Sitting down for chow after I'd changed into some of my old Marine fatigues, I received more than one curious glance. After hearing one or two remarks in French, I remained focused on my meal as I replied in French. That led to more than one burst of laughter as I was fairly sure everyone recognised my uniform. The only thing lacking were the actual patches signifying I had been an RMCO.

Finishing off my meal, I joined the Commandant in the command tent where I was able to review the latest information. Though in charge, he knew my priority was the retrieval of Angie. He was under orders to...