Chapter 35: Meeting the Commander in Chief
The ballroom at Fort Campbell was set for a historic moment. American flags decorated the space, and rows of chairs were set up for high-ranking officers and other guests attending the ceremony. In the center, a small platform had been set up, with a podium and a set of medals carefully placed on a table covered with a navy blue cloth.
Scott and the Echo team stood in formation, lined up in perfect order, each wearing their impeccable dress uniforms. The silence was almost solemn as President Barack Obama and Vice President Joe Biden entered the room, accompanied by an entourage that included Secretary of Defense Robert Gates and other high-ranking members of the military and government. The presence of the Commander in Chief and the Vice President was something few were honored to experience, especially in such a significant setting.
The President stepped up to the podium, adjusted the microphone, and began speaking in a calm but authoritative voice.
— "Today, we are here to honor an extraordinary group of men who performed a mission that will be remembered in the history of the United States and the world. These men faced danger with courage, precision, and an unwavering dedication to the security of our country."
Obama continued, looking directly at Scott and his team as he spoke.
— "The mission carried out by Echo Team was not just a military operation. It was a moment that brought justice to those who suffered on September 11, 2001. It was a reminder to the world that America does not forget, does not give up, and always rises in the face of adversity."
The room was hushed, each word carrying the weight of a grateful nation.
— "These men," Obama continued, gesturing toward the team. "They demonstrated a professionalism and commitment that is rare even among the highest standards of military service. Today, on behalf of an entire country, we want to express our gratitude to you."
Vice President Joe Biden took the microphone next, his manner more relaxed but equally sincere.
— "I'd like to say something simple. Men like you make me and millions of Americans sleep soundly every night. We know that everywhere in the world, there are people willing to risk everything for the sake of our freedom and security. Thank you, from the bottom of my heart."
After the speeches, Admiral McRaven, commander of JSOC, was called to the stage to begin the medal ceremony. One by one, the members of the Echo team were called, and President Obama pinned the Silver Star to their uniforms, accompanied by a firm handshake and words of thanks.
When it was Scott's turn, Obama smiled warmly.
— "Lieutenant Walker," the President said. "You led your team with skill and courage. Your leadership was critical to the success of this operation. The country is in your debt."
Scott shook the President's hand firmly, sensing the gravity of the moment.
— "Thank you, sir. It's been an honor to serve."
Joe Biden walked over next, giving Scott a friendly pat on the shoulder.
— "If anyone deserves this medal, it's you, kid. Great job."
Scott smiled slightly, still trying to process the moment.
After the formal ceremony, there was a small reception, where team members had the opportunity to speak directly with the President, Vice President, and other leaders in attendance. Scott and a few of his men were gathered near a table when Obama approached.
— "How are you feeling now that the mission is over?" the President asked casually, as he poured some coffee into a paper cup.
— "Relieved, sir," Scott replied. "And ready for whatever else comes."
Obama smiled, clearly impressed by the group's humility.
— "You guys are admirable professionals. But I hope you take some time off. After all this, you deserve it."
Biden, who was standing nearby, added with a laugh: — "Two weeks off. That's an order, not a suggestion."
Everyone laughed, including Scott, who replied: — "We'll enjoy it, sir. But not for long. There's always more work to do."
Obama looked directly at Scott, as if trying to memorize the face of the man who led one of the most important missions in recent history.
— "The work is never done, Lieutenant. But I trust that men like you will always be ready when the country needs you."
After the ceremony, Scott took a moment to call his family. He knew his parents were eager to hear how it had gone.
Jennifer answered on the first ring. — "Scott! How was it? We watched the part you broadcast!"
— "It was... intense, Mom. The President and the Vice President were so kind. They gave us the Silver Star and thanked us personally for our work."
On the other end of the line, Jennifer tried to hold back tears, but her voice betrayed her.
"We're so proud of you, Scott. Your dad hasn't stopped talking about it since he found out."
Scott laughed lightly.
"I just did my job, Mom. But thank you. And one more thing... They gave us two weeks off. So I'll get to spend some time with you guys."
"That's wonderful!" Jennifer replied, and Scott could hear Michael cheering in the background.
After ending the call, Scott texted Jane, who responded almost immediately:
Jane: "Congratulations, Scott! You deserve every recognition. Alex and Julie are going to be so excited to see you."
Scott: "Thank you, Jane. I can't wait to see you."
As Echo Team boarded the shuttle that would take them back to Virginia Beach, Scott stared out the plane window, reflecting on everything that had happened. He knew that moments like this were rare in his line of work. Most missions went unnoticed by the public, and recognition, when it came, was muted.
But here, in that moment, he felt the weight of responsibility he carried and the gratitude of a nation. He knew that soon he would be back on the job, facing new challenges and dangers. But for now, he was eager to get home, spend time with the people he loved, and maybe finally let himself breathe a little.
Chapter 36: Returns and New Beginnings
The sun was shining brightly in Virginia Beach when Scott and Echo finally arrived. The military transport dropped them off at the base, where they were greeted by a few colleagues and family members. It was a low-key return, as was often the case with covert operations. Still, for Scott, that feeling of being back home never lost its value.
As soon as Scott disembarked, he saw his parents, Michael and Jennifer, waiting with anxious looks on their faces. Jennifer, with tears in her eyes, was the first to hug him.
"Scott! My son, I'm so glad you're home!" she said, hugging him tightly, as if she never wanted to let him go.
Michael then squeezed his son's hand before pulling him into a firm hug.
"We're so proud of you, son. It was an honor to hear the President mention your team."
Scott smiled, feeling the warmth of his parents' presence warm.
— "Thanks, Dad, Mom. It's good to be back. It's been… quite an experience."
They spoke briefly, Jennifer holding Scott's arm affectionately, as if to reassure him that he was really there.
— "You must be exhausted, Scott. Are you sure you don't want to rest before you do anything?"
Scott shook his head.
— "Not now, Mom. I still have some things to take care of in Langley. After that, I promise I'll rest."
A few hours later, Scott was driving to Langley. The road seemed familiar, but this time there was something different on his mind. Ever since he'd returned from his mission, he'd been thinking about Jane and the conversations they'd had before he left. Something in him always felt calmer when he was around her, and he was looking forward to seeing her and the kids.
Arriving at Jane's house, he parked and got out of the car. Before she could even knock on the door, it opened, and there was Jane, with a warm smile.
— "Scott! It's great to see you."
— "Hi, Jane." — He smiled back, coming over to greet her.
Soon, Alex came running through the house, shouting:
— "Scott! You're back!"
The boy, only seven years old, practically threw himself into Scott's arms, who picked him up easily, laughing.
— "Of course I'm back, champ. Do you think I would miss the chance to see you again?"
Julie, the little girl of just over a year old, was sitting on the floor in the living room, playing with a teddy bear. When she saw Scott, her eyes lit up, and she raised her little hands to him.
— "Look who's here!" — Scott said, picking her up. — "You're getting bigger and bigger, Julie."
The little girl laughed, delighted by the attention.
Jane watched the scene with a soft smile. It was obvious how much Scott cared for the children, and she appreciated how much he connected with them, especially after so many weeks away.
After playing with Alex and Julie for a while, Jane invited Scott to sit on the couch.
— "Scott, I need to tell you something."
He raised an eyebrow curiously. — "What is it? Is everything okay?"
Jane took a deep breath before continuing. — "Yes, everything is fine. But... I've made a decision. I'm leaving the CIA."
The news took Scott by surprise. He leaned forward, looking directly at her.
— "Leaving the CIA? Why? I thought you liked the job."
Jane nodded, but there was a lightness in her expression that suggested she was at peace with the decision.
— "I like it, Scott. But... it's a demanding job, especially for someone with young children. I want to be more present for Alex and Julie. And besides, a new opportunity has come up."
— "What kind of opportunity?"
Jane smiled.
— "An NCIS agent named Leroy Jethro Gibbs contacted me. He said he thought I'd be a good addition to his team. After much thought, I've decided to accept."
Scott was silent for a few seconds, processing the information.
— "NCIS, huh? Sounds like it's going to be a lot different from the CIA."
Jane laughed.
— "Yeah, but it's still an important job. And unlike the CIA, I won't have to travel as much. I'll be able to stay home with the kids."
Scott smiled, understanding the logic behind the decision.
— "If that's what you want, Jane, then I'm happy for you. I'm sure you'll be amazing at NCIS."
She looked at him gratefully.
— "Thank you, Scott. It means a lot to hear that from you."
As they talked, Alex climbed onto the couch next to Scott, holding a children's book.
— "Scott, can you read it to us?"
Scott looked at Jane, who gave him a small nod, encouraging him.
— "Sure, Alex. Let's see what we have here."
He opened the book, and Julie, still on Jane's lap, watched intently as Scott read the story enthusiastically, using different voices for the characters.
Jane watched the scene, feeling a mixture of joy and peace. After so many years in a job that took her away from her children, moments like that were precious.
When the story ended, Alex gave Scott a hug.
— "You're the best, Scott!"
Scott laughed, ruffling the boy's hair.
— "I don't know if I'm the best, but thanks for saying that, champ."
Later, as the kids slept, Scott and Jane continued talking on the porch. The night was quiet, with a clear sky and visible stars.
— "You know, Jane," Scott began. "I don't say this often, but I guess I really admire your courage in making that decision. It couldn't have been easy leaving the CIA."
She looked at him, surprised.
— "Thanks, Scott. I just want to do what's right for my kids. And... I guess it's good to try something new, too. But what about you? How are you feeling after everything that happened on the mission?"
Scott shrugged, looking out at the horizon.
— "I'm still processing it, to be honest. It was a mission I'll never forget, but at the same time, I know the work continues. There's always more to do."
Jane nodded, understanding perfectly. — "Well, at least you have two weeks off now. Enjoy it, Scott. You deserve it."
He smiled, looking at her. — "I'll try, Jane. Thank you for always listening to me."
She smiled back. — "It's the least I can do. Now go rest. You look exhausted."
Scott chuckled. — "Yes, ma'am."
He said goodbye, promising to return soon to visit the kids again.
As he drove home, he felt grateful to have people like Jane and her family in his life. They were what kept him balanced, even in the hardest times.
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