The Annual Party

Posted on Thu Sep 17th, 2020 @ 9:50am by Captain Gary Taylor

Mission: Season 3: Episode 4: Cause and Effect
Location: Vaii Residence, Near RAF Whitecliff, Dover England
Timeline: Shore Leave
682 words - 1.4 OF Standard Post Measure

The house was a restored Victorian Residence not far from a civilian airport that still had the markings 'RAF Whitecliff' It was a very peaceful setting even for a Victorian house, nearby a Tree lies a lone grave under a tree, it's tombstone showing the following.

Lord Richard Vaii.

2323 - 2378

Nearby the residence's fence is a sign posted saying.
'45th Fighting Tigers Annual Party and Barbecue..

By invitation only, furthermore your combadge is the invitation, as you have earned your invitation through unwavering service to this Federation.' It sounded like something Jess would write.

Nearby the back patio Jen was working a barbecue grill. "I'm still taking orders back here."

One of the Ensign Pilots walked up to Jess. "Hey boss." Martins noted. "Change your mind about marrying me?" Jess shook her head. "Martins, if you ask me to marry you one more time, I'll throw your ass onto this grill and serve you up instead of these ribs." Martins usually did that as an inside joke in the 45th. Just for the squadron to laugh on Jess' tough-talk.

At that moment Gary walked up behind Martins, hearing the last of the conversation. A hand clamped down on his shoulder. "Martins, Ensigns are suppose to be quick on the uptake if they want to advance. How is it your so damn dense?" His voice teasing the younger pilot. he looked over at Jess at the grill, "Hiya Jess." He greeted her as he walked closer, "I didn't know how you were stocked for drinks, so I brought a bottle of rum and one of brandy."

Jess chuckled. "Fully stocked bar. I don't fool around with this event, Gary. Furthermore, I wouldn't be a Vaii if my hospitality was sub-standard." She picked up a glass of wine. "Pilots!!" She got everyone's attention. "A few weeks ago, I sent in a request for a squadron name change to the 45th Flying Tigers. Starfleet has decided to grant us a similar name to my proposal. We are now the 45th Fighting Tigers. Paying homage to the Flying Tigers squadron as well as reflecting our skill and bravery. I've taught all of you everything I know, and the ultimate in the teamwork and coordination that made the Tigers one of the finest squadrons in this Federation. On that note, Starfleet has seen fit to give us a unit commendation for our successful engagement against the Orion Pirate Cartels, and successfully assisting in liberating an Orion Slave Barge. I'm proud of all of you for your dedication and commitment as Starfleet Officers." An applause erupted.

"I should have known." He said handing her the two bottles. "Add these to the collection. I never worry about your hospitality Jess, it's always superb." He grew quiet as Jess made the announcement of the squadron name change as well as toasting her pilots. As the applause died down, Gary lifted his glass. "I'd like to propose a toast to Lt. Commander Jessica Vaii. Her dedication to seeing you all become pilots, especially the pilots she and I want in this squadron goes above and beyond the call of duty. Here's to you Jess, your the best of the best and your hard work and dedication is deeply appreciated and noted."

Cheers, whistles and applause rang out.

"I am honored to be your Squadron CO, and I will do my utmost to prove worthy to continue leading this squadron." Jessica noted. Furthermore, on the day you leave this squadron. I expect nothing less for you to pass on what I've learned. Here's some advice for that endeavor; Never marry your pilots." The pilots laughed.

Gary slid up next to her, "You are already an outstanding squadron CO Jess and you've never been anything less than worthy."

"Thank you... All of you." Jessica smiled at them. "Now enjoy this party you turds. Once once a year will you ever see me cooking for you. You should all be lucky you even got a glass of water out of me." All her pilots chuckled, used to her tough-talk. "Thank you again."