Earth: A Rendezvous with Destiny

by We'retheDesperateMeasures-ODST

The 1960s as a decade was just as memorable: The 35th President of the United States, John F. Kennedy, was never assassinated and Vietnam was a victory for the West. But not all was well on Planet Earth yet when threatened with conquest by the Sith Empire, the nations of the world became co-belligerents of the Republic, in a collision course that became a rendevous with destiny.

25. Okie from Muskogee

John "Duke" Wayne / Marion Robert (Michael) Morrison - Revered Western Film Star

Fort Duqua Dar - Quadrant G-19, Coruscant, Coruscant System, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"

09:05:16 ATC/Friday, September 5th, 1969 - 16:00/4:00 PM

The journey from Earth had taken a grueling three months, with every logistical detail having to be meticulously planned in advance. This surprise visit by two of the most legendary actors of their generation remained a closely guarded secret until the official announcement just forty-eight hours prior to their rival but for the common American servicemen who were garrisoned at the installation it was a morale boost they sorely needed.

News of the impending visit spread rapidly through the chow halls, stoking excitement among the garrison. The very idea that they would soon be hosting none other than the 'Duke' himself - John Wayne - and even his fellow movie icon Steve McQueen had set tongues wagging.

But this was no small affair - far from it. The prominent actors had taken time out of their busy filming schedules to personally lead the multi-day event on behalf of the United Service Organizations. Since its founding in 1941, the U.S.O. had worked tirelessly to improve the morale of active duty personnel through various forms of entertainment, talent shows, and social programs. This special concert and dinner event promised to be truly unforgettable.

Glancing over the itinerary, the talent lineup alone was nothing short of spectacular - a veritable who's who of the giants of country and western music. Names like Jerry Reed, Jimmy Sweeny, Glen Campbell, Buck Owens, Freddie Hart, Mel Tillis, Merle Haggard, and even the Man in Black himself, Johnny Cash, were all confirmed to appear. In a remarkable show of support, Johnny's little-known younger brother Tommy Cash, who was on active duty in the U.S. Army, had received special dispensation to temporarily detach from his unit in order to take part in the festivities alongside his country music contemporaries and fellow soldiers.

"Alright, pilgrims, easy now, easy does it!" The Duke barked, his voice booming authoritatively as he personally oversaw the unloading of equipment and pre-made meals packed in insulated containers. The larger-than-life film star was still adjusting to the rather surreal sight before him - robots working in efficient tandem with human laborers and old fashioned forklifts to clear the shipment of wooden crates.

"Welcome to Fort Duqua Dar, Mister Wayne." A nervous GI greeted as he approached the larger-than-life actor, hat in hand.

"The pleasure is mine, son." John replied cordially, his eyes crinkling in a warm smile at the corners.

"Can I have your autograph, sir?" The overwhelmed Specialist Five asked hopefully.

"Why, sure." Wayne agreed readily, procuring a pen from his pocket and dutifully signing his name inside the proffered journal. "There, I hope to see you at the show tomorrow night."

"Oh believe me, Mister Wayne, the guys and I will certainly be there. I wouldn't miss it for the world." The soldier with a Minnesota accent gushed, his eyes shining at having had the chance to meet his childhood hero.

"Say, what's for breakfast this morning?" The Duke inquired, glancing around with a hint of anticipation for a hearty start to the day, despite the long hours of final preparations and rehearsals ahead.

For now though, Wayne would content himself with meeting new people and soaking up the atmosphere. It had been a long journey to reach this Republic installation far from Planet Earth, but the look of pure elation on the faces of the American soldiers as they recognized him made it all worthwhile. He couldn't wait to shake their hands, share some stories, and generally lift their spirits as much as he could during his time here. After all, that was what the U.S.O. tours were all about.

---

Lance Corporal Jake Gregory Meyer - Fireteam Alpha, Second Squad, First Platoon, C/Charlie Company, Second Raider Battalion "Carlson's Raiders", Second Raider Regiment, Second Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force, United States Marine Corps

Bowdarr's Bowcaster Cantina - Quadrant G-19 Coruscant, Coruscant System, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"

09:05:16 ATC/ Friday, September 5th, 1969 - 19:33 / 7:33 PM

Jake and a few of his brothers-in-arms were on leave intermingling with fellow Marines drinking away and the Devil Dogs of differing Military Occupational Specialities all decided to sample the booze at the intergalactic establishment with the Hoosier this time settling on tasting some cocktail called a 'Red Dwarf'. Some of the guys were in the midst of discussing the arrival of John Wayne and Steve McQueen while other Jarheads were wondering about the lineup with Pat Boone and Merle Haggard rumored to be on the roster but while the visitation was unexpected it still was certainly a boost in morale and spirit, a clear reminder of home yet a few including Meyer were watching on a screet some sport known as 'phaseball' being played at a stadium, it bore a close resemblance to baseball and the former catcher for the Franklin Central High School Flashes couldn't help but to reminiscence about competing in America's pastime even if his batting average wasn't spectacular but he couldn't complain as he was more proficient in riflery even if the Hoosier did enjoy baseball and even shooting the occasional ball into the hoop but he personally preferred baseball over basketball despite the phenomenon known as 'Hoosier Hysteria'.

"Is there anything about this place you're not uneasy over, Jake?" One of the newest transfers, a former Rodeo star and talented musician from Wyoming, Private First Class Chris Ledoux, wondered as Jake watched number nineteen struck the Galactic equivalent of a home run which caused the entire team attired in yellow running towards the diamond while those in red frantically attempted to retrieve the ball to no avail.

"I have been thinking it over, about this galaxy I mean, and I think it's an acquired taste." Meyer reasoned. "Not everything is bad about it but there's too much mumbo jumbo and at times, some decisions I don't understand."

"You are an especially stubborn Kraut at times to be fair." Kowalski added. "And you also dislike Science Fiction."

"No, I don't hate it and you might be surprised to learn that I have read some of my old man's Buck Rogers comics but Science Fiction isn't my thing really." Jake sighed, not even bothering to remind the Pink Floyd fan who was rightfully proud of his Polish heritage that in addition to Andrzej Tadeusz Bonawentura Kościuszko there was also Friedrich Wilhelm August Heinrich Ferdinand von Steuben. "Though Ash does enjoy watching 'The Jetson's '."

"I thought you said she was a fan of 'Foghorn Leghorn' ?" Howard Dean questioned.

"She is and her reason is because she always found a rooster speaking with a southern accent funny but as to 'The Jetsons', I don't get why she finds it appealing other than admiring the conveniences Jane uses I suppose and while 'Star Trek' is described as a space western, it's actually communist."

"'Star Trek' is communist?" The other newest member of the unit, John Frederick Milius, who claimed to personally know not only George Walton Lucas, Junior but Francis Ford Coppola as well, frowned with disappointment. "It's not that I don't believe you, Jake, as we're both conservatives unlike Marvin but if so, that is rather...disconcerting to say the least."

"You know that I can hear you, right?"

Jake ignored the New Dealer and gazed squarely into John's eyes. "It is, John. It bothered me that Spock kept saying 'Live Long and Prosper' and to quote something Kirk uttered from Season Four that was in the headlines of the National Review: 'The acquisition of wealth is no longer the driving force in our lives. We work to better ourselves and the rest of humanity.' Face it, Roddenberry is a filthy unAmerican Commie with the five year missions being subtle stand-ins for five year plans and other nonsense. Your friend George should find himself another benefactor pronto."

"You're a spoilsport." Howard grumbled.

"Alright, guys, maybe I'm a stick-in-the-mud but you can't deny that this is a completely different culture generally speaking and I don't mean by alien but more like an instance of seeing and encountering things that are, well, unsettling compared to what our norms are. And that's not to mention this underworld we heard about. I thought Da Nang was bad but if true..." Jake decided to pause and not go further into detail as it was astonishing that there was an epidemic of anarchy and worse occurring on the lower levels of this city-planet, something that just was dismissed, ignored, and shrugged off as a fact of life by the native Coruscanti, especially those who resided on the upper-levels. "Now I wouldn't say everything is negative but there's some aspects I'm disappointed with."

"I don't like saying you're right, wingnut, but you have a fair point there." Marvin sighed. "I think we can agree that the upper levels are well maintained and the shops are endless but open fairies may be a bit much."

"Needless to say, I think we all unsurprisingly share mixed feelings about this place as it is an alien culture after all."

But the evening came to an end when some Republic troops decided to confront them and cause trouble.
"Hey, some of you Earthlings are wearing our bloodstripes!" One of the Corellians pointed out to the American serviceman in an infuriated tone. The Raiders and other Jarheads didn't know what in the hell they were talking about in regards to the scarlet trouser seams - the recognizable bloodstripes on the blue trousers - which were only worn by enlisted Marines who held the rank of Corporal on up the pay scale as well as all officers of the United States Marine Corps.
"No, we earned them at the Halls of Montezuma." Jake corrected after setting his beverage down on the counter, taking care not to spill any on his long-sleeved khaki shirt with a pair of single green chevrons representing the rank of Lance Corporal stenciled on each shoulder plus the service stripes on his cuffs due to serving four years as a Marine and ironically while he didn't intend on re-enlisting to serve another four years or even be a career 'lifer' like his Stepgrandfather Doug, the newfound war had put his plan of applying for the Indianapolis Police Department, the Marion County Sheriff's Department, and even the Indiana State Police for a career in Law Enforcement on hold as it was presently a total war for the duration situation for the foreseeable future. "The red represents the blood the Marines lost in the Battle of Chapultepec during the Mexican-American War back in 1847. Let's calm down and sort it out, I'm sure it's a misunderstanding."

"Sithspit! Any Corellian is entitled to kill without repercussion any other Corellian or non-Corellian we catch wearing bloodstripes that hadn't earned them and you Earthlings certainly have not!"

Instead of striking him outright, Jake decided to cleverly reason with the Corellian again, to do one last attempt at dissuading the hothead from instigating an all-out brawl. "Let me tell you a quick story, pal, because your very life may depend on it." The Hoosier said as the former 5811 took a quick sip of his liquor before setting the glass down on the counter. "There are many stories and opinions on how the residents of Indiana became known as Hoosiers and some of these theories are wrapped in myth but one popular story comes from a renowned Hoosier poet, James Whitcomb Riley. He said and I quote that back: 'When Indiana was a frontier, frequent bar room brawls often ended in loss of body parts, such as an ear. After one brawl a patron picked up an ear from the bar room floor and asked "Whose ear?"' " Jake chuckled as he thought of the fitting irony, how he using such conjecture from an acclaimed American poet about the State's rowdy pioneer days in order to prevent a fight from breaking out in this galactic tavern. "According to Riley that was how those who hailed from Indiana became known as 'Hoosiers' but in any case you shouldn't mess with Americans no matter if they're a Hoosier such as myself, a Kentuckian, a Tennessean, a Wolverine, a Badger, or even an honest-to-goodness Texan from the Lone Star State as you don't mess with Texas yet no matter where we come from, regardless of our background, you shouldn't be picking on a lone Leatherneck or even a group of United States Marines as it'll be the last mistake you ever make, flyboy, so back off and disengage while you still have your ears."

"You're not so tough, braggart." The Corellian retorted before throwing a fist at Meyer, but it was swung wildly.

"Oh, it's on now..." Jake growled as he granted the fool an uppercut, his patience and calm demeanor had understandably disappeared and metamorphosed into one of defense. "It's apparent that you Corellians just don't understand that we're also known as Uncle Sam's Misguided Children."
American Marines left and right began striking the Corellians, utilizing beer bottles, chairs, and anything handy to teach the extraterrestrials a lesson in civility. The Hoosier could have sworn he saw even a few switchblades being pulled out as well and it was clear that this barroom brawl was spinning out of control yet the Gyrene was not going to let a bunch of spacemen tarnish the honor of the United States Marine Corps and neither would his fellow Jarheads. Meyer granted a raven-haired Corellian a knee to the groin before lifting him up and threw him at two of his fast approaching comrades.

"Okay, you sons of bitches! You really want us to demonstrate how Devil Dogs fight!" Milius roared as he gave a hook to another Corellian, this one being a light blond-haired serviceman. "Well, here you are!"

Off to the side, a pair of Corellians nodded at each other before rushing straight at Jake, yet the former 5811 Military Policeman knew the tactic and sidestepped before tripping them with a barstool. "Clearly you have a lot to learn about ground combat, flyboys!"
"You just didn't go there."

"Oh, yes I did." The E-3 smirked. "Fighting in the skies is a common stereotype from what I understand."

"We've suffered an eighty-five percent casualty rate during the Sack of Coruscant!"

"Too bad. So sad." The Hoosier deadpanned. "You besmirched the entire Marine Corps, so I don't have any sympathy at the moment." He snarked, knowing full well that he was being an ass, yet the farm boy believed that the only way to teach them a lesson was to be a jerk himself and in all fairness he did attempt to be reasonable before they instigated a barroom brawl.

"Garrrggghh!"

Jake overheard the charge from behind him, turned around, and quickly jabbed the Republic soldier like a boxing bag, knocking him down to the floor. "It's rather funny how you call these bars cantinas while Brits call them Pubs and now we're fighting against Space Brits who call you Pubs." He humously declared to his fallen opponent while placing a knee against his chest and the Pub frantically attempted to strike at Jake yet the Marine calmly held his hands.

Another Corellian down on the floor spanned around and tackled Kowalski to the ground yet the Polish-American from Portage Park, Chicago managed to strike the off-duty soldier in the ground, to which his opponent moaned in agony and the American struck his face, forcing the Pub to get off of him and groan.

The barroom brawl, however, attracted the attention of the Provost Marshal as well as a few Jedi, resulting in them intervening.

"What in the Nine Corellian Hells is going on here?!" A familiar voice shouted when the Military Policemen from the Republic Navy, the United States Army, and even the West German Bundeswehr rushed in to break up the scuffle between the All-American amphibious warfare branch - Uncle Sam's Misguided Children - and the Republic Army unit composed mostly of Corellians.

'Ah, great. It's Mister Monk himself.' Jake groaned internally. "Good evening, Casavir, it sure has been awhile. Would you like to sit down, have a drink, and catch up?"

"Very funny." The Jedi Master was not amused by the witty Hoosier one bit. "I don't think that there's going to be any more drinks served here tonight."

"Just what I figured." Jake chuckled nervously. 'It seems that Sara neglected to mention something about Corellians when she posed as one.'

---

Casivir Therin - Battlemaster of the Jedi Order / Hero of Tython

Room Number 777 - Equinox Apartments, Senate District, Galactic City, Coruscant, Coruscant System, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"

09:06:16 ATC/Saturday, September 6th, 1969 - 07:45/7:45 AM

"Sometimes I wonder if Jake is going to be the end of me the next time I run into him," Cas grumbled, pondering over the previous evening's events. "Not because he's necessarily a bad person, but maybe staying away from him is for the best."

Despite his concerns, Cas felt a degree of ambivalence towards the Marine from Central Indiana he had come to know. He marveled at Jake's imperturbable nature, given the man had endured and subdued semi-frequent riots in the aftermath of the Vietnam War, an occurrence that would test the resolve of many, and then there was the matter involving his then girlfriend that was undoubtedly a gut punch for him. 'If only we've met under better circumstances.'

"It might be a good idea to keep your distance." Kira interjected. "On a different note, will you be heading to the U.S.O. Show tonight at Fort Duqua Dar?"

"We can certainly consider it, but I suspect it's primarily intended for the Americans." Cas replied. "Besides, I doubt we could get our hands on tickets so easily."

"We could try sneaking in." His wife suggested, a mischievous gleam in her eye.

But Cas couldn't help but roll his eyes. "Kira, I don't think that's the wisest course of action. After last night, I'm not particularly eager to bump into Jake again."

"Fair enough." Kira sighed. "I'll go by myself and see if I can secure you an autograph from John Wayne. I'm genuinely curious to see him in person."

---

Rebecca Davis (nèe Cameron) Meyer

Meyer Farmhouse - Acton, Franklin Township, Marion County, Indiana, United States of America, North America, Earth, Sol System, Milky Way Galaxy

09:06:16 ATC/Saturday, September 6th, 1969 - 07:45/7:45 AM

With a mug of coffee in her left hand due to retrieving the three papers, Rebecca waved at the passing newspaper boy who threw the latest editions of National Review and the Indianapolis News as well as the weekly community newspaper The Southside Times and the Informer by the Franklin Township Civic League to the porch of the farmhouse.

Glancing at the headlines of The Southside Times, she couldn't help but feel some pride:

Three Franklin Township Natives Hold the Line, One Nominated To Be A Medal of Honor Recipient

On Tuesday, February 10th, 1969, in three separate engagements, three of our own held on against the odds when faced against the Sith Empire and their allies.

During the Battle of Crondre, Henry A. Davis, a Private First Class in Foxtrot Company, Third Battalion of the Seventeenth U.S. Infantry Regiment under the United States Army's Seventh Infantry Division and his detachment were faced with a mixed force of Imperial Commandos and Mandalorian Warriors.

During the skirmish, his M79 Grenade Launcher was shot from him and due to the damage, he retrieved an M14 Rifle with an M76 grenade laucher attached to the bayonet lug and Davis used M31 HEAT rifle grenades against three encroaching Mandalorians, killing them outright before calmly mowing down the enemy with deliberate aimed rifle fire in the tradition of marksmanship as taught by the United States Army and even making use of the bayonet.

His superior officer, who was killed in this action by a Mandalorian, Second Lieutenant Damian F. Watson of Brusett in Garfield County, Montana used his example to rally the platoon and led a countercharge, the five remaining warriors fought to the last, their armor were either punctured by M118 Match ammunition or cracked open after the rifle grenades impacted the breastplate. In the aftermath of this confrontation seven surviving Imperials were captured as prisoner-of-war while all of the Mandalorians were killed.

While Private Davis was initially destined to be awarded with the Silver Star, it was upgraded to the prestigious Medal of Honor after a review.

For his heroic actions at great hazard and personal risk, for his conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of life above and beyond the call of duty, Private First Class Davis is expected to receive the Medal of Honor to be personally presented by the President of the United States himself.

Rebecca felt a swell of pride as she read about the heroic deeds of the local boys and while thewar against the Sith Empire was likely to be a long and bitter one, with brave men like Henry, James, Josh, her brother, most of her brother-in-laws, her husband, and two of her stepsons fighting on the front lines, she had faith that the Allies would ultimately prevail. She unfolded the rest of the newspaper to see what other local stories were making headlines that day.

---

Captain Paul Baltasar Meyer - D/ Delta Company, Second Battalion, 324th Infantry Regiment, 82nd Airborne Division, XVIII Airborne Corps, United States Army

Fort Duqua Dar - Quadrant G-19, Coruscant, Coruscant System, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"

09:06:16 ATC/Saturday, September 6th, 1969 - 07:45/7:45 AM

"Well, what you know." Paul chuckled as he read the latest publication of Stars & Stripes. "Henry Davis, the boy who wasn't great at basketball, is recommended for the Medal of Honor."

"It's probably a good thing you requisitioned pallets of M118 and trained the company to a high standard of marksmanship, sir."

"Which is why we're going to survive and win this war by outshooting the enemy who wears fatigues and armor that contrasts nicely against the terrain." Paul simpered.

"Say, didn't you also attempt to have some soldiers with experience in DCM competitions transferred to this outfit as well?" First Sergeant Kevin Becker smirked 'innocently'. "Even brazenly attempting to pluck those on the United States Army's Marksmanship Unit roster?"

"I sure did and I won't deny it, Top." Meyer acknowledged as his simper metamorphosed into an unapologetic grin. "Every trooper under my command will be expected to shoot accurately out to six hundred yards with their rifles at minimum or they'll be transferred and I know you and the other Staff NCOs have done one thousand yard matches, whether with the service rifle, in the Any Rifle/Any Sight matches, or even Palma Rifle."

"You could've waited until Yulant to be honest."

"In my defense, if I had known that there's going to be a restructuring taking shape, I wouldn't have done this at all but at least we have a head start and it isn't like we can do rifle practice actually out to one thousand yards currently anyway due to space limitations and no backstop for it." Paul reasoned to the First Shirt. "The best we can do is use targets scaled down to size to represent one thousand yards and we can even shoot targets at two hundred yards with the twenty-two rimfires we have while saving the service rounds for later since the effects of the wind on that puny projectile is roughly equivalent to firing a Thirty Aught Six at thousand anyway but firing at the actual distance is better."

"Of course, sir, I don't disagree with the implementation at all." The Company First Sergeant smiled, knowing that it was actually advantageous to thin out the enemy ranks from beyond their effective range before they could retaliate with their own small arms, not to mention the obvious benefit of dispatching Sith before they could dismember limbs. "I'll keep this hoarding matter between us but I have to say I have to pity the Space Brits."

Kevin recalled that a rifleman with the M14 could deliver at least thirty aimed shots per minute, which was more destructive and demoralizing to the enemy than the spray type of fire of submachine guns, to say nothing of the waste of ammunition with little gain in return regarding the burp guns, and aimed fire was far more effective in terms of hits than hard-to-control full-auto bullet spraying and he thought of a popular quote from Merritt Austin 'Red Mike' Edson, Senior, the late Marine Corps General, the late First Commissioner of the Vermont State Police, and the late former president of the American and not British National Rifle Association from 1949 - 1950: 'One hundred rounds do not constitute fire power. One hit constitutes fire power.'

It was no wonder that the United States Rifle, Caliber 7.62, M14 was being described as a super weapon by the holonet media and part of the restructuring on Yulant was making the varying individual standards of rifle marksmanship among the member-nations of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization be more coherent and Becker personally was just beyond elated that the fine marksmanship tradition was not only making a complete comeback but evidently was here to stay and the shortsighted foolhardiness of trying to field the Stoner rifle was rightfully condemned for all eternity, the poodle-shooting jam-o-matic would have only just be giving the advantages away, nevermind the poor performance against the armor of the enemy as the Israeli commando team at Kuat unfortunately learned and it was no surprise really as the best way to reliably pierce body armor ballistically was to have a large caliber, high velocity projectile, preferably those with excellent Ballistic Coefficients and sectional density in addition to velocity.

Why 'armchair generals' who knew diddly-squat about firearms, ballistics, and military tactics even believed it would have been useful even if to the contrary it was in fact useless circumstantially was something he never understood yet the NCO enjoyed how in the end those few sensational articles attempting to promote that pea-shooter were recanted and the authors of those editorials quickly realized that perhaps the nature of the conflict made the M14 the weapon needed, not the supposed 'Space Age' black plastic Mattel with kinks that still needed to be worked out but in the end would never be utilized in any fashion at all and Becker believed that those who even after the discreditation still continue to advocate for introducing the counterproductive weapon should be imprisoned in the Stockade - Brig in Naval speak - for the crime of aiding and abetting the enemy as well as hindering the war effort through sabotage or better yet taken for a psychological evaluation and placed in an asylum.

On second thought, it was a capital offense to commit sabotage for the enemy anyway - also known as treason - and Kevin certainly would be among those to volunteer to be on the firing squad, armed with an M14 of course and requiring only one cartridge, something that was fittingly ironic but then again who would in their right mind still support the concept after the whole debate was settled and after Armalite closed up shop, shuttered their doors, and became defunct?

"They might as well paint bullseyes to make our task easier." The mustang officer snickered. "By the way, are you heading to the U.S.O. Show tonight? John Wayne and Steve McQueen will be there in-person and believe it or not, McQueen was born in Beech Grove, only eleven miles away from Acton."

"I wouldn't miss it for the world."

---

Lance Corporal Jake Gregory Meyer - Fireteam Alpha, Second Squad, First Platoon, C/Charlie Company, Second Raider Battalion "Carlson's Raiders", Second Raider Regiment, Second Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force, United States Marine Corps

Fort Duqua Dar - Quadrant G-19, Coruscant, Coruscant System, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"

09:06:16 ATC/Saturday, September 6th, 1969 - 16:33/4:33 PM

Jake and his fireteam along with the rest of Charlie Company, Second Raider Battalion of the Second Marine Raider Regiment were in the midst of doing calisthenics in their olive drab PT uniforms when Sullivan noticed two officers arriving.

"Officers on deck! Attention!"

"Why aren't the men saluting?" The Republic officer wondered, theorizing for a moment that the arrival of celebrities got them lax but it was clarified that it was for another reason entirely.

"Marines don't salute when uncovered or indoors, sir." Major General Samuel Blair Griffith II explained. "We're not the United States Army."

"Most peculiar." General Ros Stanton mused. "I never heard of any formation who doesn't conduct a hand salute in some fashion upon spotting an officer."

"We're United States Marines." Griffith chuckled before glancing at the subordinates, more like glaring and he was beyond disappointed at those who otherwise were regarded as model Devil Dogs, most of whom didn't have even an Article 15 in their service record - three out of four of these men were just spotless and never had any disciplinary action taken against them with Marine Corps Good Conduct Medals, a decoration awarded to Marines who have served honorably and faithfully for three years, to prove it - and while the anger at having the Corps be besmirched by Correlians was understandable, it still didn't excuse their actions whatsoever even if what transpired was an inadvertent misunderstanding that got out-of-control. "It has come to my attention that some of you were involved in a barroom brawl against a Republic unit of mostly Corellians last night." The senior Marine Corps officer mentioned to the men. "Now while the matter was the result of another coincidence and a cultural misunderstanding, Besh Company of the Republic Army's Two Seventy-Fifth Infantry shouldn't have lash out and act unprofessional, you are still representatives of the Corps - the Marine Corps! - and having a late night scuffle reflects poorly on our beloved Corps."

There were no murmurings, just men standing at attention silently taking it in as they knew that repercussions and a reprimand was inemiant and they had to take responsibility for their action.

"Personally I would be sending the culprits straight to the Brig and have them transferred out of the unit but our friends interceded on your behalf. Next week you will be facing Besh Company as OpFor in a field exercise to blow off steam. That is all, gentlemen."

---

Major General Samuel Blair Griffith II- Commanding Officer of the Marine Raiders, United States Marine Corps

Fort Duqua Dar - Quadrant G-19, Coruscant, Coruscant System, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"

09:06:16 ATC/Saturday, September 6th, 1969 - 16:40/4:40 PM

After the lecture, Griffith watched the men immediately go back to their calisthenics that they were doing before and nodded approvingly before walking out with his current companion.

"So, what else should I know about the United States Marine Corps, Sam?" Ros inquired.

"It might be easier to lend you a book on the history of the Corps but what I will say is that you'll find us to be not exactly like your definition of marines at all despite sharing similar roots." Griffith asserted as instead of being purely a boarding or counter-boarding force the United States Marine Corps was an expeditionary force in readiness and per 10 U.S. Code §§5013:

(a) The Marine Corps, within the Department of the Navy, shall be so organized as to include not less than three combat divisions and three air wings, and such other land combat, aviation, and other services as may be organic therein. The Marine Corps shall be organized, trained, and equipped to provide fleet marine forces of combined arms, together with supporting air components, for service with the fleet in the seizure or defense of advanced naval bases and for the conduct of such land operations as may be essential to the prosecution of a naval campaign. In addition, the Marine Corps shall provide detachments and organizations for service on armed vessels of the Navy, shall provide security detachments for the protection of naval property at naval stations and bases, and shall perform such other duties as the President may direct. However, these additional duties may not detract from or interfere with the operations for which the Marine Corps is primarily organized.

(b) The Marine Corps shall develop, in coordination with the Army and the Air Force, those phases of amphibious operations that pertain to the tactics, technique, and equipment used by landing forces.

(c) The Marine Corps is responsible, in accordance with integrated joint mobilization plans, for the expansion of peacetime components of the Marine Corps to meet the needs of war.

---

Lance Corporal Jake Gregory Meyer - Fireteam Alpha, Second Squad, First Platoon, C/Charlie Company, Second Raider Battalion "Carlson's Raiders", Second Raider Regiment, Second Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force, United States Marine Corps

Fort Duqua Dar - Quadrant G-19, Coruscant, Coruscant System, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"

09:06:16 ATC/Saturday, September 6th, 1969 - 16:40/4:40 PM

"A exercise to blow off steam?" Kolwaski muttered. "Seriously? When we didn't even provoke them? How in the hell were we supposed to know that wearing bloodstripes such as mine is eligible to have Corellians murder any Marine Corporal to even the Commandant himself for wearing them, apparently with no repercussions? And don't get me started on the formal dress trousers of the United States Army with the yellow stripes or the service stripes!"

"Space Monks, Space Samurai, Space Nazis, Space Mobsters, Space Pirates, Space Hippies, and after last night I think we still haven't learned everything yet." Jake analyzed but he and everyone in the room knew that unlike the bloodstripes, the service stripes were not located on the trousers but instead on the lower part of the sleeves, specifically the cuffs with each stripe denoting four years of service as a Marine, it was just that Junior was understandably wrapping his head around this tidbit, they all were.

"That little scuffle certainly showed it." Marvin grumbled. "It turns out that we're a blight on Corellian culture."

"Wait a minute." Kolwaski turned to confront his frenemy and inquired after realizing something. "Jake? Didn't a certain spy and a certain former girlfriend of yours lied to you by pretending to be from Corellia?"

"She did, Junior." Jake muttered. "And I thought about it but the only mention that I can think of was her commenting about how handsome I looked in my dress blues and wondering why I didn't have stripes on them one day. Maybe that should have been my first warning sign yet then again she was the one who was informing me about her supposed birthplace and home."

"Well, I'm sure that was awkward then." Ledoux mentioned with sympathy.

"No need to gloat about it, guys, I know, I know. Sara certainly didn't mention anything that could have deescalated that situation if possible before it resulted in blows."

"Speaking of blows, does anyone still feel satisfied with the Hard Hat Riots against those bead and sandals cladded long-haired freaks?" Milius mentioned with satisfying snickering.

"I think some bandsmen of an Orchestra who once played with Glenn Miller were playing at the time of the bashing in Boston or so the rumor goes." The Cuban-born American, Private First Class Eduardo Hernandez, snickered. "Either way, the AFL-CIO made the right call in having a nationwide counterprotest."

"That would've been the sight to see." Jake chuckled. "Quincy's Uncle was caught up in it and those Hippies learned not to mess with Patriots like him from Hell's Kitchen."

"And let us not forget about the New York City firemen who were present using the hoses from their engines as they were having lunch nearby at the time." Marv added.

"Those flower children sorely were in need of watering in New York City, Boston, Chicago, Cleveland, Saint Louis, Indianapolis, San Diego, and San Francisco. Oh and Jackie Robinson was forced to use his bat, Howard Hughes had golf clubs being handed to him by his valet, Elmer Keith and Jack O'Connor both fire off warning shots...say, Jake, didn't you arrest John Lennon who was outside the Navy Yard in Philly two years ago singing 'Give Peace A Chance' during the demonstration that became violent with bottles and rocks hurled?"

"I sure did along with three other MPs manhandling him and I never expected arresting that foreign instigator on three separate occasions but I'm just glad that sour note, Lemon - or Lenin if you prefer - was deported and declared persona non grata by the State Department." Jake smirked. "The Democratic National Convention in Chicago was something else as well and while I wasn't there two weeks later, there was that incident with the space slug in the Big Apple, a literal mob war."

"Besides space mobsters, I still can't believe that Zeltrons and Chandrillaians are the closest thing to Hippies that exist here."

"You can say that again." Jake groaned. "There's too many coincidences that it's not even funny anymore!"

"By the way, would anyone want to listen to 'The Fightin' Side of Me' by Merle Haggard or Pat Boone's 'Wish You Were Here, Buddy' ?" Chris asked. "I could even sing something on my guitar if you would rather listen to an actual voice."

"Why not. We all hate Hippies and they both are instant classics." Jake smirked yet couldn't help but with country music in mind he realized that he and possibly the others had forgotten about the schedule. "Shit."

"What?"

"We're missing the USO Show and Dinner with John Wayne, Steve McQueen, Jerry Reed, Pat Boone, and more!" Jake realized.

"Ah hell!" Milus cursed.

The six other Marines glanced at each other before rummaging to grab their wallets and tickets before hurrying exiting the room, noticing that everyone else had already departed for the USO Show without them.

---

John Winston Ono Lennon - Former Beatles musician, founder of The Plastic Ono Band , and leader of the Plastic Ono Commune

Chandrila, Chandrila System, Bormea Sector, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"

09:06:16 ATC/Saturday, September 6th, 1969 - 16:40/4:40 PM

"It's a shame we'll never be welcomed anywhere on Earth ever again." One of the Flower Children who snuck away from being drafted into one of the national armies lamented. "If we went to France and seeked asylum there for example, we'd immediately be shipped off to the desert and be trained as Foreign Legionnaires. Every country is drafting every and all available manpower and placing the conscripts in uniform and issuing them a rifle or even a medical kit if the Pacifism excuse is even accepted by the Draft Boards but they're hardly granted from what I heard. I don't want to kill any Space Brits who are misunderstood and the Sith are probably not the bloodthirsty monsters people make them out to be."

"Don't fret about it man, Big Brother will never draft us against our will nor put any guns into our hands now." A fellow former American reassured him.

"I survived the Hard Hat Riots in Pittsburgh and was bruised up by those union men fresh from their shift at one of the local steel mills and their union bosses as well as the factory owners encouraged our pummeling despite usually not getting along but man, as much as I hate to say it, they were right: You must either love America, love it or leave it on one of the planes or ships leaving everyday."

"And I still can't believe that Bobby Seale shot at Bob Dylan!" A third doped up on pot added, an occurrence that hit the already disgruntled counterculture movement like a shockwave. "I heard a rumor that it was something to do with underage girls but, man, the Black Panthers became unexpected allies of the right and were no better than the Klan!"

"It's good that you still believe in the spirit of the movement Marty. Peace should have a chance." The notorious former musician for The Beatles turned activist smiled, ignoring the comments about Dylan as it was too much to bear and it also made Lennon wonder if he could be gunned down for his beliefs. "While there was a Marine with the surname of Meyer who believed that not only was I a 'Lemon' who 'sung sour notes' but also naive, foolish, ignorant, idealistic, idiotic, a knucklehead, a Bagalut, a Döösbaddel, a Bobo, Walang hiya ka, an outright imbecile who only spoke Communist drivel, the last true Redcoat as part of a British Invasion to take the independent Thirteen Colonies back for the Crown through the musical arts, and he even on a few occasions referred to me 'John Lenin' or 'Comrade Lenin' since I'm apparently the unofficial godson of Vladimir Lenin." Lennon groaned, the memories of being apprehended by Meyer not once, not twice, but thrice was too much to bear including the one chance encounter on the Jarhead's day off that caused the Hoosier to do a 'citizen's arrest' and Lennon certainly didn't expect him of all people to be at Benihana in the Big Apple with a friend on that day while Rocky - Hiroaki Aoki - was sheltering Lennon from yet another deportation because Lennon sincerely felt more at home in New York City than his native Liverpool and America also truly needed him. "Let's hope that our new home here is a utopia and becomes an enlightened example to the rest of the universe."

---

Joleen Mothma - Knight of the Jedi Order

Chandrila, Chandrila System, Bormea Sector, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"

09:06:16 ATC/Saturday, September 6th, 1969 - 16:49/4:49 PM

Knight Mothma smiled in the lobby as she approached the temporary lodgings for the refugees from Earth including this musician John Lennon and his wife Ono, her people, Chandrilans had been nothing but hospitable to the political exiles who have been casted out and shunned because of their beliefs, who yearned for only peace and even transcendence for those who adopted Buddhism.

"You're always welcome here on Chandrila as we believe in peace, love, and nature." Joleen smiled.

"Yeah, our values are similar to yours." Lennon smiled at the Chandrillian-born Jedi who aided in the 'Great Escape' from Earth.

The Republic security officers and soldiers did not prevent them from emigrating except for searching their possessions before letting them depart, deciding that turning any draft dodgers of military age to local authorities wasn't worth it but there was no place on Earth for the caravan to go due to every last nation being involved in the war.

Canada had a citizenship program where any military age man fleeing the U.S. must become Combat Engineers before gaining citizenship with similar programs occurring internationally and both France and Spain were placing anyone dodging conscription in their Foreign Legions.

There was no place to run except ironically to this very Galaxy and it was only by sheer luck they managed to get out as the Jedi was called in to explain her decision and the military personnel were being reprimanded by the chain-of-command with transfers expected.

Still, Joleen believed that the decision was justified as no one should fight against their will even if their civilization, their individual liberty was at stake as they would still die for what they felt was right. Bloodshed only resulted in further needless bloodshed and peace was always preferable to killing other beings. The Jedi had considered leaving the Order due to being pacifistic and believing in upholding peace herself, which was unfortunate due to the Order being by circumstances actively fighting in the war and she wanted no further part in it. The devolution from peacekeeping to becoming warriors was too much and her patience has finally run out.

Her transfer to the AgriCorps was denied and feeling that there was no other choice, Joleen submitted her resignation to the Jedi High Council, the approval or rejection of her request being considered but for the time being she was going to assist with the settling of these refugees who were persecuted for either not getting clean-shaved and an job before the war for the men but now being conscripted against their will or the pressurization and social expectations for the native human women.

"You can stay however long you need." Joleen declared."There will be a communal dinner welcoming you and the other refugees from other worlds at 18:14."

"On behalf of my friends, I would like to say thank you, Miss Monthma."

"It was no trouble as you are refugees fleeing inhospitablity. Not everyone in The Galaxy likes Chandrillaians either, finding our respect for nature and environmental beliefs overbearing."

"Groovy! We humbly appreciate the generosity." Lennon exclaimed. "Guys, I'll be singing 'Strawberry Fields Forever' to mark our newfound homes."

Let me take you down, 'cause I'm going to Strawberry Fields

Nothing is real and nothing to get hung about

Strawberry Fields forever

Living is easy with eyes closed

Misunderstanding all you see

It's getting hard to be someone but it all works out

It doesn't matter much to me

Let me take you down, cause I'm going to Strawberry Fields

Nothing is real and nothing to get hung about

Strawberry Fields forever

No one I think is in my tree

I mean it must be high or low

That is you can't you know tune in but it's all right

That is I think it's not too bad

Let me take you down, cause I'm going to Strawberry Fields

Nothing is real and nothing to get hung about

Strawberry Fields forever

Always know, sometimes think it's me

But you know, I know when it's a dream

I think a 'No', I mean a "Yes"

But it's all wrong

That is, I think I disagree

Let me take you down, cause I'm going to Strawberry Fields

Nothing is real and nothing to get hung about

Strawberry Fields forever

Strawberry Fields forever

Strawberry Fields forever

---

Hanna-Barbera Productions, Inc. - 3400 Cahuenga Boulevard West, Hollywood, Los Angeles, Los Angeles County, California

09:06:16 ATC/Saturday, September 6th, 1969 - 16:50 /4:50 PM

Despite the full schedule and desire to beat rush hour to return home, William Denby Hanna and Joseph Roland Barbera agreed to stay and listened to the proposal for a new cartoon series jointly conceived by employees Charles Kenneth 'Ken' Spears and Joseph Clemens 'Joe' Ruby with intrigue.

The co-created program and proposed cartoon planned to be entitled as 'Scooby-Doo, Where Are You!?' - a show that would depict a team of teenage sleuths and their dog traveling to solve crimes with the crooks masquerading as supernatural entities when they committed their crimes and while it was appealing to Hanna and Barbera as well as met Fred Silverman's criteria, the two veteran cartoonists recognized a serious flaw in regards to pitching the concept to Silverman and the board, something that would kill it outright before it could even air given the current climate.

"Look, I like the concept, Ken, I really do, but we need to make some changes to this proposed program." William advised. "That Hippie needs to be changed, he has to appear more conventional - clean-shavened with a fedora, the whole nine yards - or be edited out entirely, the character can't be included as is since he's obviously a flower child."

"Shaggy is not a Hippie but a Beatnik." Ken corrected.

"Alright, you have a fair point, Ken, and those formerly obscure beatniks somehow evolved into be widespread hippies but to be fair that painted Volkswagen you call 'The Mystery Machine' threw us off." Barbera reasoned. "It's just that recent events made anything to do with Hippies unmarketable and Silverman would immediately reject this as a result if you were pitching it to him today."

"I will get on it, sir." Ruby understood. "Maybe we could change his appearance to be more of a typical clean-shaven student in contrast to the Ivy Leaguers Fred and Daphne, say we could have him be an average teenager with a large appetite who attended a public high school while Fred and Daphne attended some preparatory school, we can also change Shaggy's name to Norville Rogers as that's what would be his Christian name anyways -"

"Hold on. You said his name is 'Norville Rogers'? Norville? Why Norville?"

"Umm...Because that's why the character prefers to be called Shaggy as part of his backstory but since it is being changed...How about Charles Rogers?"

"Charles Rogers? I like it. Now that only leaves the...Great Dane was it?"

"The talking dog is supposed to be a Great Dane." Joe verified.

Hanna snapped his fingers when a thought of salvation occurred. "Charles 'Charlie' Rogers and Scotty-Doo?"

"Hmmm...It could work." Ken figured. "Scotty-Doo, Where Are You? Wait, wouldn't that infringe on 'Star Trek' though?"

"You're right…" Hanna pondered before another thought occurred. "Perhaps we could name his faithful companion Cooper-Doo or Cooper for short instead of Scoobert-Doo or Scooby?" Yet then Hanna retracted it in favor of something obvious. "Actually, on second thought, Joe, since it would partly be your legacy anyway if this pans out, we could have the name be Joey-Doo or Joey instead. Of course if we change that dog's name to Joey he will still be that talking Great Dane that you and Ken envisioned instead of a Kangaroo but the only other change I can think of, besides having that Hippie, Beatnik, whatever be someone more mainstream and unmistakably proud to be an American is that their vehicle be more like a proper business van for Mystery Incorporated because this is a corporation we're talking about here, why would these characters who appear as if they're heading to Wall Street to join some sit-in even have 'Incorporated' on their van anyway?"

"We'll get right on it, sir." Joe sighed, loathing that he and Ken alike had to make such adjustments but they had no choice in the matter if this show, this potential hit, was to premiere on television. 'Joey-Dooby-Doo, where are you? We got some work to do now...Hanna definitely has a legitimate point about Shaggy and his Bohemian character but even with the revision at least the theme song will have the same ring to it.'

---

Fort Duqua Dar - Quadrant G-19, Coruscant, Coruscant System, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"

09:06:16 ATC/Saturday, September 6th, 1969 - 17:00/5:00 PM

"You don't need to see our tickets." Kira smirked, waving her wrist to do the mind trick. "You'll let us through."

"I don't need to see your tickets." The Duros contractor manning the booth for the R area where after being rented out the USO Show was being held tonight acknowledged. "I'll let you through."

"Hold on, where's your tickets, sir? Ma'am?"

"Uh oh." Cas spotted two Shore Patrolmen of the United States Navy approaching, their white helmets and armband with 'SP' along with the blue uniform immediately helped the Jedi identify them as ordinary American sailors who were tasked with augmenting the Master-at-Arms as auxiliaries in keeping order.

"We recognize that stunt, Jedi, and know you're trying to sneak in like some kid who didn't pay to see a hit film playing at the local motion picture theater."

"Now what's the trouble here?"

While the Jedi only know of his appearance from posters, the voice was that of Steve McQueen with John Wayne close behind.

"We forgot our tickets." Carsen fibbed to McQueen.

"Well, unfortunately you won't be able to attend."

"Hurry up, will you!?" A Coast Guardsman shouted out of irritation and impatience at the hold up. "We're going to miss out seeing Jerry Reed!"

"And Johnny Cash!" An Air Force Airman grumpily added.

"Two friends of ours gave them to us as they didn't want to attend due to not being fans of country music."

"I see. Well, I guess we can make an exception to two Jedi we heard about." Wayne justified. "Let them through and I hope you enjoy the steaks, onion soup, and show." The Western actor then realized something. "Aw, shucks, I forgot the index cards."

"Hey, that's right, more like we both forgot the cards!" McQueen uttered. "Enjoy the show and dinner you two!"

"You really wanted to see the show, didn't you?"

"I won't deny it." Kira smirked, causing Cas to groan.

---

Lance Corporal Jake Gregory Meyer - Fireteam Alpha, Second Squad, First Platoon, C/Charlie Company, Second Raider Battalion "Carlson's Raiders", Second Raider Regiment, Second Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force, United States Marine Corps

Fort Duqua Dar - Quadrant G-19, Coruscant, Coruscant System, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"

09:06:16 ATC/Saturday, September 6th, 1969 - 17:15/5:15 PM

Turning around the corner, Jake didn't notice that two individuals were walking in the lobby and the Marine's eyes widened like a deer caught in headlights as he realized that he accidentally knocked into the two main stars hosting the concert.

"I'm sorry Mister Wayne, Mister McQueen."

"It's quite alright, son. Where are you from?" The Duke pried, chuckling.

"Acton, Indiana, eleven miles away from Beech-"

"Beech Grove." McQueen finished, chuckling as well, especially as it turned out this serviceman hailed from a locality literally near the actor's birthplace. "What a small world."

"Here, allow me to help pick up the index cards." Jake offered as he knelt down and assisted the two hosts of the inemiant USO Show.

---

John "Duke" Wayne / Marion Robert (Michael) Morrison - Revered Western Film Star

United Service Organizations concert - Fort Duqua Dar, Quadrant G-19, Coruscant, Coruscant System, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"

09:06:16 ATC/Saturday, September 6th, 1969 - 17:30/5:30 PM

"Now howdy everyone. I'm sure everyone attending here tonight recognizes my friend and I." Wayne began. "If not, well… you should."

The American servicemen of the United States Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard who made up the audience laughed while Steve McQueen took over the microphone and continued with the introduction.

"What my compatriot geared up for the O.K. Corral standing next to me here - unlike the comfortable bomber jacket of yours truly - meant that you must have been primitives living underneath a rock and be neighbors with the Flintstones to not be aware of us or Marlene Dietrich."

"Don't you mean Maureen O'Hara, Steve?"

"Haven't you read the papers with the rumors about her and Marylin Monroe, John, or are they too primitive compared to those finicky datapads we heard so much about? Actually, come to think of it, the latter rumors involve John Kennedy, not John Wayne, my bad."

"Well, I'm certainly no Jack Kennedy. The last time I glanced at the mirror, I appeared to be more down to earth than someone who went to Harvard. Or was that Bobby?"

"I'm pretty sure it was Bobby but either way, at least we all know who's who."

The laughter became a roar and the attendees were applauding at the creativity by the two actors who were not professional comedians in any way.

"Now before we begin, we would like to begin with a prayer to remember those who paid the ultimate sacrifice in the name of Freedom and recognition of friends, family, men we have all looked up to and passed on while serving as an American soldier, sailor, airman, or Marine."

"Remove covers!"

The American servicemen immediately took off their hats and bowed to observe the prayer which was led by John Wayne.

"Oh Almighty Father who is in heaven, gathered before you here today are men in uniform who took the step to enlist or were called up in the service of their country during her urgent hour and today is a day where they, our guardians, and we, the American people, recognize and remember the sacrifices of not only the ones currently standing against those who tread on the liberties granted to us by you, Oh Lord, but also those of the generations past and those of the future generations in addition to ones present here before you and at other fronts of this conflict, one where it is not on Earth but across the stars. We are hoping that this war that has gone on for so long and we only recently got involved in due to circumstances will cease. Amen."

"Amen!"

"God bless you, gentlemen. Now first up is Pat Boone."

Wayne gave way and shook Boone's hand before he took over the microphone.

"Hello, fellas. I'm sure that you've enjoyed listening to this tune and wished certain friends of yours didn't neglect their contribution when they conveniently claimed to be following their conscience after being called upon by Uncle Sam." The folk guitarist smiled, earning chuckles. "Yes, I'll be starting off with 'Wish You Were Here, Buddy' as everyone should be pulling their weight and we don't need slackers."

Well, hi there, buddy

Thought I'd drop you a line

I haven't seen you

For a hundred years

When you get time

Will you let me know

If it's true what a fella hears

Heard you been leading

Those campus demonstrations

You're as busy as you can be

If the sit downs, walk outs

And others aggravate you

Bet you hardly ever think of me

Well, I'm on a little

Vacation in South Vietnam

And expense paid trip for one

I got my own little rifle

And a great uniform

And a job that must be done

Well, we're sleeping in the jungle

And ducking real bullets

And man, it's a lot of fun

Wish you were here

(Wish you were here)

Wish you were here

(Wish you were here)

I heard you let your hair grow

Til it's hanging on your shoulders

And you hardly have time to shave

Bet the girls all flip

Cause you look so fine like

Something crawled out of a cave

Heard Uncle Sam

Nearly scared you to death

But you fooled him just in time

Just stuck a little match

To your old draft card

And you burned up

A future like mine

Well, I'm on a little

Vacation in South Vietnam

And expense paid trip for one

I got my own little rifle

And a great uniform

And a job that must be done

Well, we're sleeping in the jungle

And ducking real bullets

And man, it's a lot of fun

Wish you were here

(Wish you were here)

Wish you were here

(Wish you were here)

Oh, I know you're not scared

You're a real brave guy

You're a regular Cassius Clay

And I know woulda fought

When the country was young

But the world's just different today

Well, you just stay home

And leave the fighting to us

And when the whole

Darn mess is through

I'll put away my rifle

And the old uniform

And I'll come looking for you

Well, we're sleeping in the jungle

And ducking real bullets

And man, it's a lot of fun

Wish you were here

(Wish you were here)

Wish you were here

(Wish you were here)

Wish you were here, old pal

(Wish you were here)

Wish you were here

(Wish you were here)

Wish you were here, little buddy

(Wish you were here)

I wanna introduce

You to them Comms

(Wish you were here)

Come on over and we'll just

Hold em til you get here, okay

Wish you were here

---

United Service Organizations concert - Fort Duqua Dar, Quadrant G-19, Coruscant, Coruscant System, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"

09:06:16 ATC/Saturday, September 6th, 1969 - 19:45/7:45 PM

Cas watched Mel Tillis come out onto the stage and without missing a beat after an introduction, began playing 'Stateside'.

Well, the Japany's moon is bright tonight and Tokyo is full of life

Busy people everywhere but busy people just don't care

I wanna go stateside, oh Lord, I wanna go stateside

He was having something known as a 'Surf-n-Turf' which apparently had both a 'New York Strip' steak and Lobster for the main part of the dish with mashed potatoes and gravy as well as fried mushrooms on the side plus for him tomato soup instead of French Onion or the Potato and Cheese with Bacon. The root beer wasn't particularly appetizing and he didn't know why plopping scoops of Ice Cream into the drink was popular but now he regretted not getting a cream soda instead. Kira, on the other hand, while having the same main course as her husband, had the French Onion soup and a Cherry Coke as her chosen beverage, which apparently meant Coca-Cola that had flavored syrup mixed in, not off-the-counter and already included like the similar tasting zherry-flavored sodas in the Galaxy

"Are you enjoying the show?" Kira asked.

"It's...Interesting to say the least." Cas analyzed, not sure what to make of it quite yet. "Though wouldn't this make them homesick?"

"It's likely." Kira concurred. "But I suppose it also reminds them what they're fighting for."

In and out the honky tonks but nothing's there I really want

Sat a while and look around get up and leave and walk the town

I wanna go stateside, oh Lord, I wanna go stateside

The giashy girls don't understand the lonely life of a service man

When his heart is far away to a girl in the USA

I wanna go stateside, oh Lord, I wanna go stateside

I've heard say a man don't cry but I can't keep my blue eyes dry

I've been away about two years I know I've cried a million tears

I wanna go stateside, oh Lord, I wanna go stateside, oh Lord, I wanna go stateside...

---

Lance Corporal Jake Gregory Meyer - Fireteam Alpha, Second Squad, First Platoon, C/Charlie Company, Second Raider Battalion "Carlson's Raiders", Second Raider Regiment, Second Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force, United States Marine Corps

United Service Organizations concert - Fort Duqua Dar, Quadrant G-19, Coruscant, Coruscant System, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"

09:06:16 ATC/Saturday, September 6th, 1969 - 22:00/10:00 PM

We don't smoke marijuana in Muskogee;

We don't take our trips on LSD

We don't burn no draft cards down on Main Street;

We like livin' right, and bein' free.

Yes, sir

We don't make a party out of lovin';

We like holdin' hands and pitchin' woo;

We don't let our hair grow long and nasty and dirty,

Like the hippies out in San Francisco do.

"Everyone sing one time!"

I'm proud to be an Okie from Muskogee,

A place where even squares can have a ball.

Yes, sir

We still wave Old Glory down at the courthouse,

And white lightning's still the biggest thrill of all.

"Oh I'm proud to be an Okie from Muskogee." Jake with his can of Schiltz in the air and the other Americans in attendance sang along to 'Okie From Muskogee' by none other country singer Merle Haggard himself after performing 'The Fightin' Side of Me' . "A place where even squares can have a ball, yes sir! We still wave Old Glory down at the courthouse! And white lightning's still the biggest thrill of all!"

Leather boots are still in style for manly footwear;

Beads and Roman sandals won't be seen.

And football's still the roughest thing on campus,

And the kids, they still respect the college dean.

"Leather boots are still in style for manly footwear!

Beads and Roman sandals won't be seen!

And football's still the roughest thing on campus!

And the kids, they still respect the college dean!"

And I'm proud to be an Okie from Muskogee,

A place where even squares can have a ball.

And we still wave Old Glory down at the courthouse,

And white lightning's still the biggest thrill of all.

"And I'm proud to be an Okie from Muskogee! A place where even squares can have a ball, yes sir! We still wave Old Glory down at the courthouse! And white lightning's still the biggest thrill of all!"

We still wave Old Glory down at the courthouse,

In Muskogee, Oklahoma, USA.

"We still wave Old Glory down at the courthouse,

In Muskogee, Oklahoma, USA!"

"Well, that unfortunately concludes tonight's show, folks." Merle apologized. "There will be an showing tomorrow-"

Yet the bombastic crowd however demanded more, enjoying the show by the country musicians and the servicemen were gravely disappointed that it was ending for the evening.

"ENCORE, ENCORE!"

"COME ON, MERLE! LET'S HEAR 'SOME OF US NEVER LEARN'!"

"JIMMY SWEENY'S 'WHAT'CHA GONNA DO ABOUT ME'!"

"NO, WE WANT 'EASTBOUND AND DOWN' BY JERRY!"

"YEAH, STRUM UP THOSE CHORDS, JERRY!"

"'COUNTRY BOY', JOHNNY! FROM THE MAN IN BLACK, JOHNNY CASH!"

"ENCORE, ENCORE, ENCORE, ENCORE, ENCORE!"

"Alright, well, I suppose we could do one more show and one more show wouldn't hurt." The Duke determined as it became rather boisterous among the unsatisfied and disappointed audience. "We'll have our musicians draw straws and determine the finale among themselves, make it a surprise to you all."

---

United Service Organizations concert - Fort Duqua Dar, Quadrant G-19, Coruscant, Coruscant System, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"

09:06:16 ATC/Saturday, September 6th, 1969 - 22:15/10:15 PM

"Well, what we could do instead is have all of us sing one song." Jerry Reed proposed.

"Hmmm… That might resolve how we could placate the entire crowd by having all of us finish concurrently but the question is which one?" Johnny Cash wondered.

The lineup would combine the voices and chords of Johnny Cash and his brother Tommy who took leave from the Army to participate in the show, Jimmy Sweeny, Jerry Reed, Glen Campbell, Buck Owens, Freddie Hart, Mel Tillis, and Merle Haggard.

"Since Jerry suggested it, how about… 'Fightin for the U.S.A.' ?" The African-American singer who was unknown to many was both influential and a mentor to a certain Elvis Presley, Jimmy Sweeney threw out.

The eight country musicians grinned as they reached a concurrence.

---

United Service Organizations concert - Fort Duqua Dar, Quadrant G-19, Coruscant, Coruscant System, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"

09:06:16 ATC/Saturday, September 6th, 1969 - 23:00/11:00 PM

Jerry was the first to reappear on stage "We have decided to finish off with 'Fightin' For The U.S.A.' but with a twist. All of us will be taking turns singing the lyrics three times." Reed revealed to the audience. "Enjoy the show." Jerry strummed up the chord and began.

When Uncle Sam found that I wasn't married

He sent a letter saying son don't tarry

And make it down to your boat for induction

when you arrive you'll get further instruction

They said ya training outta do it so they put me right to it

And they sent me on an aeroplane

My destination Da Nang, Vietnam

Next were the two Cash brothers Johnny and Tommy.

Now I'm a fightin for the USA

Oh Glory and the USA

If you don't like it cause I'm over here in Vietnam

Well you can take your complaints to my Uncle Sam

I'm just a shooting my rifle like he taught me to do

Doing exactly what he wants me to

Well I'm U.S Soldier fighting for the USA

Then came Glen Campbell and Buck Owens.

I go crawling through the swamp and the marshes

Steppin on vegetables and squashes

Duckin bullets comin at me from the trees

Jumpin round knockin holes in my knees

Bullets flying right and left got my scared half to death

But I know the job has got to be done

and that's why they sent me over here to Vietnam

And on cue was Freddie Hart and Mel Tellis.

I got captured by the Viet Cong

And for a while I thought I was gonna get hung

But they just beat me on the nose

Kinda mashed all my toes

All the time a-yellin' 'Yankee Go Home'

Well they stretched me and squashed me

And tried to brainwash me

But I stuck up and snuck away

Then I popped up a fightin again for the USA

Followed by the one and only Jimmy Sweeney.

Now I'm a fightin for the USA

The Red White and Blue American Way

If you don't like it cause I'm over here in Vietnam

Well you can take your complaints to my Uncle Sam

I'm just a shooting this rifle like he taught me to do

And doing exactly what he wants me to

Cause I'm U.S Soldier fighting for the USA

Oh Glory in the USA

Oh Glory in the USA

Finally it was Merle Haggard who finished it off.

Would you believe I'm a Marine ha ha ha

Oh Glory in the USA

The Red White and Blue American Way

Oh Glory in the USA

Hmmmmmm

---

United Service Organizations concert - Fort Duqua Dar, Quadrant G-19, Coruscant, Coruscant System, Core Worlds, Republic Space, "The Galaxy"

09:06:16 ATC/Saturday, September 6th, 1969 - 23:15/11:15 PM

"Well, gentlemen, that concludes tonight's show!" Wayne declared from the microphone on the temporary stage. "Have a safe night, everyone!"

"Wow, that was awesome!" Jake laughed as the crowd began to disperse. "It's a shame it's over tonight though, even if I got autographs from and a picture with John Wayne and Steve McQueen."

"But there's tomorrow." Marv beamed. "God bless America."

"Say, Chris, have you ever thought about trying out a career as a musician?" Jake wondered. "You have a knack for it."

"Once or twice." The Wyomingite confirmed. "But this war needs to end first before I get into it or get back in the saddle and wrangle cattle. I was going to become a professional rodeo rider when war was declared."

"Well, one day I hope to see a rodeo again." Jake sighed as he remembered seeing authentic ones held in Wyoming.

"Didn't you mention something about having relatives in the Cowboy State?"

"Yep, I have three first cousins who were mostly raised in Sublette County." Jake said without mentioning that their maternal grandfather was a cattle and oil baron, Hector Vieker. "One of them, Colt, is actually with Fox Company, Twenty-Third Marines while Nash graduated from West Point last year but I honestly don't know what his assignment is in the Army."

"Huh? But wasn't Fox Company a pre-war reserve unit based out of Salt Lake City, Utah?"

"Well, when he got his slot it was the closest unit to home for him." Jake shrugged without mentioning that Colt was a commissioned officer and not an enlisted man but before he talked about Wyoming any further Jake noticed a familiar mug standing in front of him and the Jedi was not expecting to see him.

"Umm...Hello, Jake." Cas greeted awkwardly. "It sure was an...interesting night."

"Well, only less than a quarter of the songs played tonight were derisive against Hippies if that's what you mean by interesting."

"I know songs such as Mel Tillis's 'Your Kind of Living' , Pat Boone's 'Speedy Gonzalez' , Merle Haggard's 'Mama Tried' , and Jerry Reed's 'Soldier Joy' ." The Jedi listed off just some of the songs which were performed for the spectators this evening.

"I don't mind some Tennessee Ernie Ford myself but 'The Fightin' Side of Me' is a favorite of mine." Jake smirked as he quoted a line with a sing-song intonation. "They love our milk and honey, but they preach about some other way of livin', when they're runnin' down my country, hoss, they're walkin' on the fightin' side of me."

"We know that you seriously don't like Hippies." Kira deadpanned. "I hope you have a nice night, Jake."

"You too, Cas, Kira."

"Well, it sure was an experience, Cas, with all of the beer floating around and whatnot."

"It certainly was and it was rather rancorous as well."

---

That's right, it isn't just George Lucas and Gene Roddenberry who are in the Star Wars Galaxy but even John Wayne and Steve McQueen are present and they as well as the aforementioned musicians will be touring for a time!

Aside from using rimfire (i.e. .22 LR) rifles in the aforementioned manner there are a few other possible options if practical such as the MR-31 which is an actual 600 yard target reduced for 100 yards and is intended to be used with not small bore rimfire rifles but rather full bore centerfire rifles (which are rifles that fire, as a few examples, either 7.92x57mm Mauser, 7.62x51mm NATO, .308 Winchester, .30-06, or .303 British) but there are other such targets such as the simulated 200 and 300 yard targets including SR-1 and SR-21, I even found at least two different examples that supposed to represent long distances, namely a reduced range Palma Target that is a pseudo-800, 900, and 1000 yards and the Sighting Target for Cal. .30 M1 Rifle Using M72 Match Ammunition at 50 Yards with graduations at '200', '300', '500', '600', and '1,000' despite only shooting the target from fifty yards away.

Even so, ideally shooting at the actual distance would be far better due to a need to account for the effects of wind over 500 yards because as the range increases the possible drift of the bullet is not a matter of inches/centimeters but rather yards/meters. Currently the United States Army uses a 25 meter (27 yard) qualification target meant to simulate targets from 100 to 300 yards for the M16 and M4 family of rifles at locations where firing at the actual distance is impractical. Still, although good in theory, the reality is that it is easy to cheat as demonstrated by Henry of 9-Hole Reviews on YouTube as not only did he fire a perfect score and therefore would have qualified as Expert, he half-jokingly stated that according to the United States Army he should be able to use an MP5 at 300 meters which is quite of a bit of a stretch in reality due to the rainbow trajectory of 9x19 mm Parabellum because it was designed originally as a pistol cartridge. While the Artillery Luger does use the same ammunition as the MP5 and the sights of the Artillery Luger is calibrated out to eight hundred meters it's still optimistic compared to just using an actual proper rifle instead of a submachine gun or pistol caliber carbine.

And according to the information straight from the lore itself it's mentioned that Corellians are protective of their bloodstripes which is a prestigious decoration in the fictional civilization and to quote directly from the article on Wookieepedia here:

Some sources say that a Corellian was entitled to kill—without repercussions—any other Corellian or non-Corellian caught wearing them that hadn't earned them.

So it isn't entirely unreasonable in the slightest to portray a cultural misunderstanding and a coincidence that would have resulted in blows between United States Marines and Corellians but needless to say, for good and ill, there are plenty of 'coincidences' to choose from and mention or possibly depict.

Also, since it was mentioned in this chapter, I would like to point out that while admittedly boring the statute which covers the composition and functions of the United States Marine Corps is presently 10 US Code §8063 and it have been renumbered on a few occasions since the statute still in effect was written after the Korean War but from August 10, 1956 up until October 1st, 1986 it was originally §5013.

John Lennon, formerly of The Beatles, is of course no longer present on Earth and he's also not in the British Military either, instead Lennon claimed refugee status due to not wanting to be conscripted and handed a rifle, , the Counterculture was squashed to extinction and that was why John Lennon was forced to flee unless he wants to be issued a uniform, even a Soviet, Chinese, or North Korean uniform.

Speaking of the draft, before anyone decides to post any reviews on the matter, I would like to state for the record that in reality John Wayne was not a Draft Dodger at all. To the contrary, there is more than ample and credible evidence substantiating his irreproachability and Marion Robert Morrison did feel conscience-stricken at being unable to serve unlike his close friend James Maitland Stewart and of course his mentor the famous and legendary film director who brought Wayne to stardom John Ford:

As an indisputable matter of fact Wayne was actually once legally exempted from being drafted due to his age (He was 34 Years Old at the time of the Attack on Pearl Harbor) as well as his family status (classified as 3-A – family deferment). Wayne had repeatedly written to John Ford saying he wanted to enlist, on one occasion Wayne inquired if it was even possible for him to be assigned to John Ford's military unit and according to director John Ford's grandson Dan, not only did Wayne confided to him that he was willing to serve even as buck Private, sometime in 1943 John Wayne also had tried to get a commission in the Marine Corps yet when he was reclassified as 1-A (draft eligible) Wayne did not even attempt to appeal it.

However when Wayne became eligible for conscription Republic Studios was alarmed as the studio was emphatically resistant to losing him since Wayne at the time was their only A-list actor under contract. Herbert John Yates - the President of Republic Studios - threatened Wayne with a lawsuit if he walked away from his contract and Republic Pictures interfered in the Selective Service process, requesting further deferment for Wayne.

In addition to writing letters to Ford, reportedly there are records in the U.S. National Archives which indicate that Wayne also made an application to serve in the Office of Strategic Services (O.S.S.) - the literal precursor to and forerunner of the Central Intelligence Agency (C.I.A.) - and had actually been accepted within the U.S. Army's allotted billet to the O.S.S.

The Commander of the O.S.S., William Joseph Donovan - also known as 'Wild Bill', wrote Wayne a letter informing him of his acceptance into the Field Photographic Unit but the letter was delivered to the home of his estranged wife Josephine and she never told Wayne about it.

Wayne toured U.S. bases and hospitals in the South Pacific for three months in 1943 and 1944 with the U.S.O. and it was during this very trip that Wayne carried out a request from Donovan to assess whether General Douglas MacArthur - The Commander of the South West Pacific Area - or his staff were hindering the work of the O.S.S. Donovan later issued Wayne an OSS Certificate of Service to memorialize Wayne's contribution to the O.S.S. mission.

So the claims that John Wayne was somehow a Draft Dodger that has been popping up on the internet for the past few years are withholding the reasons behind it and not telling you the full story at all and Wayne was so guilt ridden even though it was no fault of his own circumstantially that he worked even harder to be a public champion of patriotism in order to compensate for the fact that he never served in the United States Armed Forces in any capacity during the Second World War and if anyone should rightfully be blamed here, if there was someone culpable for this case of draft dodging then it's the management of Republic Studios yet it was not only an instance of a studio interfering in the selective service process that resulted in Wayne not serving in uniform during World War Two but by fate a wrong address as well. Even so, saying that Wayne was somehow a yellow coward or a draft dodger is wrong because he was sincerely more than willing to do his part and had made more than one inquiry in order to do so.

If you are still skeptical or just would like to learn more, I encourage the readers to read actual published books, biographies on Wayne because as the saying goes: Don't believe everything on the internet.

And you might not believe it with the above in mind but as much as I sincerely didn't want to change Scooby-Doo here as Shaggy, his faithful talking Great Dane Scooby, and the Mystery Machine are part of the heart - even the soul - that made the franchise great but in all fairness this was a repercussion due to a failed Hippie Movement - even though Shaggy is technically a Beatnik that was more 1950s than a 1960s Hippie and yes I know it's confusing - it's very likely that it would be seen as problematic. Sure, Joey-Doo is cheesy but it was the best I could come up with because if I include a fictional episode of the alternate show in the story the allusion should rightfully match the actual cartoon as closely as possible if you get my drift but while on the subject I will go ahead and admit that I already have some fictional episodes of Jonny Quest in the works and not only that there will even be a scene showing a fictional episode of Hogan's Heroes, the 1966 Batman starring Adam West & Burt Ward, and more because I need to make sure that Star Trek - ugh, Star Trek in a Star Wars story - isn't the only one being shown and that reminds me since it's actually the next chapter anyway…

Nah, on second thought, I don't need to spoil anything about newfound fans of Lost in Space and Doctor Who on Coruscant…Whoops, I almost ruined the upcoming devious and comical surprise with sufficient mayhem to boot. :)

And I'm still sure you weren't expecting John Wayne, Steve McQueen, and both famous and obscure country musicians to appear or to have an ending that was inspired directly from an actual occurrence as uploaded in this video available on YouTube:

Glen Campbell, Johnny Cash, Buck Owens, Mel Tillis, Merle Haggard, Jerry Reed & Freddie Hart

/ watch ? v = dJ8QRjXochI

I can confirm that Glen Campbell, Johnny Cash, Buck Owens, Mel Tillis, Merle Haggard, Jerry Reed, and Freddie Hart were all awesome beyond belief when they sang together!

They are all country music legends in their own right but all lineup together?

It was a dream come true and to be honest, I thought I was drunk when I saw the title and watched it but it turned out I wasn't! :D

And while Jimmy Sweeney has faded into obscurity even though he did advise Elvis Presley, believe it or not there are some significant similarities between them as part of this despite being two different singers.

Case in point: Check out Jimmy Sweeney's song 'Sick, Sick, Sick' which as of the time of publication is available on YouTube uploaded by BenBop1965 and you can see, well more like hear what I mean. If any of you happen to enjoy listening to Elvis then Sweeney's 'Boogie Woogie Jockey' and 'What'cha Gonna Do About Me?' should be catchy tunes for you as well since Sweeney in my sincere opinion deserves more recognition than being an influence to Presley so hopefully you enjoy his inclusion and appearance alongside some more famous country musicians because it was the least I could do for someone who had unfortunately fallen into obscurity . :)

Admittedly I might have gone overboard with the lyrics here and I perfectly understand but at the sametime I think the oversaturation is justifiable given the setting and circumstances. Even so, you still have my word that I won't overdue it in future chapters as this was more of an outlier and was only done for the aforementioned reasons.

P.S. Did anyone notice that the legendary rodeo star and country singer Chris Ledoux made his appearance as well as screenwriter and film director John Milius?

Of course Arnold Schwarzenegger has already appeared in this tale and it was also mentioned that Sylvester Stallone has been conscripted into the French Foreign Legion and there will plenty more to come including Mark Hamill, Harrison Ford, and Billy Dee Williams, even a certain Julian Glover as well :)