by Cliff Deane
He said to Colonel E, “Sir, I sure hope he brings my jeep back without a bunch of holes in her.”
Sergeant Boone tied a white bandage to the aerial on the jeep and then proceeded to drive up the hill.
Gus directed him to stop at around one hundred feet from the barrier and said, “Sergeant, please turn this jeep around and wait here and be prepared to scoot at the first sign of trouble.”
“Yes sir, I ain’t real happy about that, but yes sir.”
Gus was twenty feet from the barrier when a voice ordered him to stop. “Halt right there. That gray uniform says you’re from the ROA, that right?”
“Yes, I am the G-2 for the 1st Cavalry Regiment. My name is Major Murtaugh. May I ask your name and rank?”
“Yes, you can ask, but first I want to know if you mean to make trouble for us?”
“No, we are a convoy returning to the ROA and would like to pass through your barrier. We will replace any vehicles we must move if you will allow peaceful passage through your lines.
Please understand that we mean you no harm, but we have just over three hundred combat effectives, compared to your thirty. We also have combat vehicles should the need arise. The simple fact that I am telling you this should indicate to you that we are not aggressive. May I come up to speak with you, or do you want to continue yelling at each other.”
“Yes, please come on up. My commander is being summoned to meet with you. Please come around to your right side.”
Gus asked if he could speak with his driver to let him know that things were going well, so far. The voice told him to do so.
Nearly fifteen minutes passed before an old pickup truck came driving to the barrier. A U.S. Army Captain wearing the Red Beret of Airborne exited the vehicle and walked up to Major Murtaugh. Upon noticing Murtaugh’s rank, the Captain saluted and offered his hand.
“Sir, I am thrilled to meet you. My name is Captain Joshua Foster; we are the remains of Bravo Company, 101st Airborne out of Benning. After much searching, we have decided to attempt to settle here, and after hearing much about Defiance and its military, we decided to model what you have done. Of course, we are nowhere near your level of achievement; we do hope to reach it, however.”
After shaking Foster’s hand, Gus asked, “How did you know we are from the ROA?”
Josh laughed and said, “Sir, it’s the gray uniform. Do you have any idea how famous Defiance is? I guess the bottom line is that you want to live in peace, but draw a hard line on criminals. I like the fact that you don’t take crap off the bad boys.
I understand you are seeking safe passage through our lines. Of course, you may, and we would also like to open trade talks with you folks. Is that possible?”
Gus said, “That’s not my department, but I will put the civilian side of the house in contact with you. They take care of trade.
Captain, are you in charge here?”
“Yes, sir, when the announcement came to disband the military I held a meeting with my company. The single men all wanted to remain in uniform and try to find a safe place to live, so here we are.”
“I see, I sincerely hope that we can become friends and allies, but, as I said, that is not my department. Now, if you don’t mind I would like to get the convoy moving so we can get home before dark.”
“Of course, but don’t worry about moving the vehicles blocking the road, we have a working dozer.”
“Thank you, Captain, there is, however, one other small thing, and I hope you are not offended, but I will require that I dismount one hundred of our troopers to provide security during this line passage. I must also insist that you bring your overwatch in from your flanks while we conduct the passage of lines.”
“Major, if you were not wearing that gray uniform, I would be offended, but you are wearing the gray, and your reputation is one of fair dealing. Therefore, I accept your terms with only one caveat; you must remain with me, under guard until the line passage is complete and you are ready to be on your way. Fair enough?”
“Fair enough, I agree to act as a hostage, no make that a guest.”
Both laughed, and the bargain was struck. One hour later the convoy was again headed home.
Gus commandeered a jeep so he and Scott could discuss the events of the passage of lines between the 1st Cavalry Regiment, and Bravo Company of the 101st Airborne Division.
*
24 September 0900
1st Cav, Conference Room
Defiance, ROA
Major Gus Murtaugh and Lt. Colonel Scott Eldridge spent an hour briefing the ROA President, Ralph Bassett, and Colonel Levins on the events relating to the mission to secure supplies from Camp Lejeune.
Major Murtaugh spent some time on the events concerning the twenty families homesteading on Camp Lejeune and the steps taken to allow them to stay on as caretakers, and defenders. It would take another eight weeks to make the final decision to allow them residency or direct them to the road.
Sir, maybe I’m just an old softy, but if they must hit the road, we wait until spring.”
There was a significant amount of elation concerning the ability to get combat vehicles running, but some disappointment that there was a lack of trained personnel to being the Abrams Tanks online.
Levi interjected, “We need to get the word out that we want to find qualified Abrams Tankers with experience in all four positions; Tank Commander, Gunner, Driver, Loader, and maintenance crews.
I believe that it is imperative that we find these people and make them trainers to build an Armored Tank Force for use in both offensive and defensive roles.
Having such vehicles in strategic locations throughout the ROA will be a significant deterrent to attacks on our nation.
Their use in assaulting enemy strong points as our borders expand will save many 1st Cavalry lives.”
There was unanimous agreement around the table to make an effort to find qualified Tankers and to initially obtain sufficient numbers of these behemoths to be integrated into a Training Battalion.
Fuel is, of course, a concern that must be taken into consideration, but the group felt it important to proceed with the plan even if the tanks were ultimately used only as defensive bunkers.
Both President Bassett and Colonel Levins felt that the decision to annex Camp Lejeune into the ROA was an excellent idea, but knew that the success of this annexation would rely upon the reputation of the ROA Military.
Extensive discussion concerning Bravo Company of the 101st Airborne resulted in the decision to send a diplomatic mission to investigate the activities and governance provided by the 1-0-1 in the area under its control.
After hearing the briefing portion of the 101st recognizing the gray uniforms of the ROA made everyone even more thankful to Major General Chalmers, as he foresaw the importance of distinguishing the 1st Cav from local militias. The historical record of the ROA would give special emphasis to the United States Marine Corps’ assistance in assuring the success of the Republic of America.
The final agenda item concerned the establishment of radio relay stations along the route to The Bunker, as it was now called.
Adan Ramos stood and said, “Gentlemen, our communications abilities are extremely limited in range. Each station must be in direct line of sight. Antennas must extend above any obstructions, such as trees, hills, and buildings. These obstructions mean that we will need nearly one hundred relay stations between here and The Bunker. Failure of even one relay brings down the entire communications network.
It seems obvious to me that we must find four hundred men to man these relays, and a crash course in radio, repair, and procedure must begin immediately.
Can this mission be accomplished? I don’t know; the logistics fall to you. We will, of course, continue our work with extreme diligence to increase the effective range of our radio capabilities.”
Ralph looked around the table and asked, “Do we have four hundred men we can train for this mission?”
Levi said, “
Mr. President, we have had several hundred volunteers wanting to join the fight against the USA, but, no, I do not believe that we can, at present field this number of people to be dedicated to a far too fragile system. If we cannot reduce this commitment by at least three hundred men, I see no possibility that we will have working commo for Operation Deny Egress.”
Without thinking about protocol, Adan jumped to his feet and said, “Wait, there is a way. My God, I can’t believe that I didn;t consider using the HAM radio sets. Why, with them, I believe that we could easily create a communications network.
Gentlemen, I sincerely apologize for this horrendous miscalculation on my part. Colonel, The Skunkworks will provide communications. Can you provide support, training, and security for these relay stations?”
Levi asked, “Are you able to give me an estimate of required relay stations?”
“Oh, yes, of course, I would estimate a minimum of four, but surely no more than ten. HAM sets have much greater range, but ten would certainly provide plenty of overlap in the case of one or more station malfunctions.”
“Mr. President,” said Levi, I recommend we begin a crash course in communication security and protocol as well as continue our search for Tankers.”
Twenty-eight September was set for the first and largest convoy to depart for The Bunker. This section would be heavy on war-fighters, support personnel, and physical support, along with five LAV IIIs. It was still quite warm in the ROA, but in West Virginia, fall was in the air, and this gave everyone a renewed sense of urgency.
Both Lt. Colonel Eldridge and Major Murtaugh would accompany the initial convoy. Scott would return to Defiance, leaving Gus in overall Command.
The initial plan was for Captain Guyardo to command the second convoy and assume command of the combat forces. Major Murtaugh would remain in overall command. However, in retrospect, it was decided to take Captain Guy on the first convoy.
*
24 September 0900
Briefing Room
The Bunker, WV
President Clanton and General of the Army Hughes sat in the President’s office for their daily 0900 meeting.
Clanton said, “General, I would like to make a change to our schedule. I believe it would be prudent for you to take the Mech. Battalion to D.C. Once there, put together a workforce and begin to prepare the White House and also ensure that the Congressional Government offices are ready to occupy when we arrive.
Do you agree?”
General Hughes smiled and said, “Yes sir, I think you are right. Our men are getting a bit rusty. This assignment will make an excellent mission for us. My force could be ready to depart for D.C. on 29 September, should you approve.”
Clanton was thrilled to have these mechanized Mercenaries from a private security company, Constellation Ltd who called themselves the Black Knights, gone.
The government had initially portrayed the two remaining Battalions of Infantry as Rangers, to provide a cover story to ensure there were no morality issues concerning the regaining of control, once the government emerged from its lair.
The President did approve of the General’s timetable.
*
27 September 1800
1st Cav, Conference Room
Defiance, ROA
Ralph joined the final meeting, as an observer, for the first convoy to depart for the Bunker, scheduled for 0800 on 28 September.
This convoy would be the largest as it contained the eight fuel trucks, two hundred men, winter uniforms, tentage, field-kitchen, and food. Also 70% of the munitions, and weapons, still, there seemed to be no end to the material necessary for this winter campaign.
Levi looked closely at his senior staff. They did not look cocky, or overconfident, but rather determined, as each knew the part he played in the successful conclusion of the coming battle.
He said, “My friends, I am happy that I do not see any false bravado, today. Your demeanor assures me that you know the complexities involved in what we must do.
Colonel Eldridge, please see that our convoy gets safely to the Bunker, and get my trucks back here to prepare for another round trip.”
Lt. Colonel Eldridge looked unflinchingly into his Commander’s eyes and said, “Yes sir, I will have the trucks back here ASAP. The commo relays are up and running, and we have clear communications to keep you informed of our progress.”
“Major Smith, are we ready to depart a convoy of one hundred trucks along with the combat, support, and command vehicles?”
“Yes sir, we are gassed up, lined up and ready to roll at oh-early-o’clock in the morning.” I anticipate arrival at the Bunker no later than 1800 hours on 29 September, barring breakdowns, of course.
I believe that the only other thing to slow us down would be some foolish bad guys who need to be tagged and bagged.”
Everyone laughed, and Levi said, “Hopefully you won’t come across anyone stupid enough to make trouble, considering the firepower you’re packing.”
The Sergeant Major knocked on the door and asked if he could speak to the Colonel for just a second.
Levi smiled and said, “Excuse me, when Sgt Major Cobb speaks, I listen. I’ll be right back.”
Outside the door, the Sgt Major said, “Sir, I apologize for interrupting the meeting, but I thought you might want to let them know that we have found a Tanker among The Widow’s Sons. He was a Tank Commander and is willing to teach recruits in the Tank’s operation and gunnery.”
“Great news, Brad, thank you.”
When Levi sat back down, he said, “I have great news. We have found a Tank Commander who can teach all that Tanker stuff. He’s one of The Widow’s Sons. You know; that nice biker bunch of Masons. Now, we just have to figure out the logistics, right Ben?”
Everyone was overjoyed with the news.
“Oh, yes sir, would you like my plan by this afternoon? You know, my plate is so empty.” He then burst into laughter and said, “Yes sir, but I think it’s going to have to wait until spring.”
***
Chapter 12
The Black Knights
28 September 0700
The Bunker
White Sulfur Springs, WV
Four vehicles left The Bunker to scout the best route to 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, Washington, D.C.
They initially made a beeline for the I-64 East to Covington, but quickly found the Interstate Highway cluttered with large trucks. Without a bulldozer, it would be impossible to clear a path quickly.
The Commander of the scouts ordered a course reversal and from The Bunker took the Pocahontas Trail and Two Licks Trail north toward Chantilly.
This route was clear of large trucks. The smaller cars would easily be pushed off the road. The scouts followed that path until they reached Stephens City where Lottie’s Lane crosses I-64 before turning around to return to the Bunker to make his scouting report.
*
29 September 0810
The Bunker
White Sulfur Springs, WV
The Mech. Battalion was ten minutes late when they left the Bunker, bound for Washington, D.C. on 29 September at 0810 hours.
This ad hoc battalion consisted of four hundred and five men in three companies of Infantry, transported into combat by Infantry Fighting Vehicles (IFVs) consisting of Bradley Fighting Vehicles on low-boy trailers, and the Lightly Armored Vehicles (LAV III) on eight wheels. Each Company owned five Bradleys; five LAV IIIs, and twelve noncombat vehicles, including maintenance personnel.
These IFVs were armed with a 30 mm cannon and two machine guns. None were equipped with the Javelin Missile system.
General Hughes’ staff car was a Black Suburban; in his mind, style was everything.
The scouts estimated a three-day trip to go two-hundred and seventy-two miles. The General had fumed about the delay until it was explained that using the Interstate System would take them a minimum of three weeks.
*
29 September 1300
Defiance Communic
ations Room
Defiance, ROA
The Radio Operator said, “Mig 29, Sukhoi 6, over.”
“Sukhoi 6, Mig 29, over.”
“Mig 29, commo check, over.”
“Sukhoi 6, Mig 29, I hear you five by five, over.”
“Mig 29 do you have status on Big Bird, over?”
Sukhoi 6, negative, will call when we see him, over.”
“Roger check two, out.”
This exchange was not between Russian planes but was code from Sukhoi 6 (Colonel Levins), and Mig 29 (Radio Relay Station 2) to find out if Big Bird (Convoy) had passed his location.
Roger, check two was code for everyone along the line to change frequencies to the designated number two frequency. The security and code were primitive, but the effort was made to keep any eavesdroppers guessing.
The convoy was making way, but slowly as the road had to be cleared of deserted autos. The traffic had been very light when the grid went down, but even the occasional vehicle still had to be moved.
Mig 29 reported that Big Bird passed his station at 1327 hours.
Those families living in the ROA portion of the Road March came out to wave at the men in the convoy. As the trucks rolled by, one boy, about ten years old snapped to attention and saluted. The men, in the trucks, smiled and returned the young trooper’s salute.
For most of the men of the 1st Cavalry, the trip was long, uncomfortable, and boring. Everyone looked forward to the next piss break.
By 1800, ten hours into the trip, the convoy pulled over for the night. They were two hours ahead of schedule, well out of the ROA secured area, and over half way to the Bunker.