A/N The Washington trip continues. Our heroes actions continue to be recognized. It's Casey's turn. Frank makes his move on Ellie. Ellie is ready for him. Enjoy.

A Heart Torn

A Charah Tale

By Lord Rapier

Edited and guided by CliffM

Chapter 44:

It's Casey's Time

The White House (Part 1)

The White House

The bus ride is abuzz with expectations of arrival at the White House. The bus drives without stopping through a gate entrance to the White House. Slowing down it then pulls into an underground garage near a set of doors. The driver stands and faces the group. "Ladies and Gentlemen welcome to the White House. Please excuse the surreptitious entry. The President thought it best to shield you from the press onslaught. Please remain seated. An agent will board shortly to explain procedures. Mr. and Mrs. Bartowski, please join me outside the bus."

Chuck and Sarah climb down off the bus behind the driver. Those on the right side of the bus watch as a group of people dressed in black suits walk over to them and discuss something. Sarah nods and turns back to climb on the bus. "Hi family, I'm going to introduce you to some very nice people. One is a close friend of mine. The others are Secret Service agents who will explain what's going to happen, and what's expected of guests of the White House.

Let's get started." She turns towards the door and waves. A woman walks towards the door. "First, I'd like you to meet my dear friend Joyce. You may know her as FLOTUS, or the First Lady of the United States."

There's applause as Joyce climbs up and hugs Sarah then stands next to her. She smiles and waves, "Hi everyone, I'm Joyce. Welcome to my home. I guess it's also your home. You all pay your taxes, right?" The group laughs. Gretchen waves from her seat. "Hi Gretchen, good to see you again. Zondra asked me to let you know she's here and looks forward to seeing you."

She looks at Clara. "I'll bet that's Beauty, that means you must be Clara." Clara nods and hugs Beauty. "That means that little blonde cutie over there is Molly. I'll bet these two handsome young men are MJ and LJ. I hope that you'll all call me Aunt Joyce.

I'm guessing you're tired of sitting and are maybe a little hungry. There are lots of nods from the kids. "Okay, kids let's get you off the bus. Uncle Chuck is going to take you to your tea party. You'll need a change of clothes and diapers. Aunt Sarah and Uncle Chuck have agreed to handle that."

"Okay kids, come with me, Uncle Chuck is waiting for us." Sarah steps off the bus and helps the kids down as they follow her to a waiting Chuck. They walk the kids away from the bus into the White House doors.

When Sarah steps down two agents climb in and stand to either side of FLOTUS. "Okay folks, I want to apologize. This next part is not great, but necessary. I didn't want to traumatize the children by having them watch their parents get strip searched. I promise we'll get to know each other better after all the security stuff is out of the way. Ladies you'll follow Agent Honey West. Gentlemen you'll go with Agent James West, before you ask, no relation." Gretchen raises her hand. "Yes Sweetheart, what can I do for you?"

With total seriousness Gretchen asks. "Can I go with James instead of Honey."

Joyce throws her head back and laughs with the other occupants of the bus. "Gretchen behave yourself. Your belongings will be searched and taken to your rooms. Folks, remember where you are. Jokes that sound like threats are taken seriously. Follow directions and we'll all have a great visit.

I'll join you shortly in the East Garden Room for a light dinner and Tea Party. Please don't wander around without an escort. John, Frank asked if you could put aside a few minutes for him. He's expecting you in the Oval office." Casey nods and grunts, he stands and exits the bus. "My husband asked me to apologize, seems running the country takes up a lot of his time. But you have my word, he will be joining us when he can." Joyce climbs down off the bus and is escorted into the White House.

The Oval Office

Casey walks through the doors into the building. He's greeted by a young woman who holds out a badge that reads: Major General John Casey. Visitor, No escort required. Casey clips it to his jacket. "Welcome to the White House General. My name is Susan McNamara. I'm a personal assistant to the President. Please call me Susie. You are cleared to move around freely. However the President thought you might prefer it if I show you the way to the Oval office."

Casey grunts and waves his hand indicating she should lead the way.

Susie smiles, "Right this way Sir." She starts to walk down a long corridor. "Sir, I'd like to say it's an honor to meet you. The President and First Lady speak highly of you." Casey grunts. Casey is quiet as they walk. After many corridors and turns, past offices filled with people hustling, they arrive at a door. Susie opens the door, "Right this way Sir." Susie approaches a woman at the large desk facing the door. "General Casey for the President, he's expected."

The woman smiles, "Welcome General, I'll let the President know you're here." She picks up the phone and presses a button. "Sir, General Casey is here. No sir I won't keep him waiting." She hangs up the phone. "Please General, go right in." Susie opens the door and Casey walks into the Oval Office, the door closes behind him.

Frank steps out from behind his large ornamental desk and walks over to Casey his hand extended. "John, it's good to see you again." Casey takes the hand and shakes it. "Come sit, I only have a few minutes. I'm doing my best to clear my desk so I can spend time with all of you this weekend." He takes a seat in an armchair and points to a couch opposite him. "Sit, looks like you have friends in high places. I received this diplomatic pouch yesterday. It's addressed to you. I'll be happy to step out if you'd like some privacy."

"Thank you, Sir. That isn't necessary." Casey takes the pouch and breaks the seal. He reaches in and pulls out a letter.

"To my Good and Dear Friend Generalissimo Casey. My Angel of Life.

First allow me to assure you that I am taking good care of the generous gift that you gave me. Your blood still flows through my veins, and I am in good health. My sweet love Hortensia and I are devastated that we could not make it to your award ceremony and the wedding of our dear friends Chuck and Sarah.

The political climate in Costa Gravas right now would not allow such friendliness between us. However, I did receive a message from Chuck, he asked for a wedding present from us. How can I say no to the man who helped to bring the love of my life back to me. He instructed that the present be sent to you in care of the white House.

Congratulations on your award. Please send Hortensia's and my best wishes for a long life together, and our love, to Chuck and Sarah. There will always be a place in our home and our hearts for our American friends.

All our Best,

Alejandro and Hortensia Goya."

Casey reaches into the pouch and retrieves a wrapped box. Tearing the paper off, he starts to laugh. Frank stares at him. Casey holds the box up and shows him his box of Costa Gravas cigars. Then he tells the story of his cigar falling into the coffee cup.

Frank laughs, "That's our Chuck. He never misses a detail." Casey opens the box and offers it to Frank. "Wish I could, maybe later, outside. Where Joyce and the press can't catch me. Hmmm, I think maybe, you might like a tour of the emergency bunker."

The East Garden room

Master Chief Child has created a tasty Tea party for the kids. Mini hot dogs, sliders, Chicken strips and crispy French fries. It's followed by frozen yogurt sundaes to order, for dessert. Chuck and April sit with them assisting as needed, pouring the lemonade, milk, and opening juice boxes.

The adults have various quiches, smoked salmon, bagels with cream cheese. fresh salads. Wine and other alcoholic drinks are available along with coffee, tea, and juices. The Sundae Bar is available to the adults as well. Joyce joins the group for dinner and is enjoying a chat with Sarah when two Secret Service agents walk through the door. The President enters followed by Casey. Everyone stands. He waves his hands. "Relax everyone. If you stand every time, you see me this weekend, I'll wind up with a huge bill from your orthopedic doctors, relax.

Okay who's going to introduce me to everyone. Wait, no need to tell me who those beautiful ladies are." He walks over to the kids table. Let's see that's Clara and Molly and of course Beauty." He squats, "Hi, I'm Frank, I would like it if you called me Uncle Frank. Would that be, okay?" April is stunned, Holy crap she was telling the truth, they are friends.

Molly and Clara nod. "I take it these handsome gentlemen are your husbands." The girls laugh, Molly says, "You're silly Uncle Frank. Those are our cousins, MJ, and LJ."

Clara nods, "I'm gonna marry Jeffrey after I'm a doctor like Mommy."

"I see, well Jeffery is a lucky man. If you're a doctor like your mom, you're going to be a great doctor. What about you Molly, do you want to be a doctor too?"

Molly shakes her head, "Uh, uh my sister Sarah is teaching me to be a pilot so I can fly to different places. I could come and visit you and Aunt Joyce if you'd like."

Frank's eyes go wide, followed by a big smile. "I would love that. Any chance you ladies have a hug hidden in one of your pockets?" The girls look at each other and then throw their arms around his neck. "OH MY. I think that's the best pocket hug I've ever had. Anyone want to tell me who all these people are."

MJ and LJ slide off their seats, they walk over and point at Chuck. In unison they say, "That's Unca Chuck. He's, our uncle."

Frank laughs, "Stereo, I like it. Hi Uncle Chuck, how are you?"

Chuck smiles, "I'm good Uncle Frank, good to see you again. Maybe the kids would like to finish their sundaes while Auntie Sarah does the introductions. By the way before you run off. This is April Dancer, Clara's nanny and, one of my top operatives."

The kids release Frank to go back to their ice cream. He stands up and walks over to offer his hand to April. "It's an honor to meet you Master Sergeant, you have an impressive folder. Seems that Chuck surrounds himself with only the best. Rangers still lead the way."

"Thank you, Mr. President, the honor is mine. Don't believe everything you read."

Frank purses his lips, "When it comes to the stuff I get from congress, I agree with you. In your case, I have a feeling I can take it to the bank. Thank you for your service. By the way I don't think Uncle Frank would be good for us, let's just go with Frank."

April smiles, "Yes Sir, thank you Sir."

Frank laughs as Sarah steps up to his side. "You'll get the hang of it before the weekend is over. He looks around. "Joyce why don't you join us." The First Lady walks over to stand beside him. "Okay Auntie Sarah, who's next?"

The President and FLOTUS make the rounds, shaking hands. He makes it clear how he got elected. He's a man with charisma and charm. Sarah walks around the tables with him. "Of course, you know Gretchen and Zondra."

"I do, Ladies, nice to see you again. I owe you a debt of gratitude. You took care of a problem that was hanging over our heads for years. How is it working with Batman?"

Zondra looks at Gretchen, "You know Batman?" Gretchen shrugs. Zondra smiles, "It's nothing less than spectacular Sir. He's without a doubt the best I've worked with, next to Sarah of course."

Frank smiles and shakes their hands, "Well he's said nothing but good things about both of you. Seems the DCI shares his opinion about you Chief Rizzo. Gretchen, I was warned that if I try to bring you back into government service, I'll have to fight Chuck."

Gretchen laughs, "I would strongly recommend against that Frank. I made that mistake once. Never again." Frank laughs.

Sarah brings him over where Mary is chatting with Emma. "Speaking of the DCI, you know my mother-in-law."

"I do, we had a briefing this morning, she gave me the lowdown on our guests and the Russians, Chinese, North Koreans, etcetera, etcetera. I keep Mary plenty busy."

Mary stands and shakes his hand, "Nice to meet with you socially, Sir."

Frank leans in, "When we're alone or with friends, Frank is fine."

Mary smiles, "Yes Sir, thank you."

Frank turns to Sarah, "You can always tell the career professionals. They have a hard time letting go of protocol."

Sarah smiles wide, "Mr. President, It's my pleasure to introduce you to my mother, Emma Cole."

Emma stands, her hand goes to her throat. "Oh my! You're the President."

Frank extends his hand, "Only for a while, But I'll always be Frank. It's nice to meet you, Emma. Your daughter is a wonderful woman. I might also mention you couldn't do better for a son-in-law." Mary smiles.

Emma stares at Frank's hand. Sarah laughs, "Mom, shake the man's hand, don't leave him hanging."

Emma gasps, "I'm sorry Mr. President. I didn't mean to be disrespectful."

Frank shakes his head "Okay that's it." He turns to the room. He speaks loudly. "Listen up everybody." The room gets quiet. "This is a presidential order. My name is Frank. Please call me Frank except for official government business.

Joyce interrupts him, "FRANK!"

"Okay, fine it's not a presidential order, It's a request. Please call me Frank. That lady who once again stopped me from putting my foot in my mouth is the love of my life. She's also the one who really runs things around here. Thank you, Joyce." He turns back to Emma, "Now where were we?"

She reaches down and grabs his hand to shake it. "It's a pleasure to meet you …Frank."

He smiles, "The pleasure is all mine." Have you met Joyce?"

Joyce steps over and hugs Emma, "We've had the pleasure of a long phone call and a brief chat over a glass of wine. I believe I may have neglected to mention how wonderful her daughter is, but I'm guessing she already knows that."

Sarah smiles and Emma beams. "Thank you… Frank, Joyce. Yes, she is pretty wonderful. I couldn't be prouder. Please, don't let me keep you, I know there are others dying to meet you." Emma sits down and grabs Mary's hand. Under her breath she mutters, "Oh my, that's the President."

Mary pats her hand, "Relax Emma, the real big shots in this room are our kids, they're the ones that make him look good."

Sarah steps over to a familiar couple. "Mr. President, Frank, allow me to introduce the Woodcombs. Ellie and Devon, Clara's parents. This is Frank and Joyce."

He shakes Devon's hand then, Ellie's. He puts his second hand over hers and holds it. "You should be proud. Clara is a wonderful little girl. Smart as a whip. She's dead set on being a doctor like her parents." Sarah catches the change. Hmmm, he's up to something. He pats her hand, "So Ellie do you have some time for a chat? I'm fascinated with your research on the brain. I won't take up too much of your time, I know you'll want to tuck Clara in."

"Mr. President, Frank, I'd hate to take up your time for no reason. My papers pretty much spell out what I know and what I don't know. My primary concern is what effect the government's actions had on my brother's brain and his overall health."

Sarah is paying close attention. So the government hurt your brother. Nice! Watch it Ellie, you're letting your spy DNA show.

"You sell yourself short Dr. Woodcomb. Your take on the effects of electrical impulses syncing with neuro-synapsis is way beyond where others have gone."

Ellie nods, "I see where you've made your mistake. That's my father's work. I'm merely following the damage caused by those experiments. I didn't get to work much with my father before one of your agents shot and killed him."

Sarah smiles inwardly, Smart Sis, put him on the defensive. But be careful, he's a pro.

Frank frowns, "Yes that was a sad turn of events. Surely you know I had no part in that."

Ellie acts sad, "Of course, we know that, but… I hope you'll excuse me. I'm getting a headache. I think I'd like to lie down for a bit. Devon, would you get Clara please. I'll meet you in our room. Frank my brother has some interest in following up on Dad's work. Perhaps you should talk with him."

Sarah moves to put her arm around Ellie. "Frank, Joyce, I hope you'll excuse us. I'm sure you understand. Ellie was there, she saw it happen. Come on Ellie, I'll get you some aspirin."

Frank is contrite, "Of course, Please let my staff know if there's anything you need."

Chuck comes over when he sees Sarah helping Ellie out of the room. "What's going on Frank?"

"Sorry Chuck, I used an unfortunate choice of words and reminded your sister of your father's fate. I feel awful."

Chuck pats his shoulder, "I'm sure she'll be fine. Let me see if I can help." Chuck follows behind the two ladies.

Frank whispers to Joyce, "Sweetheart, one of two things just happened. Either I screwed up royally, or I just got played by a master. In any case, I don't think Ellie Woodcomb will be joining my research team."

"I'm sure it'll work out. Chuck and Sarah haven't failed you yet. Let's not ruin the party."

Frank nods, "Mmmm that's true. I'd better get back to work. I have a full desk and two ceremonies to prep. Joyce would you please check on Ellie in a little while. Extend my apologies for my poor choice of words. Damn, you'd think I'd know better." He kisses Joyce. "It's going to be a late-night Hon. I'll try not to wake you when I come in."

Once in Ellie's room, Sarah takes Ellie's shoes off and helps her lie down. As she plumps her pillow she whispers in her ear. "We don't know who's listening."

Ellie nods, "I'll be fine Sarah. I understand. He didn't mean to bring that up. It always hits me hard. I can't stop seeing Dad getting shot in my mind."

There's a light knock at the door , "Hon, it's me. Is Ellie, Okay?"

Sarah opens the door. "She's fine Chuck, just a little shook up. Frank…"

Chuck walks over and sits on the bed next to Ellie. "Yeah, he told me. He didn't mean anything by it El."

"I Know Chuck, But I really miss Dad. Can I have a hug little brother."

Chuck leans down and Ellie holds him close. She whispers in his ear. "I played him great. He won't be coming after me again."

Chuck pushes his face into Ellie's shoulder to keep from laughing. "It'll be okay Sis. We still have each other."

The door opens and Devon enters with Clara in his arms. "Are you okay Babe?"

"I'll be fine after a little rest. Clara this is a special occasion, so you get to sleep with Mommy and Daddy in our bed."

Clara rubs her eyes, "Okay Mommy, I'm tired. I think I ate too much ice cream and hot dogs."

Chuck stands up, we'll let you guys get some rest. We'll see you in the morning." Chuck and Sarah walk out hand in hand. On the way to the Lincoln bedroom they run into Casey.

"Hey what's up with formerly Bartowski? Everyone was talking about how she left sick."

Sarah kisses his cheek. "It's nice of you to worry about Ellie. She's fine, just needs a little rest. What's that under your arm?"

Casey gets a big smile on his face. He holds the box out. "Oh, you mean my box of Costa Gravas cigars. Seems our boy here kept his word. Special delivery from Alejandro, and Hortensia Goya. Delivered in a diplomatic pouch along with regrets and best wishes for your wedding." Casey hands Sarah the letter, then puts his arms around Chuck and squeezes hard. "Thanks kid, you're the best."

Chuck is in shock, he turns to Sarah, "Did he just…"

Sarah laughs, "Uh huh."

"Sarah, I think we were drugged, and someone replaced Casey with a pod person. Run, save the President."

"Very funny Nerd, you'd better get some rest. I'd hate to have you throw up on the President cause you got scared. See you in the morning. Breakfast in the East Garden Room. G'night."

Breakfast is served to the guests as they wander into the East Garden Room. Master Chief set up an omelet bar including pancakes, French toast, waffles made to order. There are also chafing dishes with hash brown potatoes, bacon, sausages, turkey bacon, vegan bacon, corned beef hash. There's also bagels, toast, and breakfast rolls. Moving down the line there's fresh fruit salad, whipped butter, peanut butter, and Jelly.

The Woodcombs are enjoying breakfast when Casey walks in. He fills a plate and joins them. "Are you doing okay formerly Bartowski?"

Ellie laughs, "Have you forgotten my name John?"

Casey bites into a sausage with a loud snap. "Nah, it just makes it easier to keep you all straight. Seriously Ellie, are you okay?"

"I'm fine John, thanks for asking." Mary walks over with a plate of food, followed by Chuck and Sarah, Gretchen, and Zondra.

Casey stands, "I guess this is family time. I'll see you all later."

A loud commanding voice comes from behind him. "Sit your butt down Marine. This is my family and you're part of it. SIT." Casey drops back into his chair.

Beckman sits down with her food, "Sorry I missed you all last night. We have a situation in Europe." She looks at Chuck. "Buzzsaw is safe enough, at least for now."

Clara jumps off her chair and puts her head on Beckman's lap, "Hi Grandma Diane, we missed you too. We had a tea party with ice cream and cake."

Beckman is taken aback. She hesitantly strokes Clara's hair. "Thank you, Clara, maybe we can have some together, later."

Sarah smiles, "We've been showing Clara pictures of all her family that she may see here."

Beckman is clearly at a loss for words. She mouths the words "Thank you" at Sarah.

The room is filled with the guests all enjoying the delicious food. Master Chief stands up in front of the buffet. "I want to thank you all for the compliments my staff has received on our food. However, I need to acknowledge the inspiration for my cuisine. Chuck, Sarah, and General Casey. It has been my honor and privilege to cook for them and their guests. The President asked me to remind you that the Medal of Honor ceremony will begin promptly at 10. Please be sure you're seated in The Rose Garden, before then.

General Casey, I know I'm not in uniform, but there's no way I can't do this. Kitchen staff, Atten-hut." Military and civilian staff pop tall. Julian brings his hand up to his brow in a salute."

Casey stands and returns the salute. "Thank you. Master Chief. It's you and your people who should be saluted you've proven that cooking is indeed an art." He starts to clap, and the rest of the group join him in appreciating the cooks. When the applause dies down. "I'll expect you in full dress uniform for the ceremony."

"Aye, aye General, wouldn't miss it for the world."

As the guests filter out the kitchen staff starts to clean up. As Julian bends to retrieve a chafing dish he's grabbed from behind and squeezed. "Guess who?"

He laughs, "Chuck would be okay, but I'm hoping for Sarah."

Suddenly a second set of arms encircle him. "Would you settle for both of us?"

He turns and wraps his arms around the couple. "You know, I never seem to get enough of you two. Was the food, okay?"

Chuck laughs, "Okay? Does okay mean superlative, fantastic, wonderful, magnificent? if so, then yes it was okay."

"I'm glad you liked it. Now go away, I have to get cleaned up and dressed for the ceremony. I'm part of the honor guard. Shoo, I'll see you later."

They let him get back to work. Chuck notices Mrs. Sawyer heading towards the door. "Bea."

She turns and waits for them to catch up. "Thomas is safe and sound. If we hear anything else, we'll let you know."

She hugs Chuck, "Thanks Boss, it's good to have friends in high places."

The room is emptied as everyone leaves the room to get dressed for the medal ceremony. The Secret Service does a good job being low key. Escorting in a friendly and professional manner without being overbearing.

The White House Rose Garden, Washington D.C.

It's a beautiful day in DC. The Cherry Blossoms along the National Mall are in full bloom. The White House Rose Garden, established in 1913 by Ellen Louise Axson Wilson, wife of Woodrow Wilson, is displaying all its budding glory. The guests' eyes are treated to a wide spectrum of colors. Reds, yellows, shades of white and pink. Vision is not the only sense treated to a delight. A deep breath fills each person's nose with a fragrance that thrills and creates joy. The very air is bursting with the scent of those roses, nurtured over the years, by the subsequent elected occupants and their families.

A portion of the Marine band plays Hail to the Chief as The President walks towards the podium that's been setup in The Rose Garden. The crowd stands. The president arrives at the podium. The band stops playing, and he waves the people into their seats. "Please be seated this ceremony is not about me. It's about a true American hero, Major General John Casey.

The Medal of Honor is the highest award for bravery that can be given to any individual in the United States of America. Conceived in the early 1860s and first presented in 1863, the medal has a colorful and inspiring history which has culminated in the standards applied today for awarding this respected honor.

In their provisions for judging whether a man is entitled to the Medal of Honor, each of the armed services has set up regulations which permit no margin of doubt or error. The deed of the person must be proved by incontestable evidence of at least two eyewitnesses. It must be so outstanding that it clearly distinguishes his gallantry beyond the call of duty from lesser forms of bravery. It must involve the risk of his life. It must be of the type of deed which, if he had not done it, would not subject him to any justified criticism.

A recommendation for a Navy Medal of Honor must be made within 3 years and awarded within 5 years. Much to his chagrin General Casey is aware that the Marines are a part of the Navy department." The crowd laughs.

"Acts of bravery and courage are not unusual among those in uniform. The fact that many members of the U.S. Armed Services have engaged in direct battle with an enemy or carried out their duties under enemy attack is taken as a sign of this bravery and courage. However, the level of heroism cited among those who receive the Medal of Honor is uncommonly high. The distinction of this type of valor, heroism, courage, and bravery, in an environment where bravery and courage are the norm—and must be the norm in order to carry out effective military operations—may prove difficult to recognize by the outsider.

The Medal of Honor is presented to its recipients by a high official in the name of the Congress of the United States. For this reason, it is sometimes called the Congressional Medal of Honor. As a general rule, the Medal of Honor can be earned—by a deed of personal bravery or self-sacrifice above and beyond the call of duty—only while a person is a member of the American Armed Services in actual combat with an enemy of the Nation.

This was the case, for example, during World Wars I and II and the Korean conflict. However, the Navy Medal of Honor could be and has been on several occasions, awarded to noncombatants. On a few, rare occasions, the Congress of the United States has awarded special Medals of Honor for individual exploits taking place in peacetime. Major General Casey is being honored for actions in both situations. In peace or war, this medal is the highest decoration which can be given in any of the Armed Services, Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, or Coast Guard. Out of many millions of those that have served our country, only 3,493 have received this recognition."

The President looks out on the assembled family and friends. "I see many uniforms. Many of them testified before congress as to the actions and behavior of the nominated awardee. John Casey indeed stands out as one of a few good men. We all share the honor of having this man in our lives. Honor guard, present the awardee."

The band plays the Marine Corp Hymn and Captain James Kirk steps out in front of the assembly. "Honor Guard Atten-hut." At the back of the assemblage a loud snapping sound is heard as the honor guard comes to attention. The honor guard is a mix of Echo team, Marines and Master Chief Child, in full-dress blues. "Forward… march."

The honor guard, led by Master Chief Seely Booth, slowly marches forward, in the center of the two columns strides Major General John Casey. His face is glowing brighter than the brass buttons on his tunic. His white gloved left-hand rests on his saber as his right-hand swings with the cadence. His steely gaze is locked forward, this is not Grandpa John. This is a warrior about to receive acknowledgement from his peers and superiors for his bravery and accomplishments.

The procession reaches the front row of seats. Captain Kirk calls out "Company halt."

The two columns stop with a loud stomp and stand at attention. "Major General John Casey it is my honor to inform you that the President of the United States has ordered your presence in front of this assembly of friends and family. In addition to your loved ones, this ceremony will be witnessed by a small portion of the souls you have saved. With your permission Major General, Forward March."

Casey walks up to Captain Kirk who immediately snaps a hand salute. Casey returns the salute then offers his hand. "Glad you could make it Jim, thank you."

The former ship's captain drops his salute and takes Casey's hand, "It's my honor to be here Sir."

Casey smiles and steps back. "Captain you are dismissed, job well done."

Kirk salutes, Casey returns the salute. Kirk turns on his heel and walks away. Casey continues to the podium where he stops and salutes the president. Frank returns the salute and Casey turns to face the gathering. MJ and LJ yell out, "Grandpa, that's my grandpa." A roar of laughter goes up.

Frank laughs, "Yes boys, that's your grandpa and my friend. Alex, Morgan will you join us please?" They walk up and stand next to Casey. Sarah and Chuck hold the twins.

The President opens a small velvet covered box and shows it to the assembled viewers. He hands the box to Alex standing at Casey's side.

"To all gathered here to witness this presentation, Greetings. As the President of the United States, representing the people of these United States of America. As authorized by an act of Congress enacted March 3, 1863, I am awarding in the name of the Congress The Naval Medal of Honor to Major General John Casey for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty in action with the enemy.

Unfortunately, I cannot cite the time nor place of those classified actions. This in no way diminishes Major General Casey's service to his country and the world.

Mr. and Mrs. Grimes, General Casey's Daughter and son-in law will assist me in the awarding of his medal."

Alex holds the open box. Morgan removes the medal and hands it to The President.

As Frank puts the medal around Casey's neck. "On behalf of a grateful nation, thank you for your exemplary service."

Casey turns to show the assembled witnesses his award. The Naval version a five-pointed bronze star, tipped with trefoils (an ornamental design of three rounded lobes like a clover leaf containing a crown of laurel and oak). In the center is Minerva, (Roman goddess of wisdom, justice, law, victory, and the sponsor of arts, trade, and strategy), personifying the United States, standing with her left hand resting on fasces, (a bundle of rods with a projecting axe blade, carried by a lictor in ancient Rome as a symbol of a magistrate's power), and her right hand holding a shield emblazoned with the shield from the coat of arms of the United States. She repulses discord, (Ref: The discord of the Civil War) represented by snakes The medal is suspended from the flukes of an anchor. It is made of solid red brass, oxidized, and buffed.

The President steps back. "Major General Casey, Atten-hut." Casey stiffens and stares straight ahead. "Dismissed."

Casey relaxes and turns to Frank and offers his hand, "Thank you Sir. I'm honored to have served under you."

Frank shakes his hand, "The honor was all mine, John. Now go be with your family."

As Alex and Morgan hug Casey the assembled loved ones approach and the President speaks into the microphone. "I want to thank the members of the press for covering this ceremony. The rest of this afternoon is reserved for family. Our pages will help you find your way out. Thank you again for coming."

Sarah approaches Casey with MJ in her arms and hugs him hard. "I'm so proud of you." She taps the medal, "Honor is what John Casey is all about." MJ leans forward and hugs Casey. "I love you Grandpa." He smiles wide. "John, you know he's going to hug you, be good." Casey grunts.

Chuck having handed LJ off to Morgan, steps up as Sarah moves off. He throws his arms around Casey. Casey grunts. "I'm happy for you Buddy. You deserve this and so much more. I can't believe how lucky I am to have you as a friend. I'm sorry that Sarah and I need to leave to get ready."

Casey pats his back. "No problem Kid. I'll see you soon." Chuck steps away from Casey and a long line of people wait to congratulate him.

Out of the corner of his eye he catches sight of someone else. He walks over to him. "I'm glad you could make it." He gives him a hug. "Do you have a minute; I want you to meet someone important to me?" He nods.

Chuck walks over to Morgan. "Morgan, Pal, I want you to meet a friend of mine." Morgan waits quietly. "Morgan Grimes, I have been - and always shall be - your friend. This is Captain James T. Kirk. His friends call him Jim." Chuck laughs when Morgan's jaw drops. "I have to go find Sarah. Live long and prosper."

Chuck looks around and finds Sarah talking to Alex, now holding MJ. "Hi Hon, you ready to go." Sarah nods as Chuck takes her hand. As they walk into the White House, "You know Sarah, you can still back out."

Sarah stops and stares into his eyes. "Are you having second thoughts Bartowski?"

Chuck looks shocked, "ME, never."

Sarah smiles, kisses him, and starts to walk again. "That's good. It would look bad if the groom walked down the aisle covered in bruises wearing cuffs. Now go get ready for me. I want all the ladies to be even more jealous than they are now."

A/N Okay, I hope I did this okay. I figured most of you would rather have something then wait for all of it. I'm sorry it's so long, but there were so many things that needed to be sewn up. I wanted to be sure all of the principles were included. Every time I read through it for editing, I realized that I left someone out. It kept growing and growing. I'll be honest, I could keep writing this, but I forced myself to stop.