An hour later, Sarah stood in the command headquarters building on the base.
She wore a clean dress uniform complete with her official silver colonel pins.
The room was filled with senior staff members and legal advisors from headquarters.
Major Vance sat at a small wooden table across from three military judges.
His uniform was missing all ribbons, tags, and official command unit patches.
He looked much smaller without his usual authority and grand loud voice.
The head judge tapped his wooden gavel against the thick oak block once.
Head Judge: We have reviewed the mess hall footage and witness testimonies.
Vance kept his eyes glued to the polished wooden tabletop surface.
He knew there was no defense for striking a senior inspecting officer.
Head Judge: Major Vance, you are guilty of assault and gross misconduct.
Major Vance: I understand, Your Honor.
Head Judge: You will be stripped of rank and processed for dishonorable discharge.
Vance nodded slowly, accepting the harsh penalty without uttering another argument.
His pension, benefits, and military reputation were wiped away in five minutes.
The guards led him away through the back door of the legal chamber.
General Thomas walked over to Sarah, offering a firm and warm handshake.
General Thomas: You handled that situation with remarkable poise, Colonel.
Captain Sarah: Leadership requires control, especially when under direct attack.
General Thomas: The base needs a new permanent commander starting today.
Sarah smiled slightly, accepting the hand offer with a solid grip.
She knew the road ahead meant rebuilding trust with the junior soldiers.
They needed a leader who respected them, not one who ruled through fear.
Captain Sarah: I am ready to assume command immediately, General.
General Thomas: I know you are, Colonel Miller.
She turned and walked out onto the bright parade grounds in daylight.
The sun warmed her face as the unit flag whipped in the breeze.
Justice had prevailed, and a new era of respect had finally begun.