Little gift for you
Chapter 43: Shelburne Rescue
Aaron was home, finishing up dinner for his parents and Cathy. The aroma of grilled chicken with herbs filled the kitchen, and the light chatter in the background created a peaceful atmosphere. Cathy played with the family dog, while Elizabeth and Joseph set the table.
Suddenly, Aaron's phone vibrated on the counter. He glanced at the display and saw the number for command. He could feel the urgent tone before he even answered it.
"Rollins," he answered, his voice firm.
On the other end, the commander's voice sounded grave. "Lieutenant Commander Rollins, your team has been activated. We have an urgent mission. Tell your unit to report to the hangar in one hour."
Aaron pocketed his phone, took a deep breath, and looked at his family. "Mission. I have to go now."
Cathy, accustomed to these situations, sighed. "Can't you even eat dinner before you go?"
"Not this time, Cat," he replied, kissing her forehead and her mother's. "I promise to come back in one piece."
In the base's hangar, Bravo Team was already assembled, adjusting equipment and receiving briefings from the intelligence officer. Aaron arrived last, his calm demeanor contrasting with the tension of the moment.
The intelligence officer began to explain: "We have a critical problem. A CIA agent, codename Shelburne, has been captured by insurgents. We have confirmed that she is in a fortified compound north of Jalalabad."
Aaron listened intently, but one word in particular caught his attention: Shelburne. He couldn't help but associate it with the real name revealed in the briefing: Doris McGarrett. Aaron immediately remembered his conversations with Steve McGarrett, who believed his mother was dead.
"Wait a minute," Aaron interrupted. "Doris McGarrett? Is that her real name?"
The officer nodded. "Yes. She was declared dead to protect her identity. It's a complicated story, but that doesn't matter right now. What matters is getting her back."
Aaron took a deep breath, processing the information, but he knew he couldn't get distracted. "Understood. Let's focus on the mission."
Bravo Team quickly boarded a Black Hawk. Each member was focused, mentally reviewing their plans. The compound was heavily defended, and the risk of resistance was high.
Aaron, with his HK 416 rifle on his lap, was analyzing the target maps. "Bravo 2, I want you and Bravo 3 to cover the western side of the compound. Bravo 4 and 5, you'll be on the eastern perimeter. I'll lead the infiltration from the north with Bravo 6 and 7."
Everyone nodded, trusting completely in the leader who had guided them for years.
The night was dark, and the only sound was the helicopter blades disappearing into the distance. Bravo Team approached the compound in absolute silence, moving with precision and efficiency.
Aaron held up his hand, signaling for everyone to stop. He looked through his night-vision scope and spotted two armed sentries near the main gate.
"Bravo 4, do you have a clear shot?" he whispered into the radio.
"Confirmed, Bravo 1," came the reply.
"Neutralize," Aaron ordered.
Two muffled gunshots shattered the silence, and the sentries fell without alarm. The team moved forward, disabling the camera system with a hacking device Bravo 6 carried.
Inside the compound, the environment was cramped and dark. Aaron led the way, his rifle ready to fire at any moment. They moved through the hallways, moving quickly but cautiously.
When they reached the room where Shelburne was being held, Bravo 7 used an explosive charge to blow open the door. Inside, Doris McGarrett was handcuffed to a chair, visibly injured but conscious.
"Shelburne?" Aaron asked, entering the room.
She looked up and nodded. "Yes. You guys took your time."
"We're here now," Aaron replied, cutting the handcuffs with a tool. "Can you walk?"
"Yes, I can," Doris replied, struggling to her feet.
The team began the exfiltration, but as expected, the compound was on alert. The insurgents began to react, and gunfire echoed down the hallway.
"Bravo 2, cover!" Aaron shouted, firing at the enemy while Doris was protected by Bravo 6.
The team worked in perfect synchrony, eliminating the threats and maintaining formation. Aaron led the way expertly, guiding everyone to the extraction point.
"Bravo 1 to the chopper, we're on our way. Prepare for hot pick-up," he radioed.
When they reached the extraction site, the Black Hawk was already waiting. The team quickly boarded, with Aaron helping Doris climb in.
On the flight back, Doris looked at Aaron. "Thank you for picking me up. I know this wasn't in the plan."
Aaron just nodded. "It's our job. But I'll be honest, I know your son. He believes you're dead."
Doris looked away, clearly uncomfortable. "It's complicated. I did what was necessary to protect them."
Aaron respected her silence. This was not the time to delve into that conversation.
Upon landing, Doris was immediately taken to a debriefing with the CIA. Aaron and his team, exhausted, took off their gear and sat in the hangar for a moment of rest.
"Is Shelburne McGarrett's mother?" Bravo 3 asked, still processing the situation.
Aaron nodded. "Yes. But that's something he'll need to hear from her, not from us."
Bravo 2 patted Aaron on the shoulder. "You handled that like a pro. As always."
Aaron looked at his team, pleased that they had accomplished yet another difficult mission. "Good job, guys. Let's get some rest. We don't know when the next mission will come up."
Chapter 44: Secrets at Home
After the grueling rescue mission of Shelburne, Aaron was returning to Virginia Beach. The flight back was uneventful, but his mind was full of thoughts. He knew he couldn't share anything about the operation with his family, but he was eager to see them and reconnect, even if only briefly, before the next mission.
As he entered his parents' house, he was met with the familiar scent of fresh coffee mixed with his mother's perfume. Elizabeth was in the kitchen, and Joseph was reading a newspaper in the living room. Cathy was in her room, but came downstairs as soon as she heard the door open.
"Aaron!" Cathy ran to hug him. "Are you okay? You look tired."
He smiled, hugging her back. "I'm fine, Cat. I just need a good night's sleep and some of Mom's cooking."
Elizabeth appeared, wiping her hands on her apron. "I'm glad you're back, son. I made your favorite meal for dinner."
Joseph stood up and gave his son a firm handshake before hugging him. "Good to have you back, son. How was it out there?"
Aaron hesitated for a moment, choosing his words carefully. "Intense, but the team is safe. That's all that matters."
At the table, as they ate, Cathy struck up a conversation. "So, big brother, what have you been up to these past few days besides being a superhero?"
Aaron laughed, trying to divert attention. "Practices and more practices. Always preparing for what might come."
"You never tell us anything specific," Cathy grumbled, crossing her arms. "Not even a little training story?"
"You know I can't, Cat," Aaron replied, with a patient smile. "But what have you been up to? How are things with Billy?"
She shrugged. "He's fine, busy with his team's training. But by the way, Mommy told me you brought her a present."
Aaron looked at his mother in surprise. "It's true, I brought something back, but I thought I'd give it to you after dinner."
Elizabeth looked curious, but smiled. "You know you don't have to bring anything, Aaron."
"I know, but I thought you'd like it."
After the meal, Aaron handed his mother a small wooden box he'd bought from a local shop in Afghanistan. Inside was a handmade necklace made by local women.
Elizabeth was thrilled. "It's beautiful, Aaron. Thank you."
Joseph looked at the gift approvingly. "Very nice, son. You always have good taste."
Cathy, however, couldn't help but take a dig: "Too bad you don't use that good taste to get a girlfriend."
Aaron laughed, shaking his head. "Cathy, you're always teasing me. Let's see who'll be dating first next year, you or me."
She raised her eyebrows. "We already know the answer. I always win that one."
Later, when everyone was relaxing, Joseph called Aaron out to the porch to talk. They sat side by side, staring up at the starry sky.
"So, son," Joseph began, his voice serious. "I know you can't talk about your missions, but I can tell something has changed in you."
Aaron looked at his father, thinking for a moment. "What do you mean?"
"You seem more introspective, more thoughtful. Not that that's a bad thing, but it's different from how you usually are."
Aaron sighed, looking out at the horizon. "I've seen a lot of things out there, Dad. Things that make you appreciate every moment of peace. It's hard to turn off sometimes, but I know that's part of the job."
Joseph nodded. "I just want you to know that we're here for you, always. No matter what, you're never alone."
Aaron smiled, feeling grateful. "Thank you, Dad. That means a lot to me."
The next day, Cathy convinced Aaron to go out for coffee in the city. They walked through the quiet streets of Virginia Beach, talking about everything but Aaron's work.
"So, big brother, when are you going to introduce me to someone special?" Cathy asked teasingly.
"Again with that?" Aaron shook his head. "My life isn't exactly conducive to romantic encounters."
"You have to try," Cathy insisted. "You're an amazing guy, Aaron. It's not fair to the women of the world for you to stay hidden."
Aaron laughed. "I'll think about it. How are things with Billy?"
She shrugged. "We're fine. He's sweet, but I still don't know if he's the right one, you know?"
"As long as he treats you right, that's all that matters," Aaron replied.
They continued walking, laughing and sharing childhood memories, something Aaron treasured whenever he had the chance to be with his sister.
That night, Aaron sat in his room, staring at a photo of his team taken years ago. He thought about the recent mission, the rescue of Doris McGarrett, and the secret he now held about her.
As much as he wanted to share everything with his family, he knew there were things that needed to remain silent. Trust and confidentiality were the pillars of the work he did.
He put the photo away and looked out the window. The world outside was in constant conflict, but here, in that house, he found a peace that helped him carry on.
Aaron smiled, knowing that as long as he had his family, he would always have a reason to come home.
Chapter 45: Back to the Sky
It was a sunny morning in Virginia Beach, and Aaron woke up with one thing on his mind. It had been a while since he'd skydived, and he missed the adrenaline and freedom that only the sky could offer. After a leisurely breakfast with his parents, he decided that today would be the perfect day to revisit the sport.
"I'm skydiving today," Aaron announced casually as he finished his coffee.
Elizabeth, his mother, raised her eyebrows. "Skydiving? Son, don't you think you get enough adrenaline at work?"
Aaron smiled. "It's different, Mom. At work, it's a mission. Here, it's pure fun."
Cathy walked into the kitchen, fixing her hair. "If you're going to skydive, let me know. I want to watch. You might fall flat on your face," she joked.
Aaron laughed, shaking his head. "If anyone's going to fall, it's definitely not me, Cat."
A few hours later, Aaron drove to a local airfield used by civilian and military paratroopers for training and recreation. He arrived wearing comfortable jeans, a red T-shirt his favorite color, of course and sunglasses.
There, he was recognized by one of the instructors.
"Lieutenant Commander Rollins? Long time no see!" the man said, greeting him.
"Yes, you do, Jackson. I need to get back in the sky. Is there any problem with using my equipment?"
Jackson laughed. "No problem. I bet you still remember how to do it."
"It's like riding a bike," Aaron replied with a smile.
Aaron checked his personal parachute a high-performance model he had brought back from his days in advanced training at DEVGRU. Meanwhile, Cathy arrived at the site, wearing sunglasses and looking excited.
"You're really going to jump by yourself, huh?" she teased.
Aaron laughed. "Cat, I'm a DEVGRU operator. I think I can handle it."
A little while later, Aaron and the other jumpers boarded the plane. Cathy stayed on the ground, taking pictures and texting her parents as she watched the plane rise into the blue sky.
Overhead, the plane door opened, and the icy wind hit Aaron's face. He smiled, feeling the familiar adrenaline rush through his veins. He looked down, watching the Virginia Beach skyline spread out below him.
One of the other jumpers shouted over the roar of the wind. "Ready for it, Rollins?"
Aaron gave a thumbs up. "Always ready."
Without hesitation, he jumped.
The world around Aaron became a blur of wind and sky. He spread his arms wide, steadying his body as he descended. The feeling of freedom was like no other—a stark contrast to the tactical missions and the weight of responsibility.
As he fell, he reveled in the moment, feeling completely alive. He glanced at the altimeter on his wrist and, at just the right moment, pulled the parachute cord.
With a firm tug, the parachute opened perfectly. He felt the gentle impact as he slowed down, now floating toward the earth.
The scenery around him was breathtaking the ocean in the distance, the green fields, and the roads winding through the terrain. Aaron smiled to himself. He had missed this.
Back on the ground, Cathy was waiting with a big smile. She ran over to him as he stowed the parachute.
"You looked like a bird up there," she said, laughing.
"A well-trained bird," Aaron replied, winking.
Cathy crossed her arms. "So, big brother, when are you going to teach me how to do this?"
Aaron looked at her, considering. "Do you have the guts for this?"
"You know you do," she replied defiantly.
He laughed. "Then next time, you're going up with me."
Back at their parents' house, Elizabeth and Joseph were waiting for them. Elizabeth looked relieved to see her son walk through the door.
"So, how was it?" Joseph asked.
Aaron set the parachute on a chair and smiled. "It was perfect. Nothing like the sky to clear your mind."
Elizabeth looked at him fondly. "You've always been like that, Aaron. Ever since you were a kid, looking for ways to fly higher."
Cathy joined in the conversation, still excited. "He said he'll teach me how to jump next time!"
Elizabeth's eyes widened. "Oh, no, Cathy. Not you too!"
"Relax, Mom," Cathy replied, laughing. "If he can do it, so can I."
Joseph patted Aaron on the shoulder. "It's good to see you enjoying yourself a little, son. You deserve it."
Later that evening, Aaron stood in the backyard, looking up at the starry sky. He thought about how rare moments like this were in his life. He knew he would soon be called back to the field, but for now, he was at peace.
That day's jump wasn't just for fun; it was a reminder that he was still in charge of his own life, even with the pressures of being an elite operator.
He took a deep breath, feeling the breeze on his night. Tomorrow would be another day, but today, he was exactly where he needed to be home, with his family, and at peace with himself.
Chapter 46: Memories of an Extraordinary Life
Aaron sat on the porch of his parents' home in Virginia Beach. It was a quiet afternoon, and the sound of waves crashing in the distance filled the air. He held a cup of hot coffee in his hand, and as he gazed out at the horizon, his mind began to wander.
Years of service in DEVGRU, missions around the world, moments that had tested his physical and mental limits. But most of all, it was the people he had met along the way that had left the deepest impressions on his mind.
He closed his eyes for a moment, letting the memories come flooding back.
First, an image came to mind of Shepherd, a veteran CIA agent he had met in Kandahar. Shepherd was a cunning man with graying hair and a frightening ability to predict the enemy's movements.
"Red, trust your instincts. Intelligence only gets you so far," Shepherd had said during a particularly dangerous mission.
Aaron remembered how that simple advice had once saved his team when they'd entered an enemy compound that appeared empty but was riddled with booby traps.
He thought of the Delta Force operators he'd met on joint operations in Afghanistan and Iraq. One of them, known only as Ghost, had been a demolitions expert. Aaron could still hear his raspy laugh and the easygoing way he'd handled life-or-death situations.
"Red, you're too serious, man. Lighten up a bit. The enemy's already scared of you," Ghost had joked during a capture mission.
Ghost had become a close friend during their time working together. Despite being from different units, they shared a common purpose and a mutual respect that transcended the special forces divide.
Memories then flashed back to their interactions with the British SAS and SBS. Aaron recalled a joint operation in Africa, where he'd worked with an SAS operator named Price.
"So you're the famous 'Red,'" Price had said with a sarcastic smile. "I hear you have a knack for getting into impossible places."
Aaron had replied with a tight smile. "And you have a knack for getting out of them alive."
They had worked side by side to rescue hostages in a desperate situation. Aaron admired the professionalism and dry humor of the British, who kept their cool even in the most tense situations.
He also remembered Ethan, an SBS operator who was an expert scuba diver. Ethan had taught him advanced underwater infiltration techniques, something Aaron still used on some missions.
His mind then went to the agents of MOSSAD and MI6. He had learned a lot from them about the art of espionage and disguise. A MOSSAD agent named Leah had impressed Aaron with her ability to infiltrate hostile territory.
"Never underestimate the power of information, Aaron. A piece of paper can be worth more than an entire army," she had once said.
Aaron couldn't agree more. Working with Leah and other intelligence agents had taught him that wars were not only won on the battlefield, but also in the shadows, where the most important decisions were made.
He remembered the operators of the GIGN, the elite French unit he had met during joint training in Europe. Jean-Luc, a veteran of the GIGN, was one of the most disciplined men Aaron had ever encountered.
"You have skill, Red, but accuracy is key. Always remember that," Jean-Luc had said as he demonstrated his shooting techniques.
Aaron deeply respected the GIGN and their meticulous approach. They were masters of rescue and counterterrorism operations.
Aaron also remembered the Green Berets, known for their ability to build relationships with local communities. He had learned a lot from them about the importance of winning people's hearts and minds.
A sergeant named Henderson was particularly skilled at dealing with tribal leaders in Afghanistan. "Weapons and tactics are tools, but building trust is the real battlefield," Henderson had said.
He also remembered the NCIS agents he had worked with on sensitive military investigations. An agent named Kate had impressed Aaron with her quick wit and determination.
"You know, Red, sometimes it's harder to crack a case than it is to break into an enemy compound," she had once joked.
Aaron had learned to value the work of NCIS, understanding that success in the field depended on a support network that included intelligence and investigation.
Coming back to the present, Aaron opened his eyes and took a deep breath. Every person he had met had been a lesson he had learned had shaped him into the operator and leader he was today. He knew his journey was not over yet, and that there was much more to learn and achieve. He took a sip of coffee, a slight smile on his face.
Despite the challenges, he was grateful to have had the opportunity to meet so many extraordinary people. The sound of the balcony door opening, and Cathy appeared, holding a tray with more coffee.
"You're lost in thought, brother," she teased, handing him another cup.
"I was just thinking about some people I met along the way," Aaron replied.
Cathy smiled. "Important people, I guess?"
Aaron nodded. "Every single one of them. They taught me something that I carry with me to this day."
Cathy sat down next to him. "I think that's what makes you so good at what you do, Aaron. You don't just struggle; you learn and grow."
Aaron looked at her, his smile growing. "Maybe. But it's also nice to have you and our family to remind me of who I am when all this seems so far away."
They sat in silence, staring out at the horizon as the sun began to set.
Chapter 47: Rescue Under Fire
It was a muggy afternoon in Jalalabad. The dust hanging in the air seemed like a constant reminder of the war that never ended. Aaron, 35, was in his team's makeshift operations center when he heard the distinctive sound of his satellite phone ringing.
He looked at the phone curiously. It was rare to receive personal calls in this environment, especially at this moment. When he saw the caller ID, his heart raced. It was Cathy.
He answered immediately.
"Cathy? What's wrong?"
On the other end, Cathy's voice sounded low and shaky, but determined.
"Aaron... I'm injured. I'm staying with an Afghan man and his wife. They have a son named Najib. They're helping me, but the terrorists are coming. I need help, now!"
Aaron felt a knot in his stomach. He knew that Cathy, being who she was, wouldn't ask for help if the situation wasn't critical.
"Where exactly are you?"
She gave him approximate coordinates. Aaron knew her position was far from the base, in an area dominated by insurgents. It was a place even armed patrols avoided going.
"Hold on tight, Cathy. I'll come get you."
Aaron immediately used his connections. He was respected not only within DEVGRU, but also among high-ranking officers and operators from different agencies. In less than twenty minutes, he had obtained permission to go solo.
Equipped with the essentials, his HK416 rifle, a Glock 19 pistol, extra ammunition, a combat knife, and a medical kit he set off on a motorcycle, the fastest and most discreet vehicle available to reach the location.
The hot wind bit his face as he made his way through the arid and dangerous landscape. His senses were on high alert. Every turn in the road, every movement on the horizon could mean danger.
When he finally reached the coordinates, he spotted the small stone house, hidden among the hills. Aaron abandoned the motorcycle at a safe distance and approached cautiously, using the terrain as cover.
From the top of a hill, he saw a group of armed insurgents approaching the house. There were at least ten men. Aaron took a deep breath. He had faced worse numbers before. He adjusted the scope of his rifle and went to work. The first bullet hit the leader of the group, a clean shot to the head that took him down instantly.
Before the others could react, Aaron was already on the move, changing positions and eliminating targets with surgical precision. The insurgents tried to regroup, but Aaron didn't give them time. He used the terrain to his advantage, firing from different angles, confusing the enemy.
Every shot counted, and within minutes, they were all neutralized. He approached the house cautiously, knocking lightly on the door.
"Cathy, it's me, Aaron."
The door was opened by a middle-aged man with a worried look on his face. It was the owner of the house. He waved Aaron inside. Inside, Cathy lay in a corner, a makeshift bandage on her leg. Her face lit up when she saw her brother.
"Aaron!"
He knelt beside her, examining the wound. It didn't look serious, but it still needed proper care.
"You'll be fine, Cat. But we need to get out of here now."
She nodded, trying to hide her pain.
"They… they saved my life, Aaron. This family took me in when I needed them most."
Aaron looked at the man and his wife. He placed a hand on the man's shoulder.
"Shukran. Thank you for protecting my sister."
The man smiled, nodding. Little Najib, who looked to be about ten years old, looked at Aaron with curiosity and admiration.
There was no time to waste. Aaron knew that more enemies could be coming. He found two horses at the back of the property and helped Cathy mount one of them.
Before leaving, he took a handful of American bills from his pocket and handed them to the man.
— This is for what you did. Thank you again.
The man initially refused, but Aaron insisted, until he finally accepted.
Moving onto the other horse, Aaron took the reins and looked at Cathy.
"Let's get out of here."
The journey back was long and challenging. Night had already fallen, and the light of the stars was their only guide. Cathy, despite the pain, held firm.
"Aaron…" she said after a while. "How did you manage to come so fast?"
"I have my contacts," he replied with a small smile. "And besides, no one messes with my little sister."
She laughed, even though she was in pain.
"You're crazy, you know that?"
"Maybe," he replied, glancing at her. "But you're the one who taught me to be persistent."
They finally reached a safe area where Aaron could call for backup. A helicopter picked them up, taking Cathy for medical care and Aaron back to his team.
Back at base, Cathy was resting in the infirmary while Aaron talked to his commander, who was impressed by her account of the solo mission.
"You took a big risk, Red. But I understand. Family is everything."
Aaron just nodded. He knew he had done the right thing.
Later, when he visited Cathy, she held his hand.
"Thank you, Aaron. Really."
He smiled.
"I'll always be here for you, Cat. No matter where you are."
As she closed her eyes to rest, Aaron sat beside her, his mind finally at ease, knowing he had managed to keep her safe once again.
Chapter 48: Alliance in the Storm
The morning in Afghanistan was shrouded in a blanket of fine dust, a constant reminder of the aridity of the terrain. Cathy, still with the fresh wound in her leg, was ready to leave the country. Despite the pain and fatigue, she could not hide her relief at being back home. Aaron walked her to the helicopter that would take her to her extraction point.
"Take care of yourself, Cat," Aaron said, holding her shoulders. "And please stay out of trouble for a while."
She gave him a small smile.
"I'll try. But you know how life is, Aaron."
Aaron laughed, pulling her into a hug.
"I know. Now go."
As the helicopter took off, Aaron stood still, watching his sister disappear over the horizon. He took a deep breath, knowing that war left no room for distractions. In a few hours, he and his team would be immersed in another mission.
Back at the operations center, Aaron was called in for a briefing. Upon entering the room, he found his commander, other officers, and a group of men dressed in tactical combat uniforms. Among them was a tall man with a short beard and a piercing gaze who seemed to command respect with his presence.
"Lieutenant Commander Rollins, meet Major Jack Dalton of Delta Force," the commander said.
Aaron extended his hand in greeting to Dalton.
"Major."
Dalton shook his hand firmly, a confident smile on his lips.
"Lieutenant Commander. I've heard of you. They say you're one of the best."
Aaron inclined his head modestly.
"I'm just doing my job."
Dalton chuckled lightly.
"Well, then we're in good company."
The commander began to explain the mission.
"We have information about an HVT hiding in a village in the mountains. He's coordinating attacks against American forces and local civilians. This will be a joint operation between DEVGRU and Delta Force. Red, you lead your team. Dalton, your team will provide support."
Aaron and Dalton exchanged glances, understanding the importance of working in sync.
In the planning room, detailed maps of the village were projected onto the wall. Aaron and Dalton stood side by side, discussing strategy.
"We'll go in this way," Aaron said, pointing to a flank of the village. "Bravo team will cover the east and south sides."
Dalton studied the map and pointed out another route.
"My team can take the west side and provide fire support. If you need reinforcements, we'll be just minutes away."
Aaron nodded.
"Okay. But we need to make sure the target doesn't have time to escape."
Dalton smiled.
"He won't escape. Not when we're in the field."
The two leaders shook hands, marking the beginning of a respectful alliance.
The next night, Black Hawk helicopters ferried the teams to a safe spot near the village. The cold night wind blew hard, but Aaron and his men were focused.
As they stepped off the helicopter, Dalton walked over to Aaron.
"Have you worked with Delta before?"
"A few times. But never with you."
Dalton smiled, adjusting his weapon.
"Well, I hope I don't disappoint."
Aaron chuckled softly.
"We'll see."
The teams moved with precision through the darkness. Aaron led his team on the eastern flank, while Dalton followed his on the western flank. Communication between the teams was flawless, each movement carefully coordinated.
As they approached the village, Aaron spotted the first enemy sentries. He signaled for his men to get into position. With one swift movement, they took out the sentries silently, advancing without alerting the others.
Dalton radioed,
"West clear. We're moving."
Aaron replied,
"Roger that. Bravo 3, cover the main entrance."
The fighting began when the insurgents became aware of the presence of the American forces. Gunfire echoed through the village, but Aaron and Dalton led their teams with precision and calm.
At one point, Aaron and Dalton found themselves in the center of the village, exchanging fire with insurgents holed up in a house.
"Bombshell?" Dalton asked.
Aaron nodded, tossing a smoke grenade to obscure the enemy's view. Dalton quickly planted the shell on the door of the house.
"Fire on the door!" Dalton shouted.
The explosion opened the entrance, and they both advanced, neutralizing the remaining targets.
When the gunfire died down, Aaron radioed in:
"Target captured. Mission complete."
Dalton smiled slightly.
"Looks like we worked well together, huh?"
Aaron wiped the sweat from his forehead, exhausted but satisfied.
"It wasn't so bad."
Back at base, the teams were exhausted, but there was an air of camaraderie. Dalton approached Aaron.
— I have to admit, Red. You're better than I expected.
Aaron gave a small smile.
"You're not so bad yourself, Major."
Dalton laughed, extending his hand for a final shake.
"Until next time, Rollins."
As Dalton and his team walked away, Aaron watched, knowing that in times of war, allies like that were rare and precious.
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