Executive Firepower

By Derek Hart

David Lockhart holds down a pretty typical job, as a sales manager for a company that supplies an extensive catalog of products. On the surface, there’s nothing unusual about David Lockhart. However, when he receives a certain call sign, Lockhart becomes the team leader of MESA, a Black Ops organization that reports to the Director of the NSA.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Derek Hart
• Release date: May 9, 2010
• ISBN: 9781458013842

Derek Hart

Derek Hart is the prolific author of 28 action and adventure novels, known for their historical accuracy, while still maintaining a high level of entertainment. Romance is also a vital part of Derek Hart's trademark style and his novels generally appeal to men and women alike. Mr. Hart authored Secret of the Dragon's Eye, his first novel aimed at all age groups, which met with instant success and outstanding reviews. The author has since followed with Secret of the Dragon's Breath, Secret of the Dragon's Claw, Secret of the Dragon's Scales and Secret of the Dragon's Teeth. The final volume of the 6-episode series, Secret of the Dragon's Wings, will be available in November of 2018. He has since started a new series, post-apocalyptic in nature, with Minerva's Shield and Nike's Chariot. The third installment, Apollo's Plague came out in November 2017. Abandoned was published in March 2018 and Game Over premiered in June 2018. List of published books: Secret of the Dragon’s Eye Secret of the Dragon’s Breath Secret of the Dragon’s Claw Secret of the Dragon’s Scales Secret of the Dragon’s Teeth Secret of the Dragon’s Wings Claws of the Raven Danger Cruise Favor for FDR Crooked Cross Factor Tracks of the Predator For Love or Honor Bound Tales of the Yellow Silk Element of Surprise Seas Aflame Ice Flotilla High Altitude Low Opening Tangles of Truth Shadows in Replay Flag of Her Choosing Tidal Trap Dangerous (Poetry) Executive Firepower The CARLA Conspiracy The Wreckchasers Minerva's Shield Nike's Chariot Apollo's Plague Abandoned Game Over Mercury's Wings Before the Dead Walked Books coming soon: The Samuel Clemens Affair Pearl and Topaz By the Moon Darkly Broadmoor Manor Neptune's Trident Operation Sovereign Primary Weapon Saturn's Fire Tails of Thaddeus Enchanted Mesa Eagle Blue Last Guidon Excess Baggage Container Carta Codex Shipwreckers Romeo Tango The 5x5 Gang Desert Salvage

Book preview

Executive Firepower

by

Derek Hart

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SmashWords Edition

Published by

Derek Hart on SmashWords

Executive Firepower

Copyright  2011 Derek Hart

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, graphic, electronic, or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, taping or by any information storage or retrieval system, without the permission in writing from the publisher.

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About the Author

Assassination is the extreme form of censorship. -George Bernard Shaw.

Derek Hart takes on the world of covert agendas, assassins, lies, deceit, double-cross, betrayal and the secrets of illegal government operations. In EXECUTIVE FIREPOWER, David Lockhart is perhaps the most dangerous and successful leader of a team of assassins, which the world has never known. Yet underlying all the cold cruel business-like killings, this man is a very complex individual, tortured by a failed love affair of the past.

Covert operations, by definition, are difficult to examine. They are shrouded in secrecy, so one is never sure whether all the relevant data concerning their scope, origin, and degree of success are at hand. Yet it is apparent that governments will continue to insist on having covert operations as an option. What motivates the United States to undertake such actions and how well the United States has been served by these measures are especially crucial issues.

The United States is engaged in a global war on terrorism. This means, among other things, that the enemy is a committed, resourceful and globally dispersed adversary with strategic reach, against whom the US will wage a violent and borderless war, which will require new strategies.

The Pentagon is taking the terrorist threat as seriously as it takes the likelihood and consequences of a major war. Specific Special Ops teams will launch secret missions and intelligence operations to penetrate and disrupt terrorist cells abroad. Some of those operations are aimed at signaling other countries that harbor terrorists that their sovereignty will be at risk.

The CIA executes the plans, but they use Department of Defense assets. However, there is a long-standing US policy banning assassinations and the President is still required to approve covert operations. At least on the surface, that’s how things are understood.

In 2000, the Department of Defense recommended the creation of an Intelligence Support Activity, an organization it dubbed the Proactive, Preemptive Operations Group (P2OG), to bring together the CIA and military covert action, information warfare, intelligence and cover and deception specialists. To bolster government capabilities, a White House task force advanced the idea of an intelligence sector capability - a global cadre of retirees, reservists and others who are trained and qualified to serve on short notice, including expatriates. This group could be pressed into service during times of crisis, under the umbrella of an independent intelligence agency.

P2OG would launch secret operations aimed at terrorists and host countries possessing weapons of mass destruction, meaning it would prod terrorist cells into action, thus exposing them to quick-response attacks by US forces. The means by which it would do this is the far greater use of Black Ops forces.

It is also a fact that the United States has stationed more than 500 Special Operations troops in the African nation of Djibouti, where they are near potential hot spots such as Yemen and Somalia.

However, subversive techniques often offend American sensibilities of fair play, the rule of law, and the orderly turnover of government to another party following a free election. We like to think that dirty tricks are the tactics of less-scrupulous governments. The Nazis, Soviets, or even those fastidious British, somehow seem better suited to skullduggery than the apple pie and mom Americans. Sometimes Americans take it to heart by launching congressional investigations. The end result is often that American politicians opt for extended bombing, conventional invasion, and indiscriminate death, as if those options were somehow more moral and justifiable, especially if the United States was willing to foot the bill for reconstruction.

Twenty-seven million acres of public lands are used for military reservations and installations. These lands are mostly in the West and South and include artillery, bombing, missile ranges, weapons testing grounds, laboratories and training centers for elite soldiers. This figure doesn’t include the 17 Top Secret facilities that inhabit New Mexico, Arizona, Colorado, Utah and Southern California. While Area 51 is perhaps the most famous of these ultra secret installations, there are many locations even more closely guarded and inaccessible.

It should also be noted that the P2OG Advisory Committee also recommended, though less ardently, that the Federal Government form another highly trained elite unit to combat domestic terrorism. In the wake of the Oklahoma City bombing and other homegrown attacks on American soil, this group was ostensibly codenamed Eagle Strike. It was suggested that the management for this unit be handled by a private company, one specializing in law enforcement or corrections, but closely tied to the Federal Government.

Derek Hart would like to thank a number of people who had an impact on the writing and therefore should receive recognition and credit.

To Todd Sirmans, who first suggested the plot for EXECUTIVE FIREPOWER, while not immediately realizing he had done so, then provided many hours of wonderful debate, as Derek and Todd discussed in detail most of the great conspiracy theories of the 20th Century, as well as a few that verged on science fiction.

To David Burke, whose wonderful graphic-art skills once again grace the cover of this novel and for all the tremendous friendship and support he gives so freely to assist this process.

And finally to the loyal fans and readers of Derek Hart adventure novels, goes out a hearty thank you. The author strives to deliver exciting and entertaining tales filled with action and solid characters. Because of their support and willingness to spread the word, more and more copies of Derek Hart novels are being read across the country and even in several foreign countries.

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Dedication

Dedicated to black lace thong panties, steaming hot showers, pimento-stuffed green olives and sharp cheddar cheese sliced with a credit card.

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Foreword

I was listening to the radio

I heard a song reminded me of long ago

Back then I thought that things were never gonna change

It used to be that I never had to feel the pain

I know that things will never be the same now.

I wanna go back

And do it all over again

But I can't go back I know

I wanna go back

Cause I'm feeling so much older

But I can't go back I know.

I recall hanging out on Friday night

The first slow dance

Hoping that I'd get it right

Back then I thought I'd never ever stand alone

It used to be that a lonely heart was never shown

I know that things will never be the same.

- Eddie Money

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Preface

There is no more hollow victory,

than the one you cannot share with

someone you love.

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Acknowledgements

To Todd Sirmans, who is responsible for the plot idea and for hours of debate, discussing all the great conspiracy theories of the 20th Century.

To Alistair MacLean, Hammond Innes, Douglas Reeman, Jack Higgins & Robert E. Howard: all authors who have a tremendous influence on Derek Hart.

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Cover art by David M. Burke

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Introduction

In the shadows of the intelligence world, illegal operations and political terrorism happen with startling frequency. Yet the best agents are the ones you will never hear about. The rules of this cloak and dagger game are fuzzy, but the players are as diverse as the missions they’re assigned to. For the most part, operatives are extremely loyal and willing to lay their lives on the line for their belief, country, or cause. Agencies around the world recruit and train men and women who are intelligent, resourceful, and dedicated.

Yet within even the most secretive organizations, there is yet another level hidden deep within budgets and operations and departments. This often-denied element is commonly referred to as Black Ops, because of the black pen used to cross out budget expenditures allocated for such illegal covert operations. Throughout modern history many incredible military breakthroughs were initially buried within black operations, such as stealth technology and the super-quiet Seawolf submarine.

However, EXECUTIVE FIREPOWER is the more personal story of the grunts of the covert world – the assassins. This breed of expert killer is at the heart of any illegal mission around the world, where a sniper may deal death with a bullet, or a bomb might explode in the victim’s car. No matter what method is used to deliver the message, the end result is supposed to be final.

Their motives were as simple as they were complicated. Yet when the target was locked-on in the cross-hairs of a rifle sight, the impact was always monumental. Here then is the story of one such member of the killer elite.

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Prologue

Atlanta, Georgia

The Way It Used To Be

The most difficult thing in life is to see the one you love, loving someone else. -Anonymous

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The telephone rang. David Lockhart jumped. He despised the sound of a ringing phone, which was why he kept the nearest one as far away as possible. Unless it was her, he had no intention of answering it. Tilting his head slightly, David monitored the call.

Hey, David, a friendly male voice spoke on the answering machine. I’ve got a training contract for you, so…

Lockhart decided to pick up the receiver anyway. Hey, Ron, I’m here.

Hey, old buddy, the voice came from the other end of the line. I’m glad you picked up. I landed you a training gig in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Know where it is?

Yes, Ron, I’ve been there a number of times.

Great. Well, you need to book a flight today, because you’re lined up for the day after tomorrow.

David looked at his calendar on the corkboard above the desk. The days required for his four-day sessions were all open. Thanks for the short notice, Ron.

Sorry, David, but it’s a great opportunity.

That’s okay, I’m open. Which course am I facilitating?

Your favorite, Ron replied. Decisive Leadership in These Dangerous Times. Did I get the course title right this time?

David chuckled, in spite of his mood. Yes, Ron, right on the nose.

I negotiated your top fee, too, David, Ron added. I prefer the commission when you present that course.

David smiled and asked, Who gets my expertise?

Kokopelli Minerals, Ron said. They have tons of international employees, with locations in Brazil, Argentina, Panama, Mexico…

I’m familiar with them, Ron, David cut him short. Their US headquarters is in Albuquerque. I used to know somebody who worked for them.

Good, then you’ll take it? Ron asked.

Yes, Ron, I will. I’ll book my hotel, pack my materials, and catch a flight today, if one is available. Who’s my contact when I get there?

Jeff Kalahari, Chief Operating Officer, Ron said. I’ll handle all the details. Just show up with your smiling face, winning ways, and knock their socks off. Okay?

Thanks, Ron. I appreciate the business.

I bet you do. Another fat paycheck, courtesy of Ron Weaver.

I owe you a beer. Wanna join me in New Mexico?

No thanks. You can buy me a cold one when you get back.

Okay. David hung up, and then strolled into the closet, where he picked out a polo shirt and slacks. His thoughts once again returned to her. Even after three years, he could still feel Debra’s moist lips, the way her tongue danced lightly along his. He closed his eyes, imagining those same lips working their way across his body. She always took his breath away, eliciting a throaty groan of pleasure. David managed to sit down on the edge of the bed, the replaying of erotic memories taxing the strength from his legs. Debra was the most fantastic lover he had ever dreamed of. She totally involved herself with mutual pleasure and could take anything he had to give, and then some.

Damn it! David shouted suddenly, jumping to his feet and hurling the clothes across the room. Debra, why?

There was no answer, of course. The entire house felt lonely now, not that she had ever been there often enough. David felt frustrated and angry. Was there anything he could have done to change her mind?

Of course, but what exactly would have made the difference?

David stared angrily at the image in the mirror. Nothing up to this point had prepared him for falling so deeply in love. He hadn’t gone looking for anybody, especially with all the traveling he did. In fact, Debra Ferrara had just appeared by accident, attending one of his training sessions from out of town. She had seemed professional, intelligent, and so poised. They talked over the lunch break, grabbed a drink after the session concluded, and shared some conversation over dinner. That was that.

Months later, however, Lockhart accepted a consulting position at Teadle Merriwether, as their corporate development expert. As it turned out, Debra worked for them too, as their Human Resources manager. The connection was re-established and before he knew it, chemistry developed rapidly. Then one day, as David was driving them back from lunch, he pulled to a stop at a traffic signal. Without any hesitation he leaned over and kissed her. Not only did Debra not respond negatively, but she kissed back and very passionately. He was so breathless with desire, that David had trouble driving. One thing led to another and they became intimately involved, which of course led to more profound questions about love, life and marriage.

David closed his eyes, desperately trying to hold onto the wonderful images. God, how was it possible for a woman to do those things to him? She could talk about anything for hours and he was fascinated. Her vitality led to David’s redesign of several of his training symposiums, much to the improvement of his feedback forms. In short, Debra was the catalyst for a renewed sense of creativity and value in his life. He had fallen deeply in love with her.

Debra, I love you and I will love you forever, he said with desperation while getting up. I miss you terribly and I want you to know one thing. If we never made love again, I would still love you more than anything. You were and are everything to me. Like a giant puzzle, being apart from you is like losing all the middle pieces. I’ll never be the same.

David got dressed then, focusing on taking care of chores around the house, and then he went to get his dry cleaning and pay bills. As he drove, his thoughts revolved around Debra again and he couldn't help but smile. He whistled several tunes that had memories in their lives together. The errands only took a few hours, so when David returned to his home, he started to pack for the trip. That process only took an hour and he didn’t want to stick around, which would just lead to moping.

With a certain resignation to his stride, David strolled out to the waiting limousine, sitting back to reflect. Before he knew it, he was at the Hartsfield terminal building. David went straight for the ticket counter, which was surprisingly vacant and picked up his ticket. Even though he had time to spare, Lockhart went through airport security, patiently standing in line while his carry-on bag and briefcase were scanned.

In the D terminal, David headed to one of the fast-food vendors to grab a bite to eat. Just as he got in line, he saw her.

Debra? David said with tremendous surprise and joy. She was so beautiful, breathtaking, in fact. She had fantastic legs, which were highlighted by the custom-tailored gray suit and heels.

The woman in question heard her name. She turned around and was visibly startled by his presence. Debra politely excused herself from the group of men she had been talking to. With a brisk pace, she crossed the aisle, stopping only a foot from him, her body language entirely defensive.

Hello, David said warmly, for he was genuinely thrilled at seeing her again.

What are you doing here? she demanded, her voice unfriendly and full of suspicion, an angry fire burning in her big brown eyes.

David was unprepared for the hostility. I’m catching a flight, of course. Isn’t that what most people do at airports?

Debra still eyed him suspiciously. Where are you headed?

Albuquerque, he answered, feeling the bite in her voice. I got a contract with Kokopelli Minerals just today, for a presentation the day after tomorrow. So, I booked the first available flight out. How about you?

It’s none of your business, David? came her retort.

The venom at which it was delivered stung and Lockhart winced. He pushed the bags along the carpet, as the line moved forward, then held up his hands in defense. Okay, Debra, I’m sorry I asked.

Her manner softened somewhat, almost as if the act of being angry was too much for her to maintain. I’m sorry, David. I’m being a bitch. I just wasn’t prepared to see you again. Ever.

Look, Debra, David blurted. I didn’t know this would happen. I don’t want to spar with you. I love you and I want to be with you, under any conditions.

Are you crazy? she said, her voice wavering with emotion. David, I never wanted to hurt you, but if you keep pushing this, you will force me to say spiteful and wicked things. Why must you provoke me?

David reached out and took hold of her elbow. Do you love me?

Debra rolled her eyes. What difference does that make?

David was close to losing whatever patience he had left. The last thing he wanted to do was lose his temper. It makes all the difference in the world to me, Debra.

Her features relaxed and a sad, melancholy smile crossed her face. David, I have told you before, with all the conviction I can muster. I loved you more than any man on this planet. I loved you more than you could possibly imagine. I have never loved, nor will I ever love again, like I loved you. I will love you to my grave and beyond. You must believe in that and cherish it. But it’s over.

He could only nod, but her words chased away so many doubts. Thank you, he said finally.

David, what we shared was beautiful and I will never forget it, she went on, this time the emotion vibrating her voice. I have always done battle with guilt, though, you know that. To love you is one thing, to take action based on that love, and not take the consequences into account, was purely immature and irresponsible. There were issues and when I couldn’t trust you, it was time to break up. I wish you the very best.

Is there hope for us? he asked, no mistaking the little boy voice.

Debra shook her head. Someday I will probably regret my course of action. But for now, I just want you to leave me alone. No cards, no gifts, no phone calls, nothing.

I’m sorry. I never meant to hurt you.

I know that. This is painful for both of us. I know you love me, David. Of that I have no doubt. And if you love me, than you will let me go, you will honor my wishes.

David wanted to fight for her, to charge up the hill and slay the dragon, or black knight, or whatever demon was keeping them apart. That seems like emotional blackmail, Debra. What would you say if I had said, ‘If you love me, you must do this or that?’?

You’re right, David, I’m setting the rules. You’ll just have to accept that this is what I must do. It isn’t fair, but it’s what you must accept. I never expected you to like it. I only asked that your love for me included respecting my needs at this moment. It may all change in a few years.

Or never.

Possibly.

He hung his head. Okay, I get it. David took Debra’s left hand, squeezing gently. He loved to look at her fingers, how healthy and long her nails were. Her power resided in her hands. Then, with tremendous effort and willpower, David took a deliberate step backwards. I’ll go now and respect your wishes, but only because I love you so much I’m willing to let you go. Perhaps we will find each other again.

Perhaps, David, Debra said.

I will always be just a phone call away, Debra, David added, his bottom lip quivering.

Lockhart was going to break down, so he let go of her hand, picked up his bags, and turned his back on her. Quickly walking away, he blindly went down the main corridor. By the time he reached his gate, his head throbbed and he was numb. In the rush to escape the overwhelming feelings that assaulted him, David had forgotten to get something to eat.

Aimlessly he wandered around the boarding area, until his flight was called. At the aisle seat in first class, the flight attendant took his carry-on bag and made him feel special. As he settled back in the seat, the pretty blonde fussed over him a little.

Would you care for something to drink? the flight attendant inquired.

David looked at his watch, realizing he hadn’t slept for a long time. A Bloody Mary, please? He needed something with a jolt.

She smiled, pulled out a small can and flipped open the tab.

With lime, please, David added.

She smiled again, nodding and dropped a slice of slightly withered green citrus into the glass. Here. The refreshment was passed to him.

Thanks, he replied, taking a sip. Can I add some vodka to that too?

She giggled, Oops, with a pleasant and warm laugh, as she fished around for the little bottle.

He settled back with the drink, his mind immediately replaying the painful meeting with Debra.

Four days later, Lockhart was packing up his training materials before heading to the airport. The training seminar for Kokopelli Minerals went very well and Lockhart’s feedback forms reflected glowing praise from the senior executives. He was so well received, in fact, that a bonus check was delivered to him as well.

However, once back home, David decided he needed a vacation. He could use some time to clear his head and take stock of his emotions. He picked up the telephone and called Ron Weaver, his booking agent.

I’m going to take some extra time off, David spoke into the phone. I haven’t been to Rio for a number of years, so that’s where I’m headed.

Ron Weaver agreed with his decision. I think that’s great, David. You’ve been working very hard and I’ve noticed a bit of a short-temper breaking through.

Stress, Lockhart said. He said goodbye and hung up.

Who are you kidding? he mumbled to himself. Nothing will ever be the same without her.

He packed his bags, booked a flight for Rio de Janeiro and returned to the airport, hoping that a few months far away from his usual routine, might do him wonders. Lockhart slept for most of the flight, though he didn’t feel rested upon landing. Once checked into the Caesar Park Ipanema 5-star luxury hotel, he strolled along the seashore, flitting in and out of the shops and boutiques. No matter where he went, however, David kept discovering things he wanted to buy for Debra. Still, he managed to refrain.

Tiring of window-shopping, Lockhart followed the sound of music coming from the wharves. Several local musicians were playing Latin dance numbers and Brazilian folk songs. David took a table across from the band, ordering a drink and trying to relax.

Three gorgeous, tan, and well-endowed young women slowed down as they walked by his table, moving their hips to the sassy beat. As much as Lockhart wanted to pay attention to them, the voice in his soul kept speaking Debra’s name.

There was a miniature circus operating nearby, capturing his curiosity with catchy music and flashy female dancers. So he got up and joined the crowd. The young women were all stunning, with incredibly shaped bodies and erotic movements. The throng that gathered was mostly made up of men, admiring the scanty outfits and hoping they would be invited to join the dancing.

Lockhart’s attention was abruptly pulled away by the arrival of a man decidedly out-of-place among all the revelers. David watched him, wondering why no one else had noticed him.

The man stood by the merry-go-round, dressed in a black suit, black shirt, and ubiquitous black tie. His head was shaved smooth and as the sun glistened off the top of his oiled head, he looked out from behind reflective sunglasses. Suddenly a strikingly beautiful woman joined him.

It was Debra Ferrara. There was no mistaking her.

Hand-in-hand, the couple walked leisurely to