Nobody will give me a straight answer about this hold order. But I can tell you one thing. It required authorization well above my level to lock down a military casualty transport this quickly. Someone with authority saw what happened at the gate and moved to stop the transfer, Elijah said. The question is why?
Maybe they're worried about bad publicity after the incident, Tonya suggested, but her expression showed she didn't believe it. No, Elijah replied. This feels like His phone buzzed. The caller ID displayed Capt. Roland Voss.
Elijah answered, switching to speakerphone so Tonya could hear. Staff Sergeant Booker speaking, sir. Sergeant, Voss's voice was cool and precise. I understand there was an incident during Private Mercer's transfer. Yes, sir.
Airport police. I'm not interested in details, Sergeant. Your only concern right now is to avoid any further optics issues. You will surrender all escort documentation to the duty officer for immediate review. Is that clear?
Tonya's eyes widened at the captain's tone. Sir, Elijah said carefully. Regulations require me to maintain custody of escort documents until That's an order, Sergeant. This transfer is suspended pending full documentation review. Do not discuss the situation with anyone.
Do not make statements. Do not create additional public spectacle. Hand over the documents and wait for further instructions. The line went dead. Elijah and Tonya stared at the phone in silence.
He didn't even ask if Private Mercer's remains were being properly attended. Elijah said quietly, A soldier under his command died. And he's worried about optics. Through the window, they could see Noah's coffin waiting in the gathering darkness. The American flag stark against the black transport container.
What had started as a sacred duty, bringing a fallen soldier home, was turning into something else entirely. The fluorescent lights in the operations hallway cast harsh shadows as Elijah held his phone. Captain Voss's words hanging in the air between him and Tanya. The captain's voice carried that particular tone of authority that expected instant compliance. Staff Sergeant, let me be absolutely clear.
Voss continued, each word measured and precise. Private Mercer's death was thoroughly investigated. The training accident was unfortunate but straightforward. We don't need additional complications. Elijah's jaw tightened.
Sir, there are irregularities in the transfer authorization. The irregularities are administrative, nothing more. Voss's tone hardened slightly. Your escort duty is ceremonial, Sergeant. Don't make it something it's not.