It was nearly 1400 hours when Commander Wallace and his two attorneys took there respected seats in the Gymnasium that was a makeshift court room for now. To the right was the Government's attorneys. The mood was tense on the defense side. Commander Wallace was unable to eat lunch do to the stress. In fact his stomach was in knots.
"All rise." The Marine MP said as Admiral Borik entered the court room.
"Take your seats." She replied sitting down herself and pressed a few buttons on the PADD she carried into the court room. She was quite for a few seconds and that didn't ease Commander Wallace's tension. Then came her ruling.
"Commander Richard Wallace, Rear Admiral Retired." Hearing that the defense table's company rose. I can take anything they deal out. Richard thought to himself.
"It is the opinion of this Judge that you not be bound over for Court Martial for the loss of the USS Benjamin Franklin. It will be noted in the record that it was done so for the over all welfare and survival of the crew.
I have also removed the early charges which you plead guilty too. It is in my opinion Mister Wallace, that you are a rather skilled and talented tactician and your actions were justifiable.
It seems Commander that deep down your still a captain of a ship despite your refusal to accept that. It is my hope Commander that when the opportunity to Command another ship arises that you take it.
Also Commodore Rick Hunter's and Captain Grace Telly's recommendation that you receive Commendation for exceptional leader ship while under limited resources. Be forward to Command for final approval.
It also in my power to enter into record that Star Fleet will attach a letter of apology for allowing acuastions to go this far in accusing a Highly decorated Star Fleet officer of a Felony.
Further more Lieutenant Erin McGrady will recieve a letter or reprimand for not throughly sending and writing here report to myself. This court of inquery is concluded." Borik rang the ships bell signaling the end of the procedings.
Thank you, Lord. Richard thought to himself and then saw that Lieutenant McGrady seemed happy but he knew she was upset with everything.
"Come on Erin you must have a celebration drink with me and my boy." Argyle said giving a friendly smile and gesture to his son.
"Thank you sir, but I have more work to do." Lieutenant McGrady tried to hide the fact she was not happy with herself.
"Lieutenant I am pulling rank if you don't come." Wallace said to her looking her dead in the eyes.
Show here there are no hard feelings. He thought to himself.
"Very well then sir."
"Good the Lake Town Tavran around 2000 hours." Wallace said trying to strech the collar of his uniform out which was choking him.
"Why not now son?" Argyle asked.
"I need to get out of this monkey suit and back into a duty uniform."
"Very well then."
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