It happened in Church - October 19, 1962
Chapter Eighty Six - Rest in Peace
Friday Nov 24 (begins)
Early Morn
It seemed like he had just drifted off to sleep. There was a quiet scratching at the door. He roused himself and walked to the door. At the door was that pesky sergeant, Aunt Marion, and the General’s wife Quietly, the Sergeant said to him: “Sorry for the interruption, sir. The Colonel has called an early briefing before the honchos leave. ‘State Security’ is the topic. You and Top Dog have been requested.” Then the General’s wife pushed in. “Ya got 10 minutes. Jump into the shower and here’s a fresh uniform.” She walked past him and woke Marie. John could not hear what was said, but Marie was up an in the bathroom. Saving water crossed his mind.
He came out of the shower and finished dressing. Aunt Marion had taken Marie’s spot with the children. Navy had Marie squared away. She was similarly attired. She look dropped dead gorgeous. The uniform, like John’s, was a basic BDU and silver oak leaves. The only odd thing was the name iron on said “Top Dog”. He looked at his and it said “Under Dog”. “yeah, the names are not regulation, but I guarantee no one will gripe. These were made weeks ago. Now hurry. You don’t want to be late. Sergeant!”
The Sergeant popped: “This way, please, sir and ma’am”. Many would say it was inappropriate to give grammar school children such rank. They’d be wrong. These children had experience, knowledge, information, and wisdom far beyond their years. And, they’d killed. So, they were far from being children, in anything, but size and age.
They entered the Regimental briefing trailer. There were folks already assembled. Some uniformed; some not. (Not everyone who was a soldier wore a uniform. Irregulars were common in the intelligence game.) Mary spotted her old nemesis from the Math paper. The devil waved her over to sit next to her. They were escorted to Colonel Ears, who pointed to the two chairs behind him. Marie said: “Someone else wants me?” Colonel Ears looked to the audience. “If you promise not to fight, you can go sit with her.” Marie left the Colonel and John. She gritted her teeth and promised herself to make nice nice with the old hag!
In actuality, the “old hag” started with an apology. Two actually; one for the paper fubar and the second was for the recorded questions sequence. Marie was taken back. They made their peace. The “old hag” had some very nice things to say to her. Not the least of which was that she wanted to know if she was up for a little teaching at UVT in the PhD Math program. Marie could teach, learn, and a do a dissertation. With her military duties mixed in, she’d be very busy. But, she was young. Marie said that she’d consider it, but that she had current family and future marital responsibilities. She was assured that these were all just details.
John was absorbing the ‘room’. It was actually a trailer that pulled out to a double wide. He saw at the front a big map of Vermont divided into four colors — North light green, Center dark green, Southeast red, Southwest yellow. The only name he recognized was Armody. He scanned the crowd and estimated there were forty folks in the gallery.
There was a dais, like a court room, a front row of four tables with two chairs each, and along the side like court reporters there were five tables. The Colonel was at the second. G2 occurred to him.
Quickly there was a flurry of activity as folks took to their designated places. John saw Armody and his Top Kick take a spot. A few chairs were empty.
Then an MP private walked in banged his rifle twice on the deck, and yelled “attenn hut!” all the uniforms stood at attention. Several of the Civilian attired did as well. John guess that these were all the sworn officers. He saw that Marie’s nemesis prompted her to stand but she did not.
The Guv and a wizened old gent in old fatigues, unadorned but for a single gold shoulder board. He was the fellow who said “at ease”. He spoke quietly but firmly into the mike. “Full house. For you new people, no notes, eye and ears only, mention the any of the contents at your peril. Accidents happen to loose lips. OK, why are we here? G2 you called it.”
Colonel Ears stood up and got right to the point: “G2 has signal intelligence that, despite our successes of the past few days, indicates that an organized OPPFOR exists. It is our OPINION that this explains the slave market of previous briefings. We will be debriefing the Refugees who have just arrived for further details. We would expect to put an clandestine interdiction scouting force out of state to gather evidence. If, as we expect, we can identify targets we will seek the General Staff’s endorsement of a Carte Blanche request to the Governor. We sought this forum to alert the forces in the field that they should not relax their vigilance thinking the threats are past history. I request that you instruct the militia forces accordingly.”
“You’re a busy fellow Colonel. But better safe than sorry. Governor, with your permission. The General Staff orders all forces to be on the alert for any hostile action against the Citizens of Vermont. Patrols outside of the State are authorized as the local command authority deems necessary. General Armody that does not mean you can recon New York City in force, no matter how many cigars you think you’ll find.” The crowd laughed. The General was notorious for ‘hot pursuit’ of hostile forces. His people chased one gang across the Hudson River before being recalled. When asked, he said that the gang had taken his cigars. If he thought it would protect one Vermont citizen, he’d chase a bad guy to hell and back.
“Any questions or comments?”
“Any restrictions on the use of force; same ROEs.”
“Let’s be clear here folks. You’re protecting your mother and Vermont. You have to explain you actions to her and to the people. And, she, as well as they, have to be proud of you. No rule book will condemn you, or reward you. Do what’s need to get the job done? If in doubt, consult your command authority. If in doubt and YOU ARE the command authority, consult you conscience and your top sergeant. That’s why the TOPS are here in this briefing. If they are confused, they can consult with me. I’d like to see that miracle … a confused Top … like Jumbo Shrimp!” With that the old gent looked at the private. He snapped to and sounded off: “Atten hut.” The Guv and old bird walked out. The Private yelled “Diss … MISSED!” and trailed after them.
John was stunned. Eight minutes!
Colonel Ears said “Under Dog get Top Dog and follow me.” John coded Marie and she acked. She made her excuses to her nemesis. But the woman said: “I’m in the meeting you’re being summoned to.”
Ears led Under Dog, Top Dog, and the “old hag” Mrs D into the anteroom where the Governor and the Chief of the Vermont General Staff were waiting. Ears addressed the dignitaries: “Governor and Chief, I believe you want to see me and these people?” “Yes”, replied the Governor. Chief picked up the conversation: “Ms. D, nice to see you again. These must be the miracle children I have heard so much about. The Governor has been bending my ear about what you’ve accomplished. I think he’s the president of your fan club. Top Dog Marie, you understand that we need you to teach our comm folks some of your magic. We’ve made you a Light Bird to give you the heft to pull it off. Under Dog John, you’re the fellow who guessed that we were listening to the bad guys and fooled our people into accepting you and your group. Good work. Now you’re going to be challenged to prevent that from happening again while uncovering the OppFor involved with the slave market you destroyed. We made you a Light Bird as well to ensure you had the heft to pull it off. We’re depending upon you. You two are old beyond your years. You’ll have a lot to learn while pulling a grown man’s load. We need you to succeed. Colonel Ears, you may have heard that I’m planning to “retire”. Actually, I’m dying. So, while last time, we were able to defer to your wish to stay as G2. Unfortunately, you’re going to get the gold shoulder board and I’m going to tell you everything I leaned doing this job. You’ll turn the ears group over to Mrs. D, who will be training Top Dog Marie and / or Under Dog as her replacement. We can have co-counsels. I won’t be around to figure it all out but you’ll just have to do that. The people of Vermont are depending upon you.”
John was speechless. Marie was stunned. She was working for the “old hag”. The challenges that John and Marie had been handed had NOT sunk in yet. Colonel Ears was handed a gold shoulder board with the admonition to have everything turned over in a week, take a week off to reacquaint himself with his family, and the present himself in Montpelier for training. The Guv pined the the star emblems on now General Ears. “And, when you get to Montpelier, we have to spend some time talking about your future.”
The meeting ended with the Guv and the Chief heading for Montpelier. The four were standing stunned at what had just happened.
Colonel Ears tried to make light of the load that had just been dumped on them. “Well, ‘dogs’, meet your new boss. Boss, meet your new dogs.” The old gal spoke up first. “We’ll do just fine. Marie is possessed of the finest math mind I know this side of the Atlantic. And, from what I’ve seen John has the biggest set of brass ones outside of pawn shop. If they can steer a mob, while creating a cohesive fighting unit, crossing several hundred miles of hostile countryside, than this will be a short putt. I’d suggest that you two make all your family arrangements over the next few days. You’ll be very busy after that. Colonel, you have a week to show me the ropes.” “Ropes! You helped me set these ‘ropes’ up. Show you the ropes. You were probably one of the folks that got me kicked upstairs. Lifer!” The old gal laughed. “No, your chief cheerleader was Armody! Blame him. He threw you under the bus to save himself from having to take the job! Too bad about the old coot. I figured that it had to be something like that to dislodge him. He bled Vermont!”
John squeaked: “It was seven hundred and fifty miles. And, if I’m so good, how come two of my friends got killed.” The old lady looked him in the eyes and said: “I’m sorry about your friends. But, you have to know that mistakes get people killed. Even when you do everything perfect, people are going to up and die on you. Just focus on the mission. We are keeping the people of Vermont safe from criminals sneaking up on them. Your arrival will soon make everyone a little safer as all our children are taught your ‘magic sticks’. It’s a perfect weapon for kids to defend with. That’s a high priority activity for you. You have to NOW grow up. I know you have a set. Use ‘em. The People of Vermont need your best effort. Even if they never know who you are!”
Marie was strangely silent. She finally said: “I was hoping to raise my foster children and my own children in peace. Math was always academic to me. Do I have to do this?” The old girl looked at her. A wisp of a girl. Barely old enough to be entering high school. With her life ahead of her. She was being handed, had been handed, what she’d heard the sergeants call ‘a **** sandwich’. “My dear sweet Marie, all along the frontiers, we have children defending homesteads. In the Regiment you’ve just met, they have a boy fourteen leading scouts and a man, 80, who’s the regimental PT instructor. Hard times are on us. Everyone has to do their duty as they see it. I, no one, is going to tell you what you have to do! You have gifts that are unique and irreplaceable. If you won’t or can’t use them to help, then that’s a shame. We’ll have to figure it out. Given what you’ve done, I think, I’ve said, you’ll see your duty and do it. Just as everyone else is doing. Besides, I’m not a terrible boss, you can have a family, a life, and do your duty we need done. You’re a smart girl. You’ll figure it out. Now, go have breakfast, and help your people adjust. Colonel Ears and I have serious work to do.”
John and Marie walked away. Visible shaken.
Colonel Ears said to the old hag: “Guilt tripping them into doing what needs doing?” “Yes, shameless, I know. Desperate times; desperate measures. Learned it from you when I just wanted to be a math prof!”
+++++
Bfast Prep
John and Marie proceed back to their rooms. Holding hands, coding: ‘worse than i expected’ ‘we have a big lift here. folks seem to think we are special.’ ‘u r’ ‘u 2’. They laughed.
Back at the room, things were pretty much as they left them. Aunt Marion and NAVY had the situation well under control. It was a long day yesterday and the ‘family’ was sleeping. The ‘adults’ gathered in the empty room. Around the table, there was a ‘confab’. NAVY started: “So they dropped the payload on you?” “You knew”, John blurted. “Yeah, you don’t spend decades around these folks without learning to read the tea leaves.” Marion said: “Can you fill me in?” “Well, these two have been volunteered for some heavy intelligence work. They really are youngsters, but, based on what they have accomplished getting here, they are need to apply those skills to some new problems. Marie was in what I’ll call ‘happily ever after’ mode. Silly rabbit. And, John was planning to go back to some sort of life like before the bomb. Another silly rabbit.” “Well, why can’t they?” “It’s a dangerous world out there. And, we don’t have the luxury of wasting any asset. Life is changing every day. Vermont has to change with it. I see all sorts of changes coming. Children will no longer waste the first 25 years of their lives. Adults will no longer be tossed on the rubbish pile for the last 50 years of their life. Vermont is going to become the economic miracle of the Northeast. It has natural advantages that will make it possible. Think the Switzerland of the New World. And these kids have to buy everyone time to make it happen.”
Wow! John hadn’t seen it that way. Marie could see her ‘Snow White’ fairy tale being consumed by flames.
Aunt was a much more pragmatic woman. She’d live thru two World Wars, the Great Depression, and ton of ‘little’ problems. “Well, Children, I can’t tell you what to do. But, I can tell you that you have your home on the farm. And, Louie and I will help you in whatever way we can. After all that’s what family is all about.”
Marie began to sob. Losing one’s illusions is a terrible thing. John couldn’t make it better. So he was upset. He just held her by the shoulders and said: “Now, my betrothed, what’s wrong?”
“My family is dead. You told us, but we didn’t believe it.
John didn’t know what to say. So, he didn’t say anything. He just held her. Finally, the words came to him. “You have a lot of folks depending upon you to be strong. Including me.” Duty before self. That always worked with Marie. She apologized: “Excuse me for being silly.”
NAVY was amazed the girl could rebound so well. She said: “Marie, dear, that’s not being silly. It’s being human. Can I tell you about some of the challenges ahead and some of the things the Old Wives Club has done to ease you way into the ‘new world’?” “Please do.” was Marie’s immediate reply.
NAVY took a deep breath and rattled off. “When we got wind that you were coming we knew we’d have to help you all find good situations to fit into. We have put the word out statewide for host families, businesses with jobs, and just anyone with an idea. The response was deafening. We have opportunities for groups up to size 30. We have ones. I suggest that your ‘family’ strategy was good. We have in the breakfast area everything boarded. There are opportunities described with age, size, or education qualifications. To make it easy on everyone, I think, you should urge everyone to study ALL the options. Then, regroup to discuss them in the ‘family’ structure. If an individual wants to do something, then it would be best to permit them. If the ‘family’ wants to do something as a group, then they can do that. If we work at it, I think everyone will find what they like.” Marion chimed up: “John, you and Marie, and all of your group is welcome at the Farm. You’ll see why today. This afternoon, we planned to have the funeral this afternoon and the wedding tomorrow.” John was stunned; these ladies had their act together. He sputtered: “But we were going to have that small wedding to make an ‘honest woman’ out of Marie.” Marie started to sputter: “I don’t need to be made honest; I didn’t do anything!” NAVY jumped in: “Dear, it doesn’t matter to anyone what you did or didn’t do. The tongues will wag. The good folks wouldn’t care if you did; the bad ones wouldn’t believe you anyway. We have all the funeral arrangements made; the wedding arrangements are being made as we speak. You have a task force of a little more than half the wives of the Regiment working on ‘landings’ and a less than half, the rest, on ‘funeral / wedding / feeding / housekeeping’. It’s a done deal!”
John and Marie knew when they were on a ‘railroad’ and it was time to hang on for the ride. “Sounds like you ladies have the future all planned.” John exclaimed. NAVY corrected him: “No, what we have done is map out all the choices you have to make. And, you have to convince everyone that this is a good idea. My biggest fear is shock knocking people into a a frozen lethargy. You’re the leader. Lead!” John knew the railroad had just run over him.
+++++
BFast with Q
Marie started to get the ‘Alban family’ moving. It had really grown. In addition to John and Marie, there was the L’s Linda and Lisa; the ‘middle ones’ Sean, a fifth, and Jasmine, a third; the ‘little ones’ Aaron, Jose, Natalie, Hailey, who were all firsts, but old beyond their years; the captives Clara & Clare with their ever present protectors David and Anthony; our resident blind truck driver Dave DuBois; the absent Doc Jennifer. That was the core family. There were the five rescued from the Library, who while they preferred to hand out with the “Ernin family” because they had so many ‘little ones’, but were still ‘Albans’. It was good they had two rooms with two bathrooms. To start the moving, she worked from old to young. When the L’s were taking too much time, she inquired about the delay. “We have to look our best if we’re going to attract a man.” Lisa said as Linda giggled. Marie was forgetting that they were still the boy crazy girls of her youth. Marie started to weep again thinking “Where was her carefree youth?” Linda said: “Marie, what’s wrong? We didn’t mean to make you cry.” “Nothing, gal pals of mine. It’s just we have so many challenges, no road map, and all these depending upon us. Coming to Vermont seems to have been the easy part.” Lisa chimed up: “You know we’ll help.” With that the L’s got it in gear. Marie was waking Natalie when she got a another shock. Natalie half asleep said: “Mommy, five more minutes. Please, Mommy. I’m so tired.” Marie wept some more while holding and rocking Natalie for the requested five more minutes. It was all she could do for the orphan who didn’t know it yet. Let her feel safe in her dream-like state in what she believed was her Mother’s arms. At that moment, Marie felt closest to her own Mom.
Between all the women, the ‘Albans’ were up, SSSed (even though that really doesn’t fully apply to children), and awake. John called them all to the table in the ‘spare’ room. “Now, Alban family, we need to set a good example today. There will be a lot going on. It will be confusing. But, whatever you hear, remember you are part of the Alban family. We’ll be staying at Aunt’s farm. UNLESS, you find something you would rather do, somewhere else you would rather be, or with some one else you’d rather be with. Today, you will hear choices. But, don’t be afraid. Marie and I will always be here for you. OK? Let’s go eat.”
With that the Albans, Aunt Marion, and NAVY went to the dining room / reception hall / dance lounge of Ladd’s Inn.
On the way to the Inn, NAVY said: “John, give me the keys to the Ford and Trailer. We need to set up for this afternoon’s funeral.” John hesitated. He hated to give up control. He did with a caveat: “There’s very valuable stuff in there behind the bodies. Bother Kevin’s papers. Roy’s gold. The used chalices and vestments. And, our unused gold stuff.” “Don’t worry. Bodies to the undertaker. Papers to Brother Kevin. Gold to Roy. Used Church stuff to the Bishop. Unused Church stuff to the Pawnbroker. Miss anything?” “The car’s mine.” “Yup, it’s a cherry 57. The Regimental First Sergeant wants to make you a deal. Now that you’re a ‘family man’, you’ll need a station wagon.” John laughed. Family man indeed. “Nah, the 57 Ford is my grandfather’s. I’d never sell it.”
She took the keys and diverted.
+++++
Dispersion Opptys
As the refugees entered the “Thanksgiving dinner” hall, it had been transformed. Around the perimeter were hung large white sheets of paper with writing on. Some had pictures taped. It was a madhouse of colors, fonts, and without apparent rhyme or reason. There were dignitaries there. The Guvs, the Mayor, and the Preachers. John spotted Colonel Ears, wearing the single gold shoulder board. He was in earnest conversation with the Governor.
John led his family to “their table”. Leaving the twins under the “watchful eye” of Dave, Marie and he went and greeted all the arriving refugees. John could see that it was going to be buffet style and could smell the bacon. He LOVED bacon. That was incentive enough to get the show on the road.
He marched to the dais and addressed the assemble honchos quietly. “I don’t know who’s running this railroad, but I’ve found hungry folks don’t make a good audience.” Everyone laughed. The Colonel said: “We’re waiting on you. Your the young Alexander, leader par excelance, master of all he surveys, and pushy fellow.” John was stunned. “Not my show, sir.” “Too big for my meager abilities.” With that NAVY showed up, and rescued him. “ Good, everyone here?” The Colonel addressed her question: “All honchos present and accounted for.” NAVY looked at him with a gleam: “I WAS NOT referring to you leeches. Officers never miss a meal; politicians never miss a chance to run for reelection. I WAS talking about these poor little children.” Everyone was laughing. The Guv said: “Well, from the accounting I heard, ‘poor’ is not an appropriate adjective. They could buy the state from all accounts.” The NH Guv chimed in: “Two states?” NAVY put them in their place: “Now Gentlemen, why would they do that. Everyone knows that buying a politician is sooo much cheaper.” Now it was a joke at their expense. NAVY moved along: “OK, places everyone. John, you call the hall to order. Intro the Guvs. They will each say three sentences of welcome. Not a word more boys, or I have the teachers union endorse who ever runs against you. They the Guvs hand off to the Three wise Men. Who will say a joint non-denomination Grace before meals. No more than ONE Amen, Gentlemen. John, you announce the bar is open by tables from back to front. No rush there’s plenty for everyone. After breakfast there will be news, some information, and instruction. Questions? Good, let’s get going.”
The Colonel said to the Guvs. “Gentlemen, I’d hustle up. I think she’s serious.”
John walked to the dais. Gull waved for quiet. And, stood quiet. The hall silenced.
“Thank you. I hope all’s well. We have some words of welcome, Grace before, chow, Grace After, and some words. Governor?” The Guvs made it joint. NH was first: “Wise man once told us always make speeches after people eat. Welcome all of you. If you don’t like Vermont, come to New Hampshire. Call me when you hit the border.” The VT Guv was next: “Welcome to your new home. We want you to stay. We need you to stay. And, don’t forget who to vote for in the next election. Now for the padres!” With that he gestured to the three religious men. The rabbi, the bishop, and the minister all came to the podium. The bishop started: “We ask for the Lord’s blessing …” The minister continued: “… upon this food we have been given to eat …”. And the rabbi concluded: “… in recognition the goodness bestowed on us.” Then the three men said: “Amen”.
John resumed the mike and said: “OK, back to front. Table leaders as soon as the table behind you has returned to their seats, release those hungry folks. After we eat, we have a lot to cover so let’s not dawdle.”
Chow was finished in under an hour.
John resumed after an hour. “My friends, the Colonel, in charge of our reception, has some words for us.”
The Colonel took the mike. “First, we have to secure the premises. Sergeant Major? Please escort our honored guests to their cars with our thanks for their attendance.” “Yes, sir!” There was a short delay while the dignitaries were given the bum’s rush. “All secure, sir!” John noted that Navy and the other wives were now pulling out from under their shirts identical silver necklaces. Aunt Marion had one. Several of the men dressed in civvies who were serving the buffet had them as well.
“In order to continue, I’m going to ask you to promise not to divulge certain state secrets. All rise please. Raise your right and repeat after me. I, state your name, do affirm that I will not willingly divulge any of the secrets of the State of Vermont entrusted to me. So help me God. … You’ve been duly sworn as Intelligence Officers. In recognition of this pledge, you will each receive what’s called a ‘dime’. It’s a ring for the men or a necklace for the women with your silver dime for your pledge. The lawyers seem to think it’s important that you receive something of value in consideration for your pledge. Sergeant Major, please make the distribution.” There was a delay while these were passed out.”
“Now, continuing on. I’ll explain to you why that was necessary and why lives depend upon your discretion. Bravo Golfs communicate by radio. We, in the Intelligence Service, eavesdrop. You found this out. If you don’t keep this simple fact secret, the Bravo Golfs will not unknowingly tell us their plans. Good people will die if we don’t prevent the Bravo Golfs from surprising them. To date, we have done very well. Our ability to continue DEPENDS upon your silence. Some one asks you what happened tell them everything BUT NOT that we were in communication with you. Questions?” He paused.
“Good. Now on to the next item. The Classmates know for sure, and everyone else may know, that the coding being used was encrypted. While easy to describe, it is very hard to defeat. Hence, for sure, we don’t want the Bravo Golfs to learn this trick. SO if you don’t know what I am talking about, forget I sad anything. If you do know what I am talking about, forget everything you know about that matter. I want to collect the tool that some of you have on your wrists. I know you can recreate it, but please don’t. In exchange for it, the State of Vermont is giving you a silver wrist watch inscribed with ‘For Distinguished Service to the Citizens of Vermont’. Sergeant Major, please make the exchange.” “Yes, Sir!”
“That conclude the security briefing. If you have questions, ask. If someone presses you, have them arrested by the military police. Use the word, ‘watchworks’ and the MPs will know instantly what to do. It’s part of their standing orders. I’ll now turn this over to the civilian who organized what I will call the civilian affairs of your journey. Mrs. Armody, General Armody’s wife, and an admiral’s daughter, NAVY, please.”
“Thank you, Colonel Ears. Or should I say ‘goldie’. For those of you who don’t know, Colonel Ears has been promoted. Your successful arrival in Vermont was the crown jewel in his resume. So, he will now command all the military forces of Vermont as the Chairman of the General Staff. He’s second only to the Governor and since he doesn’t have to stand for election and can only be removed by a two thirds vote of the legislature, some say the Guv is second to him. You may not know it, but he was instrumental in clearing the roadblocks from your trip. Both administrative and militarily. Can I get some applause for Colonel Ears.” The crowd stood in applause. Chagrined the Colonel waved to the crowd.
NAVY continued: “Aren’t men just so cute when they are embarrassed. OK, time to get to work. First, some of you have envelopes waiting for you at the “mail” table in the back. Please check in there in the next hour or so. At some point in time, we WILL embarrass you by calling your name out and make you come up here and collect it. On the walls you will see lots of pages of paper with writing on it. These are all people who want you to come help them. They vary in size and type. The largest is … Help, me out, Sergeant Major, the largest ask is for how many people?” “The Sauffer Farm can take thirty five, Ma’am!” “Thank you Sergeant Major. Brave, cute, and he can count too.” Now, the Sergeant Major was blushing. “OK, in the next few hours until lunch, we want you to study the opportunities. You are being given sticker with your number on them. After you have seen all the opportunities, place stickers on the ones that interest you. Today, after lunch, is the funeral for your fallen comrades. While you are doing that, me and the ladies will compile the interest lists. You can be placed as a family unit, as a smaller group, or as an individual. We have more opportunities than you have people. How much more, Sergeant Major?” “About five times, Ma’am” “Told he was smart and cute. So we know that everyone will find something that appeals to them. Questions?” John had one and raised his hand. “Yes, sir.” Navy acknowledged. “How about our three comrades who were taken to hospital?” NAVY looked glum. “I will defer to the Colonel. I’m staff; he’s line.”
The Colonel move back to the mike: “I’m sorry. I should have reported that to you at the beginning. The motorcycle mechanic has died he succumbed to his injuries. His body has been returned for burial today. The doc has had a double amputation; both below the knees, and is expected to make a full recovery. The radiation victim is doing nicely and, while hospitalized for a while longer, lot longer, something about weakened immune system, a cold could kill him, is expected to recover.” “Thanks, what about their placement?” “NAVY, can you take that.” “Yes, Colonel, the Doc after she recuperates will be taking a position at Vermont University Hospital as a Medical Fellow on a tenured teaching track. The radiation victim’s wife has taken a position in the neonatal unit. She’s has housing in the Staff’s hotel across the street. Her boys are being enrolled in the school’s by the hospital. She and the boys will come tomorrow for the day. Other questions? Good. OK, everyone start reading.”
The crowd dissolved into a Brownian cloud of particles as people started reading and moving around the perimeter.
Marie and John just sat at the table. They knew what they’d be doing. They were to be G2! They walked around the room inspecting what was being offered.
They fantasized what it would like to: work on a maple syrup farm; printer repair; blacksmith / farrier; doctor’s apprentice; farmer; kennel custodian; and a slew of mechanic’s helpers. Several boarding schools were offering scholarships. There were some non-traditional education programs in practical arts — sculpture, metal works, lab glass manufacturer; stone mason. There were even childless couples willing to “house leading to adoption”. The Bennington School For Young Ladies, the ritzy girl’s ‘finishing’ school offered twenty five full scholarships. Yes, the Old Girls’ Network as done yeoman’s work gathering opportunities.
Little did they know that the Colonel, the Guv, and all sorts of prominent people had called in favors and twisted arms to get something for everyone. NAVY had a conversation with the Guv on Wednesday about a that balky finishing school. The Guv personally called the Headmaster to his office and enquired how the school would survive without the forbearance of the State. The Guv said he was going to run a contest for the State employee who could come up with the most citations for the school. The Guv was laughing when he said it, but like most politicians, it was like crocodile tears. The headmaster saw through the laughter to the threat. The political and monied classes sent their girls to “The Bennington”. If the Guv badmouthed the school, then they’d have nothing but the scholarship kids. The Headmaster offered 5; the Guv said “Fifty, but we’ll compromise and split the diff. Make it 25!” The Headmaster blinked. He and his Board had discussed the matter and had agreed that if pushed they could go 25. Did the Guv have a spy? The Guv was a people reader. He could see the dominoes fall into place. He thought: “Yes, you turd. I do have spy. And I had my dirty tricks squad bug your building. If I had time, I run your ‘barbara streisand’ snootfest out of my state. Maybe I will anyway.”
(Little did the Guv know, but he needn’t have bothered. None of the refugees were interested in ‘boarding school’. They’d lived in the shelter with their Classmates. Too close for comfort.)
Marie and John wandered by the ‘mail’ table. The private on duty handed Marie three envelopes and John two. Marie’s were from the UNH / Math Department, the UVT / Math Department, and the VT / Information Division. John’s were from the VT / Information Division and the Outward Bound Management Training. Marie read hers and said: “Three offers. Two teaching positions leading to my PhD in Math and the Light Colonel of Coders”. John said: “That’s Lieutenant Colonel, dear. You can keep me in the style I’d like to become accustomed to.” John opened his. “One to teach survival skills to executives. But I’ve been drafted. My letter from Colonel Ears isn’t a offer. I’m drafted to be the head of counter espionage. If I can’t or won’t, I’ll be placed in ‘protective custody’.” Marie laughed. “Like you wouldn’t jump at the chance to play counter spy.” John put a playful face on: “It would be nice to be asked.” Marie mused: “I wonder if I can do both and have a family life?” “If anyone can do it, you can!”
There were many letters. Everyone received at least one. Offering them an opportunity to be a radio operator with a VT militia line or irregular outfit. The younger children’s offer was for the irregular units included room and board with one of the officer’s or NCO’s family. The older ones’ were with the regular unit, but also with a family. No one was left out. But not many of those were accepted.
After two hours, the majority of the placements were made. BY the end of the day, everyone had something they liked.
NAVY made the announcement that “Starting on Monday, everyone will get a chance to meet their choices to mutually decide on fit. Me and my girls won’t leave here until everyone has a placement they like.” Like burning the invading army’s boats on the beach, it wouldn’t be necessary.
+++++
Lunch
Buffet again. But catered by the local hamburger joint. With fries. Milkshakes. Marie didn’t eat. She knew the afternoon’s events would make her sick. It’d be good to have an empty stomach.
NAVY took the dais. “We have two malingers who didn’t pick up their envelopes. Brian and June. Where are you?” A hush came over the crowd. John sprung into action: “I’ll take those for them. They are still on-patrol on-duty watching over us.” NAVY understood that Navy euphemism. “I’m sorry I didn’t know.” “It’s OK. How could you? It happened yesterday. You’ve done so much for us, how could we be upset with an honest mistake?”
John took the letters to the table. He looked at them. June had FIVE — the VT Information Service, UVT Arts, UNH Arts, the Montreal Art Museum / Curator’s Program, and the VT School of Medicine / Human Studies. Brian had three — the VT Information Service, IBM, and UVT Engineering. John thought: “Brian, you fool. June, my friend.” Neither John, nor Marie, opened them. They weren’t addressed to them.
That set the tone for the post-lunch trip.
+++++
Funeral
The Refugees were herded to the buses again. No one was happy about this trip. Everyone knew that this was to say goodbye. And, it signaled future goodbyes as people moved on. The regular military and the irregular militia had done a flawless job of isolating Ladd’s Inn from the press, gawkers, and the grifters. Reinforcing that cordon, the locals applied firm pressure to ‘visitors’ not to intrude. The gas station wouldn’t sell gas to the intruders. The local sheriff was issuing warnings for parking violations. There were no rooms available for fifty miles around. And, those that wouldn’t “get with the program” were usually arrested on trespass or violating some MV code or another. Reporters who transgressed were sent to the Guv’s woodshed. He press aide had a temporary trailer where he took the offender’s press pass and made an appointment for a formal hearing in a month. That formal hearing was with the Guv, his press secretary, the offending reporter, and his editor. These were few and far between since it usually involved some really bad conduct. In general, the Guv and his administration was among the easiest going and most open. The Guv had an open door policy with the accredited press. And, getting accredited was relatively easy. SO get sent to the wood shed meant you really pulled a boner. Like trying to sneak thru the military lines to get a scoop. There were pool reporters in all public events other than the classified briefing. The was one reporter in even that one who was a sworn Intelligence Agent. That was disclosed in his bio in the paper. The Guv liked everything open and above board. Unless, there was a pressing PUBLIC purpose.
So the bus trip was a feeding frenzy of reporters and camera people.
The refugees were very nonchalant about the attention. There was one case however where an aggressive cameraman was shoving a camera in Clare’s face scaring her. He was pulled away from the C’s by a militia man as David was getting ready to take him out. The militia man whispered in the cameraman’s ear: “These are not children and you could get hurt. We’re out here to protect you from them not them from you. They’ve killed more bad guys that our whole regiment.” The cameraman blanched and backed off. Wasn’t true. But General Armody had prepped his men with peaceful ways to impress the rubes.
The bus trip was about twenty minutes thru the beautiful Vermont farmlands. The locals had decided that pink and blue ribbons on trees would be placed to indicate support for the Refugees. Looked like it was the state flower. Some were store bought. Some were elaborate. Some were just wisps. The meaning spread thru the buses giving the riders a big lift. At certain places small crowds had gathered and applauded as the buses rolled by.
At Aunt’s lower pasture the buses unloaded at the edge. It was a beautiful fall day. Sunny and warm temperature-wise belying the hard winter around the corner. Folding chairs were setup in a block formation. School children were there to direct the Refugees to the seats. There was a temporary stage. Aunt and Unk were there. A small crowd of invited guests from the town were there as well. Off to the side of the stage was the grove. In front of the grove were the graves. Over the graves were coffins. Besides the graves was a pile of dirt. The rich black fertile soil of Vermont. The fallen had made it to Vermont. John walked to the row. The Undertaker met him and said “I hope you will find them suitable.” “They are fine. I need to put something in June’s and Brian’s” “Of course, but the smell will be noticeable. Can I do it for you?” The fellow was being polite. “Smell’s OK; it’s my responsibility. They are dead because of me! ”. He escorted him to the fourth one. Taking a little metal rod form his pocket, he unlocked the box and opened it a crack. John shoved June’s letters in. The man was right it did smell. He repeated the process at the next one, Brian’s. It was fitting that they were side by side on their eternal journey. John said: “Thanks” to the man and strode back to his place.
When every one was settled the three clergymen, the Guv, and Colonel nee Goldie from breakfast appeared on the stage. The Colonel kicked it off. There were prayers by the clergy. The Guv said a few words. Then Roy walked to the stage.
Silent Roy?
“For all of us I want to say to our Fallen, we’ll never forget.”
And Roy returned to his seat. the Colonel called for the congregation to rise. The Fighting First’s Honor Guard presented the colors. A bugler sounded Taps. And as the colors passed the line of graves, the burial detail removed the slats and lowered them in the ground.
As directed by the hosting children, the crowd, from back to front, was invited to walk the line and proceed back to the buses. Some followed custom and, using a silver shovel the size of a child’s toy at each pile, ‘buried’ the dead by placing a shovel full of dirt in the grave.
Most just hurried back to the bus. A few had to stop and lose their lunch. John and Marie were the last down the line. John was weeping. He’d killed his friends. Marie didn’t have any lunch to lose. She knew herself. At the buses, John and Marie were directed by Aunt and Unk to the 57 Ford; now minus a trailer. “Please come up to the main house for a few minutes?” Marie said: “My babies?” Aunt assured her that they were in the car waiting for her. Marie looked at John for direction. John said “Sure!” but had no idea what was up. He and Marie climbed in the Ford and two cooing babies greeted them. That made Marie happy.
Unk led off up to the main house in his prize car he called his “Stud-a-baker”. John was bracketed by two MP jeeps. That surprised him, but everything these days was a surprise. As the pulled on to the main house lot, John saw a new building. A big new white two story was sitting off to the far side of the barn. Unk drove over to it. And Aunt and he got out. John followed; the MP was in front as was the one behind.
Aunt handed John a set of keys. “John, here’s your new home. A gift from the people of the State of Vermont for your service, for your inspirational courage, and for all the things you will do for this State in the future. Now it’s bad luck for you to take your bride to be in it before the wedding. But, due to circumstances, with your wedding tomorrow, you’ll have to honeymoon here. But you have to get back to your people soon as you can. Your people need you both. There will be time in the future for trips and all that other stuff.” “Swampy, that other stuff is probably pretty important to these youngsters.” “Louie. Please don’t be vulgar. I’m sure they can figure it out for themselves. … Now children, Unk and I will be just the other side of the barn. There’s a phone line just for us. As well as to the military headquarters. And some other dedicated lines. If you need anything just ask. The fridge will be stocked to start. So you just have to focus on what’s needed at the time. Now scoot. Get back to your people.” John said: “Aunt, thank you. It’s most generous.” Marie said “Thanks. I’m speechless.” Unk chimed in: “Then you;ll be a perfect Vermonter. They’re not big talkers. You best get back now, before your people start to worry.”
John escorted Marie to the car and opened the door for her. He waved to Aunt and Unk and the MPs led off back to the Ladd’s Inn. As they passed the lower meadow, the back hoe was making fast work of filling in the graves. The chairs were half down. It was the start of their long sleep. John teared up; Marie touched his shoulder and said “Let’s go!”.
It was a silent ride back to the Inn.
Surprisingly, they slipped in without the press noticing. The Ford had been used by the Sergeant Major a few times to deliver the trailer places. So they were not expecting a different ‘payload’.
+++++
Dinner
The was not much enthusiasm for dinner that night. Some ate. Mostly the young. There was a lot of reading the wall charts and very young people tried to decide ‘what did they want to be when they grew up’.
NAVY was a buzz saw of activity. She had placements and appointments being made. She had a subcommittee on the wedding. She had a circus running. There was a press conference Monday. She was in her element.
When John and Marie arrived, NAVY was on them. “OK, kids, here’s your schedule for tomorrow. John stays in the spare room; Marie with the family. After midnight, John, you can’t see Marie. Bad luck. Tomorrow, Beauty Shop for Marie. Followed by dressing. Followed by Church. Cathedral actually. John, barber shop and zoot suit. Marie: Jody maid of honor. John: best men Sam and Roy. Brother Kevin gives away the bride. Reception back here. Honeymoon at the house; retuning here to be with your people that night. The OGN will watch the babies. We’ll express pump Marie in the morning for the day’s supply. Some day, when we have time, dear, I want you to tell me how that happened. You’ve never been preggers right? Of course your too young and your ankles and hips are still original equipment condition. Never heard of a cow giving milk without calving.” Marie was shocked, horrified, and laughing in a minute. NAVY was a whirlwind. “Not half as shocked as I was when I started leaking.” John felt like he was extra baggage here. Marie did have one comment: “I was hoping for a white dress.” NAVY said: “Of course, dear, and you will have one. We have fourteen lined up and three of the best sewers in the Valley standing by. If need be, they will sew you into the one you want. It’ll be as good as a bundling bed. John’ll have to use a hunting knife to peel you like a banana. Now don’t get too excited there John. That’s tomorrow.” Both Marie and John were blushing.
Navy didn’t share that there was one road bump in their way.
+++++
Bed Down
It had been a long emotional day. Marie gave John a full frontal and said: “Sleep tight my beloved. Tomorrow is the day we’ve been waiting for.” John replied: “My love. I know I’m not worthy. If you want to escape, I’ll understand. I’ve always loved you. I am concerned that this might not be what you want. Your happiness means everything to me.” “Hey, bud, don’t try and slip out. You heard NAVY; you put me in this condition. Now you have to make me an honest woman.” “You’re already honest and a woman.” “No, sir, not quite; you and that ‘curtain rod’ have to finish the job.” Now it was John’s turn to blush. “Well, hopefully, it will measure up to expectations.” Marie was laughing. She knew his flag was rising. “I’ll try to find a ruler tomorrow” she called back as she disappeared into the connecting room!
John wasn’t going to get a lot of sleep tonight.
# # # # #
