they don’t get lost. You can tell who’s a Classmate because they will be carrying these funny sticks. They’re a weapon. A dangerous one.” “Well, Marie, there are showers up in the trucker’s section. We cleaned it out before you arrived here. And, we have extra kid’s clothes. So, do you want to delegate that to us and we’ll report back when we’re done.” “That would be great. Then we have the latest group of slaves we rescued. They need some time, holding, and reassurance. Then they will need the showers.” “OK, Marie sounds like a plan. We do the little kids. You shape up the ex-slaves. And we’ll circle back when we’re ready.”
The OGN’s quickly gathered up the Nun and the children. Headed them off to the showers. Several of the men helped. Some of the children were frightened. The OGN’s were all mothers too.
Marie didn’t see the tears ‘NAVY’ was shedding. Slave women? Dirty children; scared. She wasn’t as tough as she thought.
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Market burn
The slave market was out of business. It took many hours to infiltrate close enough for a look. The view wasn’t pleasant. Body parts and steel beams. And a huge hole under the VIP stand. Who ever planed it was a master. The rainy day had brought all the slave masters seeking a big payday. The charge was place directly under their seating area. Now there was a turf war among all the underlings; all the leaders went up in the stands. There probably wasn’t any need to gather forensic evidence. Not much point in figuring out who did it. It may have been Vermont Counter Intelligence, New Hampshire Special Services, another unidentified gang, or someone else. Needless to say this was going to put a crimp in their plans. They’d have to wait until a new power structure emerged and reopen negotiations.
The odd book was taken out and a message encoded.
“All leaders at this end wiped out. Power struggle underway to sort out new leaders. Suggest suspend all operations at your end pending reopening a trading relationship. Will order all intermediaries to put down any livestock heading south and cache any trade goods heading this way. Advise if you have other ideas.”
It was sent at the appointed time.
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Truck Review
The General followed John’s lead. At the trucks, he saw that each truck was “defended” by from one to six children. The MPs were are “on guard” as well. But it was hard to tell, who was guarding what from who. This would never do. He’d have to convince everyone that they were all on the same side.
“First, where’s the sheriff?”, bellowed the General. The Top Kick knew that the General wasn’t mad. When he was mad, he became very quiet. Usually demanding a personal audience out of the way, where he’d quietly ask probing questions, from an almost tearful point of view. This was “leadership theater’. But, he played along, “He’s coming, Sir.” “So’s Christmas, Top Kick, so’s Christmas.” Top clicked the walkie talkie. John heard the coded message: ‘sheriff, the old mans bellowing for u, minutes’ and ‘three top’. It amused him and he may have even chuckled. The General said to Top: “Top, did you know that all these children are coding savants. Or, so I am told. Isn’t that true Under Dog.” The General seemed to get a kick out of the label. “Well, General, I’m only a little kid and I wouldn’t know what the word ‘savant’ even means. Is that like French Foot Fighting?” The General laughed and Top even smiled. The General observed: “Yes, I figured that you’d not be the type to play poker with. Right Top?” “General, one of the ears told me that Under Dog speed tops out at about an encrypted 150. Top Dog broke the bank at 225. So, savant or not, I wouldn’t code anything around them that you didn’t want them to hear.” “True, Top, true. So tell us Under Dog, how does a prideful fellow like yourself, allow Top Dog to beat you? A mere wisp of a girl.” “General, sir, that wisp of a girl is my betrothed. And, she’s eidetic. So, I doubt that 225 measure. I’d suggest that there is no one on the planet better than she. To fall to such an adversary is no shame. And, remember who’d boss of this outfit. See, it’s not how well you can do it, it is whether or not you can convince people to follow your lead. Now that’s a skill. Besides, it suited our purpose to have your team recognize her and think she was the boss. One should, after all, never lose sight of the objective. And, certainly not allow anything as trivial as pride, trip you up. Besides, one can’t do everything, you need people to help. Right?” “Top, be real careful with this one. He has all the makings of a politician. You’re right, of course.” The two men and the boy shared a knowing laugh. None had any use for politicians. Unless one needed them to get the job done.
They were interrupted by the “sheriff”. That’s what the General called his head of the MPs. “You called me, General?” “Yes, instead of lolly gagging around, how about you apply yourself to the security problem of these trucks?” Now the sheriff was confused: “Sir, the trucks are secure.” “Well, why are all of the inside men looking at the trucks. If I was one of these children, it would make me nervous. And, frankly, some of these children have a lean and hungry look. Wouldn’t you agree, Top?” “Yes, sir, I’d go into a dark alley with them at my side. And, after seeing what that girl could do with two sticks, I don’t think they are afraid of much. Reminded me of a Zulu boy going out to become a man by killing a full grown lion with a short spear. Rumor hath it that there are some bad guys back in the city worse for wear and tear after running into these children.” “Yup, Top’s right. Sheriff, do you think our men could do an about face. The threat is going to come from the outside in.” “Yes, sir, we can do whatever the General wants.” That was code that the sheriff wasn’t so sure about that order. But not sure that he’d buck him on it. “Good man, Sheriff.” The order was passed.
“Care to tell us what is in all these rigs, Under Dog?”
“Certainly!”
John ran down the list from memory as they walked.
“Scout2 is a Bread Truck with weapons and tools. This is Roy; one of the Classmates Leadership.”
They walked to the next truck.
“This is the Classmates’ Treasure Truck driven by team number six: David, a sixth grader, Olivia, a fifth grader, and Emily, a fifth grader, led by Dylan, a seventh grader, with rifle security provided by Matthew, a fellow eighth grader.”
This visibly shook the General. “Where are the adults?” “General, other than Brother Kevin, we had no adults. Until we rescued some of the women slaves from the Bravo Golfs, there wasn’t an adult in sight. And, as the General knows all to well, you have to work with what you’ve got.” “Top, have you ever seen such a thing?” “No, sir. I was twenty when the Corps taught me how to drive a truck.” “Under Dog, would your team mind demoing just how they did this. You interested, Top?” “Fascinated, sir!”
The team crawled to their positions, leaving the driver’s side door open for the General to view. Dylan spoke up without any hesitation or fear. “OK, team, don’t take the brake off. Let’s just pretend. Foot brake on and hold!” Emily stomped the pedal to the floor. “Clutch down and hold!” David pushed the pedal to the firewall. “First Gear!” Emily, who was the steerer and was kneeling on the seat so as to see over the window, shifted to first. Dylan continued: “Now, General, if this were real we’d let go the hand brake. But since this is play we’ll just pretend.” They went thru the gears. Finally, an exasperated Emily said: “Dylan, this is dumb. Let’s invite the General for a ride around the lot.” Dylan, thought for a moment, then said: “General, do you want to take a ride?” “Sure.” He walked around and swapped with Matthew. They went once around the lot. And, the General got out impressed. He thanked them for the real demo. Walking back to John, he said: “Under Dog, are all these driven by children?” “No, General, we have one driven by a blind man!” John was laughing. They continued their inspection.
“This is the material gathered by the Guests. And introduced the team.”
“Now these three trucks are running because they have insulin. And it has to be kept cold.”
Up to that point as well as Fuel, Food#1, and Food#2 had children driving.
The School Antibiotic and the twelve ‘145′ trucks were driven by the Guests. Some of whom were adults. The General inquired: “How is it all you truck drivers were taken captives?” Alysssa took that one. “General, other than me, all these women and children learned how to drive after we were rescued by these Children. For the first part, we practiced on imaginary trucks. And, if I was not part of it. I would not have believed it. As a matter of fact, I saw it and I’m not sure I believe it.”
John picked up: “We had another Bread Truck called #2 with more tools and stuff, but that was left when the driver Brian as killed.” John got sad at that memory. “Ahh, yes, the casualty you took. I understand that the fellow didn’t follow your plan and got himself and his girl friend killed. I am sorry about that. My guys reported that the hostile popped up on them. They had swept the area a few hours before. Sorry, we didn’t succeed.” The General was truly sorry his troops had failed the Children. But, stuff happens.”
John summed up: “Finally, this is my Grandfather’s 57 Ford that was Rear#2. With a trailer, full of treasure and bodies.” “Bodies?”, gasped the General. “Yes, sir, we started as a group, and came here as a group. These are our honored dead. We leave no one behind.” The General was impressed. He knew fellow officers who didn’t understand the concept. “What are your intentions?” “If my Aunt and Uncle agree, I was planning to bury them all in the lower pasture by her grove.” “If she doesn’t agree, you can have space in our Regimental Cemetery. Right Top?” “Yes, sir, we’d be proud to have them.” The General was honestly deeply moved by this dedication. “Top, please post this with an honor guard, as would we if it was our own. These people are our kindred spirits.” “Yes, sir.” John could here the coded string going out. Four men came at the dead run.
Just then they were interrupted by not one but three motorcades. The MPs were directing them to the rear of the rest area. Three cars broke away towards them. The General was now exasperated: “Great. Politicians. Can some one of your kids shoot them? By accident, of course. I’ll testify the looked like … what did you call them … Bravo Golfs … to me. Looks like your new boss is here to help you sort out the details. One suggestion: when you talk to the Guv, hold on to your wallet! If you have one.”
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Shower Harem
Marie missed her friend June desperately. It was hard to believe that she was gone. In a wink. June could have helped her calm all these women and girls that Roy saved. Marie used all her strength to keep it together on the ride. Now, she had a tougher task. Get these women who had been through the unthinkable to trust her enough to go get cleaned up. Sigh! She prayed. She cajoled. She showed off “her” twins. She introduced the C’s that were rescued from the Library. It was hard work, but they began to talk. Quietly at first. Louder later.
Marie left the bus to check on the showers. She practically ran into ‘NAVY’. “We’re done with the Tolentine children. Can we help you with Roy’s Subway women and girls?” Marie had to give ‘NAVY’ credit; she was on top of her game. It’s was if she had a schedule in her head.
Half in and half out of the bus, she said in a loud voice for the passengers to hear: “Yes, I think the ladies would welcome an opportunity to freshen up.” Looking towards the back of the bus, “Wouldn’t you, ladies?” There was some timid nodding and a few quiet yes responses.”
Sotto voce, she said to ‘NAVY’, “I assume you’ve moved all the males a sufficient distance away. Not that anyone would hurt them, but they are very skittish.” “Honey, don’t worry; when a Military Wife gives orders even Generals steer clear.”
Marie thought she actually believed that! But, heaven help the fellow who crossed her. The ‘Subway Harem’ was ushered up to the showers. Marie swore there must be a slew of women all helping.
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Id Unks
The Top Kick had quickly decided that if he didn’t want to be stuck out here for the whole holiday weekend, he’d have to come up with a short cut. He directed the administrative records clerks to move to the people. So by the bus where the Tolentine Children were reloading, the clerks actual got on the bus, recorded names, took pictures, and handed out “Citizen of Vermont” id cards. Two went to the front of the trucks did the same; another to the back of the trucks. The other bus got similar treatment. Most everyone thought it was cool to have their very own id card. It had a spiffy lanyard that made it wearable. When the General finished his inspection of the trucks, he’d be pleased to find out that the Convoy would be fully identified and ready to move to town.
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Fiddler three
Three VIP motorcades rolled on to the scene. It was serendipity that they all arrived at once. The three limos were directed by the MPs to the back end of the convoy where the General was completing his tour.
Colonel Ears popped out first, followed by three obviously senior gentlemen, one wearing a suit, with a tie, hat, and briefcase. He immediately noticed the honor posting and saluted as he passed it. The suited gentleman tipped his hat. Obviously military or military background. The other two did nothing.
Out of the two other limos came four men. Two each. One of each of the men was suited; the other in casual clothes. One looked like he was golfing. Too late in the day for that, but who knows.
Colonel Ears saluted the General and said: “All clear?” “Quiet as a … … an empty Church.” He was remembering that they had honored dead on the field. It was not time to be pert. “Permit me to introduce: Pownal’s banker Mister Randal Burke (the suited man tipped his hat), Pownal’s Broker Norm Harrison (The golf guy nodded), and the Herow’s lawyer Liam Quinn. They represent the community of Pownal. And have all the pledges.” “Gentlemen,” the General spoke up: “Permit me to introduce John aka Under Dog, who is the leader of the refugee band you see here.” “John, that’s Colonel Ears, your new boss. He’ll tell you not to talk to anyone. I assume these gentlemen have signed the NDA, had the oath, and some slight explanation of why this has to be keep somewhat quiet?” “Yes, General. Norm will dispose of the trailers into the business community. Randal will manage the funds.” Randal spoke up at that point: “Our bank has waved the usual 5% fee for these transactions.” The General looked at him cross: “Well, that’s very good of you. Could it be that you might have some competition in town?” The fellow turned red. Norm laughed: “General, these kids could start their own bank with what I see here and what I bet they have brought along with them.” Liam chimed in: “And, it’ll be my job to keep you two thieves from robbing these poor waifs blind!” To that Randal asked: “Well, have you waved your fees?” The three started to bicker.
“Gentlemen, please. These Children have just fought their way here. Lost brave comrades who lay a few feet away. You will not dishonor Vermont by quibbling over pennies. I’m sure you will all make arrangements that satisfy the needs of all concerned. If you can’t agree, then I’m sure the people will make their wishes known.” That sent a shudder of fear down their spines. The People’s Court — where a ‘quarter’ of busy citizens were impaneled to hear disputes (Visualize 25 impatient people with better things to do!) — had a tendency to look askance at petty disputes, shoot from the hip, and tended to award damages against all parties for frivolous litigation. Yes, much safer to stay out of that particular buzz saw.
“John,” the General addressed him for the first time by his name, “You and your fellow travelers have been made citizens of the state. But like idiots savant, you need some education and practice in the laws and customs here. Colonel Ears, there is responsible to you and for you. We, thought it wise to minimize what you need to worry about. With your permission, these three thieves, supervised by Colonel Ears, and bunch of other interested parties, will dispose of the bulk of what you brought here. The Town of Pownal has a shindig prepared to welcome you. As soon as everyone is shaped up and identified, I’d suggest you go down and meet your new neighbors. Me and my men will stay and clean up here. We’ll bring the Classmate’s truck, the Guests truck, and the Ford with its cargo trailer to you at Ladd’s Inn. The Regiment’s Second Brigade is there securing it now. So, you should be able to relax. If that meets with your approval? And, here comes two Governors and their aides. So get ready to have your hand shook and your ear bent. Remember what I said about your wallet!”
In a flash, John was introduced to the Governor of New Hampshire and Vermont. John suggested that they go retrieve his College Student and his Nun that he ordered up. The man got very somber. “John, if you need anything and I can provide it, you have just but to ask. You have given me a great gift.”
John shrugged, and said: “I really didn’t DO anything. There were a lot more folks closer in than I was. Let’s go meet some of them.”
It become a blur of meetings, hugs, and tears.
John quietly said: “Colonel, did you have time to locate that priest?” “Yes, John, I did. We have the state’s bishop in town for you. Please watch what you say about the activities of the last weeks. A lot of lives depend on your discretion. Please pass the word. I’ll explain why tomorrow. ” “Mum’s the word!”
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2Pownal
It took awhile to get everyone organized. The NH Governor board the bus with his college student and his nun. The man was obviously happy while being touched by the plight of all the suffering folks around them. Some had lost everything and were completely dependent upon the kindness of strangers. And, how generous were these Children in turn kind to their guests. A credit to their training. They came from an aptly named school. It was often hard to tell who was a Classmate and who was a Guest. About the only way to be sure was to be on the receiving end of one of those darts. The Classmates were experts; the Guests were amateurs. But either could ruin your day.
The Regiment supplied two additional buses to augment the two the Children brought and four drivers. This gave everyone room to spread out and they had to carry the “tourists” that joined them. The Old Girls Network went along. The presence of other women would calm the recently rescued.
As the buses pulled in, the town had obviously turned out. The road to Ladd’s had people waving to them. Ladd’s had the only banquet hall in town. It was attached to the motel. Over the doorway to the hall hung a banner.
The Classmates were told that a reception and dinner was being held. John and Marie were “elected” to lead the contingent in. They each had a baby bucket to lug and one of the C’s as an “outrider”. Shoulder to shoulder, they walked in. Over the stage was a banner, “Truly Thanksgiving Day”. John started to cry. Thinking PTSD, Marie asked him why? “It’s Thanksgiving Day! I didn’t even think of that. Our families?” “John, all our families are with us tonight. Lead us in!” John pulled himself together and they walked in. The town was inside and applauding.
The Classmates and Guests grouped naturally by the families that they had aligned with. There were eight glumps of people self-conscious at all the attention. They were directed to tables and made welcome by locals at the tables.
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Aunt n Unk
John and his mob were directed to the first tables. He immediately recognized the local hosts at that table. It was his Aunt Marion and his Uncle Louie. Well, it was now time to find out if he could cash all the verbal checks he’d been writing. He took two steps forward ahead of Marie and the mob. If there was to be rejection, he had to shelter the group from it.
“Aunt Marion, Uncle Louie, surprising to find you here.” Aunt and Unk were not happy in crowds. One reason they left Brooklyn for the country when Louie retired from the Third Avenue Railroad was to escape the crowds. “I hope I can intrude on you? And a few of my friends?” Aunt smiled at him and zoomed past him.
“You must be Marie, the girl who’s silly enough to want to marry this big lug. And these are the twins that we’ve heard you rescued.” Cooing over the babies. Turning to the C’s, she continued: “And, these are the little girls you’ve rescued. Welcome dears, we are so happy to have you.” Unk stuck out his hand to John and said: “Well, boy, you should know that men are expendable. Congrats. I didn’t know you were Moses.” John must have looked confused. “You know Moses, leading the chosen people out of the wilderness.” John was beginning to get the gist. “Well, Uncle Louie, I’m a far away from being Moses. Plus, didn’t Moses get stopped just before the promised land.” Louie was laughing. “And a few friends? Looks like you brought half the city. Last count we had was 78. My eye says you’ve got nearer 200.” “Well, there not all MINE. At least two belong to the Governor of New Hampshire over there.” Unk was always a card; he continued: “So where were you planning on stowing all these folks? You know women folk insist on running water, real toilets, and bidets. Or was that beds.” “You want my original plan. Or the latest often revised one?”
Grabbing a beer from the table, he handed it to John. “Tell me everything!”
Marie saw the beer go to John’s hand. She prayed silently. Marion noticed the distraction and followed his eyes.
John didn’t miss a beat. “Sure, Unk, I’ll tell you it all. But, I have to return this. I’ve taken the pledge and given my promise to my betrothed. That was one of her conditions to accept me.” “She must have a powerful attraction. Rumor hath it that you had a powerful thirst for someone underage.” “Yes, Unk, I have many problems. But, this little exercise has taught me a lot about myself. And, yes, Marie is a gem. May I introduce you and you can decide for yourself?” With that John walked to Marie’s side, took her right hand, and held it up. The blue crat ring was worse for wear and tear, but it was still there. As was John’s. “Unk, this is Marie. Marie has accepted my ring as a token in betrothal. I hope in the next day or two to marry her. We’ll then seek to make a life here in Vermont. I was hoping to stay in the barn for a few weeks until we get things straightened out.” Marie squeezed his hand.
Marion said: “Well, and good for you men to be staying in barns and such, but not for babies. When we heard you all were coming, we adults made some plans for you. For the next few days, the Ladd’s Inn has been made available for you and your friends. Then, different groups have volunteered to host different subgroups. The local Churches have banded together to help sort all the opportunities. Plus my understanding is that you, Marie, and many others have jobs to go to. So, don’t worry about barns and mangers and such stuff. Just relax and let the community help you. You’ve been carrying a heavy load. Time to set it down and let others pick up parts of it.”
John was stunned. Marie was pleased.
Unk said: “Enough Swampy. You’ll make the boy feel ‘ex-pend-da-ble’. We know you girls will have the whole thing sorted out in minutes.”
Everyone laughed.
The Group was introduced to Aunt and Unk. Seating was arranged. Aunt informed John and the table that dinner was to be served by the local Girls’ and Boys’ scout troops. The three major Church groups, assisted by all the Churches in the area, had pulled together a Thanksgiving Dinner for them.
John was stunned that not only did they have a place to land, but that the Lord had prepared the way for them.
They had an interdenominational Grace. And dinner was served. There were a lot of smiles that turned to tears and tears that turned to smiles.
As courses were served there were speeches. Nothing long and nothing boring.
Finally as it began to wind down. John coded to Marie ‘i should say thanks’. She nodded. The other Classmates nodded knowingly. It was truly a hidden language.
“C n C, will you watch the twins for us a minute.” C n C nodded approval. They loved the twins. Unless they pooped or cried.
John walked to the dais with Marie. Marie was there for moral support. But John knew, should he be struck dead by lightening, she could do a better job. But she was his supportive future wife. “Excuse me all.” And, John did his traditional gull wing wave: “Back a long time ago and in a place far away, I became ‘speaker’ for the core group here. It sort of grew as we met and collected new friends along the way. Sometimes, we had to convince them to let go of their old ‘friends’, but they eventually saw how much more fun we were.” Laughter from giggles to guffaws were heard. “So, being speaker, I have to speak here and now. We would be very poor refugees if we didn’t say thank you to all who made this possible. I don’t know what we have, what we will have in the future, or what we will ever have should we be so lucky to have a future. BUT, I do know that I will never feel as wealthy as I do tonight surrounded by old friends who have brought me so far, and the new friends who tonight have given me and mine so much. I do know that I will never feel as wealthy as I do tonight surrounded by old friends who have brought me so far and new friends who tonight have given me and mine so much. It’s hard to say ‘thanks’ in a way that sounds sincere. But thank you.”
The crowd arose as one and applauded.
Brother Kevin came to the dais and took the mike. “John, it would be insincere if we let you escape without some embarrassment. I will, in turn, ask all of the Classmates, then the Guests, and then those Rescued today to stand and show their appreciation for the MAN and WOMAN who got us to VERMONT.” The Classmates, 78 strong, stood and cheered. John was gull winging, but they kept at it. The Guests stood and applauded. Then when the applause started to die, the Rescued stood and gave it a renewed energy.
John and Marie both gull winged and the crowd settled and sat down. John said: “It’s has been my great pleasure to be your speaker and your leader. Soon, these duties will fade into history as we all go forward to make our way in this new world. But, I will say that in the next day or two, you’re all invited to the wedding.” With that he turned and gave Marie a full frontal.
And she reciprocated with her patented struggle.
The place was in hysterics. John and Marie returned to their table. Everyone started to clean up.
The mayor said “Everyone who needs a room, please stop at the Front Desk at Ladd’s check in and pick up a key. The trailers with your bundles are in the front parking lot and soldiers are there to help you locate yours. If you have an unmet need please see anyone wearing the red-white-and-blue armband. They will help you. Breakfast will be served here in the morning and we have a full program of orientation scheduled. Please be back and seated by 9AM sharp.”
Yes, the adults had a plan. After all with Aunt, ‘NAVY’, and a slew of level headed individuals working on the problem, it was really SOLVED!
+++++
Ear ache again
Colonel Ears was pacing around the meal site. The Second Brigade was supplying physical security that really wasn’t his concern. Besides everyone now was armed. And the Classmates never were seen without ‘their sticks’ as the Regiment called them. Those that saw Isabella’s demo for the General had passed the word that these were ‘dangerous’. No, the Colonel was worried about his ‘secret’. The press was cowed into leaving the place alone. The General, the Guvs, and all the people involved had literally threatened them with all manner of horrible things from loss of press releases to loss of consortium with any woman in the Northeast. The press was satisfied with some pics and promises of access tomorrow. He’d brief and swear the Refugees to secrecy tomorrow. You couldn’t overwhelming them with too many changes. So today, he’d just worry.
Mid way, thru dinner the Irish sergeant showed up. That wasn’t good news. He’d really thought that they had put a dent in the problems for awhile. Obviously not.
“Begging the Colonel’s pardon, hate to interrupt your ‘fun’, but business.” and stuck out his hand with the briefcase handcuffed to his wrist. The Colonel fished his keys out and opened it. For security, couriers didn’t have security keys. Inside was a single piece of paper with a message printed in a simple large font. The Colonel read it several times.
“Teams assessment?”
“Speculation on one message?” “Yes!” “There’s an organized ring that traffics in slaves, weapons, and other contraband between New York City and places and people unknown. May be the rebirth of a criminal gang, rogue police or military, or an ongoing enterprise with political involvement.” Yes, the Ears Shop had really brainstormed this one. “Suggestions?” “A fine job for your new head of counter intelligence. A multi-state effort to expose this problem complicated by the fact that there may rich powerful and or politically connected people involved. This explains where the slave market got all those slaves.” “We need to do an in depth debrief with all these peoples quickly starting tomorrow. Have the ears team minus a skeleton listening post as well as the Vermont Guv, the Regimental Officer cadre, First Sergeants join me for a 4am briefing here tomorrow. Don’t explain; just say it’s for “State Safety”.
It was going to be a long night for the Colonel.
+++++
Bed down
Aunt and Unk had some heartfelt words for John and Marie. Aunt did the talking: “Children, you need to stay here for the next few days. You have to help get all these unfortunates oriented, organize, and on their way to their new surroundings. There are a lot of good people all organized to help them. But it’s going to be stressful for everyone. When all is settled, you come to the Farm. We have a few surprises for you and yours as well. By the end of the week, the big surprise should be complete. And, you’ll have your new jobs to tend to as well. So you’ll be very busy.”
“Thank you Aunt and thank you Unk. We are going to have a wedding in the next few days. And, with your permission, a funeral. I’d like to bury our friends, in the lower pasture, by the grove, near the stream. May I?” “Yes, Child, you most certainly can do that. I’ll speak to Helen about the backhoe, our Minister about some words, and the Undertaker about assisting. Maybe late Friday, or Saturday morning?” “Yes, we need to do that and then we can have the wedding. Is that OK, Marie?” Marie was thinking about June. “We can have the wedding when ever. We really need to bury and mourn our friends.” John was anxious to wed; he didn’t want to lose the love of his life. But, you can’t rush things. If it was meant to be, it would happen in the fullness of time.
Unk was the crass one. “Now, John, don’t be celebrating the honeymoon prior to the wedding. I wouldn’t want to have get my shotgun and stand up for Marie’s honor with you at the Church! Marie, they don’t buy the cow, when they get the milk for free!” “Louie!” “Now Swampy, some things need to be said. The rules are there for reasons.” Marie turned bright red; John was amused. “Unk, no worries there. If we didn’t had sex when the world was ending, and it wasn’t for a lack of opportunities, it won’t happen now before the wedding. We’ve made a decision to wait. A mutual promise. One thing that this whole adventure has taught me is to be true to yourself and the things you value. That’s all you really have in life.”
It was Unk’s turn to be stunned. “John, it seems you have become a man!”
Aunt concluded: “We’ll see you tomorrow. Call if anything comes up.”
Marie turned to John and said: “They are wonderful people. To have us dropped on them, and they really didn’t blink.” “Well, they can be opinionated. So, be prepared to speak up. The family called them ‘itchy’ and ‘scratchy’ for a reason. But it is wonderful, how they’ve adopted us. I think we better get this crew settled down. Today was a long day. And, I know I’m going to crash. And, what is this wedding can wait stuff. You changing your mind”, he teased.
“It’s a woman’s right. Beside some of those soldiers looked like real men.” “Hussy! I should have told Unk that he didn’t have to worry about the cow, cause I have a real milker right now.” She faked a hurt look and said: “That’s not fair. Besides I didn’t see you averting your gaze in revulsion.” She had a point there.
They gathered the baby buckets and the C’s and the rest of their extended family and walked to Ladd’s check in. John signed his name for two connecting rooms. He was still amazed at all that had been done for him. As he turned to lead his little family to their room, a Sergeant approached him and snapped a salute. “Colonel John, Colonel Marie!” Since they were not in uniform, the Sergeant did expect a return salute, but just proceeded. “My squad has been assigned to assist and secure you as you see fit. Any orders?” “Thanks, Sergeant, but we’re OK.” “Sir, my men have pulled your bags from the trailer. But we didn’t know the names of the others is your party.” “That’s fine. I’m a little overwhelmed at all this so if you and your men could just goof off a little that would be fine with me.” The Sergeant, surprised, laughed. “Well, that sounds like an order. We’ll be outside if you need us and we will post the door to your rooms. Colonel’s orders.” “Fine, Sergeant, now can you aim us at room 520 and 521?” “Yes, sir, they were selected for you and are at the back corner of the fifth small building. Right next to the three limos and the big communications truck! Off to the side there, you can see the big tractor trailer with the Regimental Standard on it. That’s the Regimental HQ where all the brass such as yourself hang out. Making plans of course. No disrespect, sir.” “Sergeant, I’m a long way from brass. And, if I don’t get some sleep will get very cranky.” “Well, Sir, we see you aren’t disturbed.”
John and Marie bedded down the extended family in 521. Crowded, but not as bad a the shelter. The babies and they went to 520. Marie fed and John changed. The babes were sound asleep in no time. The connecting door was open and as Marie passed by she heard quiet crying. She went in and it was the C’s.
“Why tears?” She asked.
“I’m, we’re, afraid. Things are going to change. You’ll leave us and what if Bravo Golfs come and take us again.” “Oh, silly gooses, we’d never leave you. We’re a new family. Besides, who will help me with the twins. They are going to need big sisters to watch them so they don’t put things in their mouths and to be played with and told of all the good things that brought them to this new place. Can you do that for me?” “Sure, Marie. Can you stay with us? Just for a little while.” “Sure, now you get some sleep. We have a lot to learn tomorrow.”
John heard the conversation.
He brought the baby buckets to the doorway, and stretched out on the floor with a pillow ‘n’ blanket. Would this be the norm for wedded bliss? Wasn’t quite what he had in mind!
Marie coded: “Luv U”. John smiled and coded back “wench dont tease”.
It was the end of a long day. What was Sam’s movie title? “The Longest Day” A day, he’d never forget! Vermont Day!
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