They sat down in Coleman’s office, the Vice Chair behind his battleship-big desk

and the brothers on the other side.

 

Coleman plunged right in. “Helluva time for you both and General Puller. Your

mother was one of the finest human beings I have ever had the honor to know.

 

It’s a tragedy all around.” He paused and fiddled with a pencil. “I have been

briefed on all this. In fact, I inserted myself into this situation chiefly

because it was the Puller family. As you know, I served under your father. He

taught me more in the two years I was with his command than in the rest of the

time I’ve been in the Army.

 

In my mind there has been no better pure fighting officer than your father. At

least in my experience.” “Thank you, sir,” said Robert. “Now let me get down to

it.” He looked at Puller. “Your Army failed you, Chief Puller. You served it

faithfully and we did not return the favor. I have been informed what happened

three decades ago. I mean what really happened. And I am appalled. And I don’t

simply speak for myself. Chairman Halverson has been made aware of this

situation and fully supports my position.” He paused again. “In a perfect world,

the research project undertaken by Chris Ballard and Claire Jericho three

decades ago should never have happened. The murders of those women should not

have been covered up. And what happened to your mother…?” He broke the pencil in

half. “I know that Jericho has been found dead. Officially, she committed

suicide. Now, the whole truth of the matter can still come out. The Army will