| |
|
Table of Contents
|
Kensington had been working non-stop since the Enterprise had left port. Now that the ship was back, his workload had actually increased.
Walking Bear, the Federation Council and the Diplomatic Corps all wanted detailed reports on the mission. The only way to accomplish that was by debriefing the command crew personally.
Today was going to be a bit different, though. DeSalle had called for an appointment and would be arriving soon. After that interview, Admiral Scott would follow and then Rand. That would take care of the morning. In the afternoon, five more would be interviewed and that would finish the day, then there was the night!
Vincent DeSalle showed up seven minutes ahead of schedule. That was fine with the Admiral. He put his cup of tea down and greeted the officer with genuine enthusiasm. "Outstanding work, Mister DeSalle, I'm looking forward to our official debriefing."
Surprised by the informal manner in which the admiral conducted his business, DeSalle smiled with delight. "Glad to be part of history, sir. I know you are a busy man, so I'll get right to the point, if you don't mind."
The admiral retrieved his cup and sat. "Please, take a seat, Vincent, isn't it?"
DeSalle complied and confirmed the admiral's conjecture. "Yes, sir, it's Vincent; Vince to my friends and fellow officers."
"What brings you here, Vince? I hadn't planned on interviewing you until tomorrow."
"It's about Admiral Kirk, sir, and I wanted to act quickly. I understand that he's not going to be allowed to command a starship again."
Leaning forward the Chief of Spec Ops was surprised. "That's not general knowledge, how did you --"
"I was talking to Doctor McCoy. I'm sure it wasn't meant as a security breach or a violation of doctor/patient confidence. He's just worried about Kirk. Command is just about all the Admiral knows. However, I can understand Starfleet's position. They want to protect one of their most valuable assets."
"So you have an idea, is that what this is leading to?" Kensington was genuinely interested. It could make his job much easier in the long run. One of his most time consuming tasks was the recommendation of future duties for all personnel involved in the mission if they weren't already assigned.
DeSalle explained, "It's simple, sir. I'm currently planning a new course at the Academy. It centers on Kirk's life and career. I've been working on it for some time. However, it would have a much greater impact if the Admiral taught it himself. He could take my place while I continue my current active duty period."
"Do you think the Commandant of Cadets would agree to such an arrangement?"
"I've already cleared it with him, sir." DeSalle smiled again. "I hope I wasn't overstepping my position, but it's better to have all possibilities covered before presenting an idea to Starfleet Command, correct?"
The admiral returned the smile. "Correct! You think Kirk would accept the assignment?"
"Yes, sir. Remember, he taught at the Academy once before. Doctor McCoy said that he really enjoyed it. In fact, it may be an ideal situation for everyone. His insights on exploration and command would be invaluable to our cadets. Can you think of anyone more qualified?"
"Frankly, no." The Chief of Special Operations sat quiet for a moment then spoke again. "Could you put all this in the form of a written proposal and would you be prepared to present it to Walking Bear personally?"
DeSalle stood and removed a data tape from his duty uniform. "Here's the formal proposal, sir. I am ready anytime for a meeting with Walking Bear."
Laughing, Kensington commented, "Looks like you have all the angles covered. I'll be in touch as soon as I get through with the debriefings. I think you have a really good idea and I will personally add my endorsement and recommendation to Walking Bear."
"Thank you, sir. It means lot to me and I think Kirk will greatly appreciate it as well."
|
© 2024 Brad McDonald / U.S.S. Kitty Hawk
Star Trek and all related marks, logos, and characters are solely owned by CBS Studios, Inc. This fan organization
is not endorsed by, sponsored by, nor affiliated with CBS, Paramount Pictures, or any other Star Trek franchise.
|
