Nikiski
WHO: Thomas Burk WHERE: CIC, Avalon WHEN: Day of Mars Y02/12/06
“Nikiski to the starboard, sir,” said the duty officer in Avalon’s combat information center, the heart of the battlestar’s command and control. The DRADIS monitor above the commander’s table had the location of the space destroyer next to the battlestar.
“Hold our position and have her come along side and dock when she’s ready, Lieutenant,” said Admiral Burk from the command table. The destroyer was on a separate training exercise when Avalon was ordered to Tauron for the memorial. The Nikiski was part of Battlestar Strike Group 93 (BSG93) and served as a heavy escort. She returned to rejoin the group and resupply.
Out in black of space over the arched horizon of Tauron, the Nikiski slowly maneuvered into position next to the huge starboard twin landing pod. Jets of gas from the destroyer’s maneuver thrusters inched the ship closer into final position. Her size was dwarf by the battlestar, as docking locks reached out to grab the destroyer. One of the destroyer’s raptor with its powerful search light checked the locks alongside.
“…Alignment checked, braces locked and secured, over,” reported a female from the raptor.
“Copy that Raptor Two fourteen. Deploying shrouds now,” said the docking master over the intercom in CIC as Burk listened.
“Roger,” again from the raptor. A few moments later, “Shrouds checked and in position, over.”
“Copy, Two fourteen. Nikiski docking quarters secured, welcome to Avalon.”
A second later, and after a nod from the officer across from him, Burk picked up the handset from the edge of the table. “Good job, Ensign. Give my regards to your counterpart on Nikiski.” He then ended the call. Burk looked at the duty officer. “You have the con. I will be visiting with Nikiski’s captain if I’m needed.”