5
“Welcome to the Aviation Detachment aboard the Cutter Steadfast,” the captain had greeted them.
Then he scowled down at them dripping on his pristine bridge deck. The storm had abated enough that they were merely drenched rather than needing gills after the hundred yard crossing from taxi to ship. Drowned rats asking permission to come aboard, sir.
“I assume you know your duties when a helo is aboard. Chief Mackey will make sure you know what to do, otherwise.”
That and a salute was the entire scope of their welcoming ceremony. The captain was definitely old school. Yeah, just two new overeager petty officers to worry about. With a total crew of only seventy-seven Hailey thought he would have at least asked their names.
The captain probably appreciated them arriving together as it s
