Chapter 21 - Steel on the TarmacThe heavy tires of the C-130 squealed as they struck the concrete of Runway 04 Left at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam. The giant turboprops reversed pitch with a thunderous roar, blowing clouds of dust and salt across the spotless airfield.
As the plane rolled to a stop in front of the primary operations hangar, the scene outside looked like a standoff on the verge of war.
On one side stood six dark SUV vehicles with red emergency lights flashing, surrounded by heavily armed federal officers in tactical gear. Standing in front of them, dressed in a pristine Air Force service dress uniform with four stars gleaming on his shoulders, was General Victor Vance.
On the other side stood fifty United States Marines in combat gear, led by General Marcus Cole, their rifles held at low-ready position, blocking the federal agents from stepping toward the plane.
The heavy hydraulic rear cargo ramp of the C-130 groaned as it opened, lowering slowly to the asphalt.
Daniel and I walked down the ramp side-by-side. I wore my oil-stained flight jumpsuit; Daniel carried the black steel drive in his hand.
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General Vance stepped forward, flanked by two armed federal marshals.
“Captain Miller, Lieutenant Hayes,” Vance’s voice was smooth, cold, and entirely devoid of fear. “You are under arrest for treason, theft of classified defense equipment, and the destruction of military property. Step away from that aircraft and drop the drive.”
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