Chapter 66: The World Watches the Rescue
The morning after Captain Richard Phillips' rescue, headlines began to circulate around the world. News of the daring rescue by American special forces dominated newspapers, television news, and social media.
At the Rollins home, Joseph and Elizabeth were in the living room watching TV while drinking coffee. Elizabeth, holding her cup, pointed to the screen.
"Joseph, look at this. They're talking about the rescue. Could it have been Aaron?"
Joseph adjusted his glasses and looked closely at the report.
"We can't be sure. But… considering what he does, it wouldn't surprise me," he replied with a tone of pride and concern.
At the daily briefing at the White House, the press secretary addressed the crowd of eager journalists.
"Today, I want to recognize the incredible work done by our special forces in the rescue of Captain Richard Phillips," the spokesman began. — Thanks to the courage and skill of these elite teams, we were able to save an American life in a situation of extreme danger.
The questions began to pour in.
"Secretary, can you confirm which unit was responsible for the rescue? Was it DEVGRU?" a reporter asked.
The spokesman smiled slightly, deflecting.
"As you know, we do not comment on specific operations or identify units involved in sensitive missions."
Another reporter pressed on:
"But the reports suggest a nighttime parachute jump and a seaborne infiltration. That sounds like something extremely specialized."
The spokesman stood his ground.
"What I can tell you is that it was an operation masterfully conducted by our finest men and women."
Aaron arrived home that afternoon. As soon as he walked in, he was greeted by Elizabeth, who hugged him warmly.
"Aaron! I'm so glad you're here."
"Hi, Mom. I'm home for a while," he replied, setting his backpack down on the floor.
Joseph appeared shortly after, shaking his son's hand before pulling him into a hug.
"We're proud of you, son," he said, a twinkle in his eye.
Aaron smiled, but tried to change the subject.
"Proud? Of what exactly?"
Elizabeth gestured to the television.
"Aaron, we're not naïve. We know you can't tell us everything you do, but we've seen the news. The rescue of Captain Phillips… that has your stamp on it."
Aaron gave a short laugh, crossing his arms.
"You know I can't confirm any of that."
Joseph smiled, shaking his head.
"You don't have to confirm it, son. We know who you are."
Aaron sat down on the couch as Elizabeth brought him a cup of coffee.
"Well, what I can tell you is that everything was done to bring him home."
Elizabeth looked at him fondly.
"That's enough for us." On television, CNN was covering the rescue's developments. A security analyst commented on the complexity of the operation.
"What we saw here is a classic demonstration of elite special operations. The precision of the snipers, the coordination with the Navy, all point to a level of skill and training that few forces in the world have."
Another analyst added:
"It's important to remember that missions like this are extremely risky. Any mistake could have cost Captain Phillips his life."
Joseph turned up the volume, while Aaron just watched in silence.
"Did you see that, Aaron? They're talking about how incredible the operation was," Joseph said, with evident pride.
Aaron gave a slight smile.
"It's good to know that the work is being recognized, even if no one knows who was behind it."
On another channel, Captain Phillips himself was being interviewed. He looked tired, but grateful.
"Captain Phillips, can you tell us about the rescue moment?" the journalist asked.
Phillips took a deep breath before answering:
"It was like angels had descended from heaven. I didn't know what to expect, but I heard the gunshots and suddenly they were there. I felt safe for the first time in days."
"And do you have any message for the men who risked their lives to save you?"
Phillips looked directly into the camera.
"I want you to know that I am eternally grateful. What you did was not only save my life, but also show the value of what it means to be an American."
Aaron looked away from the TV for a moment. He knew he had done his duty, but hearing the captain's words made it all the more real.
Later that night, as Aaron stood in the backyard reflecting, his phone rang. It was the commander of JSOC, Admiral William McRaven.
"Rollins, good job on the last mission," McRaven said, getting straight to the point.
"Thank you, sir. We just did what was necessary."
— The president is impressed, and there is a lot of movement to ensure that this mission is recorded as one of the most successful in recent history.
Aaron simply nodded, even though he knew McRaven couldn't see him.
"I appreciate it, sir. But as always, it's the team's work that matters."
"True, but don't underestimate your role in this, Rollins."
That night, sitting on the porch with Joseph and Elizabeth, Aaron finally allowed himself to relax.
"You know I don't do this for the recognition, right?" he said, looking at his parents.
Elizabeth took his hand.
"We know, Aaron. But it's good to see the world recognize the sacrifice and courage that you and your team have."
Joseph added,
"The important thing is that you're here with us, son. The rest is just noise."
Aaron looked up at the stars, feeling a momentary peace. He knew that even though his identity would be protected, his work would continue to impact lives, and that was all that mattered.
Chapter 67: A Day of Sun and Waves
It was a warm summer morning on the Virginia coast. The sun was shining brightly in the sky, and the waves crashed with a mesmerizing rhythm on the sand. Aaron Rollins, in a rare moment of free time, decided to make the most of the day. He loaded his surfboard into the truck, called his sister Catherine, and drove to the beach.
When they arrived, Catherine got out of the car excitedly, holding a board smaller than Aaron's.
"It's been years since we surfed together, Aaron. Are you sure you still know how to catch a wave?" she teased, putting on her sunglasses.
Aaron smiled, grabbing his backpack with his gear.
"You bet I do, Cathy. What do you think I did when I wasn't jumping out of planes?"
She laughed and started walking across the warm sand toward the water.
At the edge of the beach, Catherine was applying sunscreen to her face while Aaron adjusted the rope of the board around his ankle.
"Don't you miss this?" — she asked, looking at the waves. — Just relaxing, no missions, no adrenaline...
Aaron paused for a moment, watching the horizon.
— I do, sometimes. But the work I do is important. And moments like this, when I can relax with you, make it all the more worthwhile.
Catherine smiled, touching his shoulder.
— Well, let's see if you can still keep up with me.
She ran towards the sea, laughing, and Aaron soon followed.
The waves were perfect, ranging in size from moderate to challenging. Catherine was the first to catch a wave, gliding skillfully and screaming as she charged through the wall of water. Aaron, watching her, smiled proudly.
When it was his turn, he paddled hard, waiting for the right wave. As soon as it formed, Aaron stood up on the board with precision and began to ride down the face of the wave. His movements were fluid, and he seemed completely in tune with the sea.
Catherine, lying on the board, watched him.
— There's still a chance, little brother!
Aaron made a victory gesture before diving into the water at the end of the wave.
After a few hours of surfing, the two returned to the sand to rest. Catherine opened a bottle of water and handed another to Aaron.
—You know, I like to think that in another life, you'd be a professional surfer, Aaron.
He laughed, drying his face with a towel.
—Who knows? But I guess I'd always end up wanting something more challenging.
Catherine looked at him with a more serious expression.
—Don't you ever think about stopping?
Aaron sighed, looking out to sea.
—Stop, yes. But it's not time yet. There's a lot to do, a lot of people to protect.
She nodded, understanding.
—I just want you to be safe, you know? You've done so much, Aaron.
He put his hand on her shoulder, squeezing it lightly.
—I'm fine, Cathy. I promise I know when it's time to stop.
After resting, they decided to swim a bit. Catherine challenged Aaron to a race to a distant buoy, something they had been doing since they were little.
"Are you ready to lose?" she teased.
"Only if you swim like a pro," he replied, already getting into the water.
At the start signal, the two began swimming. Aaron, with his impeccable physical shape, quickly took the lead, but slowed down so Catherine could get closer.
"Don't treat me like a rookie!" she shouted, laughing as she tried to catch up to him.
When they reached the buoy, they were both out of breath, but smiling.
"I'm still the king of the water," Aaron said, resting with his hands holding the buoy.
"For now," Catherine replied, pretending to be offended.
With the day coming to an end, the two returned to the sand and sat side by side, watching the sunset.
— Thank you for that, Aaron, — Catherine said, breaking the silence.
— Why?
— For being my brother, for always being there for me. I know I don't say this often, but I admire you.
Aaron smiled, putting his arm around her.
— I admire you too, Cathy. You're one of the strongest people I know.
They sat in silence for a few minutes, enjoying the moment.
When they got back to the truck, Catherine looked at Aaron and asked:
— Shall we do this again?
— Anytime, Cathy. Anytime.
With one last look at the sea, they left for home, taking with them the memory of a perfect day and the certainty that, despite everything, they would always have each other.
Chapter 68: A Call from Los Angeles
It was a quiet afternoon at the Rollins house. Aaron was reading a book on the couch while the television played in the background. He was enjoying the rare moment of calm when his phone rang, displaying a number he recognized immediately.
"Sam Hanna," he said as he answered, a slight smile forming on his face.
On the other end of the line, Sam's deep, familiar voice answered:
"Aaron, how are you, brother?"
"I'm fine, Sam. What about you? I heard you left DEVGRU."
"I did, but I couldn't stay away from the action. I'm working with NCIS OSP in Los Angeles."
"NCIS, huh? I never pictured you behind a desk," Aaron teased, chuckling.
Sam laughed on the other end of the line.
"Trust me, there's no desk here. That's why I'm calling. We need your help."
Aaron immediately became serious.
"What's this about?"
"It's a complicated situation. We're dealing with a possible terrorist threat on American soil. We need someone with your experience to help us better understand the profile of those involved."
Aaron paused, considering the request.
"When do you need me?"
"As soon as possible."
"I'm on my way."
Hours later, Aaron landed in Los Angeles, where Sam was waiting for him at the airport. Sam, now dressed in more casual attire, shook Aaron's hand and pulled him into a hug.
"Good to see you, brother."
"Good to see you too, Sam. It seems like you're doing well here."
"We'll see what you think when you meet my team," Sam said, smiling as he led Aaron to the car.
Arriving at the OSP headquarters, Aaron was impressed by the place. Unlike a conventional military base, the building was discreet, but exuded technology and security. Sam led him straight to the operations center, where the team was gathered.
"Everyone, this is Aaron Rollins," Sam introduced. "He's one of the best operators I've ever met."
G Callen, the team leader, extended his hand.
"Callen. Nice to meet you, Rollins. Sam has told us quite a bit about you."
"I expect good things," Aaron replied with a smile.
"Mostly," Kensi Blye, the team's weapons specialist, joked as she shook Aaron's hand.
Dom, the youngest member of the team, seemed nervous about meeting someone so experienced.
"It's an honor to meet you, sir."
"No formalities, Dom. Just Aaron," he replied casually.
Finally, the petite but imposing Henrietta Lange appeared in the room.
"Mr. Rollins," she said, studying him with her sharp eyes. "It's a pleasure to have you here. I've heard of your… accomplishments."
Aaron inclined his head in respect.
"My pleasure, Agent Lange."
Henrietta smiled slightly.
"Let's get to work."
In the operations room, Callen and Kensi began to detail the situation.
"We're tracking a group that may be planning a large-scale attack," Callen explained. "They're using shipping lanes to bring in equipment and personnel."
Kensi added,
"We have a lead on a ship that recently docked in Long Beach. Sam thought your expertise could help us identify possible patterns and targets."
Aaron studied the maps and reports presented.
"These guys are organized," he said. "Their routes suggest they're avoiding obvious checkpoints, but there's a flaw here." He pointed to a spot on the map.
Sam smiled.
"I knew you'd see something we didn't."
Callen picked up the hook.
"Kensi, Dom, you guys are going to investigate this spot with Sam." Aaron, you stay here with me to analyze more data.
While Kensi, Dom, and Sam headed out into the field, Aaron and Callen dove into the files. Callen took the opportunity to get to know Aaron better.
"Sam talks a lot about you," Callen commented. "He said you're a legend at DEVGRU."
Aaron shrugged.
"I just do my job, Callen. The team always comes first."
Callen nodded.
"That's why you and Sam get along so well. He's the same."
Hours later, the field team returned with new information.
"Confirmed," Sam said. "They're using a warehouse as a temporary base."
"We'll need a plan to get in," Callen said, looking at Aaron.
"Leave that to me," Aaron replied.
That night, the team prepared to raid the warehouse. Aaron, even as a guest, took the lead in tactical planning.
— Callen, you and Kensi cover the west entrance. Sam and I will take the side. Dom will be on remote support.
Everyone agreed, trusting Aaron's experience.
The operation was a success. With coordinated movements, they neutralized the suspects and seized equipment that could be used in a devastating attack.
The next day, back at OSP headquarters, Aaron was preparing to leave.
— It was good working with you, Rollins, — Callen said, hugging your hand.
"Likewise. You guys have a solid team here."
Kensi smiled.
"Come back anytime. There's always room for another operator around here."
Henrietta, in her own unique way, gave a brief farewell.
"Mr. Rollins, I hope our paths cross again."
Finally, Sam walked Aaron to the car.
"Thanks for coming, brother. I knew I could count on you."
"Always, Sam. If you need me again, just give me a call."
Aaron left, leaving behind another successful mission and new allies.
Chapter 69: The Beginning of a Historic Mission
It was early April 2011, and Aaron was enjoying a rare moment of peace when he received an urgent call. He was instructed to gather his team immediately and head to an undisclosed location.
In the Area 51 hangar, Aaron and the members of his Red Squadron team met with Admiral William McRaven, an Air Force man in formal uniform, and a CIA agent who seemed to have an unmistakable air of urgency.
In the center of the hangar, a large table displayed a detailed model of a house surrounded by high walls. Beside it, two helicopters that looked like Blackhawks, but with notable modifications, were parked.
"Gentlemen," McRaven began in his firm voice. "What I'm about to tell you now is highly classified. You're here because you're the best, and this mission could very well change the course of history."
Aaron looked at his teammates. They all seemed as intrigued as he was.
"There is strong evidence that we have the location of Osama Bin Laden," McRaven continued.
A heavy silence fell over the hangar.
"Is this official?" Aaron asked, breaking the silence.
The CIA agent stepped forward.
"Yes. We have solid intelligence that points to a compound in Abbottabad, Pakistan. We are 80 percent certain that he is there."
Aaron studied the model carefully as the admiral explained the details.
"This compound is heavily fortified. We are dealing with 16-foot-high walls, security cameras, and the constant presence of armed guards. We believe Bin Laden is on the third floor of this main building," McRaven explained, pointing to the model.
"What about these helicopters?" one of the operators asked, eyeing the aircraft.
The Air Force man replied,
"They are Blackhawks modified to be quieter and avoid radar detection." They will be crucial to the infiltration.
McRaven looked directly at Aaron.
"Rollins, your team will be the tip of the spear in this operation. You will train tirelessly in this location. The mock-up is designed to replicate the real compound, down to the smallest detail."
Aaron nodded.
"We will need intensive training and flawless execution. When do we leave?"
"Right now," McRaven replied.
Before embarking on the training, Aaron had a chance to call his family.
"Cathy, I'm calling to let you know that I'll be gone for over a month."
"Another mission?" his sister asked, with a mix of concern and understanding.
"Yes. It's important, but I can't give you any details, as usual."
"Just be careful, Aaron. We'll be here waiting for you."
"I'll always be fine, Cathy. I love you."
He ended the call with a mix of longing and determination.
Throughout the month of April, Aaron and his team trained tirelessly in the mock-up compound. The facility was set up on a military installation in the Nevada desert.
"Come on, team! I want precision and speed," Aaron shouted as he led the drill.
Every move was rehearsed to perfection. The entrances and exits of the compound, the infiltration of the different floors, and the neutralization of targets were repeated hundreds of times.
"Rollins," McRaven called during a break. "We need you and your team to be ready for anything. This mission will be risky, but I have complete confidence in you."
"We won't disappoint, sir," Aaron replied firmly.
The pressure was immense, but Aaron's team proved relentless. They tested tactics, practiced in low-visibility conditions, and faced simulated enemy resistance scenarios.
During a quiet night at the training ground, Aaron sat alone, staring out at the desert horizon. The mission they were about to undertake carried a historical weight that he could not ignore.
One of the operators, Matt, approached. "Are you thinking, Commander?"
"A little," Aaron replied. "It's not every day you get the chance to capture the most wanted man in the world."
"If anyone can lead this, it's you."
Aaron gave a slight smile. "Thanks, Matt. Now get some rest. Tomorrow will be another long day."
In late April, after weeks of grueling training, McRaven gathered the team for a final speech.
"Gentlemen, training is over. You are ready. This will be one of the most important operations in the history of American special forces. The world may never know your names, but know that the impact of what you are about to do will be felt for generations."
Aaron looked at his men, feeling the weight of the moment. "Let's do this," he said with conviction.
Chapter 70: The Day That Changed the World
The White House situation room was tense. In the center of the room, President Barack Obama, along with his secretary of state, Hillary Clinton, CIA director Leon Panetta, defense secretary Robert Gates, and national security advisers, watched the screens intently. Every detail of the operation was being broadcast live on cameras attached to the SEALs' vests.
Admiral William McRaven was at the base in Jalalabad, overseeing the operation in real time. His voice, transmitted over the radio, echoed in the room:
"The strike force is en route. Approach in five minutes."
Aaron, codenamed "Red," known as Bravo 1, sat in the helicopter next to his team. He was mentally reviewing the plan for the hundredth time. The exhaustive training of the past month had prepared them for every possible scenario, but now it was all happening for real.
"Guys, stay focused." We're ready for it," Aaron said over the helicopter's internal radio.
"Always, boss," Bravo 2 replied confidently.
Looking at the men under his command, Aaron felt the weight of responsibility. They were the best of the best, and this operation required just that.
On the main screen, the helicopter was flying over the Abbottabad perimeter. President Obama leaned forward with a serious expression.
"This looks too peaceful," Hillary Clinton commented.
"It always does until it doesn't," Leon Panetta replied, not taking his eyes off the screen.
Suddenly, something went wrong.
"Control lost, control lost!" the pilot's voice echoed in the room, and one of the SEALs' cameras showed the helicopter shaking violently before crashing into the compound.
"Shit!" McRaven exclaimed over the radio. "Team, status?"
"We're good. Mission continuing," Aaron replied quickly.
Inside the White House, silence was absolute. Obama looked to McRaven on the secondary screen for confirmation.
"Operation continues, sir," the admiral said.
After impact, Aaron led his team out of the helicopter. They quickly regrouped and advanced toward the compound. The second helicopter landed as planned, bringing reinforcements.
Inside the compound, the SEALs split into small groups, engaging in CQB (Close Quarters Battle) with deadly precision.
"Clear the rooms and maintain communication," Aaron ordered over the radio.
Bravo 3 and Bravo 5 advanced on the ground floor, neutralizing armed guards. Aaron led Bravo 2, Bissonette, and O'Neill to the second floor. The sound of controlled gunfire and firm commands echoed over the radio.
On the second floor, they encountered more resistance, but each threat was eliminated with precision. Climbing to the third floor, Aaron realized they were close to their target.
"Quiet, people. We're coming."
On the third floor, Aaron was the first to enter the main room. He saw Bin Laden in the background, with a gun at his side.
"Weapon confirmed!" Aaron shouted, aiming his rifle.
Without hesitation, he fired twice into the target's chest, as planned to preserve identification.
Before he could process, O'Neill, codename Bravo 4, entered right behind him and shot Bin Laden in the head.
"What the hell was that?!" Aaron shouted, turning to O'Neill.
"Reflex, sir," O'Neill replied, not looking directly at the commander.
Aaron controlled his frustration. He knew that the moment required focus, but violating the plan could compromise the visual confirmation of the HVT (High-Value Target).
"Bissonette, do the body check now!" Aaron ordered, while holding back his anger.
Bissonette confirmed:
"That's him. We have Geronimo." Aaron took a deep breath before radioing:
"Geronimo EKIA (Enemy Killed in Action). I repeat, Geronimo EKIA."
In the situation room, the relief was palpable. Obama exhaled deeply, and Hillary Clinton clapped her hand over her mouth, taking in the historic moment.
Aaron and his team quickly gathered up all the material they could carry, including computers, hard drives, and documents. Time was running out, and the risk of enemy reinforcements was increasing by the second.
"All operators, prepare for exfiltration," Aaron radioed.
They boarded the remaining helicopter, taking bin Laden's body with them. Despite the tension, the evacuation went smoothly, and within hours, they were back at base in Jalalabad.
After the operation, Aaron confronted O'Neill privately.
"O'Neill, I want to understand what happened up there. The plan was clear. It wasn't to shoot him in the head." O'Neill tried to justify himself:
"I saw a threat, sir. I didn't want to risk it."
Aaron stared at him for a long moment before answering.
"This mission was bigger than any of us. It's not just about efficiency, It's about discipline and following the plan. Consider this a warning.
O'Neill nodded, clearly uncomfortable, but he accepted the scolding.
Back in the situation room, Obama turned to McRaven.
"Admiral, this was a flawless operation. You and your men made history today."
McRaven, ever modest, replied,
"Sir, the credit goes to them. Aaron Rollins and his team executed this mission with courage and precision."
Obama nodded, acknowledging the sacrifice and skill of the operators.
As Aaron and his team rested briefly at the base, he looked at his men.
"We did what we came to do. Not for the recognition, but for what it means to the world. You guys were amazing out there."
They all knew the world would never know their names, but for Aaron, that didn't matter. He knew he had made history, and that was enough.
Chapter 71: A Speech That Made History
It was the evening of May 2, 2011. At the White House, President Barack Obama was preparing for a speech that would make history. He was in his office, fine-tuning the final words of his speech with the help of aides. The world was anxiously awaiting the emergency declaration that had been announced hours earlier.
In Virginia, Joseph and Elizabeth Rollins sat on the living room couch, their eyes fixed on the television. Cathy, who had returned from a deployment a few days earlier, stood next to them, a cup of tea in her hand.
"This must be something big," Joseph said, adjusting his glasses. "An emergency speech from the president is not a common occurrence."
Cathy stared at the screen, her face a mix of anxiety and curiosity.
"It's big, Dad. Something like this… must be related to national security."
She didn't mention her hunch, but something inside her told her that Aaron was involved. He had been away for over a month, without giving any details. As a sister and a military man, Cathy knew that operations like these required absolute silence.
At 11:35 p.m., Obama appeared on the screen, solemn and firm. He began to speak, his voice full of gravity:
"Good evening. Today, I can inform the American people and the world that the United States conducted an operation that resulted in the death of Osama bin Laden, the leader of al-Qaeda and the perpetrator of the September 11, 2001 attacks that took the lives of thousands of innocent men, women, and children."
The living room in the Rollins home fell completely silent. Elizabeth clapped her hand over her mouth, tears forming in her eyes.
"Finally," Joseph whispered, his voice choked with emotion.
Obama continued: "The operation was conducted with extreme precision by a special operations team. I want to make it clear that no American lives were lost during this mission, and everyone involved returned safely."
Cathy closed her eyes for a moment. She knew. Aaron was involved. She was sure of it.
"The world is a safer place now, but our fight against terrorism is not over. Tonight, however, the United States has shown that we never forget our commitments, and we will always do whatever it takes to protect our people."
When the speech ended, Joseph picked up the remote and turned off the TV. He turned to Cathy, who was lost in thought.
"You think it was Aaron, don't you?"
She looked at him and hesitated for a moment before answering,
"Yes, Dad. I think it was him."
A few minutes after the speech, the house phone rang. Elizabeth answered, thinking it might be a neighbor or friend commenting on the speech.
"Hello?"
"This is President Barack Obama. I'd like to speak with the Rollins family."
Elizabeth was momentarily speechless, her hand shaking as she held the phone.
"Yes, Mr. President," she said, trying to regain her composure.
"Ms. Rollins, I would like to share something with you. Aaron and his team were the ones responsible for this operation. They risked their lives to carry out this mission, and they did so with extraordinary courage and skill."
Elizabeth began to cry silently. Joseph leaned closer, concerned, while Cathy leaned in to listen.
"Mr. President, it is an honor to hear that," Elizabeth said, her voice breaking. "But is he okay?"
"He is okay, Mrs. Rollins. His team is now safely back in the United States soon. When they arrive, I want to personally award them with Silver Stars. I would like your family to be present at the ceremony."
Joseph took the phone from his wife, his eyes shining with pride.
"Thank you, Mr. President. It is an honor for our family."
Obama continued:
"Your son is a hero." And this nation is forever grateful for the sacrifice and dedication of him and his team.
Cathy, listening in the background, felt a mixture of pride and relief. When Joseph hung up the phone, everyone was silent for a few seconds, digesting the news.
"Our boy did it," Joseph said, finally breaking the silence. "He really did it."
Elizabeth hugged her husband as tears rolled down her face. Cathy smiled, overcome with emotion.
"Aaron has always been amazing, but this… this is different. He's part of history now."
As Aaron's family absorbed the news, the country erupted in celebration. People took to the streets of New York, Washington, D.C., and other cities, holding American flags, singing the national anthem, and shouting words of relief and victory.
In Times Square, crowds gathered under giant screens chanted:
"USA! USA! USA!"
Patriotic spirits were at an all-time high. In Washington, young and old gathered outside the White House, giving thanks and celebrating the end of an era marked by terror.
Back at home, Cathy pulled out an old photo album. She looked at a picture of Aaron when he was younger, fresh off his enlistment in the SEALs.
"He's always been our family's hero," she said, showing the photo to her parents. "Now he's the world's hero."
Elizabeth looked at the photo fondly.
"I just want him to come home. I want to hug him and tell him how proud we are."
Joseph nodded, placing a hand on his wife's shoulder.
"He always said he would make a difference. And he did."
Cathy closed the album and looked at her parents.
"When he comes back, we'll show him how much he means to us."
In the days that followed, the Rollins family anxiously awaited news of Aaron's return. Meanwhile, the world continued to celebrate the operation and reflect on the impact of Osama bin Laden's death.
Aaron, still overseas, couldn't wait to see his family again. He knew the mission was not only a milestone in history, but also a moment that would show the importance of sacrifice and dedication of those who risk everything for the safety of their country.
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