Awards Ceremony Part #3

Posted on 04 Feb 2024 @ 6:20pm by Captain Jasmine Somers FCapt & Lieutenant Colonel Alexandria Somers & Lieutenant Commander Paul Sharpe & Major S'arila Donovan & Master Chief Petty Officer Lucy Armitage & Sergeant Major Christopher "Chris" Kildare & Lieutenant Commander Remington Dodd & Lieutenant Leland Hawksley & Lieutenant Lamia ‘Mia’ Kildare & Captain Patrick Jackson & Captain Mazal Falk & Lieutenant Matthew Thompson & Lieutenant Paul Winchester & Lieutenant Serina "Reaper" Donovan & Lieutenant JG Tosrol Ze & Lieutenant JG Faith Benson & Lieutenant JG Thyra Sh'shraaqir & Lieutenant JG Ted Silver & Master Chief Petty Officer Alexi Michelle & 1st Lieutenant Josefina (Fina) Macapuno & Ensign Autumn Cole

4,434 words; about a 22 minute read

Mission: General Sim Postings
Location: SB51 Auditorium/Various
Timeline: During Shore Leave

[ON]

With all those called standing before her, she stood in front of Lieutenant Donovan "Lieutenant Serina Donovan, for services rendered I hereby award you with the Silver Oak Leaf Award, congratulations" Somers said with a smile as she pinned the award on the Lieutenants tunic and then stepped back and held her hand out.

"Thank you, Captain," she replied taking the offered hand of her superior officer, she continued," I will improve the department better," as she knew Paul would be happy for her.

Then she moved on to Lieutenant Benson "Lieutenant Faith Benson, you may have only been with us a short time, but in that time you have provided valuable services and so I am proud to award you the Silver Oak Leaf Award" She said as she picked up the award and pinned it to the El Aurian's chest, but she was not finished, as she picked up another Award "I am also proud to award you with the Good Conduct Medal congratulations Lieutenant" the Captain said as she also pinned the medal on, stepped back and held out her hand.

She watched as Somers went down the line, getting to her. Listening the whole way as well as when she'd gotten to her as well. Faith smirked a little bit, "Thank you, ma'am. Though are you sure you didn't get it wrong? I mean..good conduct from me?" Giving a little wink and taking Jasmine's hand, shaking it firmly.

Fina gave a quiet cheer but clapped wildly. She was very happy for Faith. She also gave a thumbs-up towards Faith as well.

With that done she moved on to the Andorian Lieutenant picking up the first Award "Lieutenant Sh'shraaqir another who has not been with us long, but has proven herself I am proud to award you with this the Silver Oak Leaf" she said and pinned the award. then turned her body and picked up a second one "Also I am proud to award you the Good Conduct Medal pins it on her chest next to the first one *and turned to pick up the final one, then faces Thyra Again* Finally I am honoured to award you with the Good Conduct Medal Congratulations Lieutenant" she said with a smile and stepped back and held out her hand.

Thyra was still a bit overwhelmed and in a trance, she took the Captain's hand. She had never gotten any medals before. So this is quite new for her as well. "Thank you, Captain."

Before releasing her hand Jasmine leaned forward "When you are dismissed from here seek out Colonel Somers, she has some news for you" The Captain's tone was a bit Sombre.

"Oh..." Thyra heard the tone in the Captain's voice. It got her worried and it would eat at her all day most likely.

With that, she moved on to the next in line as Armitage got the next batch of awards ready "First Lieutenant Falk, you have performed admirably in your duties since being assigned to the Tomcat, so I am proud to award you with the Silver Oak Leaf *she pinned the award on then turned to get the second award before facing her again* this next award is a new award and applicable only to the Rifles, so Lieutenant Falk I am honoured and proud to award you the Marine Honours Medal Silver" she said and pinned the Medal next to the Oak Leaf "Congratulations Lieutenant" Somers said stepping back and holding her hand out.

Mazal's eyes widened, she didn't expect this, it was the furthest thing from her mind. "Er Thank you, Captain Somers" giving her hand a firm handshake, feeling a bit like a deer caught in headlights.

While she paused and moved on to the next one, an officer who had caused many waves soon Armitage was standing next to the Captain "Lieutenant Winchester, over the years you have been with us you have on times been a real pain in my ass and have cause untold issues I will not expand on here, which makes my next actions all the more enjoyable" she said with a smile "I am proud to award you the Silver Oak Leaf and for taking over at a moments notice when Commander Cody Parker vanished I award you the Good Conduct Medal" she said as she pinned them on in the order she mentioned "Congratulations Lieutenant, you have earned them" she said stepping back and holding her hand out.

" Thank you, Ma'am," he replied taking her hand as he stood surprised at what he had just received glancing over at Paula who clapped and gave a whistle, Paul said "And I'm sorry for being a pain in the ass,"

With a nod and smile she moved on to her Chief Science Officer as again Armitage repeated her task "Lieutenant Thompson for services rendered I hereby award you with the Silver Oak Leaf award, congratulations Lieutenant" Somers said as she pinned the award on, stepped back and held out her hand.

Matt extended his hand and shook hers.

"Thank you, Captain,"

She walked down the line until she was standing in front of the Deputy Chief Science Officer "Lieutenant Silver, for your part in our recent mission and how you have evolved I am proud and honoured to award you the following Good Conduct Medal the Medical and Science Ribbon and the pinnacle the CO Merit Ribbon" she said pinning each in turn to his chest then she stepped back and again held out her hand "Congratulations Lieutenant Silver" she said with a smile.

“Thank you, ma’am,” Ted said

Repeating what she had been doing she was now standing before Lieutenant Leland Hawksley, while she waited for Lucy, she did not have to wait long "Lieutenant Hawksley, you have proven yourself time and again and a worthy replacement Chief for Commander Dodd I am proud to award you the Bronze Oak Leaf and the Good Conduct Medal " she said as she pinned the awards on his chest, stood back and held out her hand "Congratulations Lieutenant" she said with a big smile.

Leland smiled and was proud as he placed the awards on him. He felt every part of his work on the USS Tomcat had reflected the Bronze Oak and that he was steadfast enough to be labelled a Good Crew Conduct Award.

Hawksley sheepishly nodded back at the captain, shaking her hand with gratitude. With that, Leland then sat back down, taking his seat with his Wife, Lilliana. As he sat back down, he took her hand into his and held it. He smiled.

Now she was facing her First Officer with a smile as Lucy returned with a box with awards in "Lieutenant Commander Dodd, you of all of the crew have had the steepest learning curve, you came to us as a Chief Engineer and ended up as a First Officer, not many can make a successful transition, that fact that you have says something about your character, but you still have a lot to learn, like the rest of us, but for now I and honoured to award you the following the Silver Oak Leaf and one of the highest awards, well on the Tomcat anyway the Exemplary Service Commendation or ESC for short award, congratulations Commander" she said as she pinned the awards on his chest and stepped back and held out her hand.

Dodd was speechless, he put out his hand to accept the captain's. After the handshake, he then immediately went for a salute as he could not think of any other form of respect. Dodd tried to never show his emotions in front of the crew at any cost so he saluted, "Thank you Ma'am." and then he returned to standing at attention.

With that done "all assembled the awardees" Somers said as the officers turned to face the assembled.

Lamia applauded for everyone, but more so for Remington, she was so happy for him.

Lilliana applauded long and loud for her husband, she was extremely proud of him, and how hard he worked. Her shining smile would tell him just how happy she was for him.

When the applause died down Somers spoke again "Lieutenants Falk and Winchester, remain front and center, the rest of you are released to the crowd" she said as all but two officers left the stage and those two turned to face her again/

Whether it was the excitement of getting a few awards or the three cocktails on an empty stomach. But Ted lost his footing and fell down the stairs landing on his face. With a face now the same colour as a Baboons rear end. He got up and trying his best to look small headed back to his table.

Paul looked at Falk who was still standing next to him as he thought to himself oO what the hell is she playing at? Oo as he knew that the fleet captain could surprise those she trusted and for all his faults, Paul was one of the most trusted members of the crew.

Ze was seated right next to Mazal he was still pretty banged up from the mission but clapped and applauded when people went up to the stage to receive things, holding Mazal's hand as he did so just to steady himself.

Mazal was concerned about her friend and she moved from her position to quickly check on Silver.

"I'll be back Captain," she stated, making a beeline to Silver. "Hey are you okay?" she asked quietly.

Ted wished he could be a changeling then he could change into a mouse and vanish under a table.

Jasmine simply looked at Falk with a raised eyebrow and looked at the collapse oO impressive he held it together for so long Oo she thought, "Is he okay Lieutenant Falk?" She asked.

“Somebody kill me……” Ted said.

"Let me have a look at you, and please I don't want anything happening to you, and...." Mazal started then was quietly interrupted.

"Hey Lieutenant, let me take care of this okay?" it was Fina seeing the signs of Ted's discomfort. "How about you go back up to the stage and we can continue the ceremony?"

Mazal glanced at Silver then back at Fina then up to where Captain Somers was."Hey Ted, let's get together in a little bit okay?" she also did a thumbs up towards Somers straightened up and headed back to the stage. oO I hope I didn't embarrass Ted more than what he was feeling. Oo Falk thought to herself, taking her place back onstage next to Winchester.

Fina drew Ted to a more out-of-the-way area and took a look at him. "If you'd like we can go get that taken care of." she looked over towards Faith to see what she thought.

“ Perhaps we can stay here? Is there any chance of some to eat? A couple of tasty hors d’oeuvres would be nice.” Ted said.

Faith looked back and forth between the two of them a moment, then looked over at the replicators, "Here should work just fine. I don't see why not."

Fina gave a nod of agreement and headed off to get some food for Ted. Coming back she set down a variety for those at the table. She then took a closer look at Ted, "It's going to be a bit of a bruise from what I can tell. Other than that, I think you are going to be fine." then she added "Congratulations on both of you getting awards."

Alexi relaxed and leaned back against the wall once more. She absently rubbed at her leg, massaging the injured area to alleviate the discomfort from standing for so long but moving to a seat now would be disruptive. And she so did not want to draw any attention from those receiving awards on the stage.

Seeing that things were alright Jasmine smiled and cleared her throat as Falk rejoined Winchester on the stage.

" Somers does not look happy with me," Ted said mournfully.

Faith tilted her head a little, those violet hues looking from Ted to Somers and back, "Why would you think that?" Said as if she didn't have an idea already.

“Nobody else fell off the stage. I must of look like a right drunken fool. Spread out on the floor like a drunken rug.” Ted replied

"Well, it's not like you are drunk after all. Accidents happen." Faith smiled lightly.

"And we'll keep you company." Fina replied with a smile, "Besides, you don't look too bad. It is fading now. however, let's have something to eat and once again congratulations."

- Front of Stage -

Lieutenant Colonel Somers was waiting for Thyra when the Andorian approached Alex escorted her to one side and passed a Padd to her "Lieutenant, sorry to bring things on you at such a joyous occasion, but we got word from Andoria, the details on the Padd, the Andorian Hiogh Command would not go into deep detail, but from their tone, it is not good, you have been temporarily recalled to Andor something to do with your family, it sounded grave you have been permitted to depart as soon as you are able and it must be important the Andorian High Command has sent a fast scout ship to collect you" Alex said in a quiet tone.

Thyra blinked a little and just nodded to the colonel. She felt a knot in her stomach. She tried to think what could be so important that she had to go back to Andor for it and her family even enlisted the help of high command.

Still in thought, she walked out of the room. When she was stopped she said a bit distant, "The Andorian high command is waiting for me, the colonel is aware." She was then allowed the leave and then she disappeared in the hallway as she left for her quarters to get her things.

- Back on Stage -

"Okay, after we are done here there is one more person, but now to you Lieutenant Winchester" Somers said standing before him "I will not repeat why you got previous awards, but this next award is one you have earned in regards to picking up when a crewmember suddenly vanished on you" She said as Armitage returned to her side with a small box.

*She removed his half pip as she spoke and Armitage opened the Box* "Lieutenant Winchester, it gives me great joy to return you to your previous rank of Full Lieutenant, Congratulations Lieutenant Winchester" she said as she pinned on a full pip to denote his Full Lieutenant status was returned and then she stepped back and held out her hand.

"Why thank you, Ma'am," replied Paul taking her hand once more as he gave her a salute as he knew that his family would start a cheer, as he heard Paula start giving wolf whiles and Davina cheering in the background.

Serina's legs nearly buckled. She was praying that Paul would win back his full gold pip and well, now that became a reality. Tempted to give him a big hug, she turned white as a ghost as a wave of nausea hit her. Fighting to maintain her composure, she prevailed and stood her ground.

With a smile and a nod, she continued "This next bit will be done by Lieutenant Colonel Alexandria Somers, as she is a Senior Officer in the 95th Rifles, it will be her job for this next bit" Jasmine said.

Alex was surprised but quickly recovered, she had spoken with Jasmine about this part of the Ceremony, smiled stood up straight straightened her tunic and walked forward, she put on her Shako, an old world headpiece worn by soldiers during the Napoleonic wars, now it was a ceremonial headwear, looking every bit the Rile Officer she stepped up onto the stage she hated the hat but what was about to take place did not happen often, normally Jasmine would do this in the absence of a Senior Rifle Officer but not today.

Alex halted in front of Falk her left Profile to her, she made a smart turn left "Lieutenant Mazal Falk, I know the Fleet Captain spoke with you and Captain Jackson about switching roles and you both agreed to it, so that leaves us with a problem a First Lieutenant cannot command a Marine Captain as Marine Commanding Officer it is not the done thing, so first off it is with great honour and pleasure to hereby promote you to Marine Captain as you take over as MCO" Alex said as Armitage stepped to the Colonel's side and opened the rank pin box which had two Silver bars joined in it, Alex took out the pin and removed the First Lieutenants rank pin handed it to Armitage who took it and went to get the second item as Alex pinned the new rank to Falk's collar.

"Congratulations Captain Falk," Somers said and paused as Armitage returned "Now for the second one" *pause* "Captain Falk as you know there are few Officers with the White Cord, this award is not lightly given, you proved yourself a capable officer who could think on her feet and provided other duty based services to the ship and me during our last mission. So as the ranking Rifle Officer on this Starbase, I am honoured and proud to elevate you to the honour of Chosen man and to award you the White Cord of Courage, so congratulations Captain Falk" the Colonel said as she handed Falk a white armband, stepped back smartly and Saluted.

Mazal was... dumbstruck at what was taking place. Yes, it had been spoken about a swap between herself and Jackson, but this other wasn't something she'd ever think would happen. She once again had the expression of a deer caught in headlights.

*Smiling as she lowered her arm* "You can speak to myself or the Fleet Captain after on how to wear your white cord on duty and your dress uniform" the Colonel said quietly so only Falk could hear, but she kept her smile.

Mazal finally stammered out, "T-thank you, I am honoured. I will do my best."

"Thank You, Colonel Somers, Lieutenant Winchester and Marine Captain Falk you may return to the assembled" Fleet Captain Somers said and allowed the gathered to applaud and such as the two Officers both shocked left the stage.

The pair were being congratulated and slapped on the back or hugged in happy tidings, suddenly she realised the Ceremony was all but completed, and she cleared her throat.

"Would Lieutenant Lamia Arderne step front and center?" the Captain said.

Leland clapped some more as he stood with the rest of the crew and his Wife Lilli. The initial awards and ranks being upgraded were like a blizzard, and being caught in a whiteout! Hawksley turned as names were called, faces shone brightly, and hands clapped throughout the ceremonial room. There was no shortage of glances and winks. He was happy for all his crew mates, friends, and colleagues as the ceremony continued. He was beginning to get hungry.

Applauding loudly for all those who received their well-earned awards, Lamia gave Chris a wide-eyed look as she was called to the front, getting up she made her way up front wondering just what she was being called for.

Hugging her Chris looked at her "Go get your reward Honey" he said.

Mazal barely had enough senses to her in making her way to get back to her seat, between Patrick and Tosrol. She was still stunned as to what took place. The only thing she did was reach out and take both hands of the two men she was seated next to as if to keep herself anchored and know this wasn't a dream.

"Congratulations Captain," Patrick said with a gentle squeeze of her hand and a smile. "You've more than earned it."

Ze got up and clapped, the pain almost doubled him over but damn he was proud and to hell with the pain. As she came back over to her chair he grabbed her hand and pulled her close to him "Proud doesn't even cover how I feel right now Mazal a well-deserved promotion my love you deserve this win and I'm so glad I could be here with you"

As the Chief Counsellor came before her Fleet Captain Somers stood in front of her as Armitage stood there with the Awards, turning lightly to pick up the First Award, Somers pinned it on "Lieutenant Arderne for conduct and services rendered to the ship I am proud to award you the following, The Ribbon of Merit" she said and after pinning the award on she picked up the next award and pinned it on "also I am proud to award you the CO's Merit and XOs merit" she said as she pinned each on as she said them then a pause.

"Finally the Exemplary Service Commendation," Somers said pinning her final award on her chest, stepping back and holding out her hand "Congratulations Lieutenant Arderne," Somers said with a smile.

Lamia was shell-shocked, to say the least, but her shining smile said it all. She politely shook Jasmine's hand. "Thank you, Captain!"

Serina walked gently back to their table and sat down. "Just because you are a full Lieutenant now doesn't mean you are an equal. Oh no buddy, I'm still your boss as I rank you in seniority and flight time," she said with a wicked smile. Again the nausea hit her. Something was off-key and she paled quickly. "Excuse me..." she said handing her daughter to Paul and went hurrying to the bathroom.

With all the Awards done and everyone back among their peers "Congratulations to all of you, please enjoy the buffet otherwise you are free until the next mission" Captain Somers said loudly,

FINALLY!! It was close to ending, and then there'd be a party later. That would give her time to nap a bit. She was still tired, but good at fighting it. She was stoic, generally, sometimes to a fault, but she was warned that she needed to take this injury seriously if she wanted to KEEP flying. And she did, so she was. She clapped a few times, politely, and kept her smile plastered on. She wished she had followed her mother's Earth religion-Catholic-because the Virgin Mary could maybe rescue her from this, but...oh well.

With her task now done Jasmine, and Lucy left the room to allow the crew to relax knowing they would relax more when their commander was not around than if she was, Jasmine was looking forward to curling up on the sofa with a glass of wine and a good book.

[OFF]

 

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