An Arrogant Pilot Mocked Me Before a Mission, Unaware I Was His New Commander — Part 2

Previously: When arrogant Lieutenant Ryan mocked pilot Ashley before a high-stakes briefing, he thought she was an outsider. He had no idea she was actually his newly appointed commanding officer.

The True Identity Revealed

General Harrison marched down the center aisle, his chest adorned with ribbons and his face set in a stern expression. "Attention on deck!" a voice shouted, and every pilot in the room snapped to their feet. Ryan quickly retreated to his seat, standing straight as a board. Ashley stood up calmly, keeping her eyes fixed forward.

The General reached the podium and looked out at the gathered pilots. "At ease," he commanded. As the squadron sat, General Harrison cleared his throat. "As you all know, Commander Miller retired last week. Today, I am proud to introduce your new Squadron Commander, who will be leading the upcoming high-priority deployment." He turned his gaze directly toward the front row. "Major Vance, please step forward."

An Arrogant Pilot Mocked Me Before a Mission, Unaware I Was His New Commander

Ashley stepped up to the stage. When she turned to face the squadron, she looked directly at Ryan. The young lieutenant’s face drained of all color. His jaw dropped, and a cold sweat broke out across his forehead. He looked as if he had just seen his own ghost.

"Major Ashley Vance is one of the most decorated combat pilots in the Air Force," the General announced. "She has survived multiple tours of duty and has more tactical flight hours than anyone in this room. You will give her your undivided respect."

After the General departed, Ashley stood at the podium. She let the silence stretch, keeping her eyes locked onto Ryan.

"Lieutenant Ryan," she called out.

Ryan jumped, his voice cracking.

"Yes, Major!"

"I believe you mentioned coffee," Ashley said with a cold, sharp smile. "I prefer mine black. Double shot of espresso. And I expect it on my desk at exactly 0600 hours before every pre-flight briefing. Do we have an understanding?"

"Yes, Major!" Ryan stammered, his face burning bright red.

But the real test would not take place on the ground. Two hours later, the squadron was high in the air, flying a supersonic training exercise through a deep, jagged canyon. Suddenly, Ryan’s jet suffered a catastrophic hydraulic failure, sending his aircraft spinning wildly out of control toward the rocky peaks below.