The farmer said they had been listening to the state radio and heard about the incident in new York. He said the station said they identified you as the one who led the band of terrorists that destroyed their headquarters. They will be out to get you. Mac said recon they will try but we will be ready for them. The old guy said we are ready to join you if needed, but Goldie said you are risking enough as it is. Just then the farmers wife brought them out a hot egg and cheese sandwich and coffee. She said your wife was a wonderful person, she would be proud of you. Goldie eyes clouded over for a brief moment then he said I know, thank you for your support. After a moment he stood up and said to Mac we should be getting back. The farmer shook their hands and said our prayers are with you.
When they arrived back at the campsite the men told them Richard called, he and the captain are on their way over to meet us. Said they would fill us in when they got here. Goldie told the men good, maybe he has more news about the feds coming. We may as well have a soda while we wait for them. About an hour passed before the lookouts called to say visitors on the way in. Richard and the captain got out and walked over to where the men were sitting. Richard said my contacts advise one full regiment of the ninth infantry division accompanied by a number of foreign united nations troops are scheduled to leave Pennsylvania by motorized convoy. They should arrive in this area by Saturday afternoon and set up camp at the old cargo airbase.
More importantly, I am advised two squads of army rangers are already on the move and should be in this sector one day ahead of the ninth division. I am told, since they don’t know where you are but do know where your sons live, their goal is to isolate and kill or capture your sons and their families and bring them to the command at the cargo strip where they hope to use them as hostages to bring you in. Goldie said I have been expecting such a move. That would put the rangers here Friday which gives us time. We will be in place and take care of the rangers first then plan our move against the main force. The captain asked, do you need our assistance with the rangers and Goldie said they won’t be a problem. The captain asked how do we handle the main group when they get here. Goldie replied we will have spotters watching the base while we take care of the rangers. Once that is done and the families are safe we will observe the main group then plan an attack mode to disrupt and harass them until we can get them in a position that favors us.
Richard said they will probably send out scouts to survey the county and try to find your whereabouts. Mac said right, and we will be watching for those scouts teams. Goldie said we may even let them find our camp, or at least a place they think is our camp. If we can do so and maneuver them into an area where we will have the best position then we can prepare to meet them in battle. Richard said it looks as though they will have a force numbering more than five thousand we will probably take casualties on this one. Mac said our people are aware of the risks and will accept those risks in the cause of freedom. The captain said and so will we as well, because we have men who want to be in on this engagement. Goldie answered and so you will be captain. The captain said I can bring a thousand men well armed and with combat experience. You give us the time and place and we will be there when you need us there. Goldie answered alert your men and have them ready to move out, we will set this up in a way that will give you time to get in place.
Richard said well my friends I can see you have control of the situation, before we depart are you in need of any supplies. Goldie said we are well stocked with all we need. Richard said in that case we will return now to my headquarters and wait your call to arms. The captain added, we will be here with a thousand men or more if need be, you give us the word when and where. Goldie said we will contact you as soon as we determine where and when to meet the enemy. Richard said ok we will be on our way now. After they had left Goldie told Mac and the others now we must make plans to meet the rangers. He looked at their radio operator and said contact Tim, James, and Joshua have them meet us here this early this evening. A few moments later the radio man informed him they have all been contacted and are enroute. Goldie said good lets break out a cola and relax.
One half hour later Tim arrived at the camp followed a few moments by James and Joshua. As they sat by the fire Goldie advised them of the expected Saturday arrival of a large force of government and united nations troops. He said we will need to place lookouts around the base much as we did before when they moved their people into the old school buildings. Tim said that will be no problem all of those spotters were from his area and he would have them here when needed. Goldie said can you have them here in the morning early with their gear and Tim answered let me make a call. Tim was on the phone only a moment then said my backup will have them here at sunup tomorrow and he will remain with them as well.
Good the old man said, now there is another matter we must prepare for. He advised his sons of Richard’s report regarding the army rangers paying a visit to their homes sometime on Friday prior to the arrival of the main troops. No doubt they hope to take you and the families as hostages hoping to bring me in. The boys were silent but Tim asked what do you have in mind. Goldie said Tim you have been to James home several times and know the lay of the land there do you not. Tim said yes their home is sitting back in the woods away from any other homes. Goldie said I want you to take twenty five of your men and tonight after dark move the men into position in the woods where you can protect their home. Stay out of sight and wait for the rangers then wipe the sons of bitches out. He looked at James and told him, I want you to be out working in the yard as you would on any normal day. But stay close to the house. By evening if they have not shown up you go on in and stay inside with the family and don’t come out. When they do show up and the shooting starts you stay inside and keep the family down and away from the windows.
Mac and I and our men will move into the woods tonight behind and around Joshua’s home. Some of us will be in the woods across the road where we can watch the front. Joshua I want you to do the same as James. Work out in the yard close to the house then go inside and stay with the family. We don’t want them tipped of that we are expecting trouble. Tell your wives and the kids I love them and will let no harm come to them. We don’t know what time tomorrow they will arrive but they will no doubt have it timed to be at both locations at the same time so one of you can’t warn the other. Remember this, we can’t give these rangers a chance. They have a lot of firepower just like us. We hit them without warning and don’t let up until they are all on the ground.
The old man looked at James and Joshua for a moment then put his arms around them. I wish I could be at both places but I can’t, but Tim has several old army men experienced at this. Now you boys go on home and spend the night with your families and tell them they will be ok. They won’t see us but we will be there and keep them safe. His sons said their goodbyes then got into their vehicles and drove away. Goldie looked at Tim and said you go on back now and get the men together. Call me on the radio when you are ready and we will all drive together to where you must turn off at Fairfax road. Tim said on my way Goldie call you in a little while. After Tim had left Mac looked at Goldie and said I wonder how many other places this is going on around the country and Goldie said he didn’t know but sure hoped people had the guts to make a stand. Mac told the men well this is like old time so lets get our gear together. Check your weapons and get some rations this could be a long wait. In a short time the men said we are ready to move out when Tim calls.
While waiting for Tim to call James came on over the radio and advised his father that the neighbor on the other side of the woods said to have Tim and the men park their vehicles in his barn then they could walk thru the woods to take up their positions around his house. Goldie told him good we will be on our way and in position soon. A few moments later Tim called and said we are on our way and Goldie said we will meet you at the falls Ville turnoff. He turned to the men and said lets load up. Moments later they were parked by the turnoff and as they saw Tim’s vehic
les approaching he told the driver pull on out they can follow us. They proceeded on their way without incident and some thirty minuets later they passed the Fairfax road and Goldie watched as Tim’s vehicles made the turn towards James home. Another twenty minuets found them approaching the road where Joshua’s home was located. Goldie told the driver turn right at the next road then as they passed Joshua’s home he pointed it out and told the driver take a left at the next lane. The driver turned into the lane followed by the other vehicle. After a short distance Goldie said turn in here. As they came to a stop an old farmer came walking out of the barn to meet them. Goldie spoke with him for a moment then told the drivers put the vehicles in the shed out of sight.
The farmer closed the shed doors and Goldie told the men, we have done these deeds before, follow me. A fifteen minute walk later found the men close to Joshua’s home. He and Mac put the men in locations on all sides where they could conceal themselves while still having a good view of the home site. He advised them when the rangers show to hold their fire until he and Mac fired the first round which would be a grenade. He and Mac then positioned themselves where they could see approaches to the home from both the front and rear and bedded down for the wait. He contacted Tim over the radio and asked how it went. Tim said all the men are in place well covered and ready. Goldie told him good work we need not contact each other again until you get company, then use the radio and say only three words, it’s a go, then no more contact until I contact you. Tim said understood.
The night went by without incident and by noon the next day Joshua could be seen coming and going in and around the house trimming the shrubs and picking up. Near dusk a van was seen driving by followed a moment later by another like vehicle. Mac said that’s them, I can’t believe they are stupid enough to use standard government vehicles. A few minutes later vehicles could be heard approaching and slowing down. One of the vans drove by a short distance then was heard to stop. Seconds later the second van could be heard stopping short of the house. Goldie whispered looks like they intend to move in from both sides. Sure enough from their vantage point they saw men approaching from both directions stopping and taking cover just short of the driveway. They watched as the rangers hesitated a moment then one group began to make their way to the rear of the house while the others moved closer to the house front. Goldie contacted Tim and Said it’s a go here, Tim answered and said it’s a go here.
So far his men had not been spotted by the rangers and Joshua had went inside and had not came back out. Goldie whispered to Mac get a grenade ready then added, when they get close I’ll put mine in front you put yours at the group in the rear. The rangers were close now and their M16’s were out as they closed in on the home. Goldie said on three Mac, then counted three and both threw their grenades. The concussions knocked several rangers to the ground and a hail of fire came pouring in from his team. The rangers made an effort to fire and run for cover but were caught between the men positioned all around them. The fight didn’t last more than a few minutes then it was over. Mac’s men moved in looking for survivors but there were none. All twelve rangers lay where they had fallen and would fight no more. Goldie said check the men see if we lost anyone. Mac said all are well and accounted for Goldie, this one went our way. Goldie yelled and Joshua came out the door and Mac said alls clear Josh but maybe the Mrs. and the children should stay inside until we get the bodies moved. He told the drivers go bring the vehicles we will load them up and take them with us.
About that time Tim came on and said it’s finished here, James and the family are fine and we have no losses. Goldie said same here, load up the bodies and we will meet you back at camp. After the bodies were removed and the yard area cleared Joshua yelled for his wife to come out. She came slowly out the door as the grandchildren ran past her to see their grandpa. Goldie held them close and pulled out a candy bar for the two young boys. Their mother put her arms around the old man and said thank you for watching out for us, we love you. He said I know dear one, we must go now but Joshua will remain here for a time to look after you. He told Joshua have some of your friends remove the rangers vehicles. They can paint them and get some use out of them. I’ll call you tomorrow son now we must head out.
They arrived back at the camp to find Tim and his men already there sitting by the fire. The men were in good spirits as they discussed the days action. Tim said it is sad that we have to fight our own soldiers like this. Mac replied they made their beds when they chose to support the traitors who have taken over our land. The other men agreed they made their choice and died for it as some of us may someday be called to do. Goldie said the difference is, they served and died for a paycheck, we serve the cause of freedom and if we die it will be to return liberty to others. Ours is a worthy cause and worth any sacrifice we make. Goldie told the radio operator to contact Richard or the captain. Tim said I called the wife to let her know everything went well and we are back. Her and some friends will be here soon with some snacks. Goldie said well lets all relax for a while.
A few minuets later Richard voice came over the radio. Just wanted to return your call and see the status of things. Goldie advised him of the days activities and of their successful operations. Richard said then my informant was right, the rangers did show as reported. Goldie advised him we brought the rangers bodies back to camp with us. We took care of them so quick they never had a chance to radio or call their headquarters so my thoughts are to take them to the old air base and place them there to welcome the troops arrival. The captain cut in saying good idea that will shake them up good to find their advance plans failed. Yea Richard said good idea for sure, they will be unaware off their losses until they see them laid out in waiting.
Goldie advised, we are going to station spotters around the base to wait for the arrival of the main force. We will do that tonight after dark sets in when we deposit the ranger bodies at the site. We will observe their numbers and activities for a few days then decide on a plan of action and will advise you of our recommendations. Richard said great we will be waiting for your word. Is there anything you need at this time, rations ammo or cash for expenses. Goldie advised him we are fine for now. Richard said ok but I want you to know your successful operations this day are of great importance for moral and it will be hard to keep from spreading the news, but we must keep it quiet until their main forces arrive. He said I will sign off for now but contact me or the captain should you need anything. Goldie answered we will do so, goodbye friend.
He turned to Tim and Mac and said as soon as it is dark we will take the rangers bodies to the base and position our lookouts, until then we rest. Just then Tim’s wife and friends came into the camp with sandwiches, hot chili soup, and several home cooked apple pies. The women couldn’t help but see the bodies lying in the back of the vehicles. One of the ladies said in a broken voice, my youngest son is in the service, will he someday be ordered to fight against us? Goldie held her close for a moment then said, no one knows for certain what these troubled days may bring. But one thing we do know, if we fail to restore liberty to our land they will enslave us all. We must pray that the one who has authority over all things will bring peace with honor to us all.
Tim’s wife said the food is ready let us enjoy this day of fellowship. The men ate heartily and were uplifted by the generosity and thoughtfulness of these good townspeople. Later the women all walked down the path to where Goldie’s wife and son lay. They made a wreath of ferns taken from under the pines and placed it on the gravesite. Tim’s wife said to the others, were it not for the efforts of our brave men this day the rest of Goldie’s loved ones would have been taken from him. His burden is a heavy one we must do all we can to ease his pain. He has taken the lead in our time of trial and those who would rule over us will spare no effort to make him pay with his life. We must support our men with all our love and strength.
As the women came walking back to the group Mac stood up and began to clap and the others all joined in. You ga
ls have made us remember why we fight this battle. We appreciate the sacrifices you make for us. Goldie praised the women for their love and support and told them how much their being here meant then added, but as all good things must come to an end so must our time together today. We have work to do. We must deliver these lost soldiers to the old air base where they can be taken to their units and homes by the troops when they arrive. The women looked at him then one asked are the soldiers coming back to the base. Goldie told them we have word they are coming tomorrow so we must make plans but we will take no unnecessary chances. Your men will be safe this night. The women gathered their pots and trays together and the men helped them to their cars. Tim held his wife for a moment and told her he would see her later then the women drove away waving as they went.
The men were quiet for a moment then Goldie broke the silence. It is getting dusk get the lookouts assembled. Tim said we have twelve men. Mac said we will post them two to a team, one team to the south, one to the north, and one at the west of the base like before. That will leave six for relief if need be. Tim said the men will be dropped off at the same locations as the last time. Each team has a radio and rations for three days. Goldie told the men your job is only to observe and report to us. Stay out of sight and avoid any confrontation at all cost. If you need removed for any reason contact us and a meeting place will be set up. Goldie said Tim you and your team chief can post the lookouts, Mac and I and will take some men with us to unload the rangers bodies. Since they are supposed to be coming by motor convoy we will place them just inside the old main entrance to the base.
As they started to leave Goldie told Tim when we get to the base be careful in case they have moved some people in ahead of time. If all is well we will get our job finished then meet you at the turn off at the base entrance and return to camp together. As they approached the base things looked quiet and Tim’s vehicle turned off as planned. Goldie told the driver stop up ahead and pull into that wooded area we need to take a look around before we go on in. He and Mac got out of their vehicle and told the men stay alert they would be back in a short time. They clumb back into their vehicle and proceeded on towards the base entrance. Once there Goldie told Mac lets just drive around the streets and buildings see if threes any sign of visitors. Their drive thru the streets found no sign of any activity. The old burned out buildings were as they had been left so they returned to meet the others and advised them to follow.
The Patriot Page 12