Chapter 9: promotion
"stand HUT!" Bulb yelled as I walked, slightly unstably, into the main court room. Everyone surprisingly stood up. I looked around the room. Where were Windrie and Flam?
"General." I said, saluting him. He had been staying here a week now while I was recuperating.
"Colonel. I have been requested to stay here for two reasons: one to look after this outfit while you were injured and two…for your reward for your services." He said. I looked at him confused.
"sir?"
"Ma'am I'm proud to present you with this Medal of Honor." He smiled, taking a case out of his jacket and opening it so I could see it. I was shocked! I had gotten medals before but wow…Medal of Honor.
"Sir I'm speechless…" I said slowly.
"may I?" he asked, taking it out. I nodded and he pinned it on my uniform. "I present this to you, Colonel Himeno Awayuki for your services concerning the attack of 7/13 2006." The general said, stepping back and saluting me. I saluted back slightly weakly cause I could barely lift my left arm. The whole tent clapped and hollered. News got around fast on this base so everyone probably knew what happened a week ago when I was injured. Whether it was the real story or not. I mean it's not like I had not gotten attention for an honor before but this one was the first in my new assignment at Ft. Freedom.
"than you all. I don't know if I deserve it. I just did what I was obligated to do as a commanding officer." I smiled.
"of course you do! Putting your life on the line for your whole unit." The general said.
"yes. Well there are very important people on this island. All of you are important to me. I depend on you and you try not to depend on me." I laughed. Everyone agreed with a laugh and I smiled. "plus you can never endanger the ones you love right?" I asked, reaching down at my side and finding Shin's hand. I knew he was there: he clung to me like glue.
"right. Now let's all go to the mess hall! We've had a special lunch prepared for you." The general smiled, holding out his arm. It seemed unmilitary but I put mine around his and we walked out, the whole base following us.
