Page 60 - 100 Hours to Destiny

let’s get in behind the XO, let’s keep about 50 meters behind, but I want to
keep the XO in view. Let’s go.” As I laid my foot into the gas, the
responsiveness of the heavily laden Logistics vehicle was not sluggish. The
LOG was amped up just a bit, as the mechanics had jumped the governor up
a wee bit for extra power, and we easily began to traverse into position
behind the XO.
One by one the slow procession of Delta Company fell into place as
directed. Over the net Captain Pollard began to speak…”Ok Delta, this is
exactly our sequential order when we push through the final line of
departure. When we get up into our designated area, I will call for a
Company online formation, Platoons in column. Stand by for my command
for that Company directive, for now, let's just get up there.” All Delta Platoon
Commanders responded with “solid copy”.
After a good bit of driving and negotiating typical terrain features of
the Saudi desert, American Hero broke over the net “OK Delta, I’m in
position. Company online, Platoons in column. On me. Move.” I smiled when
I heard the Captain, as I had heard his commands for four months now. He
was an expert at field combat formations, and the Mustang officer was gifted
at maneuvering 26 LAVs into perfect combat positions in total darkness. It
was a breathtaking feat of command. The time now was 2400 hours, and
Delta Company, 3D Light Armored Infantry found itself positioned 400 yards
south of the gates of Observation Post 4 – a place where just 25 days prior
this same Company had fought one of the most historic battles in the US
Marine Corps history since Vietnam in the Battle of Hue City. A lop-sided
victory for the US Marine Corps had taken place under the leadership of two
of the most unexpected rising stars of Desert Storm, 1stLt Scott Williams and
Captain Roger “Rock” Pollard, a place where 11 of America's finest had paid
the ultimate price.