“Yeah,” Nathan ventured. “Wouldn’t it be better if we also landed at the airport instead of jumping? I mean, after all, we’re already supposed to be coming into Boise using the flight plan of an air express carrier. At six A.M. no one is going to pay much attention to us until after we’re on the ground. And even then, by the time they sort themselves out, we’d have had a chance to drop ramp, scramble out, and be all over ’em.”

Leaning forward, Wahler punched Nathan’s chest-mounted reserve parachute playfully. “Now there you go, lieutenant, thinking again. Don’t you have faith in our national leaders in Washington and the august members of our division staff?”

Nathan shook his head. “No.”

“Shame, shame,” Wahler mockingly scolded. “I’m going to tell Captain King you’re being naughty.”

Knowing how much Wahler hated King and feeling a bit bolder than he had previously when dealing with the more senior officer, Nathan laughed. “Yeah, right. Now be off with you. I need to catch up on my beauty sleep.”

Reaching behind Nathan, Wahler grabbed the exposed red nylon straps that supported the jump seat Nathan was nestled into. With a grunt and a heave he pulled himself and his massive bulk of parachute, personal gear, and weaponry up into the standing position. “Adios, amigo,” Wahler stated with a smile and a wave. Before leaving, he leaned down again. “We’re not sure what’s in the oil tanks on the other side of the road from where you’re supposed to be landing. Could be anything, so do your best to avoid ’em. Use them for reference only.”

“Yeah, yeah,” Nathan waved. “Your platoon, Lieutenant,” Nathan stated in a voice that was a mockery of his company commander’s, “will sweep through the ammunition storage site and secure them as quickly as possible. Once that is accomplished you will continue onto the Air National Guard facilities with the bulk of your unit.”

Again Wahler flashed his winning smile. “You got it.” Then, without further ado, he turned and began to make his way back to his place next to the door. When it came time he would be the first to exit the aircraft.

With the executive officer gone, the soldier next to Nathan looked at his platoon leader. “You really think that we’re going to be able to pull this off without firing a shot, like the company commander said?”