Panama’s burned hands and face were beginning to cause him excruciating pain and he had all that he could do to keep himself collected in the presence of his superior officer.
The major studied his noncommissioned instructor for a moment, then noticing the severe burns, his entire demeanor changed.
“Why, I didn’t notice before, Sergeant. Those are pretty bad burns. You had better report to the hospital immediately.”
Panama saluted and the major smiled, proud of a member of his command who had executed such a splendid act of bravery.
“That was mighty fine work, Williams, in getting him out of that ship. It took brains and courage to work that fast. I’ll remember this incident in my reports to the Department.”
Panama smiled gratefully as the major acknowledged his salute and returned to the waiting automobile.
One of the Marines, who had been an interested onlooker, walked over to Panama with wide, excited eyes.
“Didja hear what the Old Man said?” the Marine asked, all enthused. “He said he’d remember you in his reports. Maybe you’ll get a medal.”
Panama looked down at the man with a disgusted look of indifference.
“Yeah! Well, I’ll trade anybody that medal and a dozen like it right now for a chew of tobacco!”