Chapter 61: A Bar Encounter
It was a cool evening in Virginia Beach, and Aaron Rollins decided to take advantage of his break by visiting a bar frequented by military personnel from the special operations community. He wasn't much of a drinker, but he enjoyed the atmosphere of the place, where stories and camaraderie mixed together.
As he walked in, the sound of conversation and laughter echoed through the place, and he quickly noticed a familiar group at a table in the corner. It was Red Squadron's Alpha Team. Led by Master Chief Jason Hayes, the team was known for its efficiency and cohesion.
With Jason were Sonny Quinn, Trent Sawyer, and three other operators. Also present were Lisa Davis, a military logistician, Mandy Ellis, an intelligence officer, and the team's officer, Lieutenant Commander Blackburn.
Aaron hesitated for a moment, but soon approached. He was the only Lieutenant Commander still acting as an operator, something unusual and that earned him respect among his peers.
"Well, if it isn't the legendary Aaron Rollins," Jason Hayes said when he noticed him. He stood up and held out his hand with a smile. "We were talking about you the other day."
Aaron shook Jason's hand firmly. "I hope they said nice things, Hayes."
"Just the truth," Jason replied, inviting him to join the table.
Aaron settled in, and the group quickly joined him in the conversation.
Sonny Quinn, in his typical easygoing manner, began: "So, Rollins, I heard you were called to rescue hostages on a plane. Is that true, or is it just another tall tale we hear?"
Aaron shrugged and took a sip of his drink. "You know how it is, Quinn. Some stories are better when they're neither confirmed nor denied."
The table laughed, and Trent Sawyer commented: "Classic. Next thing they'll be saying is that you're indestructible."
Lisa Davis, who had been watching with a smile, chimed in. "Actually, considering Lieutenant Commander Rollins's track record, it wouldn't be so far-fetched."
Aaron laughed, raising his hands. "I just do my job like everyone else here."
Mandy Ellis, ever curious, jumped at the opportunity. "Speaking of work, Rollins, you have a reputation. It's not every day we find an officer of your stature still in the field."
"I like being where I can make a difference, Mandy," Aaron replied. "Besides, it's hard to walk away from that when you know you still have something to contribute."
The conversation eventually turned to mission stories. Jason told of a complicated infiltration in the Middle East, and Sonny added amusing details about equipment mishaps. When it was Aaron's turn, he shared a story about a joint operation with MI6 in Kandahar, but he didn't go into any sensitive details.
— The funny thing is that, even with all the tension of the mission, the British still found time to discuss tea.
The group laughed, and Sonny joked:
— Of course, because tea is a priority.
The evening continued with jokes, laughter, and the sense of camaraderie that only elite operators could share.
As the group relaxed, Jason pulled Aaron to the counter, where they could talk more privately.
— Rollins, it's good to see you're still active. I heard some of the guys upstairs want to move you up to a more strategic position.
Aaron nodded.
— I've heard rumors, but I haven't heard anything official yet. I'm not ready to leave the field, Jason. I still have things to do.
Jason put a hand on his shoulder.
— You know you have our respect, no matter what you decide. But if you need advice, don't ignore the opportunities that arise.
Aaron thought for a moment before answering:
— I'll think about it. But for now, I'm focused on doing my job.
As the bar began to empty, Aaron stood up to say goodbye. He shook hands with each of them, exchanging quick words.
"It was a pleasure, Rollins," Mandy said with a sincere smile.
"Likewise. And you have my number. If you need anything, just call," Aaron replied.
As he walked out into the cool night, Aaron reflected on the encounter. It was rare to be in an environment where everyone shared the same experiences, challenges, and sacrifices. But more than that, he knew that even in a world full of uncertainty, he could count on people like these.
Chapter 62: A Surprise Return
It was a quiet morning in the Rollins house. The sun was streaming through the living room curtains, illuminating the furniture and filling the room with a comfortable warmth. Aaron was sitting on the couch, wearing a simple t-shirt and jeans, while reading a book about military history. He was enjoying his free time with something he loved: peaceful moments with his family.
In the kitchen, Elisabeth, his mother, was baking a cake, and Joseph, his father, was reading the newspaper out loud, commenting on some headlines. Everything seemed calm and in order.
Suddenly, Aaron heard light footsteps behind him, but he didn't pay much attention, thinking it was just his father walking around the room. That's when something heavy fell on his back, and small, familiar arms wrapped around him in a tight hug.
"I got you, big SEAL!" a female voice shouted excitedly.
Aaron immediately became alert, almost dropping the book on the floor, but the familiarity of the voice made him relax. He turned his head only to see Cathy, his younger sister, grinning from ear to ear as she clung to his back.
"Cathy?!" he exclaimed, surprised, but soon laughed. "You almost gave me a heart attack, you crazy girl!"
"It's good to see you, big brother!" Cathy replied, laughing, while still hanging on to him.
"Oh, really?" Aaron asked, pretending to be serious. "Well, you know there are consequences for scaring an elite operator, don't you?"
Before Cathy could react, Aaron got up from the couch, throwing her over his shoulders with ease.
"You're going to pay for this!" he said, as he began to tickle her mercilessly.
"Aaron, stop!" Cathy screamed between laughs. "I surrender, I surrender!"
In the kitchen, Elisabeth and Joseph watched the scene with smiles on their faces. It was beautiful to see how the two children, despite everything, still maintained the connection and joy they had when they were children.
"They'll never change," Joseph commented, laughing, as he folded the newspaper.
"That's good," Elisabeth replied, moved. "With everything Aaron has been through and is going through, it's good to see that he still finds joy in the little things."
Aaron finally put Cathy back on the floor, and she was still laughing as she tried to catch her breath.
"Okay, okay, I admit, it was a bad idea to scare you," Cathy said, raising her hands in surrender.
"It's good that you know that," Aaron replied with a smile, lightly slapping her head. "But what are you doing here? I thought you were still in the Persian Gulf."
Cathy sat on the couch, still trying to calm her laughter.
"The Enterprise made an unexpected stop in Norfolk, and I got a few days off. I thought it would be a nice surprise."
— Well, you did it, — Aaron said, sitting down next to her. — But next time, send me a message or something. My heart will thank you.
— Oh, where's the fun in that? — Cathy joked, rolling her eyes.
Elisabeth entered the room, drying her hands on a dish towel.
— Cathy, honey, are you going to have lunch with us? I'm making your favorite dish.
— Of course, Mom! — Cathy replied excitedly. — I can already smell it delicious.
While lunch was being prepared, Aaron and Cathy chatted in the living room. Joseph, ever the protective father, chimed in.
— Cathy, I have to ask. How's the atmosphere over there? Any news we should know?
Cathy sighed, but smiled to calm them down.
— Everything is under control, Dad. And before you ask, I'm taking care of myself. And yes, Steve is back on the Enterprise, but we're handling it well.
Aaron frowned at the mention of Steve's name.
"He's behaving himself, right?"
"Aaron, relax," Cathy replied, rolling her eyes. "He knows you protect me like a lion."
"Well, he better remember that," Aaron said, his tone half-joking, half-serious.
Joseph and Elisabeth laughed at the exchange. It was obvious that Aaron took his role as big brother very seriously.
As Aaron and Cathy talked, Elisabeth pulled Joseph aside.
"It's amazing how Aaron holds up so well," she said, looking at her oldest son. "After everything he's seen and been through, he still has such a generous heart."
Joseph nodded, placing a hand on his wife's shoulder.
"He's strong, Liz, both physically and mentally. But I think the most important thing is that he has us. He knows he can come home and find peace here." Elisabeth smiled, feeling grateful for having such a close-knit family.
When lunch was ready, everyone gathered at the table. The smell of Cathy's favorite dish, spinach and cheese lasagna, filled the dining room.
"This is amazing, Mom," Cathy said, taking a generous portion.
"Thanks, honey," Elisabeth replied, pleased with the compliment.
During the meal, Aaron told light stories about his time off, while Cathy shared interesting facts about her deployment. Despite the challenges, the family was happy to be together, even if only for a short time.
After lunch, Cathy lay down on the couch with her head in Aaron's lap, something she had done since she was a little girl. Aaron looked at his sister and thought how grateful he was that she was safe.
"No matter where you are, Cathy," he said softly. "Whenever you need me, I'll be there."
Cathy smiled, closing her eyes.
"I know, big brother."
And so the afternoon went on, with laughter, stories, and moments of tranquility that only a family like the Rollins could provide.
Chapter 63: Operation in the Shadow
It was a morning like any other at Dam Neck Naval Base. Aaron and his Bravo team were enjoying the rare quiet when they received an urgent summons to the operations room. The message was clear: "All Bravo operators, report immediately."
Aaron, now 36 and an unwavering leader, knew that such a summons meant something serious. He gathered his men and marched together to the room, where the DEVGRU commander was waiting for them with a serious expression.
In the briefing room, the lights were dimmed, and a large screen displayed a map of Russia. The silence was absolute as the commander began.
"Men, we have a critical situation. A CIA agent has been captured on Russian territory while conducting an intelligence operation. He is in an undisclosed location in the Novosibirsk region, in the custody of Russian forces."
Aaron's face grew serious. He knew what this meant. Entering Russia, especially in times of political tension, was a high-risk operation.
"The target's codename is Falcon," the commander continued. "Russia is treating this with secrecy, but our sources indicate he is being interrogated. We cannot allow sensitive information to fall into their hands. Your mission is to locate, rescue, and exfiltrate the agent before it is too late."
Aaron exchanged glances with his team. They didn't need words; they all knew the weight of the mission.
"Understood, sir," Aaron replied firmly.
A few hours later, Aaron and his team were aboard a specially configured C-130, flying toward the Russian border. They would parachute from high altitude and use HALO techniques to infiltrate enemy territory.
"Bravo, this is a no-fail operation," Aaron said, adjusting his gear. "Get in, do the job, and get out without a trace."
— Understood, Bravo 1, — Bravo 2 replied.
The jump was precise. The team landed in a secluded area, far from any Russian radar or patrols. Moving like shadows, they advanced through the hostile terrain until they reached the observation point near the facility where the agent was being held.
With the help of drones and surveillance equipment, Aaron assessed the situation. The location was heavily guarded by Russian soldiers armed to the teeth.
"Bravo 1 to all," Aaron whispered into the radio. "Set up positions. We will execute the infiltration in two minutes."
The team moved with surgical precision, silently neutralizing the guards outside. Aaron led the charge, using only a knife to eliminate any initial resistance.
However, just as they were about to enter the main building, a sudden explosion rocked the place. Someone had activated a booby trap. Aaron and his men were thrown back by the impact, the deafening sound echoing in the freezing night.
"Bravo 1, status!" — Bravo 3 shouted, coughing due to the dust.
Aaron, despite being dazed, quickly got up. He checked his men. Everyone was alive, but some were injured.
"We're fine!" — Aaron replied. "Let's keep going."
The explosion had alerted the guards, and soon enemies began to appear from all sides. Aaron took the lead, fighting like a machine. He took down opponents with quick and precise blows, using only his hands when necessary.
In a narrow corridor, he faced three soldiers at once, disarming one, breaking the arm of the second and knocking out the third with a direct blow to the face.
"Bravo 1, you're a monster," Bravo 5 commented, as he provided cover.
"I'm just warming up," Aaron replied, with a determined smile.
Finally, the team reached the room where Falcon was being held. The agent, visibly weakened, was tied to a chair. Aaron ran to him, checking his condition.
"Falcon, we're here to get you out. Can you walk?" Aaron asked.
"I'll try," the agent replied with difficulty.
Aaron cut the restraints and helped Falcon to his feet. Meanwhile, Bravo 2 and Bravo 4 set up a defensive perimeter, holding off the enemies who were advancing down the corridor.
"Bravo 1, we're running out of time!" Bravo 2 shouted.
"I'm aware!" Aaron replied, hoisting Falcon onto his shoulders. "Move to the extraction point!"
The team moved quickly, facing increasing resistance. Aaron led the way, using his tactical skill to avoid ambushes and eliminate imminent threats.
Upon reaching the extraction point, they faced the final obstacle: a squad of Russian soldiers blocked the way. Aaron signaled for his men to take up positions while he prepared for a decisive attack.
"Bravo, follow my lead," he ordered.
With a coordinated burst of fire and movement, the team eliminated the enemy. Aaron was the last to leave the site, making sure none of his men were left behind.
The exfiltration helicopter was waiting at a remote point. Aaron lifted Falcon aboard and helped his men board.
"Job well done, gentlemen," he said as the helicopter took off.
Back at the secure base, Falcon was taken for medical attention, and Aaron met with the commander for a mission debrief.
"Mission accomplished, sir," Aaron reported.
"Excellent work, Rollins. Once again, you've shown why you're the best," the commander replied.
Aaron simply nodded, tired but satisfied that he had brought everyone back safely.
That night, as he rested in his quarters, Aaron thought about the mission. He knew that each operation was a test of his skills and determination. But he also knew that he had a greater purpose: to protect his country and his men, no matter the cost.
He took out his notebook and wrote a single sentence:
"Duty always calls, and we always answer."
With that, Aaron closed his eyes, ready for the next challenge that fate would throw his way.
Chapter 64: Shadow Reconnaissance
The echoes of the mission into Russian territory still reverberated in the halls of JSOC. The operation had been an unqualified success, but its magnitude and the risks involved had not gone unnoticed by the leadership. Admiral William McRaven, commander of JSOC, sat at the table with DEVGRU commander Captain Jacob Reynolds.
"Jacob, what Aaron Rollins and his team did in Russia is extraordinary," McRaven began, his tone admiring. "Not only did he accomplish the mission, but he did it with a skill that we rarely see, even among the best."
"I agree, sir," Reynolds replied, reviewing the reports. "He led with precision, neutralized multiple threats, and ensured that no one was left behind. That's the kind of leadership that needs to be recognized."
"I'm thinking big," McRaven said, crossing his arms. "The Navy Cross. It's one of the highest honors we can bestow on an operator." — Also, I think it's time to promote you for valor, sir. Rollins has been a lieutenant commander long enough. He's proven time and time again that he's ready to be a full commander.
McRaven nodded.
"I'll forward the reports directly to the president and his security council. It's time Rollins gets the recognition he deserves."
A few days later, Aaron was summoned to Captain Reynolds' office at Dam Neck. He was intrigued, since meetings with the commander were rarely scheduled without prior notice.
"Aaron, have a seat," Reynolds said, indicating the chair across from him.
Aaron complied, maintaining his calm and professional demeanor.
"I have good news for you. After reviewing your report from the last mission, JSOC has recommended that you be awarded the Navy Cross. In addition, you'll be promoted to full commander," Reynolds announced with a slight smile.
Aaron was silent for a moment, absorbing this information.
— Sir, I am honored, but... all I did was do my duty, — Aaron replied humbly.
"And that is exactly why you are being recognized," Reynolds replied. "The ceremony will be private, at the White House. Your family will be present."
When Aaron told his parents and Cathy the news, joy filled the house. Joseph, his father, proudly clapped his son on the shoulder.
"I always knew you were special, Aaron. This just confirms what we already knew."
"I am so proud of you, son," Elizabeth said, tearing up.
"And to think that my big brother is a living legend," Cathy joked, hugging Aaron. "You deserve all of this, and more."
Aaron, however, felt a little uncomfortable with all the attention. For him, the real stars were his men and the staff that supported him.
The ceremony was held in a private room at the White House. Aaron was dressed in his impeccable ceremonial uniform, while his parents and Cathy were elegantly attired. The room was small but imposing, with American flags adorning the walls and the presidential seal in the background.
President Barack Obama entered, accompanied by McRaven, Reynolds, and other senior military officers.
"Mr. Rollins," Obama began, smiling warmly. "We are here today to recognize your bravery, leadership, and exceptional service to the United States Armed Forces."
He paused, looking directly at Aaron.
"What you did in Russia not only saved a valuable life, but also protected critical secrets and interests of our nation. For that, it is with great honor that we award you the Navy Cross and promote you to full commander."
Obama took the medal and pinned it to Aaron's uniform.
"Congratulations, Commander Rollins."
"Thank you, sir," Aaron replied, his voice firm but humble.
After the ceremony, Aaron and his family had a private moment with the president and military leaders. Cathy couldn't contain her excitement.
"That was amazing, Aaron! I never thought I'd see my brother being decorated by the president."
Joseph and Elizabeth were visibly moved, but they kept their composure.
"You make us proud every day, son," Joseph said. "And it's not just because of this medal. It's because of the man you've become."
Aaron smiled, hugging his parents.
"I wouldn't be here without you."
Obama, watching the interaction, walked over.
"You have an incredible family, Aaron. It's good to see that even with all that you do, you keep your roots strong."
Aaron just nodded, grateful.
That night, back at the hotel, Aaron took a moment to reflect. He held the medal in his hands, remembering all that he had gone through to get here.
He knew the journey wasn't over yet. There were more missions, more challenges, and more lives to protect. But for now, he allowed himself a moment of pride and gratitude.
As he looked out the window at the lights of Washington, he muttered to himself,
"Duty continues. It will always continue."
Chapter 65: Rescue in Somali Waters
The briefing was straightforward and urgent. Captain Richard Phillips, commander of the merchant ship Maersk Alabama, had been kidnapped by Somali pirates and held hostage in a lifeboat in the Indian Ocean. Time was of the essence, and the situation had become a matter of national security.
Aaron Rollins, now full commander of Red Squadron, and his team were given clear orders: infiltrate, assess the situation, and rescue the captain without compromising his safety.
"Guys, this is a delicate mission," Aaron began, looking at each of the operators gathered in the operations room. "These pirates have nothing to lose, so we are not going to give them any room for error. Our priority is to bring Phillips home alive."
The team nodded in unison. Everyone knew the gravity of the mission.
Aboard a C-130 Hercules, Aaron and his team prepared for the jump. The equipment had been carefully packed, including a motorized inflatable boat that would be launched with them.
"Final check, guys," Aaron commanded.
Each operator checked their equipment. The sound of the wind around the plane was deafening, but everyone was focused.
"Ready?" Aaron asked.
"Always ready, Commander," his second-in-command, Sergeant Mike Carter, replied with a confident smile.
With the green light, Aaron was the first to jump, leading his team in a high-altitude infiltration. The sky was clear, and the stars shone brightly as they fell in absolute silence.
The impact with the ocean was precise. Within seconds, the operators inflated the boat and began rowing toward the U.S. Navy ship, which was monitoring the pirates' boat from a safe distance.
As Aaron boarded the destroyer USS Bainbridge, he was met by the ship's commanding officer, Captain Frank Castellano.
— Commander Rollins, we have a direct line to the lifeboat, but the situation is deteriorating, — Castellano explained. — The pirates are becoming increasingly aggressive.
— Any visual contact with Phillips? — Aaron asked.
— Yes, he is alive, but visibly exhausted. They are keeping him tied up as a form of control.
Aaron nodded, analyzing the information.
— We will need a strategic point for our snipers. As soon as we have a window of opportunity, we neutralize the threats and send the team to the lifeboat.
As time passed, Aaron and his team monitored the pirates' every move. Negotiations continued, but it was clear that the kidnappers were not willing to surrender.
— Commander, we have the snipers positioned, — Carter informed, next to Aaron on the deck of the ship.
— Any sign of cooperation from the pirates? — Aaron asked Castellano, who shook his head.
— Nothing. They are increasingly hostile.
Aaron took a deep breath, knowing that the final decision was in his hands.
"Inform the snipers: stand by for a firing window. I want all pirates neutralized simultaneously."
The silence was absolute as the snipers waited for the ideal moment. Aaron watched everything through his binoculars, observing every movement in the lifeboat.
Suddenly, one of the pirates raised his weapon, pointing directly at Phillips.
"Captain, they are getting impatient," Carter warned.
Aaron realized that there was no more time for negotiations.
"Snipers, prepare to fire," Aaron ordered over the radio. "Targets marked. On my signal."
The next few seconds seemed like an eternity. Then, Aaron gave the order:
"Fire!"
Three simultaneous shots cut through the silence. All the pirates were neutralized with lethal precision, falling instantly.
"Team, head to the lifeboat and retrieve Captain Phillips!" — Aaron commanded.
Two operators, led by Carter, quickly descended into the lifeboat with safety equipment. They found Phillips tied up and visibly shaken, but unharmed.
"Captain Phillips, we're here to take you home," Carter said as he began cutting the ropes that bound him.
"Thank God," Phillips muttered, almost weak but relieved.
Within minutes, Phillips was taken aboard the Bainbridge, where he received immediate medical attention.
Back on the Bainbridge, Aaron met with his team. The relief was palpable, but they all knew it had been a risky mission.
"Good job, guys. Everyone came back in one piece, and Captain Phillips is safe. That's what matters," Aaron said, with a hint of pride.
Carter walked over, patting Aaron on the shoulder.
"You made the right decision, Captain. It was a perfect rescue."
Aaron just nodded. He knew that despite the success, each mission left its mark.
On the flight back to the United States, Aaron took a moment to reflect. He knew that missions like this were just part of the job, but he also understood the impact they had on the lives of people like Captain Phillips.
Back at base in Dam Neck, Aaron was greeted with handshakes and praise from his superiors, but for him, the greatest recognition was knowing that another life had been saved.
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