Colonel

As a young cadet, all Lon Nolan ever dreamed of was serving in the military of planet Earth. After a dishonorable discharge on trumped-up choices, he saved himself and his honor by joining up with the Dirigent Mercenary Corps. Over the decades hes forged himself a place with the DMC, and shown himself to be a true hero. Theres even talk that he might become the next General. But Lon isnt after a promotion--in fact, hes thinking about retirement. With his son in the Corps, hes hoping he can leave the fighting to the next generation. But when the political machinations of the Confederation of Human Worlds get in the way, Lon has to return to the front lines, leading not just his troops, but his son among them, into a final bitter campaign.As a young cadet, all Lon Nolan ever dreamed of was serving in the military of planet Earth. After a dishonorable discharge on trumped-up choices, he saved himself and his honor by joining up with the Dirigent Mercenary Corps. Over the decades hes forged himself a place with the DMC, and shown himself to be a true hero. Theres even talk that he might become the next General.But Lon isnt after a promotion--in fact, hes thinking about retirement. With his son in the Corps, hes hoping he can leave the fighting to the next generation. But when the political machinations of the Confederation of Human Worlds get in the way, Lon has to return to the front lines, leading not just his troops, but his son among them, into a final bitter campaign.The Dirigent Mercenary Corps books are classics of military science fiction. Rick Shelley was himself a veteran of the U.S. Army, and his experience and knowledge shine through on every page.PRAISE FOR RICK SHELLEY"Rick Shelley was a soldier at heart, and his books were written from the heart.  They carry the real feel of the sweat, blood, and camaraderie of those on the front lines." --Jack Campbell, author of the bestselling LOST FLEET series