Chapter 16 - The Promotion
Six months after the sentencing, life had settled into a beautiful, peaceful rhythm.
The nightmare that had begun in a hospital room seventy-two hours after my C-section was now a closed chapter in a closed book.
At Joint Base Lewis-McChord, the sun broke through the gray morning clouds, illuminating the parade grounds. Today was a special day for my military career.
Standing on the elevated stage in front of the entire battalion was Lieutenant Colonel Marcus Vance. Standing beside him was my trusted legal counsel, Arthur Vance, along with Lieutenant Sarah Jenkins.
In the front row of the audience sat Greg, who had flown in from Boston for the ceremony, holding seven-month-old Leo, who was dressed in a tiny custom military booties outfit.
"Attention to Orders!" the Command Sergeant Major barked.
The battalion stood at crisp attention.
"The President of the United States takes pleasure in promoting Captain Mara Bennett to the rank of Major, United States Army!" Colonel Vance announced into the microphone.
The crowd erupted into applause as I stepped forward to the center of the stage.
Colonel Vance pinned the golden oak leaf rank insignia onto my collar. He shook my hand firmly, pulling me into a brief, respectful embrace.
"Major Bennett," Colonel Vance said into the microphone, turning to face the crowd. "There are soldiers who demonstrate courage on the battlefield, and there are soldiers who demonstrate unwavering moral courage in the face of domestic adversity. Major Bennett has proven herself to be an extraordinary leader, a selfless officer, and above all, an invincible mother."
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The applause swelled into a standing ovation from every soldier, officer, and civilian in attendance.
Tears of pride welled in my eyes as I rendered a sharp, flawless salute to my commanding officer.
