A Time of DisappointmentApril 4, 1986Copyright © 1997 Property of Deborah K. Fletcher. All rights reserved.
It was a damp, chill, April evening. The cadets had gathered at the Armory for their weekly training. The basketball game had ended, and the cadets had settled into formation. Each green-clad youth had joined the Civil Air Patrol for a different reason. Each officer had memories of the green-clad days. As Lieutenant King entered the drill hall, the murmur of discussion subsided into stillness. He was their own age, yet the neat, blue uniform made him seem older. He called the flights to attention. Cadet Fletcher allowed her mind to turn to the standard dismissal ceremony. however, the evening was to prove itself different from other evenings. "Cadet Sergeant Cummings, front and center," Lieutenant King ordered. At the order, Sergeant cummings turned and marched to a position before the Lieutenant, saluted, and reported. After a moment of low-voiced conversation, the Lieutenant announced, "Sergeant Cummings is now the Deputy Cadet Commander." Sergeant Cummings moved to his new position. Cadet Fletcher's heart raced. She was next to the Sergeant in rank; she knew that her promotion was imminent. "Cadet King, front and center," the Lieutenant ordered. His brother went forward, and received the position of First Sergeant. Cadet Fletcher tensed with anticipation. It would be her turn next. "Cadet browe, front and center." Cadet Fletcher's heart missed a beat. Gregg had gotten her command. She stood steadfastly at attention, tears running freely down her cheeks, as Cadet Browe took his place as Flight Commander. Later in the evening, after dismissal, cadet Fletcher approached Lieutenant King about the matter. "I'm sorry, Kathie," he said, "I forgot you were there." cadet Fletcher's anger boiled up in her, but she carefully concealed it. She did not wish to add insult to injury by showing the boys her vulnerability. As she walked out to the Skinners' car, she relived the promotion scene in flashes, over and over. Her thoughts were interrupted by Lieutenant Colonel Moors. "Kathie, come here." He commanded and she obeyed. "About the prom," he began, "I'm really sorry, but I think I'm a little too old to go." "Oh, steve!" Her resolve finally broke, and she cried out. The tears ran unchecked as she got into the car. An evening that had begun in fun had ended in disappointment, and a sense of betrayal. In the course of the next two days, Kathie Fletcher ignored every word and motion of the Lieutenant. James King became a hated name. Nevertheless, Kathie's belief that love and hate are synonymous carried her on. She hated James, but his presence was a constant, fond reminder of good times past. Please View and Sign My Guestbook © 1998-2000 Debbie Fletcher, joiya@tcia.net
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