4th Estate
An imprint of HarperCollinsPublishers
1 London Bridge Street
London SE1 9GF
First published in Great Britain by 4th Estate in 2017
First published in the United States by Doubleday,
an imprint of Penguin Random House, in 2017
Copyright © Ben Blum, 2017
Ben Blum asserts the moral right to be identified as the author of this work
A catalogue record for this book is available from the British Library
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Source ISBN: 9780007554584
Ebook Edition © 2017 ISBN: 9780007554591
Version: 2017-07-24
FOR OMA
THE RANGER CREED
Recognizing that I volunteered as a Ranger, fully knowing the hazards of my chosen profession, I will always endeavor to uphold the prestige, honor, and high esprit de corps of the Rangers.
Acknowledging the fact that a Ranger is a more elite Soldier who arrives at the cutting edge of battle by land, sea, or air, I accept the fact that as a Ranger my country expects me to move further, faster, and fight harder than any other Soldier.
Never shall I fail my comrades. I will always keep myself mentally alert, physically strong, and morally straight and I will shoulder more than my share of the task whatever it may be, one hundred percent and then some.
Gallantly will I show the world that I am a specially selected and well-trained Soldier. My courtesy to superior officers, neatness of dress, and care of equipment shall set the example for others to follow.
Energetically will I meet the enemies of my country. I shall defeat them on the field of battle for I am better trained and will fight with all my might. Surrender is not a Ranger word. I will never leave a fallen comrade to fall into the hands of the enemy and under no circumstances will I ever embarrass my country.
Readily will I display the intestinal fortitude required to fight on to the Ranger objective and complete the mission though I be the lone survivor.
RANGERS LEAD THE WAY!
Contents
Chapter 1: Sort of a Happy/Sad Deal
Chapter 3: Amurican Bank Robber
Chapter 4: One Fine Day at Battalion
Chapter 5: Yes, Specialist Sommer
Chapter 6: Those Who Are Versed in the Sciences
Chapter 7: Something You Would See Out of a Movie
BOOK 2 THE PRODIGY OF PEACHLAND
Chapter 14: Just an Inexplicable Event
Chapter 16: The Phabulous Phils
Chapter 19: When Bad People Do Good Things
Chapter 20: Space Station Sommer