Leontyne Saresh - Supreme Chancellor of the Galactic Republic
Supreme Chancellor's Office - Senate Building, Senate District, Coruscant, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
08:05:15 ATC/ August 5th, 1968 - 10:00/10:00 AM
Supreme Chancellor Leontyne Saresh stood outside her office on the balcony to watch the beautiful sunrise. The war was gradually going well for the Republic and with the discovery of a race of warlike humans that were immune to the Force, the Chancellor had set in motion events that would hopefully bring the new world into the war on the Republic's side.
'And with the help of the people of Earth, we'll strike a major blow against the Empire. Maybe even crush the Imps once and for all.' She evilly thought, licking her lips.
But then her holo-communicator beeped and Saresh answered it.
It was her Togruta secretary Mysoka Tano. "What is it Mysoka?"
"General Garza is waiting for you outside your office your Excellency."
Saresh smiled with the thoughts of Havoc Squad pulling another victory. "Go ahead and send her in. I'm on the balcony."
'Here's go nothing.' Garza thought as she walked up to the Supreme Chancellor.
"Hello, Ellin! What a surprise! Did Havoc score another victory."
The commanding officer of the Republic's SpecForce sighed. "No your excellency..." With a deep breath, Ellin told her. "There was a diplomatic incident on Earth and it appears that a member of Chaos Squad was an undercover agent for the Empire." Garza knew what the reaction is going to be and the Twi'lek politician face went from excitement to disappointment and now anger. Preparing her ears for the hearing loss, Ellin, unfortunately, was too late to cover her ears at the outrage.
"ARGHH! YOU'RE TELLING ME THAT THE IMPERIALS HAD A SPY IN THE DIPLOMATIC PARTY THE ENTIRE TIME!"
"Yes, your Excellency. Chaos Squad marksman Corporal Kelrein was, in fact, an undercover agent for the Empire. I wrote a full report and I accept all responsibility."
It was scary to the commander of SpecForce to watch the Supreme Chancellor recover from her outburst quickly. "Very well Ellin, but you do not have to resign. No one is blaming you... Hope you have a nice day."
General Garza gladly left the office as fast as she could and she looked over her shoulder, seeing Saresh lean against the balcony depressed.
Nathrrya Therin-Palatine - Darth Avarice /The Empire's Wrath.
Kaas City, Dromund Kaas, Dromund System, Sith Worlds, Imperial Space, Outer Rim Territories, "The Galaxy"
08:05:15 ATC/ August 5th, 1968 -10:00/10:00 AM
'You got to be kidding me!' Nathrrya thought as she read the holomessage she received. 'Invade Earth? What the kriffing hell are they on?'
It was now official. The Empire would like to conquer Earth despite Avarice's warnings of the advanced nature of their fighters, not to mention the experience of their soldiers during not one, but two world wars!
She slammed her hand down on the long-range holocom table in frustration as she began to call the Dark Council every colourfully vulgar expletive in ancient High Sith she knew and she knew quite a few.
With a sigh, Nathrrya turned and made her way to her quarters. After all the call she was about to make was best not overheard by the others. For what she was about to do while technically treason was something she knew she had to do.
Once in her quarters Nathrrya took the secure holocom from her belt and tapped in her cousin's com code. It took a few moments, but eventually, the Battlemaster answered.
"Nat! What a surprise..."
"Cas. It's not a social call." She said cutting him off "If only it were."
Master Therin sensed that something is deeply troubling her."What is it, Nat."
Nathrrya sighed. "Cas, I believe the Empire is making a grave error. The Dark Council wants to conquer Earth over my objections and they've lost all reasoning. I thought Marr and Vowrawn would have known better but they were forced to go along with the other idiots." She made a face "The best part is I've been given the privilege of leading the invasion fleet." It was clear she was less than thrilled about that detail.
The Jedi massaged his temples. He wasn't surprised at the news since the Empire always thought of conquest when a new world was discovered. He was more surprised that his cousin would risk her hide to warn him that there was an invasion coming.
"Why risk this?"
"I might be loyal to the Empire, Cas, it is my home after all but that loyalty only goes so far when said Empire constantly makes poor decisions. We both know that the stability of the galaxy is at stake if this war drags on too much longer." Nathrrya said.
The Jedi nodded. "What would you like in return cousin dearest?"
Darth Avarice grinned remembering how the Jedi owes her something. "How about those dynamic power couplings that you promised me?" She asked sweetly, with a hint of humour.
"I'll see what I can do Nat. No promises."
Avarice wasn't happy with that answer. "But you promised!" she cried giving her cousin the look. It was much the same as the look Kira gave him when she wanted something, though in Kira's case that something was usually Casavir.
Normally a Jedi wouldn't show any emotions, but his cousin knew his weakness. Kriff, even Kira knows it, and damn it, he wouldn't be surprised if his wife told her! "NAT!? Please don't give me that look!"
The Wrath, on the other hand, pressed the advantage and continued to give him the look. The pouty face made her seem years younger than she was and it amused her how Casavir could be ruffled by her Kath hound eyes.
"Alright! Alright! I'll send you those dynamic power couplings!"
"Thank you." Nathrrya smirked in victory. If only if it was this easy to win the war with such a method.
The hologram faded out and now Nathrrya was satisfied that the dynamic power couplings would be shipped so that the Rose might be improved.
Walter Leland Cronkite, Junior - CBS New
The White House - 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, Washington, District of Columbia, United States of America, North America, Earth, Sol System, Milky Way Galaxy
08:05:15 ATC/ August 5th, 1968 - 20:00/8:00 PM
"Good evening my fellow Americans. Today we had learned a great tragedy involving our planet as a whole... We never wanted war. We never wanted to be dragged into a great conflict that we have no business in. But, unfortunately, Earth is now a target... The Sith Empire has plans not for diplomacy, but of conquest... Conquest. That word is one we never wanted to hear and yet here we are standing today. We all know what Hitler and Tojo did during the last great war. We all heard tales of George Washington fighting against a vast empire. And all nations understand what it means to be in a position of being conquered by an foreign enemy...However, we do have one advantage and that is we know how to conduct war. The nations of Earth will never be their possession! We shall not let them! We shall not go quietly into the night! We will fight on! If they want war, in the name of the Lord Almighty, we will show them!... As of three hours ago, Congress approved my declaration of war against the Sith Empire. Mister Khrushchev and I, along with the other leaders of the world agree that we need to take this threat to our sovereignty seriously... The Dark Council will learn that the word 'Earth' is what nightmares are made of."
The news correspondents were stunned into silence as the Secret Service agents ushered the leader of the free world off the stage. Cronkite was among those whose eyes widened in surprise at the speech. It was not one Walter and his peers were expecting at the special news conference that President Kennedy called.
"As you heard the President, we are now at war with the Empire. May God help us all..."
Within days of the United Nations being informed by the Republic of the Imperial plan's to add the planet of Earth as a colonial possession, the nations begin the process of inducting and training as many able-bodied men as they could realistically spare from their populations including recalling veterans of World War II for emergency service and commencing the manufacture of essential war equipment with guns taking precedence over butter.
The State Anthem of the Soviet Union, Das Lied der Deutschen, Auferstanden aus Ruinen, Oh Canada, the Star-Spangled Banner, La Marseillaise, and God Save the Queen alongside the other national anthems started playing in many countries across the globe.
Soviet Tanks, West German Uniforms, American Rifles, and British Aircraft were being mass-produced in quotas that have not been seen since the end of the Second World War and for the first time in years, strict rationing, censorship, and curfews were being stringently enforced. Nuclear attack drills increased in weekly frequency as the Bear of Mother Russia, the American and German Eagles, the British Lions and the Indian Tigers trained their sons for the inevitable confrontation.
The Sith Empire did not realize it but they have awakened a sleeping giant and with the minds of Generals George S. Patton, Erwin Rommel, and Georgy Zhukov leading the joint forces, Operation: Mars would succeed.
Klaus Büchel - Former Captain in the Liechtenstein National Police Force, Colonel in command of the resurrected Liechtenstein Army
Vaduz, Liechtenstein, Europe, Earth, Sol System, Milky Way Galaxy
08:29: 15 ATC / August 29th, 1968 - 14:00 / 2:00 PM
"Today, the Republic suffered catastrophic losses on Jabiim." The reporter announced. "The Sith Empire launched a full-scale invasion of the planet, outnumbering the defenders five to one and in the aftermath of the onslaught, the entire Jedi complement were beheaded by the Sith."
"Schisse." Büchel cursed. The former senior policeman who was appointed as the commander of the entire revived national army that was formerly nonexistent in the tiny European nation for literally a century, tiny as in the American state of Rhode Island, just realized the significant implications of being a part of this conflict. "Imagine just eighty men facing that onslaught. It might've well have been ants attempting to block a Category Five hurricane."
"We did declare war on the Imperials so there's no turning back now."
"Brightside is we're working alongside die Schweizer and be attached to their forces while serving under our banner. The bad news is the Swiss haven't fought in over a century and that was of course the Sonderbundskrieg, a short civil war."
"We might be small but at least we'll go down fighting." Another subordinate declared grimly as he wiped the cosmoline off of his Swiss surplus 7.5×55mm K31 Straight-Pull rifle.
"Guide Lamp Division" Manufacturing Plant, General Motors - Anderson, Madison County, Indiana, United States of America, North America, Earth, Sol System, Milky Way Galaxy
08:30: 15 ATC / August 30th, 1968 - 08:15 / 8:15 AM
"Come on, Mary, you used the lathe like this." The recalled 'Rosie' informed as she demonstrated the resurrected machinery used to manufacture M3A1 Submachine Guns back in World War Two. "And Brenda is handling one of the rifling machinery so if you're uncomfortable handing them to anyone else, just give them to her."
"Yes, mother." The daughter acknowledged before taking over the machine used to produce raw barrels for the 'Grease Guns'.
Karl Schmidt - Assembler for Henschel & Son
Henschel & Son manufacturing plant - Kassel, State of Hesse, Federal Republic of Germany aka "West Germany", Europe, Earth, Sol System, Milky Way Galaxy
08:31: 15 ATC / August 31st, 1968 - 17:00 / 5:00 PM
"Nein, nein, not there." The mechanic pointed out to one of his employees after the factory converted to the manufacturing of tanks once more, this time Leopards instead of Tigers and Panthers. "You put ze rivet here, Karl."
"Ja, ja." Schmidt nodded as he placed the rivet in the correct position and used the air hammer to set it in. "This Panzer ist ready to tread on ze Imperials."
"Gut. Sehr gut, Karl. Now we have two hundred more to go."
"Damn quotas." Schmidt grumbled. "There should be time made for quality precision."
Red Army Training Center No. 1242 - Pustomyty Raion, Lviv Oblast, Western Ukraine, Ukrainian Soviet Socialist Republic, Union of Soviet Socialist Republics, Eurasia, Earth, Sol System, Milky Way Galaxy
09:01: 15 ATC / September 1st, 1968 - 07:00 / 7:00 AM
"Comrades! It is time for you to learn how to properly throw a grenade!"
"But these are potatoes, Comrade Commissar!" One of the inductees who hailed from Ufa, Russia questioned after picking up one of the vegetables from the cart. "Why are we using potatoes, Comrade Commissar?"
"Actual grenades are valuable! In fact, they are much more valuable than you, Private!" The political officer snapped at the disobedient. "And those Space Fascist scum hardly take any prisoners except those destined for slavery! If you have an actual grenade, save it for yourself and take out as many of the enemy as you can."
"Da, Comrade Commissar!" The platoon-sized detachment of trainees acknowledged.
"Now do as you are told as Mother Russia is calling for her brave and zealous sons once more. Prepare to chuck potatoes, I mean grenades!"
Jonas Malheiro Savimbi - Leader of the National Union for the Total Independence of Angola (UNITA)
UNITA Base Camp - Angola, Africa, Earth, Sol System, Milky Way Galaxy
09:02: 15 ATC / September 2nd, 1968 - 11:00 / 11:00 AM
"This Galactic conflict will be new ground for us all." Jonas declared as he led a Portuguese 'military adviser' around the base camp of the guerrillas being trained in more conventional military tactics. "Have you met my request for all of Africa to be independent?"
"The United Nations is still having talks with the remaining colonial powers about how to best grant independence without having the newly freed nations devolved into anarchy."
"Not good enough." Savambi growled. "All of Africa will be independent within a year or you're not having anyone from most of Central Africa in the war. Oh, and South Africa needs to release Nelson Mandela. I don't expect them to end apartheid but Mandela needs to be free as he would be a useful ally propaganda-wise against the Sith like Doctor King and Malcolm X."
"Switzerland is currently acting as mediators between the nations and the declared representatives for the few remaining colonial possessions. I cannot guarantee that it will result in a Pan-Africa, Savimbi, but so far it looks like every colony will gain their independence."
"They do have the reputation of being neutral... Until now that is!" Jonas laughed. "But old grudges do die hard after all."
"That they do but we have a much greater threat to deal with on the horizon, which is similar to what the Persians caused the Greek City-States to react or as Benjamin Franklin once said: 'We either hang together or surely we'll hang separately'."
Timothy Jones - Former Carpenter and Conscript for Her Majesty's Service
Widnes, Cheshire, England, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, Europe, Earth, Sol System, Milky Way Galaxy
09:03: 15 ATC / September 3rd, 1968 - 13:00 / 1:00 PM
"Name?"
"Timothy Jones, sir!" The carpenter produced his draft notice to the board.
"Welcome to National Service, lad. As there's a quota needing to be filled, the Royal Engineers should feel like home." The Sergeant of the British Army smiled warmly before metamorphosing into something straight out of Hell for every processed inductee present. "NOW GET YOUR BLOODY ARSES ONTO THE BUS AND OUT OF MY SIGHT!"
Sergeant Wallace Franklin Bradford - United States Army
Fort Sill - Lawton, Comanche County, Oklahoma, United States of America, North America, Earth, Sol System, Milky Way Galaxy
09:04: 15 ATC / September 4th, 1968 - 19:00 / 7:00 PM
"EVERYONE GET YOUR ASS OFF OF MY BUS, NOW!" The lead Drill Sergeant screamed at the new arrivals after boarding the Greyhound that was shipping an inbound mixture of volunteers and draftees to be transformed into soldiers for the United States Army, not to mention be well cared for by their Uncle Sam.
The terrified recruits instantly hopped up from their seats and frantically retrieved their luggage and bags as three additional United States Army Drill Sergeants climbed aboard and shouted vulgarity at the recruits.
"MOVE IT, MOVE IT, YOU PATHETIC PIECES OF SHIT!" Bradford screamed. "WE'RE NOT GOING TO STAND HERE UNTIL THE EMPIRE INVADES YOU LAZY GOLDBRICKS! I SWEAR TO THE GREAT GOD IN HEAVEN THAT I'LL SMOKE YOU UNTIL YOU DIE IF YOU DON'T PICK UP YOUR PACE YOU WORTHLESS SCUMBAGS! FROM THIS DAY FORWARD, YOUR ASSES BELONG TO UNCLE SAM AND HIS GREEN MACHINE SO ENJOY THE HOSPITALITY WHILE YOU CAN!"
U Thant - 3rd Secretary-General of the United Nations
Headquarters of the United Nations - 760 United Nations Plaza, Manhattan, New York City, New York, United States of America, North America, Earth, Sol System, Milky Way Galaxy
09:12: 15 ATC / September 12th, 1968 - 14:30 / 2:30 PM
"It's such a shame that there's no recourse other than war." The Burmese pacifist who was the current Secretary-General of the United Nations and followed reports of UFOs with keen interest since his inauguration mourned.
"Well, after quite the debate, we decided who will be the figurehead of the 'Unified Earth Coalition'." The Soviet board member of the United Nations Security Council revealed. "General George S. Patton and it is because we need a fighter, not one willing to bootlick politicians."
"Old Blood and Guts certainly knows his way around conflict." The American board member agreed. "And just like Black Jack Pershing during World War One, he will make sure that our troops will be treated as equal allies, not auxiliaries."
"But he's a figurehead?"
"Well, not exactly a mere figurehead per se but basically the actual commands will be split three ways. Rommel is the head of NATO, Zhukov is the leader of Warsaw Pact forces, and we're still deciding on the 'Unaffiliated Nations' contingent. Patton plans the overall strategy and the three, let's say wings, makeup how to best proceed to the common goal based on their doctrine. In this way, we don't have to worry about suddenly forcing the men to cooperate, or have mass cases of insubordination because the senior officer is from Czechoslovakia and the men are from Belgium, which is exactly awkward as it sounds."
"Makes sense plus there's logistical interoperability issues as well and having designated combat theaters for just Warsaw Pact troops only would make resupplying the troops easier."
"Let us hope that this endeavor will not be a disaster waiting to happen." Thant sighed.
"Anyway, the international 'Quarantine Policy' in full cooperation with the Republic will be in effect tomorrow, and the joint 'Global Misinformation to the Galaxy' board will host their first session next week. It's not going to stop the Empire from invading but it will potentially make their task much harder as they literally have to sort fact from fiction."
"It's amazing how every country voted yes and not a single one abstained or voted no." Thant smiled before pouting. "If only it was one of peace."
Elmer Merrifield Keith - Famed Big Game Hunter, Gun Writer, and holder of the world record involving the longest kill shot ever fired from a Revolver at 600 Yards
Camp Perry - Port Clinton, Ottawa County, Ohio, United States of America, North America, Earth, Sol System, Milky Way Galaxy
09:25: 15 ATC / September 25th, 1968 - 15:45 / 3:45 PM
"Seven rounds rapid! Engage!" Keith ordered the trainees to fired their .45 caliber M1911A1 service pistols from the hip as fast as they could squeeze the trigger and the students did as was instructed on the buzzer, upon hearing the beep they draw their sidearms from their holsters and begin shooting at their individually assigned silhouette targets placed at fifteen yards.
"Still got it." Keith grinned before turning to the quick draw. "What's your name, son?"
"Jerry Miculek, sir!"
"That's some fine shooting, Jerry." Elmer complimented the pupil. "And fast as hell."
"The boy certainly has gifted talent." Staff Sergeant Silas Merritt 'Si' Robertson chuckled. "Phil? Didn't you mention that he's a fellow Louisianan?"
"Yep. Saint James, a little farther south than us, Si." The former football player for Louisiana Tech informed his brother. "Us Duck Hunters and gunslingers from Cajun Country will make those Space Brits think twice."
United Nations Global Misinformation to the Galaxy Board
Headquarters of the United Nations - 760 United Nations Plaza, Manhattan, New York City, New York, United States of America, North America, Earth, Sol System, Milky Way Galaxy
09:25: 15 ATC / September 25th, 1968 - 15:45 / 3:45 PM
"So...which map you think would be better?" The cartographer wondered as he showed the board ten different maps that portrayed Pangaea. "I know we already have sent a mishmash of mismatching global maps but these will have all of the landmasses combined into one supercontinent instead of mixing territory up."
The three board members shrugged as every one of the options seemed useful.
"Use them all. Does it really make any difference to combine India with Africa or have Mexico sandwiched between them?"
"The more confusion, the better." The committeeman sitting in the middle grinned. "The Sith Empire think we're mere primitives, so we're using ancient history, mythology, folklore, and prehistoric creatures against them."
"The one in regards to the Easter Bunny is probably the most ridiculous." The one on the right snickered. "A mass-murdering giant rabbit with laser eyes that can also toss egg-shaped grenades from his basket. Or, ya know, just the harmless Easter Bunny that gives the kiddos goodies."
"And thanks to Master Casivir's suggestion, we're having Santa Claus be labeled as a confirmed Force user more powerful than Emperor Vitiate. He and his elf army from the North Pole mounted on fearsome reindeer will be at the vanguard of any global defensive efforts and the candy cane lances will blow their ships out of the sky, never mind poor Rudolph's red nose of nuclear devastation."
"Hopefully the Dark Council will kill themselves after taking too much aspirin due to their inevitable reading of our misinformation."
"If only but I'm not going to deny that there will be an epidemic of migraines occurring within Imperial Space."
Sith Intelligence Headquarters - The Imperial Citadel, Kaas City, Dromund Kaas, Dromund System, Sith Worlds, Imperial Space, Outer Rim Territories, "The Galaxy"
09:25: 15 ATC / September 25th, 1968 - 15:45 / 3:45 PM
"Let me get this straight. There are at least fifty different maps that all supposedly represent Earth?" Kovach asked the operatives who were tasked with gathering everything and anything the Republic knows about the newly discovered extra-galactic world called Earth for the benefit of the Empire's invasion plans but the processing was proving to be more difficult than originally anticipated.
"We're also getting differing reports about the environment with one stating that the entire planet is an arctic wasteland with sugarplums guarded by these so-called 'Abominable Snowmen' and another that says it's hotter than Tatooine with giant man-eating desert spiders." Watcher Six revealed. "Then in the one declaring Earth is about seventy-eight percent water there's some Japanese beast called Godzilla that supposedly was a kriffing nightmare for the United States Navy and Army to kill per the combat footage we found."
"Evidently these primitives are trying to fool us." Rane determined after snorting at the footage of this 'Godzilla', which upon closer examination the caricature was obviously fake. "Quite ingenious in trying to throw us off but that means the invasion fleet will be going in blind without knowing what's truthful."
"So, should we inform the Council about these Werewolves and Chupacabras?" Watcher Two wondered. "Or the threat that this Easter Bunny poses to our forces?"
"For Force sake." The secret undercover Republic spy cursed at the headache even he himself was receiving courtesy of the newfound allies after reading an analysis about Werewolves being more dangerous than Rakghouls due to the ability to blend in as normal humans and the need to find some unknown yet toxic weed called 'wolfsbane' in order to counteract them but Kovach felt this to be fabricated as well. "If it sounds or appears to be too absurd, dismiss it immediately."
"Well, I think their slugthrowers are inaccurate over three hundred meters just like all other known examples so that's gone." Watcher Six determined as he deleted the relevant data about this 'M14' rifle being capable of killing a man up to nine hundred fourteen meters plus while preserving the more realistic and feasible one about some design referred to as an 'AK-47'. "There's no way their primitive starfighters are faster than our own in atmospheric conditions either."
'Easter Bunny?' Rane asked himself. 'What the Kark is an Easter Bunny?'
Marcus Trant - Head of the Galactic Republic's Strategic Information Service
SIS Headquarters - Heorem Complex, Senate District, Coruscant, Coruscant System, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"
09:25: 15 ATC / September 25th, 1968 - 15:45 / 3:45 PM
"Kovach reported that the Empire is confused about the conflicting findings about Earth. So far everyone within the Empire's power structure is not suspicious that their invasion plans have been discovered but believe that either Earth is trying to impose security measures after being exposed to the galaxy or the Republic is using the discovery of the planet to its advantage despite not being our idea in the first place." Balkar reported. "Operation: Misdirection is proceeding as planned."
"Are you sure about the lack of suspicion?"
"Kovach has literally implanted himself to be the second-in-command of Sith Intelligence and Minister Beniko reports directly to the Dark Council. If the Council isn't suspicious but receiving headaches, then what is there to worry about?"
"They're partially right about using this to our strategic advantage." Marcus grinned. "For every Watcher trying to sort through the puzzle means one less Watcher trying to gather Intel on the Republic. Then there's the fact that eventually we'll be working beside operatives of the British SIS."
"British SIS?" Jonas wondered.
"More commonly referred to as MI6 but despite the ironic coincidence and invertness, we could use the closest example of Imperials that are not Imperials to our advantage."
"Krasul made some rather odd discoveries." Balkar snorted. "Next for all I know, I'm going to be mistaken for this Elvis Presley."
"You could impersonate him if you apply more grease to your hair, agent."
"Very funny, sir."
Sergeant Sara Kelrein- Imperial Army Commando Unit 421 "Reaper Squad"
Sith Intelligence Headquarters - The Imperial Citadel, Kaas City, Dromund Kaas, Dromund System, Sith Worlds, Imperial Space, Outer Rim Territories, "The Galaxy"
09:25: 15 ATC / September 25th, 1968 - 15:45 / 3:45 PM
"Earth has a varying climate with some regions being purely desert, some being purely arctic, and some being a mixture of environments such as the United States. But most of the planet can be described as either temperate or tropical depending on how far from the equator the particular nation-state is precisely."
"There are also these maps." Her friend pointed out.
"This one is the closest geographical-" Kelrein paused as she dreaded the implications. "Lana? Do you believe that the Empire is responding to this correctly? They have not committed any grievances on us in the slightest, unlike the Republic. Earth wasn't even aware of our existence until recently."
"I honestly don't know, Kells." Beniko muttered, unsure herself. "But the Council believes that having a civilization of humans completely devoid of the Force is a potential future threat and if the Republic recruits them to their side, then we might as well capitulate now depending on how immune they are."
"A future threat or just an attempt to exploit resources naturally impervious to the Force to make the Empire unstoppable in an attempt to wipe out the Jedi once and for all?" The black operations soldier wondered, speculating that there was more to it than a preemptive measure. "The nation-states on Earth already have been through two catastrophic global conflicts just twenty-five years apart and that was recent history to them, never mind the other minor wars, all taking place while our own parents and grandparents were engaged in the Galactic War and the early skirmishes of the Cold War. The fathers and grandfathers of the current generation have a high chance of being veterans of the two major conflicts or even both and from what I've encountered they are not interested in another world war. Entering our current war would be an inconceivable bloodbath in comparison to what seems petty to us but beyond imagination to them."
"Kells, I know you're not trying to be seditious here but talk like that would make you eligible to be killed on the spot with no repercussions."
"It needed to be said." Sara countered politely before revealing additional legitimate reasons why this venture wasn't going to be a snap. "But just because they don't desire another conflict, it doesn't mean they don't have the experience of making life miserable to our troops and I'm assuming that there's going to be Sith assigned to the invasion."
"Of course just like every other invasion, though how well that's going to work on a world where we can't sense anything native is questionable."
"I'm going to be honest. They need to ditch the lightsabers and fight as one of the grunts as Earth with the unique biosphere will make the partisans on Balmorra insignificant in comparison. Truth be told, the best option for the Empire is to just send out an armada and orbitally bombard every last living thing as it would be years before the planet is even pacified." Sara declared regrettably. "Just as an example, Jake told me about a belief called the Spirit of '76: As long as one American still believes in the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution, there's going to be hell inflicted on the so-called conquerors. Granted, it is my opinion that due to the nationalism, it's going to be one nightmare to integrate the populace of the planet into the Empire, assuming the-" Kelrein paused as she felt a lump in her throat when the thought came to mind. "-the natives are not marked for extinction due to their unique physiology."
Lana sensed the unease from her closest friend since girlhood, weary not just about the overall plan but dreadful of her suitor's fate as a result of this endeavor.
"You don't think that the Empire would be successful?"
"No, we would be successful eventually but the body count would be as if we invaded the Mandalore Sector. I'm informing you about this as it is, just because Earth has only just begun exploring their own system doesn't mean as a whole they're primitive. The simulated war game Krasul insisted on was an eye-opener to put it lightly. And even though Krasul was overeager to put on a show despite Lane's concerns to say mildly, it still was clear that we were encountering a competent military."
The blonde noted the irritated tint on her friend's cheeks at the mention of Krasul's overeagerness, the tone hinting that the politician believed that the forces could withstand everything that was thrown against them while the troops experienced in combat felt otherwise. 'Evidently another case of political meddling in military affairs.' "I'm not going to enjoy the result, am I?"
"Imagine an army of marksmen with the rifles having slightly more than twice the effective range of our own sniper blasters and well-coordinated artillery on standby, followed by waves of strategic bombers carrying a payload greater than our Extinction-class bombers and that explains just the United States military if they don't decide to launch nuclear weapons at our landing zones per their policy about this Fulda Gap." Sara divulged bluntly. "The entire Republic force was wiped out due to our visibility at the wargame and Chaos Squad was annihilated within the first few minutes when we were the spearhead instead of acting as a knife behind their backs. We couldn't use our blaster cannons to great effect at all, unlike their M14s and M60s. I never thought I would encounter slugthrowers that are capable of shooting slugs in excess of four hundred standard meters with ease. Some of them can even do two kilometers though those are the heavy support weapons, not the personal small arms."
Beniko frowned as she processed the revelation. "Nuclear weapons?"
"They have enough warheads to devastate their own planet ten times over. Then there's also the chemical and biological weapon stockpiles."
"By the Darkside." The Minister cursed softly. "My analysts so far have been underestimating them and you have provided clarification that shows the information about the slugthrowers at least are completely accurate, pun not intended."
"Is there a way to salvage the data?"
"That's classified but honestly no. The Watchers completely purged it."
"Well, I have the next best thing courtesy of my helmetcam."
"You know, I'm still denying that this slugthrower outshoots my blaster." Sara snorted as she aimed the M14 prone, the primitive sling for some reason was strapped and laced up snugly against her left shoulder.
"You're not doing bad for a thousand. Struck the tens consistently though I of course hit the V-ring."
Sara felt tearful as she watched the footage of Jake kneeling beside her and instructed the undercover Imperial on how to make adjustments on the rifle platform.
"Overconfident about yourself, larel?" The redhead smirked before resting her cheek back onto the stock to aim the service rifle.
"Is that Jake?"
Sara nodded reluctantly at the inquiry. "Yes...Force, I miss him."
"That...is pretty far distance-wise and I don't see an optic attached. I can barely even see the flimsiplast from your position."
"Didn't need it as it's an excellent rifle with just the metallic sights." Sara enlightened as she fast forward the recording. "Apparently anyone with sufficient vision can be trained to strike a twenty-five centimeter circle at nine hundred fourteen meters."
"Five inches or half MOA. Not a bad grouping for one thousand yards. In fact, the match standard for the rifle team is at minimum three inches at three hundred yards so you're probably equal to the top competitors at Camp Perry." Jake determined after measuring the bullseye with a ruler."You want to keep the paper?"
"I don't know." Sara frowned."Would you get in trouble for this?"
"Sara, the Marine Corps can afford to dispose of shot-up targets as this is its purpose anyway. It's a memento of your first time shooting one thousand yards." Jake reassured as he detached the paper from the board. "I kept my first long-range target that I shot on the farm back home even though it's not as good as yours. Practice makes for perfection after all."
"Do you have it by chance?"
"Come to think of it, I do." Sara confessed hesitantly. "On the wall next to my father's trophies and the blaster racks."
"I'm not going to confiscate it if that's what concerns you. I just want to examine it."
Marine Corps Base Quantico- Quantico, Prince William County, Virginia, United States of America, North America, Earth, Sol System, Milky Way Galaxy
August 15th, 1967 / 08:15: 14 ATC - 2:45 PM / 14:45
"Wait, hold on, you're saying that the M14 is capable of shooting out to just under a kilometer?"
"Or twelve hundred yards in trained or skilled hands." Jake smirked at his steady as he carried the case and led her to the range. "And you don't need an optic either."
"No way." Sara scoffed, not believing the outlandish claim. "Even Sniper Blaster Rifles are only effective out to four hundred fifty meters."
"I guess it's a case of you gotta see it to believe it then." The Marine deadpanned as the couple paused behind the firing line. "Hope you enjoy the show."
"If you're trying to impress me, loverboy, this is one way of doing it beyond belief."
Meyer just shrugged and placed the butt of his rifle against his left hip to unfastened one of the steel buckles of the M1907 sling, adjusting the leather strap to form a 'loop' to slip over his left arm and tighten it snugly against his left bicep. Next, the Hoosier settled himself into the prone position before flipping the hinged shoulder rest up and pressed the buttstock against his shoulder, his non-dominant hand was placed barely behind the front sling buckle and the Leatherneck's right eye peered through the rear aperture to gaze at the front post. 'Will have to bring up the dial to a thousand yards once I get my natural point of aim established.' The Marine kept his left elbow firmly implanted on the ground as he carefully adjusted the elevation knob and windage knob, listening to each individual click.
The redhead watched with curiosity as her boyfriend settled back into his shooting position and aimed the M14 once more. It seemed to be four minutes of nothing and Kelrein was about to tell Jake to stop when the first crack from the rifle was fired.
Jacob relaxed his body after firing off the first 180 grain projectile from his M14, the Expert qualified Marine who was also classified as a Distinguished Rifleman due to competing in DCM sanctioned events breathed in then slowly exhaled before squeezing the trigger rearward.
Sara watched in utter amazement as her love interest calmly shot his weapon out to extreme range - impossible by galactic standards - and yet he was doing it seemingly naturally, with no magnification aid at all!
The Jarhead fired all twenty of his rounds and grasped the magazine, pressing the release latch and flicked the steel box out at an angle before retrieving the precious container and put it back in his pocket as otherwise he would be charged under the Uniform Code of Military Justice with loss or destruction of government property by Uncle Sam even if it was in the midst of a firefight. "You want to check the target and see if there are any holes in it?"
"I'm still in denial but I hope this long walk is worth it."
"Trust me, it will." Jake smiled. "Plus it's a romantic view."
"Fair point, larel." Sara relented as she allowed him to wrap his arm affectionately around her waist and Kelrein placed her dark red tresses against his croon.
"Blast." Sara uttered, astonished by the groupings at nine hundred and fourteen meters.
"Twenty Vs." Jake stated as he counted twenty holes in the 'V-ring' of the Charlie target historically used for annual rifle qualification at eight hundred and one thousand yards by the United States Marine Corps from before World War I up until America entered World War II and even currently still in use for competition shooting, typically Director of Civilian Marksmanship events. "Today for some reason was my lucky day as I usually score 430-5V on average."
"I promise to never mock your slugthrowers again as you clearly demonstrated that they shouldn't be underestimated."
"You want to try it out for yourself?"
"Really?"
"I'll gladly give you some pointers if needed." Jake offered.
"I'm not confident shooting out to such an extreme distance."
"Hey, it didn't happen overnight for me either to be honest." Jake sympathized. "It's probably easier to start with the basics and set your sights on the twenty-five meter scaled targets followed by the current qualification course though that would take a week."
"You realize you're talking to someone who regularly practices out to four hundred fifty meters." Sara deadpanned, slightly irked at being equated to a new recruit.
"Well, zero at five hundred then see it correlates?"
"Seems fair." Sara nodded as her boyfriend handed her the rifle and explained the mechanics and intricacies of the weapon, plus how to use a 'loop sling' as the shooting aid but it wasn't long for her to feel confident about placing the sling snugly around her arm and try it out for herself.
The redhead dialed in the range carefully, listening to each individual click as she adjusted the settings of the aperture to the five hundred meter mark.
"Make sure to check your windage." The United States Marine advised.
"Right as this isn't a blaster." The SpecForce trooper muttered as she gazed at the 'range flag', estimating the potential effect of the breeze on the primitive slug.
Jake watched as his sweetheart relaxed and settled into her shooting stance, preparing herself to fire off a 'cold bore' shot
"This is fun!" Sara exclaimed, absolutely thrilled and taken-in by the newfound sporting activity. "If I knew this was possible, I would've signed up years ago!"
"Glad you enjoy it, babe." Jake chuckled.
Private First Class Jacob Gregory "Jake" Meyer - United States Marine Corps
Marine Corps Base Quantico - Quantico, Prince William County, Virginia, United States of America, North America, Earth, Sol System, Milky Way Galaxy
09:25: 15 ATC / September 25th, 1968 - 17:30/5:30 PM
"KEEP IT UP, LADIES! THERE'S PLENTY OF UNOPENED CANS OF C-RATS AT THE END WAITING FOR YOU UNLESS YOU PREFER HOT COFFEE AND DONUTS WHEN YOU QUIT!"
Despite reminiscing happier times, Jake still heard the devilish shouts of the Non-Commissioned Officers from behind as they berated those who didn't pick it up the pace and entice the volunteers to quit instead of making the cut.
'Out of everything idiotic I have done, this may top the list.' Meyer reflected on the choice of volunteering for the outfit, now somewhat regretting the decision even if he held some unintentional prior experience due to being coerced by some CIA spooks into doing a short stint with MACV-SOG back in Vietnam. 'But, unfortunately, I'm not a quitter unlike the slackers. The instructors just want to test predominantly the mentality, not physical brawn.'
Two months ago, the Leatherneck saw the official tacked notice proclaiming the reestablishment of the esteemed Marine Raiders, the first covert force formed by the United States during World War II before being disbanded in 1944 after the unit's purpose ended, in the Provost Marshal Office and just like his two uncles did after getting strafed by Zeros at Pearl Harbor, the 5811 immediately volunteered for the unit, only to endure the unexpected.
Jake hopped off of the wall and noticed barbed wire with fellow Marines manning M60s, presumably loaded with live ammunition, and paused with his peers, unconscious instinct unwittingly taking precedence.
"CRAWL! COME ON YOU FUCKING POODLES, CRAWL! I THOUGHT YOU WERE DEVIL DOGS, YOU FUCKING PAMPERED AND STYLED EXAMPLES OF FRENCH FINERY!"
"They're going to kill us." One of the potentials stuttered, sounding like a fresh-faced boot instead of one who earned the acclaimed Eagle Globe and Anchor.
"Come on, this is nothing like Parris Island." Another reasoned before hopping down to the prone position and began crawling through the muck.
"You heard him, we shouldn't be labeled as poodles and unlike the French, we don't surrender as we're United States Marines for God's sake." Jake encouraged before getting flat on his stomach to crawl through the course himself.
"If this was an Imperial soldier, he would be dead." Lana determined after gazing at the patterned plasti officially designated as the 1,000 Yard 5V 'C' target. "Twenty slugs dead center at the chest."
"I know but we both realize that not many would take this seriously. Slugthrowers are obsolete to many yet in this case the Earthlings figured out a way to shoot them over four hundred meters, most likely due to the composition of the propellant."
"Hmmm...What's the velocity?"
"Most are easily capable of over seven hundred meters per second, which is astounding for not being railguns."
"Kriff. I'm not sure if the durasteel will withstand this as they're designed for slugs with the velocity of six hundred meters per second maximum."
"I'm just a mere Sergeant in the Imperial Army." Sara deadpanned. "My opinion doesn't matter to the Council and it will go unheeded."
"It matters to me as you know about it firsthand." Beniko reasoned. "And to be quite honest, Kells, I have been doubtful about this invasion from the start but unfortunately Marr and Vowrawn were swayed."
Sergeant First Class Aaron Johnson - Drill Sergeant, United States Army
Fort Jackson - Columbia, Richland County, South Carolina, United States of America, North America, Earth, Sol System, Milky Way Galaxy
09:25: 15 ATC / September 25th, 1968 - 17:30/5:30 PM
"Nineteen Hundred and Forty-One
World War Two had just begun
Nazi Germans were mighty tough
Going to war was going to be rough
But in the States a combat team
Was being formed, it was mighty mean!"
"Nineteen Hundred and Forty-Four
The 101st went to war
Filled the skies over Normandy
'Rendezvous with Destiny'!"
"Nineteen Hundred Sixty-Five
Vietnam came alive
Ho Chi Minh was mighty brave
But the 101st put the blazing son of a bitch into his grave!"
"Now in Nineteen Hundred and Sixty-Eight
Uncle Sam said it's gonna great
America has entered a new war in outer space
And we'll add more to the lore as just like with Uncle Ho we'll put the Imperials in their place!"
Sergeant Johnson turned around and watched the recruits pressed on even if they were exhausted and in need of a hot meal.
"Imperials decided to test their luck
Well, they're not going to buck
And we don't give a single fuck
Washington and the Continentals show us why
So their shit ain't gonna fly!"
"Louder!" Johnson encouraged, though while humanly impossible, he desired it to be loud enough for the damn conceited Jarheads over on Parris Island occupied with indoctrinating new members into their cult to hear the superiority of the green machine of the United States Army as while the Marines may kick open doors occasionally, it was the Army who overran the targeted building and take over the damn neighborhood while at it for good measure.
"The price for Liberty is high
Which means there will be those who will die
But the legend will be told
Of those who are bold.
Ain't this going to be great!?"
"Excellent, absolutely fucking fantastic, recruits!"
"Thank you, Drill Sergeant!" The recruits responded enthusiastically with the proper address, not pansy-assed 'Drill Instructor' or 'DI' as the Corps prefers.
"It is the Army who will lead the way, not those forever damn Marines!" Johnson proclaimed. "Patton is running this show after all!"
Gunnery Sergeant Charles Edgar - Senior Drill Instructor, United States Marine Corps
Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego - San Diego, California, United States of America, North America, Earth, Sol System, Milky Way Galaxy
09:25: 15 ATC / September 25th, 1968 - 17:30/5:30 PM
"Gimme that old Marine Corps spirit
Gimme that old Marine Corps spirit
Gimme that good old Marine Corps spirit
Cause it's good enough for me!"
Edgar observed the boots as they continued running their required three miles, keeping pace with the cadence being led by his two subordinates.
"It was good for Chesty Puller
It was good for Dan Daly
It was good for Sergeant Major
And it's good enough for me!"
"It was good at Belleau Wood
It was good at Saint Mihiel
It was good in Paris
And it's good enough for me!"
"It was good at Wake Island
It was good at Guadalcanal
It was good at Iwo Jima
And it's good enough for me!"
"It was good at the Chosin Reservoir
It was good at Khe Sahn
It was good at Hue City
And it's good enough for me!"
"Excellent work, boots, and I'm sure our friends intermingling with the short-sighted draftees over in the Army will be envious of your singing but since it wasn't loud enough, you are to drop to the deck and give fifty to Dan Daly!"
"Now praise Dan Daly!" Master Sergeant Rodney added weight as the trio didn't see movement.
"What's the matter with you!?" Staff Sergeant Willoughby wondered with an inhuman snarl."Are you waiting for Jesus's second coming!? We have a war on in case you missed the newspapers, radio announcements, and broadcast by one Walter fucking Cronkite!"
"Make it seventy-five you selfish, arrogant, pieces of garbage! Dan Daly will forever be more manly than you gossiping ladies will ever be!"
"Aye, sir!" Even though they were exhausted from the run, the boots unquestionably dropped to the deck and immediately began cranking out push-ups in the name of the revered Dan Daly.
Augusto José Ramón Pinochet Ugarte - President of the Government Junta of Chile
Santiago, Santiago Province, Chile, South America, Earth, Sol System, Milky Way Galaxy
09:25: 15 ATC / September 25th, 1968 - 17:30/5:30 PM
Pinochet observed as his troops marched past the review stand, clutching their Swiss-manufactered SIG SG 510 rifles chambered in 7.62x51mm NATO, the Chilean Generalissimo still denying that war has come but he was ready for such a crisis as was Chile.
"Mi General, Augusto Pinochet!" The troops bellowed as they marched past the review stand. "Usted es el nuevo Padre de la patria
Está su nombre en la história de Chile
Como lo ha sido Don Bernardo O'Higgins."
The Latin American dictator returned the salute as the procession continued unimpeded, the spectators cheering the men onward with confetti and flowers tossed onto the street.
"Se le recuerda con gran cariño
Le agradecemos con el corazón
Usted es ejemplo al mundo entero
Un gran orgullo de los chilenos
Usted es ejemplo al mundo entero
Un gran orgullo de los chilenos."
"Mi general, Augusto Pinochet!
Usted es el nuevo Padre de la patria
Está su nombre en la história de Chile
Como lo ha sido Don Bernardo O'Higgins"
"Se le recuerda con gran cariño
Le agradecemos con el corazón
Usted es ejemplo al mundo entero
Un gran orgullo de los chilenos
Usted es ejemplo al mundo entero
Un gran orgullo de los chilenos
¡Viva por siempre, mi general!
¡Mi general, Augusto Pinochet!"
Augusto stepped forward to the podium and eyed the crowd, prepared to inform his countrymen of what he himself intended to do against the Sith Empire.
"Brave Soldiers, Sailors, and Airmen of Chile! It is my gratitude to announce that I, Augusto Pinochet, will personally lead you to glory when we venture forth to meet the enemy preemptively among the stars!"
The Chileans cheered, elated at the declaration from their leader and Pinochet waited for the cheering to die down before finishing his speech.
"It is only fitting that your general oversees this noble endeavor firsthand, making sure that you are treated well and not neglected, making sure that your strengths are not mismanaged or dismissed, and, God willing, we will end this threat once and for all or die trying! VIVA CHILE!"
"VIVA CHILE!" The conscripts chanted from their hearts. "VIVA CHILE! VIVA CHILE!"
Leontyne Saresh - Supreme Chancellor of the Republic
Beijing, China, Asia, Earth, Sol System, Milky Way Galaxy
09:25: 15 ATC / September 25th, 1968 - 17:30/5:30 PM
Primer Nikita Khrushchev and Chairman Liu Shaoqi were neutral as they watched column-by-column of the People's Liberation Army passed by, their AK-47 derivatives having the bayonets attached as part of the ceremony.
"It's going to be interesting fighting against Fascists in Space." Liu commented.
"Literal Space Nazis, comrades, and if everything we have heard about them is true, Adolf and Mussolini would've been ecstatic to greet this Vitiate." Nikita added with a huff.
The Chinese soldiers instantly presented their Type 56 Assault Rifles as Georgy Zhukov, the soon-to-be the official leader of not just Warsaw Pact forces but Cuban, Chinese, and North Korean troops as well, returned the salute.
"By the way, have you heard that catchy new song by The Beach Boys?" Saresh wondered.
"What song?" Khrushchev snorted, amazed that it was even brought up. "I don't listen to albums made by Capitalist Brats, not after being denied entry to Disneyland."
"Sorry, I forgot that you weren't fond of your fellow Earthlings." Saresh placated.
Ed Sullivan - Host of The Ed Sullivan Show
The Ed Sullivan Show - CBS Broadcast Center, 524 West 57th Street, Manhattan, New York City, New York, United States of America, North America, Earth, Sol System, Milky Way Galaxy
09:25: 15 ATC / September 25th, 1968 - 20:15 / 8:15 PM
"Now we know whom you have all been waiting for." The host himself, Ed Sullivan, remarked. "For the final act tonight, with us are The Beach Boys with their nationally number-one hit song based on Barbara Ann: Bomb Kaas!"
Bomb, bomb, bomb, bomb, bomb Kaas
Bomb, bomb, bomb, bomb, bomb
Bomb Kaas
Let's take a stand and make the land grow moss
Bomb Dromund Kaas
Our country's got a feelin'
Really hit the ceilin', bomb Kaas
Bomb, bomb, bomb, bomb Kaas
Don't give a damn, we blew them up in 'Nam
Tell the Nox, "Gonna put you in a box!"
Bomb Kaas. Bomb, bomb, bomb
Bomb Kaas
Our country's got a feelin'
Really hit the ceilin', bomb Kaas
Bomb, bomb, bomb, bomb Kaas
Ol' Uncle Sam's gettin' pretty hot
Time to turn Dromund Kaas into a parking lot
Bomb Kaas. Bomb, bomb, bomb
Bomb Kaas
Our country's got a feelin'
Really hit the ceilin', bomb Kaas
Bomb, bomb, bomb, bomb Kaas
Call the volunteers; call the bombardiers;
Call the financiers; better get their asses in gear
Bomb Kaas. Bomb, bomb, bomb
Bomb Kaas
Our country's got a feelin'
Really hit the ceilin', bomb Kaas
Bomb, bomb, bomb, bomb Kaas
(Let's nuke 'em! Whoo!)
"Encore! Encore!" Some of the more bloodthirsty onlookers within the audience demanded from the band who were imminent in getting inducted in the green machine under the United States Army's Special Services that would enable them to provide entertainment and remain intact as a band.
"The Air Force should drop recordings of this song in addition to the bombs!" Another one of the teenage female onlookers hollered viciously, her tone was spiteful at the enemy. "To tell them that we Americans mean business!"
Field Marshal Johannes Eugen "Erwin" Rommel - Commander of the Bundeswehr
Bonn, Cologne District, North Rhine-Westphalia, Federal Republic of Germany aka "West Germany", Europe, Earth, Sol System, Milky Way Galaxy
09:26: 15 ATC / September 26th, 1968 - 13:00 / 1:00 PM
'Here goes nothing.' The reinstated Field Marshal in command of the entire West German Military thought as he strode toward the podium, his treasured uniform that he wore in the deserts of North Africa leading the Afrika Korps against all odds was spit and polished, the reinstated tactician wearing it intentionally to make a statement and hopefully inspire the men, surviving veterans of Gazala and fresh-faced conscripts alike.
"Soldiers of the Heer! Airmen of the Luftwaffe! Sailors of the Deutsche Marine! Servicemen of the Bundeswehr!" Rommel began. "I know many of you do not believe militarism is the right path for us, particularly after how Deutschland was blamed for igniting the First World War followed by a painter from Österreich misleading us and bringing this land to ruin but we cannot afford to look on the past when our very future is at stake, our very foundation is being threatened, and our very existence is in jeopardy. What occurred under the regime of that Schwein is inexcusable as it rightfully should be judged and the very enemy we are about to engage is a reminder of that very blight!"
Rommel paused momentarily as he allowed the words to sink in before continuing.
"We're doing this not out of conquest but out of preservation for what little we have left. We have lost faith in ourselves and our families are divided by the Iron Curtain but right or wrong we still take pride that we are all residents of Deutschland. It doesn't matter what political views you hold or your religious convictions as we need to stand together as one against the common threat to our sovereignty, what scant remains of our sovereignty."
"General von Stauffenberg placed the briefcase not because he was a believer in Nazism but a staunch believer in Deutschland. Taking pride in one's nation shouldn't equate to loyalty to any particular political party or specific politician but to the people and your nation. We call Deutschland home and we love this land above all else. The Imperials are a reminder of the Führer wickedness and Himmler's policies. The Imperials have their Hermann Goering's, their Bernhard Rust's, and their Ernst Sauckels, and the Empire will continue their wars of conquest perpetually unless they're stopped and the Republik knows it! Für Deutschland!"
"FÜR DEUTSCHLAND!" The recruits shouted.
'Maybe there is hope for Deutschland after all.'
Thiếu tướng (Major General) Ngô Quang Trưởng - Army of the Republic of Vietnam
Hotel Majestic - Saigon, Republic of Vietnam, Southeast Asia, Earth, Sol System, Milky Way Galaxy
09:26: 15 ATC / September 26th, 1968 - 13:00 / 1:00 PM
"Just one year since Unification but now we're at war once more." Thiếu tướng (Major General) Ngô lamented. "And it couldn't wait until the remaining Viet Cong diehards were completely dealt with."
"At least the majority who denied our legitimacy are coming out and volunteering for this new conflict as they know what's at stake. It would be pointless to fight among ourselves when there are conquerors at the door after all."
Trưởng sat down his personal copy of Diem's memoirs on the table and leaned back in his seat, pondering on the writings."Well, Diem was wrong about one matter."
"What's that?"
"His prediction on if the Communists won, Vietnam would be forced to support either China or the Soviet Union once war between them occurred was off. It's an open secret that China is now just another Soviet satellite state."
"Khrushchev is more conniving than he looks. Not bad for someone with a shiny, bald head."
Ngô chuckled at his friend's assessment. "Bald or not, we have come full circle with imperialism and we must confront it now before it sets foot here once more." The Major General decided to quote a stanza from Tiếng Gọi Công Dân, the Republic of Vietnam's official national anthem. "We the People remain resolute in our hearts and minds, courageously we will fight such that everywhere, the Glory of the Vietnamese forever resounds."
"God help us all."
Kingston, Hunt County, Texas, United States of America, North America, Earth, Sol System, Milky Way Galaxy
09:26: 15 ATC / September 26th, 1968 - 13:00 / 1:00 PM
"Howdy there, Mac." A seemingly unimportant wiry man and native of the town uttered before introducing himself to the expected guest. "Audie Murphy."
"John Malcolm Thorpe Fleming Churchill." The eccentric Briton greeted the most decorated American soldier of the Second World War. "But call me Jack or Mad Jack if you prefer, Audie."
The short man from Texas nodded. "Jack, meet Peter Ortiz and Tony Stein." Murphy introduced the two Leathernecks standing beside him.
"Never thought I would be meeting you in-person, Jack." The former French Foreign Legionnaire and one of the very few United States Marines to have officially fought the Third Reich in World War II under the management of the Office of Strategic Services before becoming an Hollywood star like Murphy grinned.
"Legends in your own right." The only Englishman to fight in World War II with a longbow and a Scottish broadsword complimented. "I'll buy the first round in recognition of the journey ahead of us."
"I'll gladly drink to it." Tony beamed. "Anyone want to hear my perspective about my actions against the Japanese on Iwo?"
"Probably wouldn't be as good as my recollection of holding off the Germans from a burning tank, hotshot, but I'm willing to listen." Audie smirked. "No wonder why Uncle Sam reinstated me, promoted me, and gave me command over the reforming Ranger Battalions."
"Yeah, yeah, well our drinks are being served."
"It's on the house." The tender smiled. "Couldn't help to overheard ya and friends of Murphy are always welcome here for free drinks."
The quad shrugged and Churchill raised his bottle up for a toast. "This conflict should prove to be sporting and as this should be my last war…" John paused as he thought of a way to cement the toast before remembering a film Murphy starred in as himself. "To hell and back, gents!"
"To hell and back!"
Private First Class Jacob Gregory "Jake" Meyer - reassigned to the reformed Second Marine Raider Battalion - United States Marine Corps
United States Naval Station Norfolk - Norfolk, Virginia, United States of America, North America, Earth, Sol System, Milky Way Galaxy
10:24:15 ATC/ October 24th, 1968 - 17:32/5:32 PM
Johnny, get your gun,
Get your gun, get your gun,
Take it on the run,
On the run, on the run.
Hear them calling, you and me,
Every son of liberty.
Hurry right away,
No delay, go today,
Make your daddy glad
To have had such a lad.
Tell your sweetheart not to pine,
To be proud her boy's in line.
'Well, who would have thought that we're going to fight in an intergalactic war.' Jake thought as 'Over There' by George M. Cohan played through the speakers. Meyer and his fellow Marines marched through downtown Norfolk heading to the nearest Republic transport craft that would take him and his comrade to the front. His father and uncles were recalled to active service for the war effort. His mother and many other women, on the other hand, headed either back to the factories to become Rosies once more or worked on the farm. Sam was surprisingly assigned to his father's platoon and with Commandant Chesty Puller reforming the Raiders and he placed the formerly retired and legendary Major General Merritt Austin Edson, Senior in charge of all four Raider Battalions. In fact, Jake was surprised to learn that the Raiders were being reformed and volunteered just like his uncles before him but now he was proud to say after three months of hard training to have earn the respect of the originals who fought on Makin Island and Guadalcanal.
Over there, over there,
Send the word, send the word over there
That the Yanks are coming,
The Yanks are coming,
The drums rum-tumming
Everywhere.
So prepare, say a prayer,
Send the word, send the word to beware.
We'll be over, we're coming over,
And we won't come back till it's over
Over there.
"Eyes right!" Red Mike himself barked. Jake snapped his head instinctively to the right, holding his M14 at present arms as they passed the dignitaries reviewing the parade. Meyer even saw President Kennedy chatting to Khrushchev as if they're old friends, not sworn enemies like during the infamous Cuban Missile Crisis almost six years prior.
Johnny, get your gun,
Get your gun, get your gun,
Johnny show the Hun
Who's a son of a gun?
Hoist the flag and let her fly,
Yankee Doodle do or die.
Pack your little kit,
Show your grit, do your bit.
Yankee to the ranks,
From the towns and the tanks.
Make your mother proud of you,
And the old Red, White, and Blue.
"Eyes front!" The command was followed instinctively by the Leathernecks and the Marines continued on their way to the ship. To think that it took less than a year from learning life existed beyond Earth to going to war against an Empire of Space Nazis. It still made Jake snort in amusement at the full-circle irony. And now with the fate of the planet on the line, the nations of Earth are literally throwing everything it has in an all or nothing preemptive strike against the Empire.
Over there, over there,
Send the word, send the word over there
That the Yanks are coming,
The Yanks are coming,
The drums rum-tumming
Everywhere.
So prepare, say a prayer,
Send the word, send the word to beware.
We'll be over, we're coming over,
And we won't come back till it's over
Over there.
Yep, the parody of the Beach Boys song Barbara Ann and the one John McCain himself referenced called 'Bomb Iran' has officially appeared twelve years early in the story.
I honestly just couldn't resist including something akin to it as Barbara Ann and Bomb Iran are both extremely catchy :P
And hopefully, I weathered the storm with Rommel's speech here as Patriotism does not equate literally to Nazism, not to mention the fact that the National Socialist Workers Party as a political party only came into existence in the 1920s. A united Germany existed for over fifty years prior to a certain Austrian Painter becoming the leader of Germany and Germany should rightfully be associated with Bach, Gutenberg, and Fahrenheit, not just the years of 1933 - 1945 and only the years of 1933-1945.
There are almost two thousand years of history including what Ancient Rome wrote about the region and the Holy Roman Empire yet only twelve years are focused on so it doesn't make logical sense to keep equating Germany with Nazism.
You should never forget just the past but everyone should never forget ALL the past.
"If you fail to learn from history, you are doomed to repeat it."
~ George Santayana
Oh boy.
Not only did the legendary Elmer Keith meet Jerry Miculek, not to mention Phil and Si Robertson of Duck Dynasty fame, which is awesome in its own right but...
In another location, Mad Jack Churchill met Peter Ortiz, Tony Stein, and Audie Murphy, which is fitting for these actual World War II badasses.
I also just couldn't resist the opportunity of including them in addition to the rendition :)
While Stein in actual history was killed in action on Iwo Jima historically and didn't survive the war unlike the other three, I think as since I'm assembling badasses including reviving some anyway, having Stein appear would be just another person the Empire should by all means fear.