"Get the carriers out of there!" The President snapped. "Get them to the nearest ports where they can receive assistance in making their repairs. Replace their escort vessels and get them back on station as quickly as possible."
"Mr. President," the Admiral put in, "The Commanders of the task force ask to remain on station."
"I respect their request," The President answered, "I admire their courage, but we don't know how much the enemy has left. They are seriously wounded. Another effort from the air may finish many of them. They are to withdraw. They will fight another day. But at this moment caution overwhelms valor. GET THEM OUT OF THERE!"
"Yes, Mr. President," the Admiral snapped.
"And Admiral," The President continued, "send my deepest admiration to every single man on those ships and my most hearty well done! And Admiral, when was the last time you slept?"
"Many hours ago, sir," the Admiral answered.
"Then do so!" The President ordered, "For a full cycle. Let your subordinates carry on. Good Lords, 52,000? General Hayes is right. No matter what else they're God damned brave sons of bitches! Old Do better not have executed any of their wives and children because they failed. I'll hang his damned commanders if he did. Go, Admiral! Get the FBI director in here, now!"
"Yes, Mr. President," the Admiral answered, "immediately, sir!"

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