“Carmen, what’s the SEAL’s motto?” It was James who was asking, with Alex, Angel, and Jackie looking on. “It’s kinda long, so here it goes:
In times of war or uncertainty there is a special breed of warrior ready to answer our Nation’s call. A common man (or woman) with an uncommon desire to succeed. Forged by adversity, he (or she) stands along America’s finest Special Operations forces to serve his (or her) country, the American people, and to protect their way of life. I am that man.
My Trident is a symbol of honor and heritage. Bestowed upon me by the heroes that have gone before, it embodies the trust of those that I have sworn to protect. By wearing the Trident I accept the responsibility of my chosen profession and way of life. It is a privelige that I must earn every day. My loyalty to Country and Team is beyond reproach. I humbly serve as a Guardian to my fellow Americans always ready to defend those who are unable to defend themselves. I do not advertise the nature of my work, nor seek recognition for my actions. I voluntarily accept the inherent hazards of my profession, placing the welfare and security of others before my own. I serve with honor both on and off the battlefeild. The ability to controll my emotions and my actions, regardless of the circumstance, sets me apart from other men (and women). Uncompromising integrity is my standard. My character and honor are steadfast. My word is my bond.
We expect to lead and be led. In the absence of orders I will take charge, lead my teammates and accomplish the mission. I lead by example in all situations. I will never quit. I perservere and thrive on adversity. My Nation expects me to be physically harder and mentally stronger than my enemies. If knocked down, I will get back up, every time. I will draw on every remaining ounce of stregnth to protect my teammates and accomplish our mission. I am never out of the fight.
We demand discipline. We expect innovation. The lives of my teammates and the sucess of our mission depends on me- my technical skill, tactical proficiency, and attention to detail. My training is never complete. We train for war and fight to win. I stand ready to bring the full spectrum of combat power to bear in order to achieve my mission and the goals established by my country. The execution of my duties will be swift and violent when required yet guided by the very principles that I serve to defend. Brave men and women have fought and died building the proud tradition and feared reputation that I am bound to uphold. In the worst of conditions, the legacy of my teammates steadies my resolve and silently guides my every deed. I will not fail, and I will never give up, no matter how dire the circumstance.”
The twins looked at me with a deep level of respect. Jackie asked me what sort of missions James and I had been on. “Well, we were both on the Maersk Alabama rescue mission. We’ve both been in close combat situations, though I can’t name any specific missions or places.” “What was the Maersk Alabama mission like for you both?” James answered this one. “Long, Cold, and personally, the wait was pretty boaring. It took major effort not to fall asleep on my part. I don’t know what Carmen felt though.” This was one of the few missions we had both been assigned to. I had a feeling that it wouldn’t be too long before we both got sent to the same place again, since there are so few of us. “If you had to pick adjectives to describe SEALS, what would they be?” It was Alex who asked this time. He was pretty good at gradually obtaining information, whereas Angel prefered to just beat you up and badger you untill you caved and gave her what she wanted. I answered this one. “Hmmm... Cocky, Arrogant, Intelligent, and Energetic would be a few.” My cell began to ring. I looked at the number. It was the Secretary of Defense. This couldn’t possibly be good. “Scuse’ me for a minute.” I gave James a “This means trouble” look as I left the room. “Hello Mr. Secretary, what can I do for you today?” “Hello Carmen. I called to say two things. First, I am indeed very sorry to hear about your parents. Second, I have also heard that you are looking for someone to watch over your younger siblings while you’re out on missions. I may have a solution for you.” “I’m all ears, mister Secretary.” “Mrs Secretary and I have conferred, and come to the decision that if they needed a place to stay, they’d be more than welcome to live with us. They would be well looked after and children are, more often than not, capable of bringing to light sunshine and laughter even in the darkest of times.” “Thank you very much Mr. Secretary of Defense, Sir, but I would need to talk this over with my family before I could tell you my decision.” “Of course. Mrs. Secretary and myself will be awaiting your call. I must go now, but I hope to speak to you again shortly.” “Of course, Sir, I am forever at your disposal.” We hung up at that. I walked back into the living room. “Guys, the funeral’s in an hour, we need to get ready. James, I need some help picking my dress.” That was one of our codes for I need to talk to you alone. “Of course, Carmen.” We both walked into my room, and I threw my Navy Dress whites on and debreifed James on the call I had just taken. “What do you think? Should we do it?” “I think that the twins should be involved in deciding this, Carmen. They’re old enough and smart enough to have a say in what happens to them.” “I agree.” we finished getting into our funeral clothes and got into the car. (James and I were both in dress whites, Jackie and Angel were in long Black funeral dresses, and Alex was wearing a tailored suit). The funeral went as planned, with the afterparty being at our house, and everybody made it home safe. Angel and Alex cried for hours after the guests left. That was completley understandable. Hell, James and I cried along with them. The next morning I called the Secretary of defense. At noon the next day, I got the call. James and I were desperatley needed again.
