| Author | Message | ||
     Craig Serrold |
"Every man has a breaking point." "These aren't men we're dealing with, Dad. Hell, we're not even sure if we've seen the base species yet." "So? You've beaten the odds before. Your captain is an leader with much experience and tenacity. Your colonel is one of the most battle-hardened men around. He's certainly not going to give up. Make me proud, Boy. I know you can. I know you will. Just don't give up." "Dad, this is a war of more than just battles. These Pfhor - they have a hold in hte hearts and minds of everyone around us. Hell, I think they're starting to get to me. These bastards have everyone afraid of 'em. They're evil in the purest sense." "Horse crap, Son! The purest evil is the fear in your heart. You've got to keep going. You're a Starfleet Marine, and I was never so proud of you as I was the day you graduated from flight school first in your class. You're one of the best of the best. Show those Pfhor bastards why that is." A toss of blond hair. A wry smile. A flash of white teeth and blue eyes. "You're right, Dad. As usual." "Son, I'm not a fighter - not in the traditional sense. But I do know that I've never quit. Your mother and brother are the same way. It's in your blood, Craig. You're a fighter. You won't give up. You can't give up. People are depending on you and your friends. Their survival. Their freedom. Their right to exist and make their own way in an inhospitable universe. But you already knew that. Didn't you?" "Yeah. Yeah, I did. But thanks for reminding me of how much is at stake. And of how much even one person can do." "It's what I do, kiddo. You should activate my program a little more often. I know I'm not really your dad. But I've got all his memories and knowledge. And I know that he'd be real proud of you for turning to him at a time like this." "Thanks. And... I'll try to get around here a little more often." "Good-bye, Son. Give 'em hell." "Computer, end program." Black walls. Yellow grid lines. A room empty save a single occupant. A deep silence. An engulfing despair. The birth of a new hope. "I love you, Dad. And I miss you." ==================== Christian D. Clem '01, aka "Aggie" 1st Lt. Craig Serrold, SFMC, 8th Recon Regiment Wing Leader, TFW-47 "Thunderbirds" U.S.S. Coronado NCC-97901 |