Chapter 12 - Lena Refused Another Promotion Myth
A local military publication wrote about the Strickland sisters.
The reporter wanted a simple story.
Two sisters.
One general.
One newly promoted captain.
Military legacy.
Family pride.
Lena refused the easy version.
She insisted the article distinguish their careers.
Melody served in the Guard.
Lena had spent decades across active and reserve assignments.
Their paths were different.
Neither existed to validate the other.
The reporter asked whether Lena inspired Melody to serve.
Melody answered.
“Partly. But for years I resented her too.”
The reporter looked surprised.
Melody continued.
“I thought her success reduced mine. It didn’t.”
Lena glanced at her.
That was new.
The article eventually focused less on rank and more on professional
identity.
Dad complained.
“They barely mentioned you’re a general.”
Lena laughed.
“That’s why I liked it.”
May you like
He still had work to do.
So did all of them.
