Baker ’s speed seemed to become inversely proportional to the degree of flushing on Flinch’s face. Finally, after several minutes, the sergeant had seemingly satiated his power lust.
“Everyone can pass except for Mr. Blue shorts,” said Sergeant Baker, “He must remain outside the gate until he presents proper identification.”
“Sergeant, you open this damn gate and let all of us pass,” screamed Captain Flinch, who looked on the verge of apoplexy, “If you don’t, all hell’s breaking loose.”
“Captain,” said Sergeant Baker smugly, “I must remind you your rank doesn’t supersede checkpoint security protocol. If your current behavior continues, I have every right to detain you as well.”
John, who was enjoying the show, couldn’t help notice Flinch’s hand shifting to the grip of his holstered pistol. Sergeant Baker noticed this, too, and motioned with his left hand. Two sentries appeared with M-14s aimed at the van. At that moment, a jeep from Central skidded up to the checkpoint. Colonel Vickers vaulted from the back seat and stalked toward the sergeant. The sergeant immediately snapped to attention and saluted.
The colonel, without returning the salute, demanded, “Corporal, why have these men not been checked through?”
“It’s Sergeant Baker, sir.”
“Not anymore,” said the colonel.
John noticed beginnings of a slight smile on Captain Flinch’s face.
Sergeant Baker began to speak, “Sir, I was—”
“Pass these men through—NOW!” interrupted the colonel harshly. He waved to the gun-bearing sentries, who immediately opened the gate. At the next two check points there were no delays. John could hear his heart pounding, but sat motionless as he was whisked to his fate.
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