He fastened the heavy clasps on the back.

The commander took a step back.

He gave a slow, deliberate salute.

I returned the salute.

I lowered my hand and turned to face the guests sitting in the folding chairs below the stage.

The front row was reserved strictly for immediate family.

All six chairs sat empty on the green turf.

There was no Aunt Martha squirming in her seat and trying to steer the talk toward the weather.