United States | The Devil's Canyon

[Odinson]

Private
5:13 A.M. PST
Los Angeles, California​

A young and ambitious FBI special agent arrived to work early on a Monday morning. He was wearing a black suit white a white shirt and dark blue tie. His firearm was holstered on his right and his bronze FBI badge was barely hidden behind his suit jacket. He was sitting in his small, undecorated office which only contained his desk, a coffee maker that he had bought himself, an underpowered computer, and a landline telephone. He was going through a stack of papers on his desk when he came across an envelope that had been addressed to the FBI's anti-terrorism office at the building. On the front of the envelope was, "FBI PLEASE READ" in large, bold, red letters. The letter had been delivered to the FBI's office on Friday, but it was after standard hours. The agent opened the envelope and read the detailed, hand-written, two-page letter which contained intimate details about a planned terrorist attack against the Diablo Canyon nuclear power station in Southern California that was going to occur the same day that he was reading it. The letters detailed that a list of unreasonable demands would be given to the United States Federal Government and, if they were not met, an aircraft filled with high-grade explosives would be flown into the power station and detonated. He immediately picked up his landline and called his supervisor, who was still asleep.

---

5:22 A.M. PST
Los Angeles, California​

The young FBI agent's supervisor woke up to his phone ringing for the third time in a row. He was slightly hungover and answered the phone while his naked wife was cuddled against him. The young agent explained the situation to his supervisor, who then instantly sat up in bed. He told him that he would be at the office in twenty minutes. The supervisor called his own supervisor right after the aforementioned phone call ended. This new individual was the special agent in charge for the area. He was already arriving at the field office when he received the call.

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5:55 A.M. PST
Los Angeles, California​

The writing in the letter, along with the details and pictures contained provided convincing evidence that this was a real and credible threat. The Special Agent-in-Charge forwarded this information directly to FBI anti-terrorism leadership in Washington and copied some Department of Defense officials who have a "Top Secret" security clearance.

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6:25 A.M. PST (5:25 A.M. Mountain Time)
Cheyenne Mountain Complex, Colorado​

After quick but intense review by the FBI, the Twenty-Fifth Air Force (the Air Force's military intelligence service), and other intelligence officials from the Department of Defense, all preliminary reviews, while cursory, indicated that there was a legitimate threat against the Diablo Canyon nuclear power station in southern California. Using Air Force radar installations, North American Aerospace Defense (NORAD) officials at the Cheyenne Mountain Complex in Colorado confirmed the unauthorized flight of an aircraft in southern California, which was on a trajectory with the Diablo Canyon nuclear power station. The aircraft did not have a flight plan, but it was confirmed that it had originally taken off less than 10 minutes prior from the New Coalinga Municipal Airport in California which was just 72 miles from the nuclear power station. NORAD immediately informed the Air Combat Command officials onsite and a Flash-priority message was generated and sent to the current combat command that was on stand-by in the southern California area.

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6:42 A.M. PST
Edwards Air Force Base, California​

A young Air Force lieutenant was sitting at his counsel. His feet were kicked up and he was sipping a hot cup of coffee which he had just prepared as he read a National Geographic magazine on the wonders of Egypt. Several minutes went by until his console came to life and his monitor illuminated red, followed by a screeching 1980s sounding-alarm. A flood of data went across the screen and a Cold War-era printer nearby printed off a message. The lieutenant nearly spilled his coffee but managed to keep his composure as he adjusted his headset.

"Commander, be advised, we have incoming Flash-action traffic from NORAD," he said. He waited until the moment that the paper was printed, took off his headset, and walked it up to the commander in the room, who was standing at this point. The dozen or so other officers in the room were manning their consoles, but eagerly waited as the officer walked up to the commander and handed him the paper.

The commander looked over the paper and then back at his officer, "Is this an exercise?" he asked. The officer shook his head, "No sir, no indication that this is an exercise. This is a real-world scenario."

​

---

NORTH AMERICAN AEROSPACE DEFENSE COMMAND​

---

ENCRYPTED MESSAGE​

** START MESSAGE ** START MESSAGE ** START MESSAGE **​

URGENCY: FLASH

CCEB PRECEDENCE: FLASH - IMMEDIATE - PRIORITY

TO: BRIGADIER GENERAL SAM ALLAN, COMMANDER OF EDWARDS AIR FORCE BASE,
LIEUTENANT COLONEL SEBASTAIN FRANCO, COMMANDER OF THE 401ST FIGHTER SQUADRON.

FROM: NORTH AMERICAN AEROSPACE DEFENSE COMMAND
SUBJECT: IMMEDIATE THREAT TO U.S. WEST COAST

LESS THAN 15 MINUTES AGO, A TWIN ENGINE AIRCRAFT DEPARTED FROM NEW COALINGA MUNICIPAL AIRPORT IN SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA. THE AIRCRAFT DOES NOT HAVE A FLIGHT PLAN AND IS PILOTED BY ECO-TERRORISTS WHO MAY ATTEMPT TO ATTACK THE DIABLO CANYON NUCLEAR POWER STATION.

IMMEDIATELY SCRAMBLE FIGHTERS TO INTERCEPT.

** END MESSAGE ** END MESSAGE ** END MESSAGE **​

​

​

​

---

6:45 A.M. PST
Edwards Air Force Base, California​

The 401st Fighter Squadron, which consisted of twelve F-15C Eagles, was stationed at Edwards Air Force Base. Only a limited number of aircraft were required to be part of a "Rapid Reaction" force at any given point. There was a normal rotation of the aircraft for maintenance, but a specific mechanical problem in two of the aircraft meant that the only fighters in rotation at Edwards Air Force Base who were capable of being part of the Rapid Reaction team were the pilots of the Typhoon fighters stationed there by the British Royal Air Force. Presumably, the British RAF pilots (with permission from their commander) had agreed to be the Rapid Reaction team for the next 10 hours until two of the American F-15Cs were back in working order. If the British had agreed to this, then the Typhoons would presumably be armed and fully fueled in their hangers.

At 6:45 A.M., while the British pilots were likely eating breakfast with their American counterparts, the scramble alarm sounded in the crew quarters (including the mess hall), which obviously indicated to the RAF pilots that they needed to man their aircraft. Ground crews at Edwards Air Force Base opened the hangar doors while Air Force air traffic control at the base issued a ground-stop to all traffic, and redirected any incoming traffic to circle the base until the British Typhoons were in the air.

Minutes after the scramble alert went off, the British squadron commander at Edwards AFB was awoken by a telephone call from the command center at Edwards, informing him that two of his Typhoons were being scrambled for a real world scenario and that he was invited to join American leadership at the command center to oversee the operation as it happened.

The British pilots, as of now, knew nothing other than that they were being scrambled. It could have been a drill, it could have been a real world scenario, or their American counterparts could have been playing a highly illegal joke to try to get them to throw up their breakfast on the tarmac - they had no way of knowing, as there was no briefing. The scenario probably felt much more real, though, as when the British Typhoons taxied to the runway, Air Force ATC simply said, "Scrambled fighters, scrambled fighters, you have clearance for an immediate tactical takeoff from runway 5-0-Right. Ascend to 25-thousand feet and maintain a westerly flight path. Standby for further orders. Over."

---

6:50 A.M. PST (9:50 A.M. EST)
The Pentagon, Virginia​

While the British aircraft were presumably taxing onto the runway at Edwards, the newly-confirmed Secretary of Defense was sitting in his office at the Pentagon (the East Coast was three hours ahead of California) when he received a secure call from NORAD who informed him of the basics of the situation.​

Jamie

 

[Jamie]

Business at Edwards Air Force Base was typically boring, the Royal Air Force personnel stationed their mostly spent time carrying out theoretical work, routine maintenance and keeping fitness levels to a solid level. That was until 10 hours ago when they received the request to provide Quick Reaction Alert duties due to the downtime required for the American F-15s. Typhoon Pilots, desperate to be on-call, decided their place in the queue through rock-paper-scissors, to determine which two pilots would be the responding aircraft. The first 30 minutes consisted of completely fuelling two of the Typhoons and arming them with what would be the standard loadout.

Guns: 1 × 27 mm Mauser BK-27 revolver cannon with 150 rounds
Missiles: 4 x AIM-120 AMRAAM

The only addition included 2 × 1000-litre supersonic fuel tanks, accounting for the difference in patch compared to usual QRA duties in the United Kingdom. The crew of the Lockheed Martin TriStar also commenced their pre-QRA checks which involved completely filling up the fuel. In the event of a scramble, they'd be launching immediately behind the Typhoons to provide tanker support if needed. Once the two Typhoons were prepared, the mood went down again pretty fast. "In standard Edwards fashion, back to the lounge" spoke one of the designated pilots as the start of their cover began. The first hour passed... nothing, the second... nothing. It was back to what was routine checks for the rest of the evening before heading to bed. The day begun early with no substantial change. Waking at 4:30am and officially 'starting' work at 5:30am despite been on call.

Following a small workout, crews carried out a mass deployment to their most important job of the day - breakfast. An opportunity to take the piss out of their American counterparts, eat food and set a precedence for the day. In typical British fashion, at 6:42 one of the pilots quipped at an F-15C Pilot who had made a close bond with. "I know why you love been in the rapid reaction force now, you get fuck all to do" he grinned, obviously referring to the quiet shift he himself has had. It was actually quieter in the UK for QRAs as you'd expect, but the joke had to be said. A few minutes later, hell let loose.

Despite any internal thoughts of an exercise, a false alarm or even a joke, when the alarm goes, there's no hesitation. The laughter ended within an instant and not another word came out. The Typhoon Pilots and support staff shot out of the mess and sprinted to the two hangers. Meanwhile, the Squadron Commander took the phone call who responded very simply, and calmly. "QRA Acknowledged" before putting the phone down. That wasn't personal but the standard protocol that UK QRA forces utilised before he made his way down to see the pilots off. As he entered the hanger, the two pilots had peered into their respective cockpits and clicked one button. The engine begun to spool up, giving them the opportunity to get into their Personal Protective Equipment before boarding.

Support crews removed the wheel chocks, ensured the hangar door was fully open and the aircraft had no obstructions. Giving a simple nod to give the all clear and both Typhoons begun their taxi out, one behind the other to the designated runway.

"Edwards AFB, Q-Flight of 2 Typhoons, cleared for immediate, Runway 5-0 Right. Flight Level 250, West, pending tasking" echoed the flight leader. The pair now arriving at the end of the runway. A couple seconds before the afterburners roared and both conducted high performance take offs. Thanks to its advanced aerodynamics and powerful twin engines, both Typhoons reached the required flight level within a recorded 35 seconds and levelled out.

During that same time, the crew of the Lockheed Martin Tri-Star wasn't far behind as it followed ATC procedures to be launched around 10 minutes later where it'd head in the same direction as the Typhoons. Odinson

 

[Odinson]

Private
6:55 A.M. PST (9:55 A.M. EST)
The Pentagon, Virginia​

Secretary of Defense Robert Gates was briefed on the situation. He hung up the phone with NORAD and took a breath. He stared at his desk and thought about what he should do. He picked up his phone again and called the Secretary of Energy, Tom Lambert, and briefed him on the situation as well. Secretary Lambert immediately called an impromptu meeting with the Under Secretary of Energy for Nuclear Security. The majority of the short meeting was discussing whether or not the reactors at Diablo Canyon should be scrammed. The Under Secretary told Secretary Lambert that if the reactors were scrammed at that very moment, without warning, close to two-million households in California would be without electricity - in reality, that would include hospitals, clinics, fire stations, factories, businesses, and many other kinds of occupancies that one could imagine. Secretary Lambert decided that, as of now, this would not be an acceptable option.

The Under Secretary then called the general manager of the Diablo Canyon nuclear power station and directed him to lock down the facility and prepare for an imminent attack.​

---

6:56 A.M. PST (9:56 A.M. EST)
Edwards Air Force Base, California​

Q-Flight had been in the air for less than a minute and both of the RAF fighters were already at the flight level of 25,000 feet. The command center at Edwards was already running the numbers of where Q-Flight and the bandit would meet up, assuming certain parameters.

"Edwards to Q-Flight.... The best information we have says that a civilian twin-engine aircraft has been loaded with explosives; the aircraft has departed from Coalinga Municipal Airport; and the aircraft is piloted by environmental terrorists who intend threaten the Diablo Canyon nuclear power station. Your current mission is to intercept the bandit, to make contact, and to get it to turn west towards the Pacific Ocean. Stand by for further information on an intercept route. Over."

...

"Edwards to Q-Flight.... Adjust your path seven degrees to the North... We are calling things close here and we need to close your intercept window - civilian traffic is being diverted from your flight path. Standby for further orders. Over......"

...

Meanwhile, Q-Flight was given the exact location of Diablo Canyon nuclear power station, the exact position of Coalinga Municipal Airport (though they should have it on their navigational charts and they would probably be familiar with it given they were assigned to the area), and they were also given a path to intercept. While neither Q-Flight nor Edwards knew what the exact make and model of the bandit aircraft was, the Air Force had a radar lock on the bandit aircraft and would be able to direct Q-Flight to it until their in-flight radar could lead them. Luckily, the terrorists had switched on their transponder which made it significantly easier to track them.

...

Less than a minute later, the conclusion was made that Q-Flight would not intercept the aircraft in time given the current speed of the fighters and the bandit. Command decided that they would need to break windows.

"Edwards to Q-Flight, you are cleared to go supersonic... I repeat, you are cleared to go supersonic. You have a block of altitude up to 6-5-thousand (65,000) feet to use as needed. Ascend to 3-6-thousand feet (36,000) and increase speed to Mach 1.6. Over."

Given that speed, Q-Flight would intercept the bandit aircraft at approximately (35.460396, -120.742359) which was less than twenty miles from the power station.

---

7:02 A.M. PST (10:02 A.M. EST)
Washington, District of Columbia​

President Sinclair's motorcade, which was out heading towards a speaking engagement, was redirected to return to the White House. The President was given a very preliminary rundown of the situation by his Chief of Staff, who himself had a limited understanding of what was going on. Both the Secretary of Energy and the Secretary of Defense were also enroute to the White House, along with the other available members of the President's National Security Council (NSC). The President immediately reported to the Situation Room where the Chairman of The Joint Chiefs of Staff was already in waiting, along with a few other military and government officials. Within minutes, the President was able to hear the encrypted live transmissions between Edwards and Q-Flight and visa versa.

President Sinclair asked the Chairman of The Joint Chiefs of Staff - Air Force General Royal Clements - if the RAF pilots stationed at Edwards were actually up for the task.

"It's the British, Mister President. If we couldn't count on them, they wouldn't be there," is what he said in response. That seemed to settle the question.​

Jamie

 

[Jamie]

Upon completion of the rapid ascent that led to the two Typhoons reaching FL250, the pair had levelled out side-by-side just in time to receive the intel and tasking from Edwards AFB. An immediate acknowledgement followed and the pair adjusted their route based on the instructions provided, responding accordingly to each one to demonstrate that it had been heard. A lot was happening within short intervals but it wasn't something new. They regularly performed training and live duties on QRA in the UK and any other policing missions required by the Typhoon fleet. At this point, they had all the information required and their navigation equipment utilised to speed up any processes they required. "This is more exciting than breakfast" spoke the Flight Lead on the inter-flight comms frequency who, prior to hearing a response, received clearance for what they had secretly hoped for. The flight responded abruptly "Cleared supersonic, Flight Level 360, Q Flight".

Both Typhoons increased altitude to FL360 as instructed and ensuring they had adequate clearance between them. Seconds later, throttles down and the speed increased substantially as the two armed aircraft begun their journey to intercept. Aircraft, explosives and a nuclear power station are not a recipe one would recommend and this wasn't lost on the two pilots, whom were both willing to fire if required. Meanwhile, the Lockheed Martin TriStar was comfortably airborne and beginning its journey in the same direction. When needed, the Typhoons had the opportunity to pull back to refuel. When on scene and the aircraft is identified, a single Typhoon was scheduled to go to the tanker to refuel and swap out with the other to ensure the aircraft was accompanied at all times.

It took approximately 8 minutes from the point of been cleared for supersonic to arriving at the intercept point, it didn't take much longer to locate the suspect aircraft which moments later, would have two armed Eurofighters on each side.

"Edwards, Q Flight, Visual confirmation achieved. Standby for identification report, over."

...

"Edwards, Q Flight, unidentified aircraft is a civilian Beechcraft 60 Duke, registration, NOVEMBER-SEVEN-TWO-EIGHT-QUEBEC-HOTEL. No apparent intent, beginning attempt to open direct line of contact, over."

Meanwhile, the second Typhoon begun attempts to make short-range radio contact with the aircraft.

"NOVEMBER-SEVEN-TWO-EIGHT-QUEBEC-HOTEL from Q-2 Interceptor Aircraft"

The Typhoons waited for a moment to see if the aircraft responded. Odinson

 

[Odinson]

Private
7:10 A.M. PST (10:02 A.M. EST)
Somewhere over Los Padres National Forest, California​

There were two people visible in the cockpit of the Beechcraft. Neither of them responded to Q-Flight, but they did start talking to each other. The aircraft had been intercepted over the Los Padres National Forest. It was heading in a southwesterly direction on a heading that would take it directly to the Diablo Canyon Nuclear Power Station. The Beechcraft was flying at an altitude of 20,000 feet and at its cruising speed of 205 miles per hour. The pilots seemed to get into an argument, and then the aircraft increased its speed to 285 miles per hour and its altitude to 23,000 feet. The aircraft did not make radio contact with Q-Flight.​

---

7:27 A.M. PST (10:27 A.M. EST)
Washington, District of Columbia​

The secretaries of Defense and Energy both arrived at the White House. The President's National Security Advisor, Alice Fink, was already in the West Wing when she was told that she was needed in the Situation Room. A portion of the NSC was present at this point, along with some other key figures, though it wasn't an official NSC meeting.

"Mister President, they're not going to be over Los Padres National Forest much longer. They'll partially over the city of Los Osos, and it will not be an option to safely shoot them down there, if you decide to do that. Then, they will be over Montana de Oro State Park. It's sparsely populated, but shooting them down there might start a forest fire, especially if they have explosives or incendiaries on board," said the Secretary of Defense.

Vice President Blumenthal had joined the room about five minutes ago. "If.. this goes south," Blumenthal said, "what's the protocol for shooting down an aircraft over American soil?"

"Only the President can make that call," Secretary of Defense Robert Gates said in response.

While they were talking, the air commander for Edwards Air Force Base, who was in the control room, was patched into the Situation Room.

"Mister President," said Secretary Gates, "we have Colonel Eric Thompson on speaker phone. He's the air boss for the base." The call was on a secure line.

"Colonel Thompson, this is the President. Can you hear us?"

"Yes, sir. I can hear you."

"Colonel, it sounds like we're just following this bandit. Get those fighters to show some force to that aircraft."

"Yes, Mister President. Stand by."

---

7:28 A.M. PST (10:28 A.M. EST)
Somewhere over Los Padres National Forest, California​

Colonel Thompson made secure contact with Q-Flight.

"Edwards to Q-Flight. Order the bandit to divert course northwest. If he does not respond, cut over into his flightpath and use your after burner. That should get his attention. Over."

After forming up on the 6 and 9 o'clock of the aircraft, this was a standard, non-lethal escalation that would hopefully get the pilots of the other aircraft to communicate.​

Jamie

 

[Jamie]

The lead Eurofighter Typhoon of Q-Flight remained eye-level with the cockpit of the unresponsive Beechcraft, the pilot observing the persons on board and notice their mouths moving and no reaction that would deem them compliant. A few minutes expired and during that time, the second Typhoon was taking notes of all the information available of the aircraft. Suddenly, new communications came in from Edwards, "Q-Flight Acknowledged" the pilot responded before attempting to contact the aircraft again. His tone of voice offering a stern warning.

"NOVEMBER-SEVEN-TWO-EIGHT-QUEBEC-HOTEL, You are ordered to divert course north-west. I repeat, you are ordered to divert course, heading north west. Acknowledge."

Meanwhile, Q-2 relayed additional information to Edwards.

"Edwards Air Force Base, Q-2, we are continuing track of the bogey. Aircraft has not responded to radio communications and has currently maintained course. Orders are currently been given to divert north west, pending confirmation of a response. There are two persons on board, noticeably having a conversation between them. They are not currently acknowledging our presence."

Moments later, the lead Typhoon also contacted Edwards.

"Edwards, Q-Flight, due to the size of the bogey aircraft and the capabilities of our own, we'd like to request permissions to fire warning flares as opposed to conducting a pass with Afterburner. I'm concerned over the impact this could have on the condition of the aircraft."

Normally, QRA Jets from the UK would fire warning flares as a show off force to any aircraft in this situation, however, due to them serving under the US Authorities - permission was sought.

Odinson

 

[Odinson]

Private
7:30 A.M. PST (10:30 A.M. EST)
Somewhere over Los Padres National Forest, California​

"Q-Flight, this is Edwards. You are clear to fire your warning flares. Make it snappy. Over," Colonel Thompson said, implying that they were running low on time. At Edwards and at the White House, military officials were doing the math on how much longer this exercise could go before shooting down the aircraft would start to get complicated. By now, the Diablo Canyon Nuclear Power Station was under full lockdown and preparations were already underway to scram the reactor in the event of a successful attack, but even with explosives on an aircraft it was not likely that a meltdown could be caused by an aircraft being flown into it.

The Situation Room in Washington was tense as the members present of the National Security Council argued over what should be done if the aircraft refused to turn away. At Edwards, the situation was also tense as Colonel Thompson silently wondered to himself if the RAF pilots would be able to shoot down a civilian aircraft. He also questioned if this was going to be the only problem that they had that day, or if there were going to be others.​

Jamie

 

[Jamie]

"Q-Flight Acknowledge" responded the lead, moments had passed and yet again, no response. The second Typhoon remained further back with Q-1 pressing forward. Eye level with the cockpit of the bogey, the aircraft rolled onto it's side to display it's missile systems to the crew on-board the Beechcraft for a few seconds before firing a series of flares, throttling to pass them at a safe but very visible distance. The situation was growing more tense by the second with the Typhoon levelling out and observing to see if any change. Communications were fed back to Edwards, confident that everything said would likely have been recorded so any information was invaluable. It also served as evidence if any action had to be taken and it went to an inquest.

"Edwards, Q-Flight, Warning Flares fired, pending response from the bogey. If we have no compliance from the aircraft, please confirm our authority. I am in a position to submit a verbal warning to the aircraft that if they fail to comply, they will be shot down, providing I have authority from the US Government to issue such warning. In the event this is ignored, please advise next steps."

Again, this was a very unusual situation. To be conducting an air policing role without prior agreement or discussion of responsibilities - it was a handbook been written in real time. The only thing the pilots could do is refer to their role as a quick reaction alert in the UK but relay requests onto the US Authorities. At this point, Royal Air Force high command in the UK had become aware of the situation and internal briefings were taking place. The political ramifications were huge, the integrity of the Royal Air Force and the United Kingdom as a whole would become a public display if any action had to be taken.

Meanwhile, further up, the Lockheed Martin TriStar followed racetrack patterns in vicinity of the aircraft to serve as a refueller. Whilst decisions were made and conversations happened, the second Typhoon had given communication to Edwards and Q-1 that it was headed up to refuel. Once done, it would then replace Q-1 whilst that repeated the same process. This ensured the Beechcraft remained accompanied and allowed the Typhoons to continue to operate reliably. Odinson

​

 

[Odinson]

Private
7:33 A.M. PST (10:30 A.M. EST)
Somewhere over Los Padres National Forest, California​

"Edwards to Q-Flight... Stand-by," Colonel Thompson said as he processed what Q-Flight was asking for, and the discussion in the background that he could hear happening in the Situation Room of the White House. The Beechcraft did not respond over the radio to Q-Flight's show of force or their transmission, but the two pilots were now visibly arguing more. One of them pushed the other and the wings of the aircraft tipped down a few degrees before stabilizing again. The other pilot hit back and then they stopped fighting as one pointed forward. The aircraft, which was now flying at 23,000 feet, began descending as they approached the power station.​

---

7:33 A.M. PST (10:33 A.M. EST)
Washington, District of Columbia​

"Robert," President Sinclair said to the Secretary of Defense, "I'm not all too familiar with modern British aircraft. Would they have any trouble shooting down this aircraft?"

"No, Mister President," Secretary Gates said in response. "I'm confident that they could drop a civilian aircraft just as easy as we could. It's just more of a concern where it falls."

"How much longer is our intercept window?" Sinclair asked.

Secretary Gates pointed up to a screen in the situation room that had the location of the fighters and the aircraft, as well as a preliminary flight trajectory to the nuclear power station. "Mister President, they will be over Los Padres National Forest for a little less than two minutes. After that, they will be flying over a populated area for several minutes - the City of Los Osos. After that they will be over Montana de Oro State Park, but we've been advised already that shooting them down there might start a forest fire, especially if explosives or incendiaries are on board."

The President and everyone in the Situation Room had been able to hear the live audio feed of Colonel Thompson talking to Q-Flight, and Q-Flight responding back, and they still could now. The room was silent for a few moments as Sinclair weighed his options.

"Luke, how are the British going to react if I have one of their pilots shoot down a civilian aircraft in American airspace?" Sinclair finally asked.

Luke Adams, the Secretary of State, had been let into the Situation Room minutes ago, sometime before the flares were released by Q-Flight. He already knew the basics of what was going on before he had made it to the White House.

"They are obligated under the Treaty of Washington and our air agreement to defend American airspace, especially if we are unable to or if we ask for their aid. The only reason that the British are at Edwards Air Force base, and we have an Air Force Squadron in England, is to symbolize that we are cooperating militarily, and to actually defend each other if need-be," Adams said.

"Luke, I know that. What I want to know is what the British public are going to think about this, and if this is going to hurt our relations with Prime Minister Adams and the government?" Sinclair asked.

"Mister President, we're in an impossible scenario right now. If we can't find a way out of this, and you have to order them to shoot down that aircraft, I don't think the British will hold it against us. And as far as the public is concerned? I don't know for sure, but if my time at Oxford has taught me anything about the British people, there will be a bunch of folks in pubs patting each other on their backs about how the RAF was able to save the day in California," Adams said. He could have said more, but time of was of the essence now.

"What time is it in London?" Sinclair asked.

"It's about 5:30 P.M., sir," Adams responded.

"Have someone call Ambassador Cook. I want him briefed the minute this thing is concluded, regardless of what happens, so that he can go to Downing Street and speak with Prime Minister Adams," said Sinclair.

Sinclair, who was a veteran of the old U.S. Army-Air Forces and was one of the original pilots who were transferred to the new U.S. Air Force in the late 1940s, was trying to put himself in the minds of the pilots of both of the aircraft. While he was a pilot, he never had to think about shooting down a civilian aircraft. How times have changed, he thought to himself.

"Colonel Thompson, are you still with us?" Sinclair asked.

"Yes, Mister President."

"I want to talk to the commander of Q-Flight. Patch me through directly," he said, knowing that Colonel Thompson wouldn't like being jumped over in the chain of command.

"Yes sir, stand by."

---

7:37 A.M. PST (10:37 A.M. EST)
Over Los Osos, California​

By now, the aircraft and the fighters were flying over Los Osos. Soon they would be over Montana de Oro State Park. They were getting dangerously close to the power station.

"Edwards to Q-Flight... The White House wants to speak to you, directly. Stand by, I am going to patch them in. Over."

Thirty seconds or so went by.

"Q-Flight, this is the White House.. Can you hear me?......" Sinclair said, and waited for confirmation that he could be heard. "If this bandit doesn't respond in the next few minutes, I am going to order you to shoot it down. Before you give them a warning, I want to make sure that you will be willing to take them down. Even though they are terrorists, it is a civilian flight... Over."​

 

[Jamie]

The standby period provided gave sufficient time for the second Typhoon to fully refuel and return to the civilian aircraft, this served as a handover period where Q-2, became the flight lead. Fortunately, this was seamless and wouldn't impact any communications going on as both pilots had been involved in inter-flight discussions. The original flight lead had been re-designated Q-2 separated and headed to meet the tanker to refuel. During that time, Q-Flight identified the situation in the cockpit growing tense and observed from a safe distance as the aircraft made some unexpected movement due to the on-going conflict.

It was a waiting game but communication remained consistent.
"Edwards Air Force Base, Q-Flight" started the new flight lead, "A further update for you Sir, there appears to be growing tension in the cockpit, some form of disagreement between the two on-board. This had resulted in some unexpected movements of the aircraft but has since stabilized, they're at flight level 230 and are descending."

Although expecting much discussions taking place behind the scene, what happened wasn't ever considered a possibility. An incoming radio communication from the White House, and a familiar voice of the US President. There was a brief moment of silence, almost a clarity check as both the Typhoon pilots heard it. This would be a story to tell the boys at home.

"White House, Q-Flight, loud and clear Sir." responded the lead. One thing that could be noted is the consistency in the wording and professionalism displayed by both pilots. It was clearly not their first rodeo. despite now talking to the highest authority, the response was blunt, "Prepared to carry out the tasking. Standby for warning".

There was a few seconds of silence, appreciating the timeframe that was given of ordering a shoot down in a few minutes, Q-Flight cleared his throat, ready to offer what would likely be a very publicised warning if the aircraft had to be shot down. Audible for Edwards and the White House situation room, he spoke.

"NOVEMBER-SEVEN-TWO-EIGHT-QUEBEC-HOTEL from Q-Flight, I am instructed by the government of the United States of America to warn you that if you do not respond immediately to my orders, you will be shot down."

The Typhoon fell back slightly, the pilot switching on master arm, "Air to air mode, on" he murmured to himself, working through a checklist giving sufficient time for a response. It felt like a lifetime as he sat there, waiting to see if any reaction came from the civilian aircraft.

"White House, Q-Flight, warning has been issued. Pending on your authority to engage if no response. Over." Odinson

 

[Odinson]

Private
7:45 A.M. PST (10:45 A.M. EST)
Somewhere Over Montana de Oro State Park​

By now the bandit had descended down to 18,500 feet, and it was continuing to descend as they approached the nuclear power station. The aircraft was also no longer over Los Osos and was now over Montana de Oro State Park, which was sparsely populated. Sinclair leaned forward on the table and rested his hand in his face for a moment as he thought to himself. He did this for about ten or fifteen seconds and then let out a sigh before he looked around the room.

"Does anyone have any ideas?" Sinclair asked, speaking more quietly than before.

There was silence in the room for a few seconds, and then Secretary Gates leaned forward, resting his elbows on the mahogany table. "Mister President, if you're going to shoot down that plane, you need to do it now."

Sinclair looked at the Secretary of Energy, "Tom, lock down all of the nuclear power stations on the West Coast. Hopefully this is the only one they're going to try something at."

"Yes sir, Mister President," said Secretary Lambert.

Sinclair leaned forward on the table and unmuted the intercom so that the RAF pilots could hear. "White House to Q-Flight..... Proceed with extreme caution, the aircraft has explosives on board. You are cleared to go weapons hot. Shoot down the aircraft with missiles.... Over."

Everyone in the room looked at the President and then at the screen in the situation room that showed three blips, two of them being the RAF fighters in Q-Flight and the other one being the bandit.

I can't believe those damn kids are going to make me kill them, Sinclair thought to himself in frustration. God forgive them.​

---

7:46 A.M. PST (10:46 A.M. EST)
New Coalinga Municipal Airport​

A joint task force from the FBI and ATF arrived at Coalinga Municipal Airport where the aircraft had taken off. Over 100 special agents, armed to the teeth, arrived in unmarked SUVs and cars. Some were in tactical gear with automatic rifles, some were wearing dark blue windbreakers with shotguns or handguns, and somewhere in suit and tie and had their sidearms. A bomb squad unit from the FBI was also in tow. Multiple FBI helicopters, with armed snipers onboard as well as assault teams, circled the airport as traffic as the FAA grounded all traffic there.

The agents moved in on the only hangar that was closed. When they opened the door, a younger man in his mid-twenties was holding a brick of concentrated fertilizer. Dozens of drums of some kind of accelerant - probably gasoline - where piled up on one side of the room next to some guns. There were a few other people in the hangar as well. At first glance, it looked like they were assembling a bomb so that when the FBI arrived, the place would simply blow up. However, the eco terrorists did not suspect the government to be on the scene so quickly.

The tactical officers on scene breached through a pedestrian door to the hangar and threw in a few flash grenades. These were only somewhat effective because of the size of the room - luckily they didn't catch anything on fire or blow anything up. The first few agents in walked in tactically and pointed their rifles towards where they had thrown the flash grenades. The young man holding the fertilizer dropped it and pulled out a handgun from behind his back. Two of the agents shot him five times. The rest of the people in the room raised their hands and surrendered as the agents swarmed inside. They were all escorted outside and arrested, and the hangars were evacuated while the bomb squad got to work.​

Jamie

 

[Jamie]

"White House, Q-Flight, Engage authorization confirmed. Issuing final warning. Moving to fire position." responded Pilot James Acre. There was brief pause before the final warning was submitted over the guard frequency, during the pull back to a safe distance. This gave ample time for a response before the firing of the air to air missile.

""NOVEMBER-SEVEN-TWO-EIGHT-QUEBEC-HOTEL from Q-Flight, you have failed to comply with repeated instructions. This is your final warning. Acknowledge on this frequency or by rocking your wings. Head North West."

Having been one of the first Eurofighter Typhoon pilots and before that, James operated the Tornado Adv F3 that saw combat in Turkey. Racking up thousands of flying hours, even serving in the UK on QRA duties meant firing weapons wasn't new to him, but it was the first time he'd been in a position of shooting down an unarmed aircraft. It was a decision he'd have to live with but the thoughts didn't trigger any delay. It was his job. A quiet sigh escaped his mouth as the Typhoon pulled further back, now a safe distance away from the Beechcraft and pointing the nose straight towards it.

If no response came, the tasking proceeded.

"White House, Q-Flight, Target locked." started James, the beeping of a missile tone could be heard in the background with the AIM-120 AMRAAM spooling up "Warnings given over guard frequency, no response. Engaging in 3... 2... 1..."

The valuable final 3 seconds passed quickly and only if an immediate change occurred, would the missile fire be cancelled. If the aircraft remained unresponsive, the single AIM-120 dropped from its hardpoint and ignited straight towards the Beechcraft. Only seconds later, it made contact. It had no chance. The Typhoon pulled immediately to the right to avoid any debris and to get a better visual on the aftermath. All recorded through his helmet.

"All Stations All Stations, Q-Flight, Splash one. Target neutralized. Confirm visual destruction of target. Debris is dropping. Maintaining a holding pattern around the area further instructions."

At this time, the second Typhoon had arrived on scene too, joining the flight lead as the pair begun to circle the area. In the silence, the second Typhoon pilot spoke to James on the inter-flight frequency only they had access too.

"I wasn't expecting any tasking but even if I was, I didn't think it'd go this way. Great job, Acre." The tone of voice wasn't of excitement, but the two were more disappointed it had to be done. The good job simply referred to the lives that had potentially been saved. Now the question remained as to whether they were alone, are there other aircraft? Do they need to carry out any further tasking? Odinson

 

[Odinson]

7:33 A.M. PST (10:33 A.M. EST)
Washington, District of Columbia​

Q-Flight successfully shot down the aircraft, which created a notably large explosion - larger than an aircraft of that size and model would typically make, even if fully-fueled. However, because of the distance between the aircraft and Q-Flight, the RAF pilots and their aircraft weren't damaged, save a little turbulence.

The Situation Room was quiet after RAF pilot Acre reported, "Splash one." Everyone looked at Sinclair, who was now the first American President to order the shootdown of a civilian aircraft in American airspace. He reached forward to the speaker on the table in front of him.

"White House to Q-Flight... Thank you. You'll take further orders from Edwards.... White House out. Over...." Sinclair said, and then muted the microphone again. Colonel Thompson from Edwards ordered Q-Flight to maintain a flight pattern around the downed aircraft and to report its position. They were further tasked with defending the airspace over the Diablo Canyon Nuclear Power Station until American fighters could arrive.

The relief for Q-Flight wouldn't be United States Air Force Assets, but instead would be two Marine Corps F/A-18F Super Hornets that flew all of the way from Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, with air-to-air refueling done along the way. Q-Flight was ordered to stand down and return to Edwards. A debriefing would occur involving Colonel Thompson and the British commander at the base. Later, weeks after this incident, officials in the Pentagon would be able to easily ascertain that there were obvious gaps in the defense of American airspace and that steps would need to be taken in the future to correct that. A congressional panel would, sometime later, find that there were only six armed American fighters on the Western side of the United States that could respond to an immediate threat, three of which were in Guam.

At that time, in the Situation Room, everyone looked to President Sinclair who didn't seem pleased. He was quiet. The typically stoic President seemed a bit uneasy, like he was reminded of something from a long time ago.

"I'm going back to the Oval Office, someone get me Governor Schwarzenegger on the phone," he said, quietly. He grabbed his black walking cane and used it to help himself stand up. Just at that moment, the FBI Director, Harrison Cash, walked into the room. Sinclair and Cash looked at each other, and Sinclair lost it.

"Mister President-" Cash said, before he was interrupted.

"We shot them down, Harrison. We shot them down using British fighters. Why did we find this out thirty minutes before it happened!?" Sinclair said, shouting the last sentence. Almost no one in the room had heard the President raise his voice like that before.

Sinclair grabbed his coffee mug from the table, which was half-filled with look-warm black coffee, and threw it against the wall behind the FBI Director. It shattered into a dozen pieces. "Fucking amateur hour, that's what this is," he said. None of them had head him curse before.

Sinclair didn't give Director Cash a chance to respond and walked out of the room to the Oval Office. He immediately got on the phone with the Governor of California, Arnold Schwarzenegger, and informed him of what happened. Meanwhile the Secretary of State, Luke Adams, directly called Ambassador Noah Cook in London on a secure line and informed him of the intimate details of what had occurred.

---

3:45 P.M. GMT (10:45 A.M. EST)
London, United Kingdom​

Ambassador Adams was in his office at the embassy when he received a phone call from the Secretary of State. One of the worst possible, but not the worst possible, outcomes had happened: the aircraft threatening the Diablo Canyon Nuclear Power Station had to be shot down, by RAF fighters no less. Ambassador Adams was given all of the intimate details and information that the State Department had at the time. He quickly formulated a message to Downing Street.

---

OFFICE OF THE UNITED STATES AMBASSADOR TO THE COURT OF ST. JAMES​

---

ENCRYPTED MESSAGE​

TO: Lawrence Adams, Prime Minister of The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland ( Jamie )​

FROM: Noah Cook, United States Ambassador to The Court of St. James

Prime Minister,

I regret to inform you that there was just an attempted terrorist attack against a United States nuclear power station in California. American aerial assets were not able to respond in time. However, Royal Air Force assets stationed at Edwards Air Force Base in California were already on standby and responded. I regret to inform you that President Sinclair ultimately had to give the order to shoot down the civilian aircraft which had explosives on board, as well as two pilots which we have determined to be part of an eco-terrorist group. The RAF pilots in these aircraft, as well as the refueling aircraft who assisted with the operation, are heroes and potentially saved southern California from a nuclear disaster.

President Sinclair will give a televised address to the nation this evening regarding the attempted attack. I wanted to make you aware of these details before he gave his speech. If you have any more questions, you may reach out to myself or the President.

On behalf of the President and the American People, thank you for your support.

Best regards,

Noah Cook
United States Ambassador to The Court of St. James​

​

​

 

[Odinson]

Private​

Weeks after the events described above, notice was given to the British Ambassador in Washington and the RAF commander at Edwards Air Force Base that the Royal Air Force units involved in the response to the Diablo Canyon incident were to be given unit citations, and that two individuals would be given individual awards. The British Secretary of State for Defence, Jason Green, was invited to attend along with the British Ambassador to the United States, as well as the British RAF Commander that was stationed at Edwards to the ceremony at Edwards Air Force Base which would occur during the afternoon of January 20, 2006. President Sinclair, the Secretary of Defense, the Secretary of The Air Force, and Brigadier General Sam Allan who was the base commander of Edwards would all be in attendance, along with numerous other Pentagon and Air Force officials, as well as other airmen stationed at Edwards. While the President typically did not attend ceremonies like this, awarding a Presidential Unit Citation was already a rare event, and giving one to a foreign military unit was even more extraordinary, so he wanted to be there in person.

Public​

January 20, 2006
3:03 P.M. PST
Edwards Air Force Base, California​

On a cool, mid-afternoon Friday in southern California, an outdoor ceremony was prepared to honor and award two Royal Air Force units and individuals stationed at Edwards Air Force Base. President Sinclair had flown in earlier that day, around noon, and was joined by the Secretary of Defense, Robert Gates, the Secretary of the Air Force, Devan Ross, and the Edwards Base Commander, Brigadier General Sam Allan. The President had lunch with the officials he flew in with, as well as General Allan and any British representatives or officials who decided to come to Edwards for the ceremony. President Sinclair and Secretary Devan Ross, who had strong family roots from Scotland, made especially sure to make the British visitors feel welcomed. The tour lasted about forty-five minutes and included visits to a few hangars and different facilities at the base, as well as some of the crew quarters. In addition to the Air Force Security Forces who were always stationed at Edwards and were prepared to defend the base on the ground, the base was also now swarming with Secret Service.

Per President Sinclair's request, the ceremony was organized and held outside. There was an occasional and light breeze that brought the 60-degree (F) air through the hair of those in attendance as numerous American flags fluttered around the stage. On the stage were, again, an assortment of American and Air Force flags, as well as the flag of the President, and the Union Jack and the Royal Air Force Ensign. President Sinclair, Secretary Gates, Secretary Ross, Brigadier General Allan, and the visiting British officials as well as the British RAF commander at Edwards were seated on the stage. Facing the stage were some 500 seats that allowed officers and enlisted airmen stationed at the base to watch the ceremony. Every American airman in attendance was in his or her Class A uniform, while the civilian officials were in suits, and President Sinclair was wearing one of his signature, black, three-piece suits. A gold pocket watch chain was attached to one of the buttons of the President's suit vest and went to a small pocket that contained a gold pocket watch.

Brigadier General Sam Allan, the Edwards Air Force Base commander, walked up to the podium as some of the flags gently moved in the breeze. This entire event was televised on national television for the American public and the world to see.

"Ladies and gentlemen, please rise for the national anthem," he said. Each American airmen in the crowd stood and saluted the flag during the national anthem while the civilians put their hands over their hearts, which was ironically about American forces holding out during the bombardment of Fort McHenry by the Royal Navy in the War of 1812. The anthem was played excellently by the base's band. At the conclusion of the anthem, the American servicemen ended their salutes, and the civilians put their hands back down by their sides.

"Please remain standing for the British National Anthem," General Allan said.

The base's band then played, "God Save The Queen" which they had been practicing every day for the past two weeks. The Americans respectfully stood silently as the anthem was played.

"Now please join me in welcoming the recipients of today's awards," General Alland said. He introduced Pilot Officer James Acre, Pilot Officer Adam Collins, the Commander of No. 11 Squadron, and the Commander of No. 29 Squadron. The commanders of the squadrons would each accept an award on behalf of their entire squadron. An armed Air Force honor guard escorted the for RAF airmen to the ceremony by marching around the seated guests and escorting them to the foot of the stage. Once the RAF airmen stepped onto the stage, the honor guard took a formation at either side of the base of the stage to symbolize that they were guarding it. All four of the RAF airmen had a convenient place to stand as the ceremony went on.

"Thank you, you may all be seated," General Allan said. Everyone except the awardees and General Allan sat down.

"Mister President, Secretary Gates, Secretary Ross, distinguished guests, fellow airmen, thank you for joining us. Today we are here to honor and celebrate two Royal Air Force airmen and two Royal Air Force squadrons who showed exemplary service in defending the United States and her people. It is public knowledge that the United Kingdom has Royal Air Force squadrons and assets stationed here at Edwards Air Force Base in California, and that the United States has Air Force assets stationed in England, as a result of the Treaty of Washington which solidified a direct and formal military and political alliance between the United States and the United Kingdom. Those forces stationed here at Edwards were essential in defending the United States and the American people from eco-terrorists who were targeting one of the nuclear power stations here in California. I could expand further, but I am sure that our presenters have a few words to say. We will start with...

"Pilot Officer Adam Collins, please approach the podium... I would also like to ask the Secretary of the Air Force, Devan Ross, to take the podium," General Allan stepped back and surrendered the podium to the Secretary of the Air Force.

"Good afternoon..." Secretary Ross said as he looked out to the sea of American airmen, as well as the RAF airmen who were seated in the front rows. "Pilot Officer Adam Collins was one of two Royal Air Force pilots who were scrambled to intercept a terrorist aircraft that was threatening to attack an American nuclear power station. Pilot Officer Collins acted professionally and without question to protect American airspace and to respond to an incoming threat with his compatriots. Pilot Officer Collins not only showed exceptional performance but also unquestionable dedication to his mission as a stand-in for scramble operations, and assisted his colleagues in the Royal Air Force to the highest standards that the United States Air Force would hold him to if he was an American airmen. That is why today, on behalf of the United States Department of the Air Force, I am awarding Pilot Officer Adam Collins the Air Medal."

Secretary Ross then vacated the podium and approached Pilot Officer Collins. He pinned the medal to Collins's uniform and gave him a firm handshake.

"Congratulations, son," he said to him. The crowd applauded and a number of pictures were taken.

Brigadier General Allan took the podium again and said, "Pilot Officer James Acre, please approach the podium. Secretary Ross, please take the podium again."

"Pilot Officer James Acre," said General Allan, "was the other Royal Air Force pilot who was scrambled to intercept the terrorist aircraft. Pilot Officer Acre acted valiantly and heroically. He clearly communicated with American superiors at Edwards and with President Sinclair at the White House, and he shot down the terrorist flight under orders from the Commander-in-Chief before it could reach the Diablo Canyon Nuclear Power station. Pilot Officer Acre not only acted with the professional demeaner that would be expected from every Air Force pilot, but he also performed his duties without any flaw or error and he did not hesitate to defend the United States from an armed internal threat. Pilot Officer Acre should stand as a supreme example of what every American Air Force fighter pilot should strive to achieve. His bravery, stoicism, and professionalism were extraordinary that day and saved the lives of countless Americans. That is why today, on behalf of the United States Department of the Air Force, I am award Pilot Officer James Acre the U.S. Department of the Distinguished Flying Cross."

Secretary Ross again vacated the podium and approached Pilot Officer Acre. He pinned the medal to Acre's uniform and gave him a firm handshake, as well as a pat on the shoulder.

"Well done, Acre. Thank you for your service," Secretary Ross said. The crowd once again applauded as a number of pictures were taken.

General Alan once again took the podium and said, "The Commander of Number 29 Squadron, Royal Air Force, will now step forward.... Secretary Gates, you may take the podium, sir."

Robert Gates, the United States Secretary of Defense, took the podium.

"Sometimes we feel like all of the glory goes to the front-man, the man with the gun or the man pushing the button, or the man dropping the bomb, or the man shooting the missile. But what about the man, or woman, who makes it possible for any of those things to happen? During the attempted terrorist attack on Diablo Canyon, and on incredibly short notice, Number 29 Squadron of the Royal Air Force jumped into action and deployed one of its Lockheed Tristar tankers. This tanker and its crew proved to be monumentally important in permitting the Typhoons to stay airborne while American military assets were organized and scrambled to take their place. Even after the terrorist flight was shot down, the British Typhoons stayed in the air over Diablo Canyon to defend American airspace. It wasn't until about an hour later that Marine Corps aircraft were able to relieve them. Had it not been for the quick-acting pilots, crew members, and ground crews of Number 29 Squadron, the Typhoons would not have been able to stay in the air and defend American airspace. Number 29 Squadron showed excellent coordination with the Air Force and showed no hesitation in performing their duties. If it were not for their coordination, professionalism, and efficiency, American airspace would have gone undefended during a time of crisis. That is why today, on behalf of the United States Department of Defense, I am awarding Number 29 Squadron of the Royal Air Force a Joint Meritorious Unit Award."

Secretary Gates vacated the podium and approached the commander of Number 29 Squadron. He affixed the ribbon for the JMUA next to his other awards and ribbons and shook his hand. All of the current-serving members of the unit would be permitted to have and wear the ribbon for the units service that day. The crowd would again applaud and numerous pictures would be taken.

Brigadier General Allan took to the podium again and cleared his throat, "The commander of Number 11 Squadron will approach the podium.... and it is my distinct honor and pleasure to ask the President of the United States and Commander-in-Chief, Benjamin Valentine Sinclair, to take the podium."

General Allan saluted the President, who returned the salute and shook the generals hand before he took to the podium.

"Ladies and gentlemen, today is a joyous occasion. Chaos normally confronts the world with unforeseen outcomes that we wished we could avoid. But, today, I am happy to report to the American People and the world that chaos was met with a prepared group of men and women from the British Royal Air Force. In the past, some pundits have claimed that the stationing of American forces in England, and the stationing of British forces in the United States, were nothing more than an expensive symbolic gesture that did not benefit either country... Today, we can see, that there is nothing purely symbolic by this stationing of forces. Brave pilots from the British Royal Air Force, Pilot Officer Acre and Pilot Officer Collins, were in the air in record time to defend American airspace. They, and their commander, did not hesitate in agreeing to take the place of American pilots as an emergency reaction force. In the same way, they did not hesitate in scrambling, they did not call home and ask for permission to defend American air space. Their mission was clear: to act in accordance with the treaty between our countries and to defend the United States the same way that our airmen in Great Britain would defend them. They did just that with the utmost professionalism, valor, and bravery that I would expect and demand from any American Air Force pilot. They were calm, cool, and collected, and they did not hesitate to execute orders. The individual actions of Pilot Officer Acre and Pilot Officer Collins should not be overlooked, but this is also a reflection of the esprit de corps and professionalism of Number 11 Squadron as a whole. I have no doubt that any pilot in Number 11 Squadron would have taken similar steps and defended the United States. That is why today, through the powers vested in me as President of the United States, I am award Number 11 Squadron of the Royal Air Force a Presidential Unit Citation."

President Sinclair vacated the podium and approached the commander of Number 11 Squadron. He affixed the ribbon of the Presidential Unit Citation next to his other awards and ribbons, and shook his hand. He also approached Pilot Officer Collins, and did the same. He approached Pilot Officer Acre, who he had spoken to from the Situation Room that day, and affixed his ribbon as well. Sinclair then reached into the inner pocket of his suit jacket and removed a firm, expensive envelope with Acre's full name and rank written on it. Inside of it was a private letter from President Sinclair to Acre.

"Thank you for your service," Sinclair, a former Air Force pilot, said to Acre as he handed him the envelope and then shook his hand.

The joint Meritorious Unit Award was not commonly awarded to foreign military units and was a high honor. The Presidential Unit Citation was almost never awarded to foreign military units and was among the highest honors that any military unit loyal to the United States, or acting in her defense, could receive. This was an extraordinary occasion and display by the United States to a foreign friend and ally which made it clear that the United States had a renewed trust in her closest ally, and the ability and willingness of her that ally to defend herself and the United States if need be.

Private​

Later, Pilot Officer James Acre would presumably open the envelope that was handed to him by President Sinclair. Below are the contents of that letter:​

Pilot Officer James Acre,

From one pilot to another, I cannot properly express to you my sincerest thanks for your actions regarding the Diablo Canyon incident. Your bravery and steadfast professionalism saved the day.

I remember when I was in the Army Air Forces, and later the Air Force, I was reluctant to accept thanks or praise from anyone for serving. I never felt like I deserved it, or that I was an imposter. I thought about the men who had died in combat and the others who were maimed or seriously injured, while the most I ever had was a minor back injury. I felt guilty for things like that, which I should not have felt guilty for.

However, I also felt guilty for what I had to do in combat. I felt guilty for the thousands of casualties that I inflicted in Korea during the war from the sky, and the hundreds more I inflicted on the ground. I wondered how many of those men were like me and how many of them just wanted to go home and see their families. I often have trouble falling asleep and, sometimes when I am alone, I still think about the things that I did, and I wonder if they were the right thing to do in that moment. Maybe I should have let someone go, maybe I could have shot someone in the arm, maybe I could have knocked a man out instead of doing what I felt I had to do at the time. To this day I still feel guilt, even though I have made peace with what I did.

I am not sure if you are a religious man, but I am. I have asked God to forgive me for anything I did that was wrong. I think that everything I did was in defense of my country and the Korean people who did not want to live under communist rule - but I cannot be certain.

I am telling you this, because I know what it is like to take a life and I know what it is like to feel guilt. You should not feel guilty for what you did. You saved the lives of many innocent Americans, and you likely prevented a catastrophe that could have affected hundreds-of-thousands, or even millions of people. You are a hero to me and millions of people that you will never meet.

I have ordered the Secretary of the Air Force to make counseling services available to you and any member of the Royal Air Force stationed in the United States, should you need it. It is anonymous and will not be reported to anyone anywhere. I have also attached my personal card with a number where you can reach me, any time of day. If you ever need a thing, do not hesitate to reach out to my office.

Respectfully,​

Jamie