David Golemon: Legend

"Well, it's his right to do so. After meeting you and seeing you again, Mr. Ryan," he looked pointedly at the shorts and Hawaiian shirt, "I can't blame him."

"Mr. President," Jack said, standing, "I officially request that Sergeant William Mendenhall be given assignment to the very next class at OCS. He will make a fine officer in the army. As for Mr. Ryan here, either we need to promote him for duties above and beyond, or kick his ass out of here completely, if you'll pardon the expression — your choice."

The president stood and shook both men's hands, and nodded his agreement.

"I suppose you would have also tried to resign if I didn't give in?" he asked the major.

"Me, Mr. President? Not a chance, I was hoping for Niles's job until you talked him out of quitting."

The president smiled and then slid two small cases along the conference table toward Niles. "Do the honors, Mr. Director, please."

Niles, with as much pomp and circumstance as he could muster, simply tossed one box to Jack and the other to Carl.

The director then opened a flimsy paper and read. "Major Jack Collins, as befitting a military liaison to an agency outside of his own, you are hereby promoted to the rank of lieutenant colonel, with pay grade adjustment commensurate of said rank, minus one hundred dollars per month, which is to be deducted toward the repayment of monies to the United States Navy, stemming from charges brought about by Master Chief Archibald Jenks, United States Navy, for the destruction of U.S. government property, namely the commissioned river transport, USS Teacher . Lieutenant Commander Carl Everett is hereby promoted to the rank of captain, United States Navy, with pay grade increase for same, plus a monthly deduction of pay amounting to one hundred dollars, as aforementioned compensation for property recently destroyed."

Jack and Carl looked at each other and couldn't gather the words.

"You are also hereby officially reprimanded by the president of the United States and said reprimand will be placed in both 201 files. In addition, both officers will immediately fly to Los Angeles and formally apologize to Retired Master Chief Archibald Jenks, whom I must say is quite anxious to see you," the president finished for Niles. "Now, you're officially dismissed."

Jack Collins and Carl Everett walked from the conference room stunned at what they had just happened. As the doors closed behind them, they heard the life of the Event Group return to normal as the director and president started their yearly argument.

"Now, Mr. Director, we need to discuss this outrageous budget you've turned in for the next fiscal year; it just won't do. I won't be in office the next time around, and the next guy may not be so generous."