Holding Up The Sky - Book II - Kolchab

by M. Wheels

Continuing the story begun in the book 'Thuban." Now what will "The Powers That Be" do with Colonel McQueen and Kylen? And how will these two people continue to deal with events that are outside their control?

2. Two

(Two)

08 January, 2065

The White House

Washington, DC, USA

The President of the United States Of America takes pride in presenting the Medal of Honor posthumously to Lieutenant Paul Wang United States Marine Corps For service set forth in the following Citation: For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty as First Lieutenant serving with the Fifty-eighth Squadron, Fifth Marine Expeditionary Unit, in action against the enemy alien forces in the Ceres Region, 27 October 2064. Ordered to retrieve civilian hostages from the hands of the enemy after the failed Saratoga Peace Talks, Lieutenant Paul Wang shrewdly gauged the tactical situation when the enemy attacked and disabled the Inter-Solar-System Armored Personnel Carrier carrying the colonial hostages. After laying down ferocious cover-fire Lieutenant Wang voluntarily detached his carrier from the flight wing of the ISSAPC, freeing said wing to dock with the free floating hostage carrier. Alone and drifting without power, he unhesitatingly braved the increasing fusillades of enemy fighter cannon, returning fire and drawing off large numbers of enemy craft, allowing the hostage carrier to dock with the flight wing. Coolly disregarding his personal peril he continued to fire upon the enemy while the remaining members of his squadron achieved the mission objective, removing the hostages to safety. Stouthearted and indomitable, Lieutenant Wang shot down two enemy aircraft before being killed when shrapnel careened into his vessel. By his great personal valor, daring tactics and tenacious perseverance in the face of extreme peril, he had contributed materially to the fulfillment of his squadron's mission. His outstanding heroism, unwavering devotion to duty, and gallant conduct throughout reflect the highest credit to himself and enhance and sustain the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.