VC Chapter 28-Vice Admiral Owens

Sector 2100

Planet 2103

November 22, 2052

A large group of soldiers both NB and EH stood together in harmony as Tarbuck walked to the stage where a closed casket was laid by flowers and wreathes in a ship dock.

“Let us not forget Vice Admiral Stewart Owens of NB for his sacrifice so that we could all alive right now.” Tarbuck spoke solemnly.

Tarbuck looked down at the podium and then at the casket.

“Although we never recovered his body in the debris field. His soul and spirit lives on in space. It would have been what he wanted. A true NB expeditionary pioneer. A founding father of the NB community.” Tarbuck gazed into the space above him.

Captain Wicker walked over the casket holding a ceremonial wreath and laid it down beside the casket.

“Rest in peace buddy.” Wicker spoke softly.

Captain Antonopoulos was next in line to present his wreath for Owens followed by Captain McClelland.

“I know I don't speak much, but I will say this. Thank you old friend. I will not forget you.” Antonopoulos laid his wreath beside Wicker's.

“Oh Owens, we need more heroes like you. I know what Charlie would have said if he was here. You and him are much alike. You will be missed.” McClelland sighed.

One by one, officers from NB and EH paid their respects to Owens and Tarbuck concluded the ceremony with a 21 gun salute.

“Ladies and gentlemen. Friends and allies. We must not give in to our fears. We must be bold and strong. We must have faith in one another and stay united. United as one! Today we will rebuild what we have lost.” Tarbuck spoke his words of encouragement.

A Talon frigate flew into the dock carrying a huge chunk of ship debris and dropping it behind Tarbuck.

“That was Owens' ship. We will use that metal and rebuild the same ship Owens had. Let it remind us that his sacrifice continues to inspire us. Continues to shape us. And continues to strengthen us.” Tarbuck pointed at the debris.

The crowd cheered and clapped with renewed hope and energy. Tarbuck knew he had to carry the weight of NB for the time being. He waved to the crowd acknowledging their response.

“Today...” Tarbuck tried to speak over the cheering.

“Shhhh....” the crowd quietly settled.

“Today NB is making its mark in history. That we are a force to be trifled with. We will not go down easy.” Tarbuck pointed his finger at the crowd.

 “Today is a stronger and better NB!” Tarbuck shouted from his podium.