Changes
By Rose Stetson
Format: Alternate Universe
Spoilers: None (so far)
Summary: What if Jack was dismissed as a candidate for the command of the SGC and SG-1 was about to be dismissed from duty?
George Hammond took a deep breath, relieving himself of all the tension that had dominated his life since he had taken command of the SGC. He sat on the airplane, reviewing the agenda for his first meeting with the new president.
Senator Kinsey and others on the appropriations committee had unveiled the existence of the Stargate program two days ago, no doubt coloring the facts with their own prejudices.
Unfortunately, they had neglected to inform George of the meeting, and the joint chiefs, demanding an explanation for his absence, had called him. He had straightened up all the misunderstandings over the phone and arranged for this meeting today. In his mind, the damage had been done, and all he could do was try to minimize its effects on the program.
"General, we're beginning landing procedures."
George nodded. "Thank you, Major."
He took another deep breath. Hopefully, the meeting would go well. After all, he would be submitting his nomination for the next commander of the SGC. Colonel Jack O'Neill, currently the commander of SG-1, was a fine soldier who also had good military sense. He understood the procedures and protocol followed by the SGC, though he didn't always agree with it. And, in many instances, he had made his views quite clear to anyone within earshot.
That was what worried George the most. What he had come to view as a beacon, calling him to do what was right instead of what was expected, the President might view as blatant disregard for authority and grounds for charges of insubordination.
George looked out the window and sighed. He really hoped that the new administration wouldn't put a person unfamiliar with the Stargate program in command. As the plane touched the ground, George's anxieties increased. He was now tempted to withdraw his retirement paperwork, afraid of what the SGC would become in subsequent years.
He took a deep breath. Knock it off, Hammond, he thought, you've been waiting for just the right moment to retire, and it's finally come!