Fail Safe (31 page)

Major James Callahan was startled out of his prayer as his left arm was grabbed by General Black seated beside him. He looked to his left to see Black slump down in his seat.

Black's eyeballs rolled in his head, deep in their pits

and pure white. The strong unfinished head rolled back on a loose neck.

Major Callahan knew without thinking what had happened. Tears formed in the corners of his eyes. He reached over, took Black's lifeless right hand in his own, bowed his head, held it tight to his tearstained cheek, then placed it on Black's lap. He composed himself, straightened, looked steadily ahead, and reached forward to turn the bright red key which controlled communications with the White House.

"Mr. President, this is Major Callahan. The mission has been accomplished. The four bombs have exploded 5,000 feet over New York. General Black has killed himself with his suicide kit."

"Thank you, Major, it is something I-expected."

The President's voice was still audible but he had apparently turned to an aide by his side.

"Prepare immediately for the consideration of Congress the Medal of Honor in the name of Warren Abraham Black, Brigadier General, United States Air Force. Have the citation read simply: for the highest act of courage and the most supreme conception of duty to his country and to mankind."

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Qvadis

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