Tempered Steel

Chapter 22

“OK, now that the announcements are out and everybody’s happy, whose idea was it to do all this up in Pyongyang?” asked President O’Bannon. Seated around the table were the Joint Chiefs and the Secretary of State. Everyone thought the President was totally upset with the move.

Black stood up. “Mister President, it was something worked out between General Richardson and the South Koreans. General Monahan was in on it too. Things were going very quickly as you know, but General Richardson felt it would be more effective if this was an all South Korean show. She told me this morning she was afraid of what might happen if a bunch of Marines started marching up the street, but she also figured North Koreans might be more cooperative if only Koreans were involved. She was right. It made things a lot easier to swallow for the North,” he said. “I am backing her to the hilt. She got the job done.”

A hint of a smile appeared on O’Bannon’s face. “She wasn’t right. She was brilliant,” he said as he couldn’t hide his feelings any longer. “I hope you guys realize this lady is not your average grunt,” he said. The tension in the room was immediately released and the men and women were visibly relieved. “Look, I know there was no way to coordinate all this and I’m very pleased with the result. How does it look at State?”

“Having them capitulate without surrendering was a stroke of genius. General Yao, their army commander, even allowed the DPR army to return home with their rifles and sidearms. It should allow the North Koreans to retain some face. That won’t hurt in the long run,” said the Secretary.

“Ok, what do we do now?”

“Actually, except for a few units, I recommend we simply blend into the woodwork and not make a show of force. They all know we were there and they all know we did it. If we just ease away it will make a nice statement for our allies that we aren’t in this for our own glory. It will be there, but we won’t flaunt it,” the Secretary recommended.

“I agree with that,” said Black. “I am recommending Claire stay there as Commander of US Forces in Korea. She can handle the low profile and still get things done. She can also make the arrangements for our units to start coming home.”

“Does everyone agree?” the President asked. All heads nodded. “Good enough. Now Mister Secretary, what do you have up your sleeve?”

“Mr. President, I have made arrangements for a state visit to Japan, China, and the Philippines with a quick stop in Seoul. The purpose of the visit is to further relations with these countries and cement a few bonds of friendship and trade. I have already made the diplomatic requests and have received invitations from these countries. Seoul has not responded yet since we did not know if the war would be over. The ambassador has assured me that the invitation is in the mail. Your Chief of Staff is setting up the itinerary with our ambassadors, and is setting aside plenty of time for other visits and side tours. I should have the final itinerary in a few days.”

“Good. General Black, please work with State to block out time for the awards and other ceremonies. I believe there are a few guys for me to see including General Richardson. You might even have some time for us to visit the military hospitals.”

“Yes, sir. My staff is already working on it.”

“Good. Ladies and gentlemen, I want to thank you for your support and your professionalism. You have pulled the United States out of a bad situation and have set a nice high standard for us to emulate in the future. I personally thank each of you for a job well done.”

O’Bannon walked around the table and shook everyone’s hand, softly saying a little something to each of them. After a few minutes he bid the room farewell and went back to the Oval Office.

“There’s something I would like to do for you, Sergeant,” the orthopedic surgeon said to the room. Ricks was sitting up in his wheel chair and eating with Su Lynn and his parents. Ricks had made a remarkable recovery. Much of it was attributed to his dedicated wife.

“I want to send you to a specialist in Atlanta for a special operation. There are some new prosthetics out there that would probably help you make your deadline. They will attach a titanium pin to the end of the bones in your legs. That pin will stick out of your skin and the prosthetic will latch into it. Between that and the fit around the remainder of your leg, it should act just as your normal leg.”

“But how will I move it?” Ricks asked.

“When we removed the lower parts of your leg I was able to save a length of bone and I attached what muscle was left to that bone. It may not move exactly like your leg, but you will be able to control it,” the surgeon said.

Ricks smiled at the man. “That sounds a little more promising than something I have to strap on and adjust all the time. But what about this pin that will go through the skin?”

“It can be done. The pin is titanium and not something you might be allergic to. The only thing we should be alert for is infection. By the way you have healed, there is plenty of meat below the end of the bone. That should act as a natural barrier. It just means you have to be careful to keep your legs clean.”

“Sounds like it might be just the thing,” Ricks said.

“He walk by time baby born?” asked Su Lynn.

“Well, possibly. It is possible if you work hard enough. These things take getting used to. But it’s the only thing that gives you a chance.”

“Then he do it,” she said defiantly.

Ricks looked at her with admiration. “You heard the woman, Doc,” Ricks said.

“Good. I’ll make the arrangements and you will be shipped out in a few days,” the surgeon said.

“What about my wife?”

“I’ll get some people on it. I’ll try and get someone to see you this afternoon. In the mean time, I may move you to some other quarters. You’re doing well enough to get around in the chair on your own. How’s that sound?”

“Sounds good.”

“Then I’ll check in on you tomorrow. Have a good evening.”

“Thanks, Doc,” Ricks said. He looked over at Su Lynn and squeezed her hand. “Looks like we’re going home,” he said.

They were just beginning to talk about the prospects when there was another knock on the door and Lt. Colonel Peterson stuck his head in. “Everybody decent?” he asked.

“Come in, Colonel!” said Ricks.

Peterson entered the room and shook hands all around. He even got a hug and a kiss on the cheek from Su Lynn. “I just saw your Doc out in the hall. He says you’re going home. Congratulations!” he said.

“Yes, we just got the word. The Doc says he’s going to try and fix it so Su Lynn can come with me.”

“Well, don’t worry about that. Su Lynn is coming with me for her photograph and she’ll have a passport this afternoon,” he said seriously.

“That quick?” asked Amanda.

Peterson looked a little hurt. “Are you doubting my word, Ma’am?”

“Well, no, but I know how long it took for some neighbors of ours. We only got ours so quick when the Army stepped in,” she said.

“Let’s just say I can pull strings. There’s one more piece of news though,” Peterson said. “Your presence is required at some kind of ceremony in Tokyo in four days. All four of you will be going and the Army is getting the transportation laid on. You will be going in two days. So I suggest you polish up your wheelchair and get yourself shaved. They want you in uniform.”

“You have got to be kidding me. What do they want me for?” asked Ricks.

“Beats me, Sergeant. Just be getting ready. Su Lynn and I may stop and pick you up some new uniforms. I took a look at what you have and wouldn’t wipe my… kitchen table with them,” he said catching himself.

“Yes sir,” said Ricks. “But if you hear what it’s about, I’d like to know.”

“I’ll keep my ears open. OK, Su Lynn, let’s go get you a passport,” Peterson said.

A little unsure of what to do, Su Lynn stood up and went with Peterson. Fortunately, Peterson knew exactly what he was doing and, in addition to getting uniform items, he stopped at a shopping center and bought her some western style clothes. She would have to look nice for the person she would be meeting.

Air Force One landed at Narita Airport with all the pomp and circumstance befitting a visiting head of state. The 747 had been repaired and hardened against EMP so there was no longer any fear from that threat. The big airplane in its two toned blue and white paint shimmered in the sunlight as it taxied along the ramp to the VIP reception area. The airplane stopped and the airstair was lowered. A red carpet was extended from the end of the stairs out to a waiting platform for arrival remarks.

The doors opened and President O’Bannon stepped from the plane, waved, and walked down the steps. He was greeted by several dignitaries including the Japanese Prime Minister and members of the diplomatic community. The men walked to the platform and gave the perfunctory remarks regarding how happy they were to be here and how much they were looking forward to their meetings. After more handshakes the two men entered their limousines and took off toward an official reception while other staff members made their way to their rooms at the embassy. In some cases, they were taken to the Iowa.

USS Iowa and the rest of the battleships were moored alongside the municipal cargo loading piers running along the Shuto Expressway across from Shinonome Station. The sailors enjoyed the location for two reasons. It had easy access to downtown and it was less than four miles from Disneyland Tokyo. For men who had spent the last few months in a war zone, it was like stepping into a different world. In many cases, it was nice just being around regular people again.

By 8 pm, the activities for the first day had ended and the motorcade made its way through the city to the pier. Normally Tokyo was still jammed with cars at that time of the evening, but the efficient Tokyo police blocked off several streets allowing the motorcade to pass quickly and without interruption.

Entering the gates to the pier, O’Bannon came upon an impressive sight. Each of the huge ships was dressed with lights along the main deck and up and over the masts from bow to stern. They seemed to shimmer as he made his way down the pier to Iowa. Along the way, sailors in their dress blues were standing evenly spaced along the ship’s rails saluting as the limousine passed. The last in line was Iowa. Lights were shining up along the various levels making the ship look even more impressive in the evening as the sides rose into the night sky.

The President exited his limousine and looked at the ship. As with the other ships, sailors were lined up evenly along the entire side of the ship on each level. Even more men stood atop the massive guns — all at attention and all saluting. He heard a bell sound eight times and someone announce “United States, arriving.”

As he approached the quarterdeck he saw eight sideboys and a line of officers waiting at attention. Upon the President’s arrival at the side, the Bos’n began blowing his pipe and all the people on the quarterdeck saluted. Hammond was there, first in line, to greet him.

O’Bannon got to the end of the line in time to hear a small band begin giving the four ruffles and flourishes and then play their version of “Hail to the Chief.” At the end everyone dropped their salute and the President stepped forward followed by Butler and a few other staff members.

“Welcome aboard, Mister President,” Hammond said. The look on his face told O’Bannon how glad he was to see him.

“Roger, it’s good to see you again. I keep hearing things about you,” the President quipped.

“Nothing good, I know. Let me introduce you to my officers,” Hammond said as he began the introductions.

When he got to the end of the line the President stopped him. “Is that the band?”

“Yes, sir. They wanted to be a part of this.”

“Good. Then let’s go see them.”

The two walked up the ladder to the horror of the men standing by their instruments.

“Hi, guys. I really want to meet you,” he said extending his hand. He made his way to each of the men. “You men have no idea what your playing has done for so many of us, both here and back home,” he said as he made his way. “I really appreciate what you’ve put into this. More than you’ll ever know. I hope I get the chance to hear some more of your music soon,” he told them.

The men beamed. They were playing because it was fun, even though they were being asked to play more and more. To have the President come and meet them was icing on the cake.

Hammond led the President into his cabin and O’Bannon flopped into the easy chair. “Oh man, I am so glad this day’s over,” he said. “At least I get to spend it here and not some sterile hotel room.”

“Welcome to the Roosevelt Suite,” Hammond said gesturing with one arm, “straight from its last engagement in 1943.”

“Oh man. I like this. I wish I could walk all over this thing tonight,” the President said.

“Mister President, I…”

“Roger, you’ve known me a while now. Let me be a regular guy once in a while. Isn’t that right, Jim?”

“Damn right,” said Butler.

Hammond chuckled. “OK, Steve. I was about to say you’re welcome to walk around anytime you want. The guys on this ship are okay. They’d love having you drop by.”

Now it was O’Bannon’s time to laugh. “I can see it now. Dear Mom, guess who dropped by my toilet today.” They all sat back and laughed. “Well, maybe a little later. You been doing okay?”

“Perfect. I still can’t thank you enough for putting me in charge of this ship. It’s been the best thing that’s ever happened to me,” Hammond said.

“Well, you deserved it. And by the way things have turned out, I’d say you’ve more than justified the job. I mean jeez, taking on four or five missiles? Jim almost soiled himself when he heard about it.”

“Don’t give away my secrets, Boss,” Butler joked.

“You saying I shouldn’t have?”

“No, it’s just that you have more balls than I have,” the President said. Then he sat up a quickly. “Oh. I almost forgot. I need to speak to your crew. Is that okay?”

Hammond was a little surprised, but the Boss had a habit of making quick decisions. “OK. You want to do this from the quarterdeck or the bridge?” he asked, looking at the agent standing by the outside door.

“The bridge might be a little more secure.”

The President jumped up. “The bridge it is then. Shall we go?”

Hammond called the quarterdeck and had everyone come inside the skin of the ship so that the President’s speech would not be heard across the docks.

Leading the way up the ladders, the men came out through the navigator’s station and onto the bridge. O’Bannon gasped in amazement at the seventeen-inch thick doors leading into the conning station. He paused beside the 1MC as the Captain flipped the switches and handed the President the microphone.

“Crew of the Iowa, this is the President. I want to thank all of you for letting me stay aboard your ship while here in Tokyo. I have wanted the chance to come aboard since before the ship was commissioned. You guys have done an amazing job here in Korea and everyone in the nation is waiting for you guys to get home. So before that happens, I wanted to give you my personal thanks for all you’ve done. I know there are some Iowa veterans aboard. You guys volunteered to return to your ship and serve on her again. That impresses the hell out of me. People once told me that to do what you do required youth. You proved them wrong. It requires dedication and courage. I also understand the young guys here are learning a few things from you guys. Well, learn everything you can. These kinds of veterans come only once in a while.”

“Well, I’m here to tell you that you will eventually be going home, but I wanted to ask you if I could add one more task before you do. I hope this is not asking too much. If it is, let me know when I walk around the ship and I’ll change my mind. You see, I do want you to go home, after you sail around the world.”

From somewhere in the background the President heard a “Yess!” from some member of the crew.

“This conflict has shown the world a great many things, including what a bunch of seventy year old ships can do when handled well. The world thought the battleship’s time had passed them by. You proved them wrong.”

“Now let’s do something done over 100 years ago. A President named Roosevelt sent the American fleet around the world to show people what we were made of. Being the ‘big stick’ and, after seeing what you guys have done, I want to do that again. So immediately after this event, Iowa will take me to Korea. Then you and the rest of the battleships shall visit a number of ports. The list includes stops in China, the Philippines, Fiji and Tonga, New Zealand and Australia, Pakistan, Oman, Egypt, Italy, Spain, France, Germany and Russia. From there you are scheduled to go to Sweden, Denmark, and England. Then we will start dropping off ships along the East Coast as you head home.”

“If that’s OK, it should take six months. But I will sweeten the deal. Each of you can invite your family to one of the ports to join you there. I will authorize their passage on a MAC flight. You will need to have the hotel rooms, but the rest is on us. I suggest you choose one of the more exotic ports and one where you will be staying a few days.”

“That’s the deal guys. Let your officers know what you think and we will make that happen. Once again, I appreciate what you have done and I hope this is a way of rewarding you for that. Have a great evening and I hope to see you around the ship soon.”

“Jeez, Boss. That’s an expensive trip,” Hammond said.

“You bet your ass, but I want to send a few messages. This voyage will thank a lot of people and gives warning to a few others. My thing is for you not to worry about that. Just go have a good time and leave the diplomacy to us. You in?” the President asked.

“I’m in.”

“Good, since you will command the Division. Sorry about the double duty, but that didn’t slow you down before. When you get home, you will get something else. Until then you can stay on this ship and get used to something the size of a task force.”

“I can handle that,” Hammond said.

“Good. Then let’s take a short walk around and see what your crew thinks,” O’Bannon said.

They had just gone through the door when applause broke out in the passageway. Officers and men were lined up along the bulkhead clapping their hands and cheering the President’s decision. He made his way along the passageway and shook the men’s hands. Going farther into the ship more sailors stopped and thanked the President. In the mess decks he was almost overcome. The Secret Service agents finally just let the guys walk up and pat the man on the back. Everyone wanted to go.

Later on, as the President lay in the hot water of the Roosevelt tub, he reflected on the time he had known Hammond. At every turn he impressed the President. It was even shown through the actions and conduct of his crew. These guys would be the perfect ambassadors on the trip. O’Bannon took a deep breath and let the warmth soak into his body. The ceremony day after tomorrow would cap things off.

After a great Thanksgiving meal prepared by the White House chef and his assistants, the crew formed up on the fantail of the ship looking forward toward the raised guns of turret three. A platform was erected beneath the guns and covered with carpet. The media pool was lined up behind a number of seats that were filled by a variety of sailors and other military men. On one side, the Joint Chiefs of Staff sat stiffly in their dress uniforms. Just before lunch, a group had been assisted up the brow by several Army personnel. One young man in a wheel chair was brought aboard and ushered into the President’s cabin for the meal. As everyone gathered, the young man was wheeled along the main deck to take his place with the other men.

At precisely 3 pm, the President and several other dignitaries walked aft down the port side and took their seats on the dais. The company stood when they arrived and were seated again as they sat. General Black, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs, opened the ceremony.

“Ladies and gentlemen, we are here today to honor the heroic efforts of a number of men and women in our armed forces. During this recent conflict there were thousands of instances of individual bravery among our service men and women; however, some stood out above the others. It is our distinct honor and privilege to present these awards on behalf of a grateful nation,” Black said solemnly.

“Will the following personnel please stand and come forward.”

Black began calling out the names of a number of men and women who were receiving the Navy Achievement Medal. One of the citations was read aloud as a representative of all the recipients. Then the President pinned the awards on the breast of each recipient.

These individuals returned to their seats after applause and more were called up for the Navy Commendation Medal. Six different levels of awards were presented and all the recipients were awarded except for one.

“Staff Sergeant Dale Ricks, come forward.”

“Ricks was dressed in an immaculate uniform and a couple of other medals were on his chest that he received earlier. He rolled himself up the incline to the dais. The President stood and walked over to stand beside him.

Black read the citation as an aide came up with a flat award box. “Attention to orders!”

The entire crew stood.

“For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty: Staff Sergeant Dale C. Ricks distinguished himself by acts of gallantry and intrepidity in action against an armed enemy near Daegu, South Korea on August 6th. On that day, Sergeant Ricks was engaged in a raid against North Korean forces behind enemy lines that were preparing to invade that city. He and his men engaged enemy forces far superior in number and equipment. Realizing the urgency of his task, Sergeant Ricks quickly organized a hasty offense consisting of two platoons of soldiers, using hand delivered demolitions explosives, dynamite, and Molotov cocktails he had devised. As the fight developed, Sergeant Ricks delivered these munitions, then braved hostile enemy fire to personally engage the enemy with hand grenades and rifle fire. When additional opportunities presented themselves to inflict further damage, he personally returned to the heart of the enemy encampment to destroy additional equipment untouched by his first attack. He organized the evacuation of several wounded soldiers from the battle. Fearing the enemy would overrun their defenses and capture troops under his care, Sergeant Ricks moved under withering enemy fire to extract an additional soldier from harm. In total disregard for his own life, he maintained his exposed position in order to engage the attacking enemy force. During this action, he was wounded. His courageous actions helped delay the enemy attack on Daegu, and resulted in as many as 250 enemy soldiers killed, and the loss of ten tanks, five rocket launchers, and numerous trucks of ammunition, fuel and supplies, while allowing the safe withdrawal of numerous wounded soldiers. Sergeant Ricks displayed extraordinary heroism and uncommon valor above and beyond the call of duty. His actions are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, the Third Infantry Division, and the United States Army.”

The box was opened and everyone saw the blue ribbon with the gold star shaped medal attached at one end. The President picked up the circular ribbon and held it for all to see. “It is rare that a President has the opportunity to make a presentation of this award. It gives me great pride to present the Medal of Honor to Staff Sergeant Dale Ricks. On behalf of a grateful nation, I thank you for your service above and beyond the call of duty,” he said as he placed the award over Ricks’ head.

Ricks had not been told what he would receive. He imagined it was just another award, but the President placed the ribbon around his neck and stood to salute him. The look of shock on his face was heartwarming to the President.

“Hand salute!” came the order as all the men on the fantail saluted the man. “Ready two.”

“Congratulations, Sergeant. I am very proud of you. If you ever need anything, you may call upon me or my people,” the President said warmly while shaking his hand.

“Thank you, sir,” Ricks stammered out. He glanced over at his parents and Su Lynn. She was clinging to Hufham’s arm, her eyes full of tears. Even his mom was crying. His father stood stunned. He didn’t even hear the applause everyone was giving him. Ricks waved at them meekly and made his way back down the ramp. People thought it was all over.

General Black came to the microphone again. There was almost a grin on his face. “Rear Admiral Roger T. Hammond, come forward.”

Hammond had a questioning look on his face. He too had not been told of any award. He looked around at the men on the dais. None showed any emotion. Hesitantly he walked forward. Everyone was still standing.

“For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty as Commanding Officer of USS Iowa in action against major units of the enemy during an engagement off Wonsan on September 25th, Rear Admiral Hammond gallantly interposed his ship between enemy missiles and the nuclear aircraft carrier under his protection. Seeing the possible loss of a major Navy asset and the potential loss of over 6,000 of its crew, Hammond ordered USS Iowa steered directly in front of five oncoming surface to surface missiles, shooting down two with his guns while absorbing three enemy missile hits. Undaunted by damage sustained under this terrific fire, he unhesitatingly engaged the hostile missile batteries with his damaged ship, ravaging them with gunfire and destroying both missile batteries before they could reengage the carrier or other ships in the task force. Rear Admiral Hammond, by his indomitable courage and brilliant professional skill, foiled the aims of the enemy during a critical phase of the war. His valiant fighting spirit throughout this historic engagement will venture as an inspiration to all who serve with him. His extraordinary heroism and conduct in this action were in keeping with the highest traditions of the U.S. Naval Service.”

The same kind of box was presented and the President took the medal out. Hammond’s eyes were wide as he saw the highest award the nation could bestow lifted and placed over his head. The President straightened the ribbon and stood back.

“Hand salute!”

Once again, everyone saluted. “Ready two.”

Everyone aboard cheered and Hammond looked at the President.

“I told you we were proud of you,” he said. “Just remember, you did all of this.” He stood back and turned Hammond toward the crowd. The crewmen were cheering madly. It was as if they themselves had received the award. He stood for a moment stunned by what had just happened. Then he regained his composure. Holding up his hand.

“I thank you for this, but it really doesn’t belong to me. It belongs to every member of this crew. I promise, I’ll never let you down,” he said.

The applause and cheering returned anew and Hammond returned to his seat. The President came to the podium and held up his hand. “I said before it was rare that the Medal of Honor is presented. The people here have been witness to two such events. The Medal of Honor is not presented lightly. It is only presented as a result of unique acts of bravery above and beyond the call of duty. Those of you aboard Iowa have seen these acts first hand. Some of our Army representatives have seen it in Sergeant Ricks during battle. Let us never forget what they have done or the circumstances they overcame. Our nation is proud of these men and all of you who serve every day in our armed forces. Thank you for allowing me to be with you and share this moment.”

The ceremony ended and the two recipients joined the senior officers in the President’s cabin after receiving congratulations from the crew and guests.

Hammond entered the cabin to see Ricks talking to the President.

“That’s okay, sir. I’m just wanting to learn how to walk before the baby gets here,” Ricks said.

“What about after? What are your plans?”

“Well, sir, I don’t know. I doubt the Army will want a cripple,” Ricks said. The President could tell the simple thought hurt the man.

“I doubt that. Plenty of people have lost limbs and continued service. Take a look at that Navy Diver named Brashear they made the movie about.”

“Yes, sir, but he lost only one leg.”

The President placed his hand on Ricks’ shoulder. “Just get back on your feet. I’ll worry about your length of service. If you want it, stay in,” the President said.

Ricks’ face brightened considerably. “Thank you, Mister President. I appreciate that.”

Across the room Hammond and the CNO were talking. “Actually, the important stops are in Hong Kong, Karachi, Muscat, Alexandria, and then St. Petersburg. The Chinese were playing their games during this thing. The rest you can imagine. The President would like to let them see what we have the capability of doing,” Johnson said.

“But we are decommissioning these ships,” said Hammond.

“True, but the way we’re going to do this will mean we can still bring them back. The President wants to lay them up with their systems still active. We’ll take off some of the classified electronics, but the rest will stay. The engineering spaces will remain usable. Iowa, for example, will be lit off periodically and the systems run for a day or two just to make sure things are working properly. At the same time we will allow the ships to act as emergency facilities for electrical power and berthing. That way we keep them in a minimal status. Since they are only 600 psi plants, that’s easier to do. The rest of the ships will be scrapped,” said Johnson.

“Which ones?”

“The DDs and the Adams Class DDGs. The Greeks and the others don’t really want them back.”

Hammond thought a moment. “You think the boss might be interested in a home for these ships?”

“Maybe. What do you have in mind?”

“Maybe we could get the museums caring for the battleships to take most of them. A straight donation might help them out and help us get rid of them. I’d hate for these old destroyers to go to the scrap heap.”

“Not a bad idea. I’ll broach it. I don’t particularly want to scrap them either — especially the old Fletchers. I bet some of the veterans associations would love to meet on them,” said Johnson.

The President walked over. “I see you guys cooking up something. Anything I should know?”

“Only that senior flag officers hate being blind-sided, sir,” said Hammond.

All three men laughed. “Roger, I did it because I didn’t need you telling me to give it all to the crew. The effect of your actions was electric. There are kids in college talking about what you did. That should keep the recruiters going for at least a year. Tomorrow I am going aboard the North Carolina and pin the Navy Cross on Chris Hustvedt for his brilliant action. You both did an outstanding job, but if it wasn’t for you, I might be an aircraft carrier short. So take the medal and shut up.”

The CNO slapped Hammond on the shoulder.

“Since you are going on this last cruise, be thinking about what you would like to do once you get home. We’ve been doing some housecleaning and there are some jobs available. Let’s keep talking and work it all out,” Johnson said.

“Ok. I can’t really complain. At least I was able to keep my ship. I hate to lose her.”

“We figured you would feel that way,” said O’Bannon. “There’s nothing in stone that you have to leave once you get a star, so we just added to your responsibilities. I think Perry has someone to help you out.”

“There’s a Commander Lawson and a couple other guys coming aboard in Seoul who will help keep the division stuff in line. He’s a good guy with a lot of savvy. If he doesn’t work out, let me know and I’ll send him elsewhere,” said Johnson.

“That helps. I’m actually looking forward to this little cruise.”

“Thought so. Just enjoy yourself. You and your guys deserve it,” said Johnson.

“Too bad you aren’t riding for a part of it, Boss,” Hammond said to the President.

“I might at that. I’m trying to set up a state visit to England. Don’t be surprised if I join you from Copenhagen on. Might be nice coming in on a battleship instead of Air Force One,” O’Bannon said.

“Me and my big mouth,” said Hammond, throwing up his hands. The group laughed again and began moving around the room talking to other guests. The party lasted until nearly dinner, with the President finally going on his walking tour after the meal. All through the ship the men stopped to speak and show the President what they did. It was a tired man who finally got to his cabin at 10 pm. It was the best Thanksgiving he ever had.