Cyber Warfare and the New World Order

Fall Back

Captain Thornton’s company had been fighting all out for the last five hours, and they had finally pushed the Japanese to the canyon entrance leading to Anaheim Hills and Los Angeles. The combat had been brutal; just as they thought they had mopped up the remnants of a Japanese infantry company, dozens of helicopters landed nearly 400 additional Japanese Marines not far from their position. As they moved to engage the new arrivals, seven Japanese main battle tanks also showed up, providing direct fire support. This forced Thornton to have to order his men to disperse and try to find a way around the enemy positions so they could destroy the tanks from the rear. His company was taking heavy casualties, but they continued to press on.

It took them close to two more hours, but they were finally able to force the Japanese to fall back to Anaheim Hills. Despite numerous requests for air support and artillery support, none was available. This lack of assistance meant they were not able to get around the heavy tanks and the two additional companies of Japanese light infantry. Thornton’s men were now facing close to 800 troops and seven main battle tanks along with two dozen light armored support vehicles. His men were busy using their anti-tank missiles and rockets, slowly grinding down the number of enemy armored vehicles.

Lieutenant Colonel Lee had called Thornton for about the third time, trying to get a status update. “Hey Thornton — has your company broken through the lines yet?” he asked.

“I’m sorry, Sir, but without air support, we are stuck. The Japanese are not going to bust through our position, but we do not have enough men to overwhelm the enemy force.”

Lee attempted to encourage him. “I understand, honestly, but do whatever you can to try. The Army has an armored Calvary division arriving later in the day. Tomorrow, you will have heavy armor support.”

Thornton didn’t care about tomorrow; his Marines were dying now, and they needed more support. Unfortunately, none was coming at least until tomorrow. “What was it they used to tell us in Boot Camp? Ah, yes. ‘Semper Gumby’ Marines.”