The Gift From Allah Raid

By desertpat51

Hauptmann Hans Dietrich wears his long-sleeve uniform shirt buttoned up and his tunic belted on a cool November day. He stands on the front seat of the lead German halftrack, peaked visor cap shading his eyes as he scans the surrounding desert with his binoculars. So far, his main nemesis, the Allied Rat Patrol, has left his column, of two halftracks, three supply trucks and one tank, alone today.

He motions to his driver who alters course slightly and heads towards a small Arab village, surrounded by a low rock wall, with an entrance facing east. There are several rock buildings to the left or north of the entrance. A stone well, with a roped bucket perched on the edge, is straight ahead in the middle of the compound. There are also mature date palms in back of the well to the west and southwest.

The convoy stops just outside the opening to the compound and Dietrich dismounts. A stocky bearded Arab, in his late thirties, with purple and white flowing robes and a white head scarf, approaches the Germans. He is followed by an entourage of several similarly dressed men who carry rifles. Four happy children run alongside while five women, covered in subdued colored robes, hang back.

There are smiles all around as the two leaders meet just inside the entrance. The headman places his palms together, gives a slight bow, and in a rather affected low voice says, "Hauptmann Dietrich. Alsalam ealaykum." Dietrich bows slightly, "Sameer. Alsalam ealaykum waealaa ahlikmi."

Sameer smiles, "Your greeting honors us. To what do we owe this visit?"

Dietrich nods slightly, "My men and I would like to fill our water cans from your well."

Sameer shrugs, "My friend. As I have said before, the well is not ours but a gift from Allah. All who pass here are welcome to partake of its waters." Dietrich smiles and nods, "Ashkuruk, my friend."

Dietrich calls out, "Leutnant Schultz!" Schultz nods and organizes the men to bring in the empty cans.

As the German soldiers head to the well, a pretty young Arab woman, one of those who has been standing with the others, now approaches and shyly holds out a cloth bag. Sameer smiles, "Hauptmann. This is Niesha. She offers to you dates from our trees." Dietrich smiles at her and accepts the bag, "Niesha. It means full of life. Thank you for this gift… Ashkuruk, Niesha." She shyly nods, "You… wel-com." The Captain and Sameer watch as she backs away then turns and walks quickly to the group of women who then quietly laugh and talk amongst themselves about the tall German.

Dietrich turns back to Sameer then notes a dagger hanging by a twisted dark leather strap from the Arab leader's belt, "Is it Tuareg?" Sameer smiles, "Indeed it is. You have a fine eye. It was a gift from my father's brother, Nasir." He takes the blade out of the reddish brown and tan leather sheath and hands it to the Captain, who turns it over in his hands. The grip is carved dark brown wood with a thin brass ring inlayed around the middle. The blade is long, sharp and tapers on both sides with a distinctive alternating wave pattern etched into the metal and running down its length.

Sameer smiles as Dietrich inspects the dagger, "If you are interested, Nasir might have another that he would be willing to sell to you. I expect him to visit again in, oh, perhaps two or three days' time."

Dietrich hands the dagger back, "Perhaps I shall return. This is, indeed, a beautiful example of Tuareg craftsmanship." Sameer smiles and slips the dagger back into the sheath, "That is almost exactly what the English said. He was very interested in it, as well."

Dietrich eyes the Arab, "The English? Would this be a tall English Sergeant with three Americans who ride the desert in Jeeps?" Sameer smiles, "Why, yes. Do you know them?" Dietrich straightens, "Only too well. You also let them take water from your well?" Sameer smiles, "Hauptmann. As I have said before, the water is a gift from Allah and free to all." Dietrich nods slightly, "And when were they here last?" Sameer thinks, "Oh… Perhaps… Yes. It was last week." He eyes Dietrich, "You are not planning to set a trap for them, are you Hauptmann?" The slightest of grins is forming on the Captain's lips…

Leutnant Schultz approaches and salutes, "We are ready, Herr Hauptmann." Dietrich nods then turns to the Arab, "Ma'a salama, Sameer." Sameer smiles, "Ma'a salama, Hauptmann."

As the two Germans leave the compound, Schultz asks, "Herr Hauptmann. What does it mean, the words you spoke just then?" Dietrich says, "Ma'a salama? It is a thing to say when you are leaving. It means may you be accompanied by safety and peace." They mount up and the convoy pulls out.

Quite a ways away, the four members of the Allied Rat Patrol partake of a mid-day repast at the mess hall on their base. It is a nice change from the uninspired rations they usually have when on the desert.

A corporal enters the dining hall and searches, finally finding who he has come for. He approaches the Rats, "Sergeant Troy?" Sam Troy is enjoying a cigarette, "Yeah." The corporal says, "Captain Boggs wants the four of you in his office, ASAP." Troy speaks to his men, "Looks like lunch is over. Let's go."

As the four Rats enter his office, Captain Boggs is consulting with a short, black-haired lieutenant. He looks up and motions the four in, "Gentlemen. This is Lieutenant Jacobs. Lieutenant, Sergeants Troy and Moffitt, Privates Hitchcock and Pettigrew." Jacobs takes over, "Thank you, Captain. Gentlemen. G2 has learned that a new SS unit has moved into the area. This unit is headed by a Hauptsturmfuhrer Kurt Heidel. Intelligence indicates he will take over the abandoned citadel in Sector J. In fact, I understand you were the ones who cleared out the last SS unit there. Is that correct?" Troy nods, "Yes, Sir."

Jacobs sets a photo on the table, "This fellow Heidel is a real nasty character. Murder… torture… It's rumored he was responsible for the slaughter of an entire village in Poland. And now he's here in North Africa to force the Arabs to work for the Nazi cause… whether they want to or not. He's the quintessential Nazi. Six feet tall, blond hair, blue eyes, slender build. You're assignment is to destroy him and his unit… by whatever means possible."

Moffitt asks, "Lieutenant. Has the SS unit reached the citadel yet?" Jacobs shakes his head, "We don't think so. The last position we have is here." He points to a circle already on a map on the table.

All four look at the map. Then Troy picks up the map and the photo, "We'll take care of them, Sir." Troy salutes for the group and Boggs returns it, "Good luck, men." Troy nods, "Thank you, Sir."

The four head down the outside steps from the Allied HQ and into the cool but sunny day. Tully looks over at Hitch, "About six feet tall, blond hair, blue eyes… Hmmm! Sound like anyone we know?"

They all look at Hitch, but he protests, "Hey. There are a lot of guys that fit that description."

The others snicker but Troy says, "Come on, Hitch. They're just razzin' ya! Look at Tully. He's got brown hair and brown eyes, just like Dietrich." But Tully takes offense, "Now wait a minute!" Moffitt finally interrupts, "Eye color and hair color do not make the man." Troy smiles, "Come on. We've got a bit of a drive to find that convoy. Let's shake it."

The Rats pick up their gear and supplies, head for the motor pool, pack the Jeeps and head out.

The next afternoon they finally spot the slow moving convoy of two halftracks, a tank, six supply trucks, led by a staff car in the distance… But the Germans are a bit off course and not heading for the citadel.

The Jeeps park near a rock outcrop and Troy and Moffitt head to an overlook with their binoculars. Moffitt asks, "Troy, isn't Dietrich's camp in that direction?" Troy thinks, "Now that you mention it…"

Moffitt says, "If they're going to join forces with Dietrich… Hmmm. How many men do you suppose Heidel has?" Troy chews on his lip, "A Captain could have 150 or so." He shakes his head, "But there can't be that many men with the number of vehicles they have. I'd guess maybe thirty or forty." Moffitt thinks, "Still, thirty of forty plus Dietrich's men." Troy grins, "Let's see what we're up against."

They get back to the Jeeps, then head out again, but circle around to keep out of sight of the convoy.

They park a ways away, covering the Jeeps with the camo nets. Then the four grab their Thompson submachine guns and head for a rock outcrop from where they have observed Dietrich's camp before. They watch the convoy pull in. A soldier calls out and Captain Dietrich exits his command tent.

As Heidel dismounts, Dietrich stops about ten feet away and gives his standard military salute. Heidel, on the other hand, gives a quick straight arm Nazi salute then spreads his hands in greeting as though he is expecting a hug. Dietrich holds his position then clasps his hands behind his back.

Heidel lowers his arms but does not give up. He walks up and claps Dietrich on the shoulder instead. He says something, that the Rats can't hear, and motions for the Captain to follow him to the first halftrack, but Dietrich holds his ground. The lower ranks watch their leaders, unsure of what will come next.

Moffitt comments, "It seems as though they know each other." Tully adds, "Yeah. But it doesn't look like Dietrich's too happy to see Heidel." Troy watches, "If they do know each other, it might complicate things a bit."

Hitch interrupts, "Hey look." Heidel pulls out a long narrow wood case, opens it and pulls out two foils, slender, flexible fencing swords. Dietrich shakes his head but Heidel says something that goads the Captain. He unclasps his hands and shakes his head again, appearing to argue his point. But Heidel makes a better argument, or maybe a snide remark or a dare, and Dietrich finally agrees. Heidel smiles. He pulls out two white fencing jackets, gloves and masks. They suit up, grab the foils and the fight is on.

The Rats, and the men of both German units, watch as the two Captains thrust, parry, riposte, feint, beat back, parry and lunge. As the contest continues, it's obvious that the two are very closely matched.

More thrusts, parries, ripostes and Hitch leans in toward Troy, "Sarge… Do you mind?" Troy hands him the binoculars and Hitch zeros in. He nods, smiles and is obviously impressed, "They're good." Tully asks, "How would you know?" Hitch continues to watch, "I took fencing my first year… well, my only year in college. The instructor wanted me to join the team. I suppose if the war hadn't started…"

Tully frowns and looks over at Moffitt for confirmation. He smiles, "They are good." But then the Brit says, "Troy. We better find out if those two are going to be working together." Troy nods, "I agree."

Ten minutes later, as the sun sets, the contest is a draw. Dietrich and Heidel, along with some of their officers, head to the mess tent for supper. Heidel's men set up shelters and start preparing the meal.

Hitch hands the binoculars back to Troy, "Looks like it's chow time." Troy nods, "For us, too. Come on." They pull back and head for the Jeeps. With the last light of day, they drive to a nearby wadi but far enough away from the German camp so as not to be discovered.

As the Rats set up for a cold, no fires, box and canned dinner, they get an unexpected radio call. Tully grabs the mic and headset, "It's in code." The others gather around as Tully pulls out the pad of paper and pencil from the supply box. He taps the mic key three times then listens and writes.

They all know that a call this late is unusual. Moffitt pulls out the code book. It takes a moment for the fairly long message to be decoded. Moffitt seems in shock and slowly hands the translation to Troy who quickly scans the words then looks at the Brit, "Are you sure this is the message?" Moffitt nods, "Positive." But the Privates are at a loss. Hitch asks, "Sarge. Doc. What is it?"

Troy gives an order to Tully, "Send an acknowledgement." Tully frowns, "Sarge?" Troy is adamant, "Just do it." Tully nods and taps out the code, then sets the mic down, "What's going on, Sarge?"

Troy is deep in thought. The Privates exchange a glance and Hitch finally asks, "What's the message?"

Moffitt and Troy share a look and finally Troy turns to Hitch and Tully, "One of our Bird Dogs was doing search patterns late this afternoon and flew over the Arab village… the one with Sameer and his people. The one we stopped at last week." He hesitates shaking his head, "The report is…" He looks at the guys and shakes his head again, "The report is that there are Arab bodies everywhere." The others share shocked looks as Troy continues, "Captain Boggs wants us to get over there and check it out."

Moffitt asks, "What about the SS unit?" Troy shakes his head, "This comes first. At least we know where Heidel's group should end up. We'll leave at first light. Chow down. I'll take the first watch."

At the German camp, Dietrich and Heidel are quietly eating at a table away from the other officers. Heidel starts, "Thank you for the contest earlier… and for the meal." Dietrich gives a brief nod.

There is a long silence then Hiedel asks, "What do you hear from home?" He hesitates, "Anything from your family… or mine?" Dietrich takes a sip of his tea and shakes his head, "Nothing for quite a while." He stares at the steam rising from his cup, "I can only hope that they are all safe and doing well."

Heidel reaches into his tunic and pulls out a small black and white photograph. He places it on the table in front of Dietrich who picks it up, and sighs, "Ursula. She must be twenty three or twenty four by now?" Heidel nods. Dietrich contemplates the lovely brunette then puts the picture back on the table, "And I'm sure she is happily married with three children." Heidel picks up the picture, "I wouldn't be too sure, my friend. I think she still pines for you." Dietrich almost smiles, remembering better days long gone, "Well, please give your sister my best the next time you hear from her." Heidel sighs, "That might not be for a very long time. I am afraid there is still much bad blood between me and my family."

The two look down at their now empty plates and Dietrich signals for the table to be cleared.

Heidel then retrieves a bundle from the adjacent chair, wrapped in a white keffiyeh, an Arab head scarf. He hands it to Dietrich, "Enough of this melancholy. Hans, I know things haven't been right between us for a very long time." Dietrich stares at him, "And whose fault is that?" Heidel sighs, "I know you think I made the wrong choices, but perhaps this will… well… I thought you might like this."

Dietrich frowns as he notes the blood splatters on the white cloth. He unwraps the bundle to find… a Tuareg dagger. The sheath is reddish brown and light tan with a dark braided leather strap. Dietrich slides the blade from the sheath… and his face goes ashen. The grip is carved dark brown wood with a thin brass ring inlayed around the middle. The blade is long, sharp and tapers on both sides with a distinctive alternating wave pattern etched into the metal and running down its length.

Dietrich calmly places the dagger on the table, turns in his seat, and catches the eye of Leutnant Schultz. With a tilt of his head his second understands and quietly clears the tent.

Once the last man has left, Dietrich turns back, picks up the dagger and looks at Heidel. His anger grows as he closes his fist around the grip, "Where did you get this?" Heidel shrugs, "Off a dead Arab. What does it matter? It is yours now. And, by the way, we will be neighbors. I will be commanding the citadel where the last SS unit was wiped out a couple of months ago."

Dietrich's countenance darkens, "Kurt. What have you done?" Heidel feigns innocence, "Whatever do you mean, Hans?" Dietrich holds the grip tightly in his fist, "I know this dagger… and I know its owner. WHAT HAVE YOU DONE?"

Heidel straightens, "Did you know those… people… have been supplying water to the Allies?" He stands. His chair topples back onto the ground and he does not bother to control his anger, "They have been giving water to the enemy, Hans. We need all the water we can get in this god-forsaken desert war. And I am willing to do whatever it takes to further the cause of the Third Reich."

Dietrich buries the blade in the wood table top. He stands, his face red with anger, "If genocide is what it takes, then I want no part of it."

Heidel almost laughs, "You always did have a soft spot for these untermenschen. Perhaps you have been in the desert too long, my friend."

Dietrich straightens, clasps his hands behind his back and glares at Heidel, "It is late. And I am sure you will want to leave for your new post as early as possible in the morning… my friend. Good night."

He turns and walks out, slapping the tent flap out of his way. Heidel watches the tent flap shut then grabs a chair and throws it hard against another, "Ahhh!" Both chairs careen across the ground into other chairs that topple like dominos. He slams his fists down on the table, "Ver dammt! VER DAMMT!" He pulls the dagger out of the wood, haphazardly wraps it in the scarf and leaves.

The next morning, there are no goodbyes between the two German captains as Heidel's convoy leaves.

Two of Dietrich's halftracks are readied. The Captain covers his mouth and yawns. Schultz asks, "Hauptmann. Did you not sleep?" Dietrich sighs, "I'll be alright. But before meeting the supply convoy, we must go to Sameer's village." Schultz frowns, "Is there a problem?" Dietrich hesitates, "Possibly."

In their chilly wadi retreat the Rats are also up early. They're all moving a bit slowly and it isn't because of the cold. Tully yawns and notes Moffitt adding two tea bags to his mug, "Hey Doc. Making it kind of strong this morning, aren't you?" Moffitt dips the bags up and down, "As it turns out, I didn't sleep that well last night." Tully nods, "Me neither." Hitch wraps his hands around his coffee mug, "I'm with you. I can't stop thinking about that radio message. I hope that spotter plane pilot was wrong about what he saw." Troy yawns, "Let's face it. None of us slept much last night." Moffitt nods, "That just means we all have a conscience." Troy downs the rest of his coffee, "Come on. We've got a job to do."

A while later, the two fast-moving Jeeps approach the rock wall of the Arab village and the entrance on the east side… and, as reported, there is death everywhere. The four leave the Jeeps outside the wall on the south side of the entrance, walk in and check the closest bodies, hoping to find someone alive.

Tully crouches down and inspects then collects some metal pieces from the ground, "Hey Sarge." The others gather around as he holds them out, "Kraut shell casings." Then Hitch yells, "Sarge." They all turn as Hitch points, "German scout column." And the four sprint for the Jeeps.

Troy grabs his binoculars, stares then shakes his head, "It's Dietrich. That's all we need."

Dietrich has also been looking through his binoculars and grumbles, "Das Ratten!"

A moment later, the Rats are ready, with Moffitt and Hitch on the .50's, Troy and Tully in front of the Jeeps with their Thompsons… and a white flag, its staff drilled into the sand, next to Troy.

Dietrich halts his two halftracks on the north side of the opening. He signals to Schultz then dismounts. With his attention solely on Troy, and the white flag, he approaches then stops a few feet away, "Are you surrendering, Sergeant?" Troy smugly says, "Not a chance, Captain. I just didn't want you to start shooting before you took a good look around." He motions to the scattered Arab bodies.

Dietrich finally sees the dead, but takes it in as though he was expecting the scene. The look on his face catches Troy off guard, but the American persists. Tully hands Troy the batch of shell casings and Troy holds them out for Dietrich to see, "German shell casings." He motions to the bodies on the ground again, "Men, Women… And children, Captain… CHILDREN!"

Dietrich is shaking his head, "We are not responsible for this." Troy throws the shell casings straight down onto the ground, "Neither are we." He eyes Dietrich, "By the way, Captain… We were ordered here because one of our intelligence flights reported seeing bodies. Why are you here?"

Dietrich is angry, "I also received information…" But before the Captain can finish, Moffitt cocks his head, "Troy." Troy barks, "Not now, Moffitt." But the Brit is insistent, "Listen… Do you hear it?"

They all stop talking, listen and finally hear faint voices, like echoes on the breeze, then silence. Moffitt looks to the others, "Someone's alive." He listens intently, "It sounds like a child's voice."

Moffitt looks from Troy to Dietrich, wanting to search but he dares not move, "Someone could be alive."

Troy turns to the Captain, and angrily asks, "Are you up for another truce, Captain. You willing to help? Or are you afraid of what a survivor might say?"

Dietrich locks eyes with Troy and answers with anger in his voice, "As I said, Sergeant. We had nothing to do with this. And yes. I will agree to a truce to help look for survivors."

Troy hesitates but is still angry, "You give your word?" Dietrich nods resolutely, "Yes, Sergeant. My word as a German officer… And you?" Troy hesitates then nods, "Yes. My word. A truce."

The two leaders share a brief nod then Dietrich barks orders and his men leave their weapons in the halftracks and dismount. Meanwhile, Troy and Tully cautiously place their Thompsons in their fender holsters as Moffitt and Hitch slowly climb down from the .50s in the back of their Jeeps. Dietrich orders his men to fan out to check for survivors, as he and Leutnant Schultz follow the Rats.

Moffitt calls out in Arabic, and as he approaches the well, a weak voice answers, "Yusaeidu! Saeidina!"

They rush to the well and Moffitt calls down into the dark. Again, a weak but more hopeful voice answers, and Moffitt calls out, "They're in the well. We'll need a rope."

Everyone gathers around as Troy turns to Dietrich, "You got a rope, Captain?"

A while later, a little girl of perhaps six years of age, is pulled up. She is wet and frightened. Troy unties the rope and Tully immediately wraps her in one of their blankets. But as she looks around, she screams and buries her head in Tully's jacket.

They all look to Tully, who shakes his head, "I didn't do a thing." Troy then tosses the rope back down.

While the girl sobs and clings to Tully, who tries to comfort her, another child, a boy of perhaps ten years, emerges from the well. He hears the girl and, once the rope is untied, he rushes to her side. He grabs her away from Tully and, having heard her cries and words, he also looks around. He finally sees the men and, clutching the frightened girl, they scramble backwards until they are against the well.

Troy asks, "Moffitt. What's wrong with them?" But the Brit shakes his head. He approaches the two slowly, kneels down and talks quietly in Arabic. The boy doesn't seem to believe the words he hears.

Slowly and after several tries, Moffitt succeeds in reassuring the children they won't be harmed. He asks a question but the little girl starts crying again. The boy speaks and points to Dietrich then to Hitch. Moffitt asks him again but gets the same response. Troy asks, "What did he say?" But what has been said is quiet clear to Captain Dietrich.

Moffitt stands, "They said that men, dressed like the Captain came to the village yesterday. Their mother put them in the well to hide them." Now he looks at Dietrich, "According to the children, the headman looked like Hitch."

Troy confronts Dietrich, "Blond hair… Blue eyes… Sounds a lot like your friend, Captain Heidel."

Dietrich frowns, "Friend? What do you know about…?" But Troy cuts him off, "Kurt Heidel? The new SS Captain assigned to the citadel? The one you fenced with last night." The surprise on Dietrich's face pleases Troy to no end, "Oh, we were there. Watching your every move. So what? He stops by to let you know the Arabs are dead and now you can come here and take control of the well?"

Dietrich reacts, "That's a lie!" Moffitt steps in between the two to block a possible fist-a-cuffs and then implores, "Gentlemen. Please." But Dietrich talks over Moffitt's shoulder, "You have no idea what you are talking about." Troy pushes back, "Why don't you enlighten me."

Uncharacteristically, Moffitt barks, "Enough! Both of you!" Allies and Germans alike are startled.

Finally, Moffitt says, in a more modulated voice, "These children have been in the well since yesterday. They need food and comfort." He takes a deep breath, "And according to tradition, the dead must be given a proper burial within twenty-four hours after death."

Troy glares at Dietrich then turns to Moffitt, takes a deep breath, then asks, "What needs to be done?"

Moffitt looks around the compound for a moment then points to the east-west trending wall running along the south side, "I suggest a mass grave be dug along that wall on the inside of the compound."

He thinks a moment to clear his head and let his words sink in, "We'll need white sheets, if there are any." Moffitt shakes his head not knowing if this can even be accomplished, "The bodies… they need to be washed and the women's hair must be worked into three braids."

He continues now as if lecturing to a class, "Each body must be wrapped in the white sheets, three sheets each, if available. Then they must be laid on their right side so they face to the east…" Troy tries to interrupt, "Moffitt?" But he continues, "Boards, laid on top… so dirt doesn't touch the bodies… Maybe palm fronds… I suppose that would suffice. Once buried, a simple marker… perhaps a stone…"

The Brit shakes his head, and Troy puts a hand on Moffitt's shoulder, "Moffitt? Moffitt." Moffitt looks at Troy who says, "Let's just take it one step at a time, okay?" Moffitt nods, "Okay… Sorry."

Troy looks at Dietrich, "Captain. You still willing to help?" Dietrich hesitates then says, "Yes, Sergeant. I suppose that my men can dig the grave."

As Schultz and the Germans head for the halftracks to retrieve shovels, Dietrich and Moffitt finalize the location of the grave. Moffitt then marks out the boundary of the grave in the sand with a stick.

There are three bodies within the area so Tully and Hitch lift and carry one man outside the line and lay him carefully down. The Germans return and six men, under the eye of Schultz, begin digging on the east end, while two men join Tully and Hitch to remove the other two bodies, a man and a woman.

As the two Germans are about to move the man, Hitch spots the glint of the sun off a thin metal wire laying across the Arab's boot, "Stop! Halt! Don't move!" Everyone freezes. Hitch points, "Sarge… Look. Trip wire… German land mine!" One of the Germans yells out, "Achtung! Schrapnelimine!"

Troy glares at Dietrich, "Looks like your friend left some booby traps." Dietrich doesn't answer.

Everyone watches as Hitch and Tully slowly kneel down next to the two Germans and the body. The four probe the sand for any other landmines but find none. Hitch motions for the two Germans to back up, which they gratefully do. He then carefully lifts the robes to expose the trip wire… and four prongs sticking out of the sand. He takes a deep breath, then quietly says to Tully, "S-mine." He pulls a pair of wire cutters from his back pocket and snips the wire. Tully prods with his knife and the two carefully excavate around the cylinder. Hitch slowly lifts it out of the ground and Tully inserts a straightened paper clip into the arming mechanism hole. They both let out a sigh of relief and smile, giving a thumbs up to the two Germans who finally start breathing again, "Americans. Danke… Thank you."

As the Germans now lift and move the man out of the grave site, Hitch and Tully stand and walk over to Troy and Dietrich. Hitch hands the mine to Troy, "It's safe. But all the bodies should be checked." He then adds, "That thing would have blown shrapnel three to four hundred feet, killing all of us." He turns to Dietrich, "Nice guy, your friend, Heidel." But Dietrich is adamant, "He is not my friend, Private."

They are all a bit surprised by the Captain's comment. Troy then turns to the Privates, "Hitch, Tully. Check the rest of the bodies." Hitch nods, "Right Sarge." And the two head out.

At the same time, the Arab boy has been watching, with the girl peeking out from behind him. Both are chewing on dates and now approach Troy and Moffitt, wanting to stay as far away from Dietrich as possible. The boy says something to Moffitt and Troy asks, "What did he say?"

Moffitt smiles, "This is Najib and his sister Nahla. They thank us for getting them out of the well. They know that we want to help their people. They know where to find sheets for the burial."

Troy says, "Tell them…" He's visibly tired, "Tell them, thank you. But they should get some food first." The Brit relays the message then Troy says, "Moffitt. They seem to trust you. You mind taking them to the Jeeps?" Moffitt smiles, "Not at all." He talks to the children who gratefully follow him.

As the Germans dig, they check for land mines, but find no others in the grave area. Hitch and Tully find three more S-mines with trip wires hidden beneath Arab robes but diffuse them all, making sure to show them to Troy and Dietrich. Then they start the gruesome task of moving bodies closer to the grave site.

After a couple of trips, the Privates head for the palm grove. They check a face-down female body for bombs again. There's a red blood stain on her back. They roll her over… and Hitch gasps, "No, no, no! Tully… It's Niesha!"" He hopefully checks for a pulse but finds none. He touches the pretty but lifeless and cold face, "Why?" Tully sighs, "It never makes any sense." Hitch is angry, "None of this makes any sense." Tully puts a hand on his shoulder, "Come on. Let's move her to the grave site."

She is cold and stiff. And although the two have seen and moved dead bodies before, this is personal.

They lay her gently down and Hitch looks over at Dietrich, "These were good people, Captain. They didn't deserve this. This girl was kind. She gave us dates last week." Dietrich looks down at the lifeless but still pretty face. With a shake of his head and sadness in his voice, "She gave us dates as well."

After drying off and eating some food, Najib and Nahla go with Moffitt in search of sheets. They now return, arms full, and lay the linens on the ground near the expanding grave. But the children's eyes fill with tears as Hitch and Tully lay another woman down. They collapse next to her, crying out in agony, imploring for those around to make things different. Moffitt listens to the two, then looks over at the other Rats and Dietrich, "The woman was their mother." The pain on Dietrich's face is not missed by the Rats and his growing anger cannot be hidden, "This was not necessary."

Hitch is also angry, "Not necessary! Not necessary? It's… it's cold blooded murder!" Moffitt tries to defuse the situation, "Hitch…" But the blond is now beyond angry, "No." And he turns on Dietrich, "I want to know why your friend killed all these people?" But the Captain remains silent.

Moffitt studies Dietrich then answers, "Because Heidel didn't think of them as people." He looks at Dietrich who still remains silent. Moffitt continues, "To him they were untermenschen."

Hitch frowns and Moffitt translates, "It means subhuman. You see, if you can label people as less than human, or demonize them, or marginalize them… it makes them easier to kill. Right, Captain?"

Hitch looks at the accumulating bodies, "More like a slaughter. This is… it's just plain evil."

Hitch faces Dietrich, "Your friend did this." The Captain is trying to maintain, "We haven't been friends for a very long time, Private." Hitch counters, "You sure seemed pretty friendly last night, Captain." Moffitt interrupts, "Hitch… Enough." But Dietrich answers, "You didn't see how the evening ended."

Hitch, Tully, Troy and Moffitt are all curious to know the rest of the story, but the Captain turns away. Hitch knows he's stopped cold so he heads out again with Tully to bring back another body.

A while later, the two Privates carry in another lifeless form, blood sprayed all over the robes and face. Dietrich stands nearby, his hands clasped behind his back, watching as Schultz oversees the digging.

They set the body down near Troy and Moffitt. The Brit notes, "Sameer." Tully says, "His head scarf is missing. And so is that knife you were looking at last week." They all look at the Arab's cut sash.

Dietrich has overheard the conversation, "Gentlemen. I suggest that when you find the killers, you will find the dagger." Troy turns to him, "Should we start with your camp, Captain?" Moffitt interrupts, "Troy…" Dietrich glances at Moffitt then fixes eyes with Troy, "You should look elsewhere, Sergeant."

The Captain gives a slight nod to Schultz and all watch as he heads along the rock wall and stops at the southeast corner of the compound. He digs in his tunic pocket, retrieves what looks like a pack of cigarettes, taps the end but nothing comes out. He crushes the box, throws it on the ground, takes a deep breath, then clasps his hands behind his back again and looks out over the bleak desert.

Moffitt turns, "Troy. He had nothing to do with this." Troy watches Dietrich, "Yeah, yeah. I know."

Troy takes a new pack of cigarettes from his breast pocket, removes a cigarette, lights up, then heads for the Captain. Hitch whispers, "Tully. What's he doing?" Tully smiles, "A little tobacco diplomacy."

Dietrich notes Troy's presence, "My patience is at an end, Sergeant. Not another word." Troy hesitates, holds out the pack, "Cigarette?" This is unexpected and breaks the tension. But before taking a smoke, Dietrich asks, "Are there enough for my men?" Troy nods, "Keep the pack. I've got another." Dietrich slowly takes the pack, slips out a cigarette and Troy lights it. They almost relax and inhale deeply.

The Captain calls out, "Schultz." Schultz hurries over and Dietrich hands him the pack, "For you and those who smoke." Schultz is stunned for a moment, "American cigarettes?" He looks at Troy, "Danke… ah, thank you." Dietrich dismisses him with a tilt of his head.

There's an uncomfortable pause as the two leaders watch Schultz call a break. The men gather to partake of the flavorful American smokes. Nearby, Nahla dutifully braids her dead mother's hair as Najib runs a wet cloth over her arms and hands.

Troy takes a drag then turns to Dietrich, "Captain… I owe you an apology." Dietrich looks at Troy, "Cigarettes and an apology?" Troy retorts, "Yeah, well don't get used to it." Troy takes a deep breath, "Look… We get here… These people are dead. German shell casings everywhere. Then you show up. And after watching you and Heidel last night… What were we supposed to think?"

Troy leans up against the low rock wall, inhales deeply again and blows smoke upward. He looks at the accumulating bodies, shakes his head, "This was senseless. More than that…" He looks at Dietrich, "They killed innocent women and children, Captain. It's a war crime." Dietrich takes a slow drag then nods, "I agree. And those responsible must be held to account."

This isn't what Troy expected but he's glad they can agree on something. He sucks on his lip and takes a deep breath, "What happened last night? Why come here this morning? And with only ten men?"

Dietrich takes another slow flavorful drag, "As I said… I received information." Troy asks, "From Heidel?" Dietrich ignores the question and looks at Troy, "Why were you at my camp last night?"

Troy rolls the cigarette between his fingers, "What do you think?" Dietrich says, "I think you have orders to kill Heidel and his men." Troy sucks on his lip again, "Well, if that's true, are you going to warn him?" Dietrich glances at the dead bodies, "After what's happened here… What do you think?" They share a long look as if each is wishing the other would be more straightforward…

Tully and Schultz yell out, "Sarge. We got company." "Herr Hauptmann. Araber kommen! Araber zu Pferd!" They are both pointing to the southeast.

Everyone turns to see a large group of perhaps forty Arabs, all carrying rifles and approaching on horseback at a cantor. They are led by a man on a white horse, dressed in white and black robes.

Troy and Dietrich head to the burial trench. The Rats and Germans all congregate around their leaders. Dietrich comments to all, "Sameer mentioned that his Uncle Nasir would visit. This might be him." Troy adds, "If it is, and they see these bodies…"

The Captain is adamant, "We must present a strong front, as you did when we arrived." Troy nods and Dietrich signals to his men. They all head for the vehicles. Troy calls out, "Hitch, Tully. Get on the .50's." Then to Dietrich, "Just make sure your guys don't start a firefight we can't finish." Dietrich adds, "I could say the same about your men."

They reach the vehicles and Moffitt thinks, "We must also present a unified front. Captain, you and I must walk out to meet them… Try to explain what has happened here." Dietrich hesitates then nods.

Troy asks, "Why you?" Moffitt confronts him, "Do you speak Arabic?" Troy takes a deep breath, realizes Moffitt and Dietrich are the only ones who have a chance, then nods, "Alright. But you better talk fast and be convincing. Otherwise, there'll be fourteen more dead bodies here… Namely ours."

Najib runs up and grabs Moffitt's hand. He talks fast and Moffitt translates, "He says he wants to come with us. He will tell them that we didn't do this… that we have been helping his people." Troy nods, "Alright. You two are going to need all the help you can get." Dietrich signals to Schultz who knows he is now in command of their men. Troy stands in front of the Jeeps with Tully and Hitch on the .50's.

The sun is warm but the breeze is still cool. Dietrich and Moffitt exchange a glance then start walking with Najib between them. Nahla peeks out from behind the Jeeps and everyone watches as the three walk twenty feet from the vehicles, stop, and wait.

The Arab on the white horse, an older man with a graying beard, halts his group thirty feet from the threesome. Flanked by two others with rifles aimed, he continues slowly then stops ten feet out. The three dismount and approach, their rifles still aimed at the German and the Brit.

Troy and the others watch as Moffitt first gestures towards Dietrich then himself and finally the boy, as if making introductions. Najib then takes a step forward and begins talking. After a moment, he points to Moffitt and Dietrich and then to the group of men positioned at the vehicles. Troy exchanges glances with Hitch and Tully. He then looks over at Schultz who stands near the front of the first halftrack, a look of concern on his face. The two men take deep breaths… It's a nervous waiting game.

The distinguished Arab leader talks to both Moffitt and Dietrich, then to the boy. Najib straightens even more and nods, as if being complimented.

The leader then turns to his men and shouts in Arabic. It is obvious to the Rats and the Germans that the Arab leader is explaining what has happened. There are angry shouts from the Arabs but their leader asserts his authority and calms his men.

As the Arabs react to the terrible news, one of the men dismounts and pushes his way forward, "Najib?" The boy calls out, "Ab?… Ab!" And Nahla runs out from behind the Jeep. The man kneels down as the two children rush into his arms, "Najib… Nahla." The children are so happy, "Ab!… Ab!"

Moffitt turns to the others and calls out, "He's their father."

The Arab leader notes the Germans and the Rats are not yet ready to relax their guard. He motions for his men to wait as he follows Moffitt and Dietrich to the vehicles. Moffitt starts the introductions, "This is Sheik Nasir. Oh, Sheik. This is Sergeant Troy, leader of our group." Dietrich then says, "And this is my second, Leutnant Schultz." Nasir inspects the two men, then with an impeccable British accent, "I have never seen Allies and Germans working together before." This catches Troy, Schultz and those within earshot off guard as Nasir adds, "I studied for four years in England."

Moffitt then looks at Dietrich, "As it turns out, Sheik, both of our groups received information last night that something horrific had happened here. Sameer and his people were our friends. They were good people. And we agreed to work together to honor them according to their tradition."

Nasir studies the two leaders, "Do you know who did this?" Dietrich and Troy share a glance then Troy says, "We've got a pretty good idea." Nasir demands, "Tell me the names of these alkilab almaseura. They must pay with their lives for what they have done." Moffitt whispers to Troy, "Rabid dogs."

Moffitt says, "Please. Sheik Nasir. Perhaps it would be best if we buried the dead first. It has been nearly twenty four hours since the attack." Nasir looks to the dead, "You know our traditions well."

But Dietrich now speaks, "Sheik Nasir. As Sergeant Moffitt has already said, Sameer and his people were friends to us all. And their deaths were an unspeakable tragedy. However, I must insist that my men and I be allowed to leave now." He hesitates then adds, "We are expected elsewhere."

Nasir frowns and is about to speak when Troy interrupts, "I must agree with the Captain. He and his men must be allowed to leave." Nasir looks at the two leaders, "Indeed."

Moffitt now steps forward, "Oh, Sheik. If I may. Our two groups have so far been able to work together without incident. However… we are enemies. I would hate for there to be further bloodshed."

Nasir contemplates the situation then nods slightly, "Hmmm. A moment, if you please." He turns to his men and barks orders. The mounted riders move slowly passed their leader and the vehicles, and into the compound, followed by the children and their father. The group then begins tending to the dead.

Nasir continues, "Before you leave, I will speak with you, Hauptmann Dietrich and with you, Sergeant Troy, concerning future visits and access to our well." The two share a glance as they follow the Arab.

Nasir stops just inside the entrance and turns to the two men, "I am afraid Sameer was too trusting. A mistake I shall not make. Therefore, I must ask you both a question. Hauptmann Dietrich. Can I trust Sergeant Troy?" But Troy blurts out, "Now wait a minute!" Nasir studies him, "If I were to ask your men, I'm sure they would say, of course. However, if I ask your enemy, perhaps I might get the truth."

Nasir turns to Dietrich who hesitates for a moment realizing that he could easily block Troy's access to the well. He then says, "If Sergeant Troy gives me his word… then I have found that I can trust him." This isn't what Troy expected and he takes a long hard look at his enemy.

Nasir studies the German, "Indeed." Then he turns to Troy, "Sergeant Troy. Can I trust Hauptmann Dietrich?" Also knowing that a well-placed phrase could block access for the German, Troy hesitates then says, "I have found that, if the Captain gives me his word as a German officer, I can trust him."

Nasir nods, "Interesting. In that case, you will both be welcome to partake of the Gift of Allah in the future." He adds, "However, perhaps not at the same time." Troy and Dietrich share a glance, as Nasir continues, "You will give your word that you come in peace each time you visit. And you will leave your vehicles and weapons outside the wall while you are here. Do I make myself perfectly clear?"

Dietrich nods, "Perfectly clear, Sheik Nasir." Troy also nods, "Yes sir. I understand."

Nasir speaks to the Captain, "Hauptmann. One more question. You are German. And, as Najib has told me, those who did this were German. Do you understand what our tradition compels us to do?" Dietrich hesitates again then nods, "Yes, Sheik Nasir. I understand."

Nasir studies Dietrich for a moment, "Then let me be blunt. Would you give warning to these other Germans?" Dietrich glances at Troy then, "No." Nasir studies him, "Do you give me your word?" Dietrich glances at Troy again and almost smiles, "I give you my word… as a Germans officer." Nasir, not missing the interaction between the two, nods, "Then you and your men are free to go." Dietrich bows slightly, "Ma'a salama, Sheik." Nasir nods at his knowledge of Arabic etiquette, "Ma'a salama, Hauptmann." The Sheik then goes to join his men at the grave site, leaving Troy and Dietrich alone.

Troy hesitates, "Captain…" But Dietrich cuts him off, "Whatever you are going to do..." He doesn't finish the thought. Troy glances at the Arabs, "Personally, I want to see Heidel hang. But I think what happens now will be up to Nasir and his men." Dietrich studies his enemy, "I fear you are correct." He shakes his head slightly, then straightens and prepares mentally for what will surely be done.

Troy then faces him and salutes, "Captain." Dietrich returns the salute, "Sergeant."

Dietrich turns and walks towards the lead halftrack, deep in thought… and whispers, "Ursula. Forgive me." Schultz couldn't quite hear, "Hauptmann?" Dietrich snaps out of it, "We are leaving. We must meet the convoy." Schultz nods, "Jawohl, Herr Hauptmann." Dietrich mounts the passenger side and stands on the seat. He looks back at Schultz, now standing on the passenger seat of the second halftrack, and gives his standard upward fist pump. The vehicles pull out to the left then head north.

Once the German halftracks are on their way, Moffitt, Tully and Hitch join Troy just inside the rock wall.

Hitch asks, "Sarge. What was that all about?" Troy watches as the German vehicles fade into the distance, "Dietrich isn't going to interfere… or even warn Heidel. I think he's just as angry as we are."

Two hours later, Sameer and his people are buried. Nasir recites the appropriate prayers. Then the Rats, as well as the two children, their father, and the rest of the Arabs, line up along the north side of the mass grave. As is the custom, each throws three handfuls of sandy soil onto the buried dead.

There is a moment of silence then Nasir turns to Troy, "Now. You will tell me who is responsible for this." But Troy says, "We can do better than that. Moffitt. Get the photograph and the map. Oh, and Sheik. Are any of your guys good with bows and arrows?" Nasir smiles.

Later that night, under the light of a just waning moon, the Rats and Arabs observe what's left of the citadel from a hill to the east. Four pairs of binoculars are shared as the Rats explain the layout.

The remnants of a larger complex sits atop a rocky hill less than a quarter mile away. Originally, there was a rock wall encircling the entire top of the hill and about forty yards out from an inner group of buildings. But over time, and with many attacks, there isn't much left of this outer defense. The last SS unit had reinforced the wall with a sturdy wire fence. However, the Rats had destroyed much of the east side of that fence when they had routed that last group. Now there are several strands of new wire and two guards at a makeshift wood guard house on the east side where the original entrance had been.

The tank, the two halftracks and four of the six supply trucks are parked between the outer fencing and what's left of the east side of an inner wall. Originally it surrounded a rectangular area of about 200 feet from north to south by 120 feet from east to west and had been 15 feet high, with a large wooden gate in the middle of the east wall. But the last time the Rats were there, they had destroyed the east gate and the wall south of it. The new SS unit had only deployed two strands of wire where the wall use to be and had set up a simple barricade, with two saw horses and a wood plank, manned by two guards.

Inside the inner wall are two 10 foot tall buildings making an L-shape against the north and west walls with a courtyard in the middle. A large square building butts up against the wall on the right or north side, and has three doors, with small windows in between, opening onto the courtyard. Along the far or west wall, and attached to the main building, is a long rectangular building with many rooms and doors. The Rats know these rooms had been used for storage by the previous SS unit and now there are two of the German supply trucks backed up to the doors. The staff car sits nearby. With the surrounding walls at 15 feet, this leaves a five foot parapet running around the tops of the two buildings. There is a ladder near the inner barricade leading up to the roof and two soldiers walk guard duty on top.

Tully comes silently back to the other Rats, Nasir and his men, "The fence on the outer perimeter is still intact on the far side and they've reinforced the east side with several strands of wire. As you can see, there are two guards at the outer east guard house, two guards at the inner barricade and two guys up on top. I also spotted four guards walking the perimeter on the far side… All armed to the teeth. But they don't seem too concerned. I guess Dietrich kept his word and didn't warn them."

Moffitt bites his lip, "At least that's something. But still… Ten outside." Troy nods, "Yeah. That leaves twenty five to thirty inside."

After some discussion and a bit of planning, the Rats and Arabs divide into two groups.

Moffitt, Tully and most of the Arabs fan out along the base of the east side of the hill. Troy, Hitch, Nasir and six of his best bowmen, armed with bows, arrows and guns, circle around to the west side.

Troy's group silently make their way up the hill but outside the fence. Being given their targets, Nasir signals his men to move out along the fence, three along the southwest and three along the northwest.

Nasir gives the signal. Arab bows are raised and arrows fly, silently dispatching the four guards walking the perimeter around the building and the two guards on the roof.

The Arabs quietly regroup as Troy and Hitch cut a hole through the fencing on the west side. The men file through. Troy and Hitch, their Thompsons slung over their backs, carry packs and grappling hooks with knotted ropes. The Arabs, with their rifles slung over their backs, pass sand bags through the hole.

The nine men move to the base of the wall on the northwest corner. Grappling hooks are tossed up. Troy, Hitch, Nasir and another Arab climb up then stay low on the main roof to avoid the light from three naked bulbs, one on the main building near the entrance and two on the small-roomed building. The sand bags are tied to the ropes by those on the ground and quietly haul up by the four on the roof.

The ropes are tossed back down and the five remaining Arabs shimmy up while the four on the roof carry the sandbags and one pack a few feet away from the northwest parapet of the main building roof.

Troy and Hitch remain on the main building roof while the seven Arabs quietly position themselves along the roof of the small-roomed building. They stay low and close to the parapet, so as to remain out of the light of the bulbs illuminating the courtyard. The hum of a generator can be heard.

Hitch pulls a conical shaped charge from his pack and positions it on the northwest part of the main roof. He and Troy arrange the sandbags around the charge leaving a hole to activate the timer.

Troy hands a grenade to Hitch who then quietly heads for the southeast corner of the main building, just above the inner entrance into the courtyard. He pulls the pin and glances at Troy, who is barely visible in the dim moonlight. Troy gives the signal. Hitch lets the grenade fall into the entrance. Troy sets the timer on the conical shaped charge and jams the final sandbag into place.

Both men stay low but run to join the Arabs on the small-roomed building as the grenade explodes, sending the two German guards at the inner entrance flying. The explosion is the signal for Tully, on the east side, to fire the bazooka. The outer main-gate guard house explodes, killing the two guards.

The sounds of the two explosions outside brings armed German soldiers, some half-dressed, rushing out from the three doors of the main building. But the Germans, illuminated by the lights on the buildings, are easy pickings. Several fall to the bullets fired by those above in the relative darkness on the roof.

Meanwhile, Moffitt, Tully and the rest of the Arabs rush up the east hill, through the blown and smoldering outer main gate and head for the inner fencing. They take cover behind the tank and the halftracks parked to the right and left of the inner entrance.

A few remaining Germans retreat into the main building. Their expert aim, through the doors and windows, picks off one of the Arabs on the roof. The body falls into the courtyard with a thud.

Tully lets loose with another bazooka round blowing the middle door and expanding the opening by several feet on either side. Rock shards are thrown out in all directions.

The Germans inside regroup and fire through the doors and the small windows along the south side. Moffitt is grazed by a German bullet and two more Arabs go down. Tully moves to Moffitt who shakes his head, "I'm alright. Fire on the near door." Tully reloads. The near door is reduced to splinters.

At the same time, the conical shaped charge blows a significant hole in the roof and sends the sandbags flying. Troy and Hitch head for the hole and toss in several grenades. The far door is blown outward.

Troy and Hitch secure the four grapples to the wall and the ropes are thrown down into the hole. Troy, Hitch, Nasir and another Arab repel down, guns ready. Gunfire rings out from inside the main building.

As the gunfire continues inside, Moffitt signals his group into the courtyard through the destroyed east gate. The four remaining Arabs on the supply building drop to the ground and join the others.

With exchanges of gunshots from inside the west end of the building, most of the Arabs rush into the holes that use to be the middle and east doors. Moffitt crouches behind the staff car and ties a kerchief around his wounded arm. Tully takes the four Arabs, who were on the roof, and they search the storage rooms along the west side. There are no Germans, but lots of explosives, ammunition and fuel.

The gunfire from inside suddenly stops. Nasir with several of his men emerge from the headquarters building followed by Troy and Hitch, who hold a struggling and gagged Heidel, his hands tied behind his back. Moffitt and Tully join the group as Nasir smiles, and motions to the German, "As promised. This one is yours. The rest are either dead or will be shortly." Several more shots ring out from inside.

A while later, the Jeeps have been moved into the outer area. Heidel is trussed up in the back of Troy's Jeep and Troy and Moffitt stand guard. Heidel watches, with hatred, as the Arabs drag the last of his dead men to the two waiting German supply trucks and dump their bodies in. Nasir addresses Troy and Moffitt, with great satisfaction, "Make no mistake. This evil will be lost to the desert sands."

Tully and Hitch approach the group and Hitch says, "We have ten minutes." Troy nods, "Time to go."

The two Jeeps and the two German supply trucks, with the SS bodies and driven by Arabs, pull out of the compound. The rest of the Arabs carry their three dead companions down the east hill and to the far side of the next hill, where the horses are tethered. The dead are lashed to the backs of three horses.

Nasir stands with the Rats. Moffitt checks his watch and says, "Ten seconds."

A moment later, explosions, inside and out, light up the night sky, destroying the surrounding fence, the rest of the inner wall and most of the two buildings. Charges also ignite boxes of explosives in the tank, the halftracks, the staff car, and the four remaining trucks. Multiple fireballs with plumes of smoke, from all over the complex, climb high into the air. The explosive concussions are felt by those watching from the hill. They all smile with satisfaction and Troy nods, "They won't be using that place again."

Later, the Rats bid farewell to Nasir and his men. Most of the Arabs, now on horseback, follow the two trucks with the German dead. That group heads south into the deep desert as an orange glow lights the eastern sky. Three mounted Arabs lead the horses with the dead, back to the Arab village for burial.

Troy looks at his men, "Looks like the explosions buried any remaining shell casings." Moffitt nods, "And if anyone comes looking, they won't find any bodies." Hitch adds, "And by using the German munitions, they won't be pinning it on the Arabs." Tully smiles, "It's as if they blew up their own base then disappeared without a trace." Moffitt adds, "Stranger things have happened in the desert."

Morning dawns as the nighttime chill is pierced by the rays of the rising sun hinting at a warm day ahead. The two Jeeps make their way north towards the Allied base. Troy glances at the bound and gagged Heidel, in the back of his Jeep. Moffitt and Tully carry Sameer's dagger found in Heidel's office at the citadel, and the German shell casings found at the Arab village. They also have the transcribed testimony from the surviving children and their positive ID of Heidel as the one who lead the massacre.

Later, at the Allied base, Heidel sits for a hearing before a panel of three officers of the Army's Judge Advocate General's unit. Troy and his team, dressed for the occasion in their standard kaki uniforms, present their evidence. However, before pronouncing sentence, the officers make arrangements to visit the Arab village and interview Nasir and the surviving Arab children.

Two days later, the JAG unit reconvenes and now there is no doubt. Heidel will hang for war crimes. The Rats are relieved but Heidel is defiant as he is led from the hearing room and taken back to his cell.

The next day, the Rats are called to Captain Boggs' office. He motions them in, "Gentlemen, Captain Heidel is dead." They exchange glances and Troy asks, "How, Sir?" Boggs says, "His guard found him this morning hanging by a bed sheet tied to the bars of his cell. He also found this." Boggs hands an envelope to Moffitt, "G2 has already seen it and cleared it, but I thought you might find it interesting." Moffitt opens the envelope and pulls out a letter – it's in German. He reads and translates it out loud:

To Hauptmann Hans Dietrich. Our enemies believe they will hang me soon. I will not give them the satisfaction. Once the Third Reich is victorious, my final hope is that you will look after Ursula. I truly wish things could have been different between us. Hiel Hitler. Hauptsturmfuhrer Kurt Heidel.

Moffitt then takes out the photograph and shows it to the others, "I'm guessing this is Ursula."

Hitch looks at the woman, "She's beautiful. Is she his wife?" Shrugs all around. No one knows.

Troy turns to Boggs, "We promised Sheik Nasir that we would return the dagger. He also deserves to know that Heidel is dead." Boggs nods, "And what about the letter to the German Captain?" Troy thinks, "We could send it via the Red Cross but that might take weeks." Troy hesitates, "Sir. Captain Dietrich does visit the Arab village to stock up on water. We could leave it with Nasir."

Boggs thinks, then, "Alright Sergeant. The Arab village and back. No detours." Troy salutes, "Yes Sir."

The Rats head out across the desert. Three hours later they approach the Arab village but, out of an abundance of caution, decide to first observe the area from behind a distant sand dune. Troy and Moffitt head for the top and look through their binoculars. Their worst fears are confirmed. A German convoy, with two halftracks, a tank and four supply trucks, is parked outside the wall.

Moffitt asks, "Do we go back?" Troy says, "A wasted day if we do. Maybe we can wait 'em out." They look again and Troy spots a familiar figure. He nudges Moffitt, "Or maybe not."

Troy and Moffitt slide/walk down the dune and join Hitch and Tully at the Jeeps. Troy takes a deep breath, "Dietrich's there with one of his supply convoys." Hitch asks, "What do we do now, Sarge?"

Troy thinks. Then, as usual, comes up with a plan that he hopes won't get them all killed.

The two Jeeps drive out slowly from behind the dune. Immediately, one of Dietrich's lookouts yells, "Alarm! Alarm!" Dietrich brings his binoculars up, but the Jeeps do not speed up… and the two Sergeants are not at their 50's. He calls out for his men to stand fast… but be ready.

Sheik Nasir, with four of his armed men, joins Dietrich near the German vehicles outside the wall, "I see your friend is back, Hauptmann." Dietrich glances at Nasir, "Believe me. He is no friend."

When the Jeeps are about a quarter mile out, Troy gives the signal and Moffitt and Tully stop. Hitch continues while Troy holds their white flag high until they are about fifty feet out, then they stop.

Troy glances at Hitch, "Stay here." Hitch nods, "Good luck, Sarge." Troy nods and, with the white flag in hand, starts a slow but deliberate walk towards the waiting Arabs and Germans.

Troy stops ten feet away, "Sheik Nasir." He then salutes, "Captain." And Dietrich returns it.

Nasir takes a step forward, "Sergeant. You gave your word not to come here when the Hauptmann is here." Troy nods, "Sorry. But Captain Dietrich never gave me his schedule. I had no idea he'd be here. But since he is, I have news for both of you." Dietrich asks, "What news?"

Troy approaches, drills the flag pole into the sand, and turns to the Captain, "I take it the Sheik told you what happened?" Dietrich nods "Yes, Sergeant. What news?" Troy hesitates, "Captain Heidel is dead." Dietrich takes a moment then asks, "How?" Troy says, "The guard found him this morning. He had tied a sheet to the bars of his cell. He hanged himself." Both Nasir and Dietrich absorb the news.

Troy holds his jacket lapel out and reaches slowly into the inner jacket pocket, not wanting to alarm the German guards. He pulls out then hands the envelope to Dietrich, "He left this for you, Captain."

As Dietrich opens the letter and reads, Troy pulls the Tuareg dagger from his belt. He hands it to Nasir who takes it and nods slightly, "Thank you for returning this." Troy nods, "Thank you for its use."

Dietrich looks up from the letter, "Did you read this?" Troy almost smiles, "You know I don't read German. But, Moffitt read and translated it. So did the guys at G2… just to make sure Heidel wasn't passing along any military secrets." Dietrich almost smiles, "No doubt."

Troy asks, "Captain. One question. The lady in the photograph… Ursula. Is she Heidel's wife?" Dietrich pulls out the photo, stares at the image, then says, "No. His sister." Troy nods, "Pretty lady."

Dietrich ignores the comment, refolds the letter and puts it, and the photo, back in the envelope, then asks, "Sergeant. One question. Are you planning to attack my convoy today?" Troy looks at the four supply trucks, "It is a tempting target. But no, Captain. My orders are to drive here, deliver the message and the two items, then head straight back to base… no detours." Troy almost smiles, "I guess one convoy won't hurt the war effort too much." Dietrich inserts the envelope into his inner tunic pocket.

Troy now nods to the Arab, "Sheik Nasir." He then turns to Dietrich and salutes, "Captain." He holds it as Dietrich hesitates then finally returns the salute. Troy then turns, with his white flag in hand, and walks back to his Jeep… with Dietrich, his men and the Arabs watching his every step.

At the Jeep, Hitch asks expectantly, "So?" But Troy just gets in, "Move out."

As they approach the other Jeep, Moffitt asks, "Well?" Troy hesitates, looks at the three men then smiles, "Ursula is Heidel's sister!" Hitch exclaims, "Sister?" Moffitt smiles, "Well. That is interesting." Tully nods, "That sure puts a whole new spin on things." Troy agrees, "Come on. Shake it."

Later that night in the Allied mess hall, Moffitt sips his tea, Troy sucks on a half-smoked cigarette, Hitch pops an occasional bubble and Tully gnaws on his ever-present match stick. The three Americans only sample their after-dinner coffee as all ponder recent events.

Finally, Hitch says, "Dietrich said that he and Heidel use to be friends… but not for a long time."

Moffitt thinks, "And perhaps their families were friends, as well. That would explain Heidel's asking Dietrich to look after his sister. But something happened. I'm guessing it's when Heidel joined the SS."

Hitch asks, "Members of the SS have to be Nazis, right?" Moffitt nods, "Yes. And those of the Gestapo and Hitler's inner circle." Hitch asks, "Do you think Dietrich's a Nazi?" Moffitt shakes his head, "No. Members of the Wehrmacht are supposed to remain apolitical. And the Nazi Party is a political party. Though I'm sure there are German soldiers out there who are party members." Troy adds, "Yeah. And we've met a few, like Colonel Beckman and General Koening. No respect for the Geneva Conventions."

Hitch thinks, "Didn't you say that members of the SS also had to be Christian?" Moffitt nods, "They must profess to be Christian." Hitch mutters, "Well, Heidel's actions didn't seem very Christian to me."

Moffitt shakes his head, "I agree. But throughout history, much evil has been done in the name of various religions and ideologies." Hitch nods, "Yeah. Like the Inquisition?"

Moffitt stares into his tea, "I suppose it goes back to ancient times. It's deep-seated within our psyches. The other, those who are different. Just their existence can be unsettling, even frightening to some. But being different has also been considered, in some cases, dangerous to the status quo. So, it has become prudent to greet newcomers with caution or suspicion, even weapons, rather than with open arms… As Sameer did. Weapons and skepticism first, at least until you know the true intentions of those who are different. Especially if they are of a different skin color or religion. And even then… maybe not."

He looks at their leader, "Troy. This might seem somewhat trivial but when I first joined the unit, you didn't trust me. And you said as much." Troy is about to say something when Moffitt continues, "Was it because I'm English? Or perhaps was it my education? Or just the fact that you didn't know me?"

Troy thinks a moment, "I suppose it was all three. But…" He chews on his lip. Moffitt smiles, "Now we know each other. We trust one another." Troy nods, "Yeah. But you're right. It did take time."

Three of the four exchange glances but Tully stares at his coffee. Moffitt looks at his driver, "You've been pretty quiet." Tully thinks out loud, "So, it's not just the Germans who distrust or hate others, is it Doc?" Moffitt takes a sip of tea, "I'm afraid not. It seems to be an all too common human trait."

Tully nods then takes a sip of his coffee, "You know, I knew these two dar… I mean Negro fellas back home. Smart as tacks. Really nice guys. When Pearl Harbor was attacked, like everyone else in town, they wanted to serve in the worst way. I got a letter from my brother a while back… The one in the Navy in the Pacific? You know what those two fellas are doing? Slicing potatoes and serving meals to white guys like us. They don't even carry guns."

Troy says, "The military is segregated, Tully. What did you expect?"

Hitch now chimes in, "I guess racism and bigotry are alive and well in the good old US of A." But Moffitt adds, "And everywhere else, it would seem. Though we don't have many Negroes in England, the colonies are filled with people of… let us say, darker skin. Remember Sergeant Kabir who was part of the Sikh Regiment? His unit was not commanded by another Sikh but by a white British Colonel." Hitch nods, "Yeah. Colonel Jameson… the traitor." Tully adds, "Yeah. The dead traitor."

Moffitt stares at the steam curling up from his tea. Troy finally asks, "Moffitt. What is it?"

Moffitt thinks then almost smiles, "I wonder what the world would be like if there was no racism or bigotry or greed… or war?" Troy almost laughs, "Moffitt. You're a dreamer. There's always going to be war and…" He sighs and takes a drag on his cigarette, "…And the rest."

Hitch nods, "I don't know, Sarge. I suppose you'll have to call me a dreamer, too. Everyone living in peace? Sounds good to me. I know I'd rather be home and in college… maybe even on the fencing team, or maybe dating Jennie... or Annabelle… or…" They all smile.

Tully says, "I'm with you." He holds up his coffee cup, "I'd rather be home sipping a mint julip than here drinking coffee that tastes like it's been filtered through an old sock." They all agree.

Moffitt then asks, "But would racism and bigotry end just because the war ends?" Troy takes a drag on his cigarette and blows smoke up, "Probably not."

Hitch smiles, "Not unless men of good conscience decide to change things."

Troy smiles too, "Well, Congressman Hitchcock. We'll look forward to you taking the lead when we all get back home." Hitch straightens at the thought of politics in his future, something he had never considered before. They all laugh then raise their cups and wonder when better days will come.

Author's Notes:

Concerning German forces in North Africa: Publicly, Hitler was pro-Islam, mainly because the Arabs were anti-Jewish. And Arabs who aided the Germans were well-treated. However, privately, the Nazis considered Arabs to be inferior, or untermenchen (subhuman) and racially inferior to Germans. There were also Jewish shop keepers in North Africa who were arrested and shipped to camps. The "myth of the clean Wehrmacht", with German soldiers being apolitical and not knowing about the Holocaust, was propagated after the war but found to be false with further research. There could have been as many as 29% of the 18 million enlisted soldiers (about 4.2 million) who may have been Nazi party members, with possibly a higher percentage of officers being Nazis. However, most of the "atrocities" by Germans were carried out against Jews, gypsies and the Russians. That still left many millions in the Wehrmacht who were not Nazis and who fought by the rules of war outlined in the Geneva Conventions (such as was portrayed in the character of Hauptmann Hans Dietrich). The truth of the Holocaust was also kept from much of the German civilian population until they were forced to enter the concentration camps.

About racism during and after WWII in the USA: Before the war, racism was rampant and blatant. In June 1941, President Roosevelt issued Executive Order 8802 which allowed African Americans to enter job-training programs in defense plants, forbid discrimination by defense contractors and created the Fair Employment Practices Commission (FEPC). Over a million black men served (in defense plants and the military, but in segregated units mostly led by white officers). Thousands of black women also served. President Truman, Roosevelt's successor, allowed the FEPC to expire. But, after the war, in December 1946 he created a President's Commission of Civil Rights. The Commission suggested instituting anti-lynching laws, anti-poll tax laws, a permanent FEPC and enhancing the civil rights division at the DOJ. But, Senators from the southern states were against this and threatened a filibuster to block legislation. So President Truman, without the help of Congress, appointed several African Americans as judges and also to high-level administrative positions. He also issued several Executive Orders, including Executive Order 9981 on July 26 1948 that led to the full desegregation of the US Armed Forces. Unfortunately, as we continue into the twenty-first century, racism and bigotry are still alive and well.

I apologize if this story or the above Author's Notes offends anyone. WWII was a horrific time. But it must be remembered that people have been killing each other since before recorded history over land, food, water, race, religion, ideology, greed, power… You name it. So I'd like to give a thank you to John Lennon and his lyrics from his song Imagine for some inspiration in the Rat's final discussion. And hopefully, someday, there will be no more racism, bigotry, greed or war.