Panama made his appearance and went directly to the flight commander, coming to attention and saluting his superior with a military snap.
The major acknowledged the formality and instructed the sergeant to line his men up before their ships.
Williams saluted again, did an about face and roared to the men on the field to fall in.
When the men were in line and absolute quiet once more reigned, the commander of the flying squadron stepped forward and addressed the pilots and their mechanics.
“Word has reached us from an official source,” he announced, “that a body of our men are being attacked by the enemy near Ocotal.” He turned to the adjutant standing at his right and asked: “Are all the pilots and observers present?”
“All present and accounted for,” the aide announced, “except Sergeant Greyson and Corporal Fleck, two observers who are down with malaria!”
“In that case,” the major announced, “I will lead this formation myself. Sergeant Williams, you will accompany me as my observer. Private Phelps——”
Lefty stepped forward, managing to stand beneath the shadow of one of the planes so that his bruised face would not show. “Yes, sir!” he replied and saluted.
“You have had machine gun experience?”
“Yes, sir!”