Cmdr Promontory & LtCmdr Herrick: A Time for Awards: Table 4

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Avander Promontory

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Jan 3, 2025, 11:46:07 AM1/3/25

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((Grand Li Nalas Observation Dome, Celestial Cruises’ Prophet’s Gaze))

The next table had a group of officers who had been flung back in time to the launch of the St Albans. To Avander’s recollection it was all of that group with the exception of the newly promoted Lieutenant Lahl. He noticed Iliac giving this table what seemed like additional attention.

Avander switched his sound amplification back on.

Promontory: Commander Katsim! (smiling at his friend) You lead with a quiet dignity and unassuming presence, but just because you don’t make a big show of it, it doesn’t mean it’s not noticed and appreciated. In recognition of your years of dedicated service, we’d like to present to you the Department Chief Ribbon.

Katsim: Response

Promontory: Commander Katsim, we also want to acknowledge your efforts on Sbadni’s moon with the Intelligence Star as well as the Purple Heart, for injuries sustained in your efforts.

Katsim: Response

Josh was glad that Avander had taken the lead in recognizing the Bardassian chief of science with whom he now shared the same rank. She still seemed a bit of a mystery to him, something he planned to resolve as their time progressed together on the ship. He waited until Avander finished attaching the third ribbon before speaking.

Herrick: From all accounts, it was no easy task you were handed and you role modelled excellence. Congratulations.

Katsim/Maxwell/Nilsen: Response

Like all the others before her, he reached out his hand to congratulate her and then turned to their next victim awardee.

Herrick: Mr. Maxwell, if you would.

He watched the battle scarred well-bearded man stand; a bit envious of his ability to grow the mountain-man-like facial hair. Every time Josh had attempted to do so himself, he ended up a patchy mess and asking Toz to assist in that area felt a bit too vain for his taste.

Herrick: You’re well known for your optimistic and humorous outlook, as well as the dedication you have towards the wellbeing of your team which is often a blend of marines and officers. You braved the odds multiple times, whether it be on the outpost, liberating the crystal and then using it oO a bit recklessly Oo to facilitate the safe return of your comrades. For that, we award you both the Intelligence Star and the Legion of Merit.

As Josh pinned the two awards to the man, there were hoots and hollers and some took to pounding the table with the palms of their hands. There was a lot of pride from the fellow marines and Josh couldn’t help but admire the camaraderie.

Maxwell: Response

Promontory: Duly earned, Max.(with a wink) We’ll try to keep the crew from needing so much rescue in the future!

Maxwell/Katsim/Nilsen: Response

After more congratulations and handshakes exchanged, Max returned to his seat and the second officer turned to the self acclaimed best flyboy in the GQ.

Herrick: Now to our Assistant Chief of Operations. ::pausing for a moment as Lhandon’s eyes caught his:: You’re up.

Lhandon took the spot where Maxwell previously stood, and Josh continued on.

Herrick: As many of us did, you found yourself in the need of multiple cover personalities during your multiple unexpected arrivals. However, you were not only able to own those identities but also facilitate getting necessary supplies and wiggle out of some close calls. From what I hear, you’re starting to get the gift of the gab. And, in your last stop before returning home, you were able to deftly lead your team to the benefit of the broader Federation. ::shooting another glance to their new liaison:: And as a result, you’ve earned the Intelligence Star and Leadership Excellence ribbons.

There was much more to say, but the classified nature of the temporal adventures they’d been on had made it difficult to walk the line of recognition without breaching orders.

Nilsen: Response

Herrick: ::glancing at the rack:: It does seem to occur more often than not, but that doesn’t take away from the good work you do. Congratulations.

As Nilsen started to step away, Promontory spoke up.

Promontory: Mr. Nilsen, one more item.

He looked over through the crowd to where Captain was schmoozing over by their new DTI liaison.

Promontory: It's come to our attention that you've been pursuing diplomatic studies. (keeping his face inscrutable) after discussing the matter with the command team…

He dragged out the suspense as long as he could, before breaking into a wide smile

Promontory: ...we have decided we need to have a dedicated specialist on the senior staff. So effective immediately, you are our Diplomatic Officer! (beat) Toxin's loss is the ship's gain.

Nilsen: Response

Promontory: Congrats and good luck. (Looking over the crowd) I suspect the Captain may have some additional words for you, but our next table is calling, so if you'll excuse me and Josh.

Herrick: ::giving a short wave:: I’m sure you’ll look just as good in purple.

He wondered if it came out the way he intended, but it was already too late as he picked up the pace to catch back up to the fast-footed Avander heading to their last table of the night.

Max/Katsim/Nilsen/Rouiancet: Response