“No, C-Ja——, “and just like that she was two for two in the door slamming contest, “This is going to one long deployment, “she says to herself.

Combat Systems…..

Standing in ranks awaiting their department head the newer sailors stood in awe as they looked over their surroundings. It reminded them of one gigantic Light Brite and the Griswolds house in the National Lampoons Christmas Vacation movie! It was dark and with the exception of the lights illuminating from the radar screens and equipment Combat Systems would have been pitch black. Combat Systems was the first line of defense for the ship against any danger. The department was comprised of various rates that included Operation Specialist (OS), Fire Controlman (FC), Sonar Technician (STG), and Electronics Technician (ET). Continuing to wait a few of the sailors were growing impatient.

“This is really unprofessional.”

“Completely, I mean from the moment I stepped foot into boot camp I was always told if you’re on time your late.”

“Yeah, and here it is almost 20 minutes after and she still hasn’t showed up.”

“Hey, I’m OS2 Washington by the way.

“Nice to meet you I’m FC2 Grant.”

“Is this your first ship?”

“Nope, it’s my third how about you?”

“My fifth.”

“Well, well look at you old salt, “she says jokingly.

“Yeah, well I’ve served on plenty of ships and have never had a department head late for the first muster of deployment, this is really un-cool and when she gets her I’m going to let her know that too.”

(Attention on deck)……………everyone suddenly pops to attention.

“At ease, “a rough yet feminine voice says giving the command allowing everyone to relax, “I apologize for my tardiness I was helping a fellow shipmate in duress after getting her fingers stuck in a Chinese Finger trap. I am LTJG Williams I am the Combat Systems Officer here on board. You all are representatives of not only me but of this department as well my expectations for you all during this six month deployment is extremely high.”

“What happened to telling her how you felt,”FC2 Grant says jokingly to her.

“Hell, no I might have been born at night but not last night! I’m not saying nothing you see her arms I’m not starting this deployment with an ass kicking!”