The 28th Marine Expeditionary Headquarters was not quiet as busy as Matthew thought it was. In the front part of the office was four desks, with four desk clerks at work. The Clerks were Marines who seemed dedicated to their job. In the rear of the office was a door that read. Col Tarik 28th MEF CO.
Matthew tucked his black and grey tunic downward taking out the bunching that the uniform always did while walking. Matt reached with his left hand and pressed the door chime. "Enter." Was herd.
After walking in Matthew came to a complete stop and stood at attention.
"Second Lieutenant Matthew McKnight reporting for duty sir."
Seated behind the desk was Colonel Tarik a well known and respected Marine now through out the Marine Corps. On his desk was about 13 padds neatly stacked in separate piles.
"At ease Lieutenant. May I see your orders." Tarik said seeing Matthew had a PADD in his right hand. Matthew handed the PADD over placing it on the desk. Tarik picked up and read it over and nodded his head.
"Well I see your our new Reconnaissance Platoon Leader. I see you have a some time in as a Recon Marine." Tarik said looking over the young Lieutenant.
"You realize that this area of space isn't too as calm as the Press says it is. Another conflict with the Mullurans is inevitable. They lost bad and they are going to want revenge. You realize that you can't tell your family about anything we do out here?" Tarik said standing up and walking over to the food replicator.
"Yes Colonel. My only family is my future wife on Betazoid. She was a little angry at my taking this assignment. She then asked me, I thought you didn't like fighting in a war, are you a war junkie? "Matthew shook his head and then watched Tarik walk back to his desk.
"I told her sir that she wouldn't understand. It's not for any glory or medals or the pleasure of taking life. It's for the man or women next to me. She still doesn't understand.
When I was a platoon sergeant in the Dominion Conflict I felt maybe if I was a leader I could of prevent some of the deaths. Now I'll find out."
Tarik knew what Lieutenant McKnight was talking about. And for sure related to him. "Well Lieutenant I hope that some how this conflict doesn't happen. I know that's wishful thinking but there is always hope."
"Yes Colonel hope is what keeps people and things alive. If we lose that then the war is already won."
"I like you Lieutenant you seem like an intelligent man. I think we should leave and I'll introduce you to the platoon. " Tarik said walking to the door.
Matthew felt good about being here. He had come to a place where he can make a difference hopefully. After all Matthew had enough experience to lead a platoon successfully.