Inside was my official Master Chief service credentials binder, neat in its cream folder, next to the dark blue leather case holding my Bronze Star citation.

I lifted both folders out of the chest and held them flat against my hip.

“Want me to bring the dogs onto the gym floor behind you, Master Chief?” Kenneth asked.

“Bring them as far as the double doors,” I said.

“Don’t take them onto the floor until I tell you to move.”

Kenneth tapped the side of his steel-toe boot with his small brass wrench and gave one sharp nod.

I turned toward the main gym entrance.