After clearing the area of the smaller machines, we were clear for a VTOL-craft landing. The spider-machine was heading in this direction, but we still had time to load up and evacuate - since that appears to be our only option.
We jumped into the VTOL and and waited for Strickland to board along with us. In the background I could see the spider-machine getting closer. I looked into Strickland's eyes. I knew this look. I had seen it once before, just within the last year.
Strickland was one who didn't like to leave any loose ends ... or any incomplete missions. So, when we were on a mission together in a remote part of Asia, our situation appeared to get out of hand very quickly and unexpectedly. Our orders came through to cut and run from the area before a larger situation occurred. We all knew that "a larger situation" did not involve more enemy troops, but the worldwide media.
The last thing the world needed to know is that the US Special Forces were in this remote section of Asia. The consequences would be devastating to world politics. Still, we were there for a mission, that was a very strong mission. In fact, in all my years with the US military, not one of my missions has been categorized as a bad mission. I've always agreed with the task at hand ... because I knew my superiors were always watching my back.
We had nearly reached our goal when complications began to arise. As I noted above, the orders came through to cut and run, so we started the evacuation procedures. We had to abort immediately and we had to leave no trace of evidence behind us. That day, Strickland was the last to board the VTOL. That day, he failed to board with us and sent us up in the air.
When the enemy noticed we were evacuating, they put their focus on the VTOL and tried to take it down. They didn't realize that Strickland was still on the ground. His gamble paid off, as he was able to complete the mission and evacuated the area under the cover of darkness. He must have ran at high speed for over an hour, because when he radioed for a pickup, we were amazed at the amount of separation he created between the hot zone and himself. I still wonder if he didn't hijack a vehicle to make up time. Inside, I knew he did it all on foot. That is just the kind of guy Strickland is.
So, that look Strickland gave me is the same look I am seeing now. He's not coming on board this VTOL, he is going to try and take the spider-machine down.
As the VTOL lifted, we left the door ajar, so that we could provide support, if possible. The spider-machine was close now and was shooting its bright blue laser in our direction. Check that, it was firing toward Strickland. I wonder if he realizes what he's up against at this point. That machine is huge!
Strickland raced over to one of the heavy machine guns and took position to place some serious lead into the machine. He began firing just after the blue laser stopped blasting. Maybe he saw a way to take the machine down. The bullets were firing. Just then, we saw something we had not seen from the spider-machine. It took one of it's legs and stomped the machine where Strickland was stationed.
The explosion was massive and rocked the path of our VTOL. I could feel the heat from the explosion warm my Nanosuit. The heavy machine gun was destroyed. There was no sign of Strickland when the dust settled. I hoped that he survived, but I am pretty sure he was gone.
I paused to remember Major Strickland and everything he taught me. He will be missed. I said a prayer for his graceful soul. I said a prayer for his family, now with one less seated at the dinner table.
I will be back in touch soon.
Nomad ... signing out.
