Chapter 17

Kolten knew this day would come. He'd have to suffer through the first half of the day. It would be like losing her and her brave pilots all over again.

At least this time he had his parents by his side to support and comfort him. He had never seen this side of his father. All he ever saw growing up was a battle hardened shell of what used to be a man. It was nice to see him soften up a bit. His mother seemed to notice it too. She started acting twenty years younger again. So much life and energy.

Kolten let his words go in and then out the other ear. He was sure that the president made a decent speech. Everyone was in tears and clapping for him. The president then returned to his seat. His family sat next to Tara's family as a gesture. Tara's mom and dad were honored to experience that. Considering they were from the poor lower level slumps. This never happened. Never would the president and his wife associate themselves with the lower levels. However this was different. Tara was a hero who sacrificed herself for Elonis and potentially the whole galaxy.

Next, Admiral Thompson took the stage. He usually can be long winded at these types of events. He kept it short and sweet. Besides, he didn't really know her anyways. Might have seen her in passing or on the ship a few times.

Admiral Thompson appointed me to come speak. I walked up to the stage. Grabbed the microphone.

"Tara was the most beautiful woman I have ever laid eyes on. Not only was she beautiful one the outside. She had a heart of gold on the inside. I loved her. We were arranged to be married after we got home."

Damnit! more tears kept flowing. I can't do this speech. "Ladies and gentlemen. I'm terribly sorry. I'm still mourning the loss. In remembering of Squadron Leader Tara. Also remember the brave men who fought and died along side her. They all had wives, children and families too who are in mourning.

Then I dropped the microphone and went back to my parents.

Admiral Thompson stood there in shock.

The whole room was impressed.

Admiral Thompson spoke again.

CIT Kolten served under me during our venture on "The Space Hammer". He has provided wisdom and knowledge well beyond his years. He is a true leader like his father before him. Let us remember these fallen heroes for who they were. And not let their memories be forgotten. God bless."

Thank God it was over. Now to get ready for tomorrow's banquet.

Tomorrow did come. Father like son. We were both ironing our military best dress uniforms. Mother was curling her hair and doing he make up. She looked amazing. My dad wasn't shy about it either. He gave her the occasional wink, or flirty whistle.

As a family we stepped off the shuttle bus and onto the entrance to the banquet.

Admiral Thompson went all out. Who ever he hired to set this up did a phenomenal job. From the floral decorations on the tables, to the real crystal chandeliers. Even the wine glasses were fine crystal.

After all guests had arrived and the seats were filled. Admiral Thompson climbed on staged and tapped the microphone.

" The reason for this celebration tonight is to replace the old with the new. As well as an old with the new. Admiral David, and CIT Kolten. please come forward gentlemen."

I looked over at my dad. He nodded so we both got up and walked onto the stage.

Admiral Thompson spoke again. This time in a more cheerful tone. " My fellow people of Elonis. Tonight I'd like to announce my retirement. Forty years of service is long enough."

The crowd cheered and clapped for Admiral Thompson. He wasn't as distinguished as my father. However he served a hell of a lot longer. Forty years to my father's twenty five is a big jump.

"As I'm stepping into the next chapter of my life. I'd like to announce the new Admiral of "The Space Hammer" and of the fleet. Admiral Kolten. Admiral Kolten is a proven leader and a hero. Not to worry. He will be in good hands. His father Admiral David is stepping down into the roll of Camander and Advisor to Admiral Kolten. The fate of Elonis is safe with these two."

Ar first the crowd gasped in disbelief. Many people would to see my father in my shoes again. The son over the father though. It was unheard of. Admiral Thompson got of the stage and the president came up next.

"People of Elonis. If Admiral Thompson believes in this father and son duo. Then so do I. Let's give them our blessing and respect. Tomorrow they set off into the unknown of space. God bless!"

Then the whole crowd cheered and clapped again.

So it was official. I'm Admiral of this ship. With my father at my side we'll do amazing things.