ON: Ikoi Park
A small crowd began to gather around the formation, consisting of Star Army soldiers and the various Elysians, Occhestians, Helashio, and Yamataians the Eucharis had rescued over its last few missions. Victory and Pineapple appeared with a small table covered in rank patches and pins.
Blueberry took to the podium to start the ceremony. "Eucharis, atten--tion! Good evening, We are pleased to have you here as we recognize our the soldiers and crew members of the starship Y.S.S. Eucharis, NG-X1-408. Before we begin we would like to take this opportunity to welcome all our guests for attending. And now, ladies and gentlemen, Shôshô Ketsurui Hanako."
Hanako walked to the podium.
"On this day," Hanako said, "it brings me great pleasure to reward my crew's continuing decdicated wartime service.
The Empress of Yamatai, on recommendation of myself and the Commander of the Star Army of Yamatai, has placed her special trust and confidence in the crew of the YSS Eucharis. With respect to the valor, loyalty, and professional excellence they have shown, we are pleased to honor them. In view of their demonstrated leadership and leadership potential and their dedicated service to the Empire jointly ruled by her Imperial Majesty and the people of Yamatai, it is her majesty's will that they are advanced in rank."
At this point, Hanako stepped forward and went to the small table, ready to hand out rank as each crew member temporarily stepped out of formation. "When your name is called, please report to me," she directed.
Meanwhile, Blueberry returned to the podium. In a loud and clear voice, Blueberry read from a data pad:
"By order of Shôshô Ketsurui Hanako, First Expeditionary Fleet Squadrons, commanding, and with authorization of Taisho Ketsurui Yui, commander of the Star Army of Yamatai,
Yontô Hei Kurita Tomomi, you are promoted to the rank of Nitô Hei.
Santô Hei Murakami Mitsuko, you are promoted to the rank of Ittô Hei.
Santô Hei Yamashiro Natsumi, you are promoted to the rank of Ittô Hei.
Santô Hei Riko Bors, you are promoted to the rank of Ittô Hei.
Santô Hei Misato Suzume, you are promoted to the rank of Ittô Hei.
Ittô Hei Konoka Miyazawa, you are promoted to the rank of Jôtô Hei.
Jôtô Hei Tachihara Reika, you are promoted to the rank of Nitô Heisho. Congratulations on becoming a non-commissioned officer.
Nitô Juni Valencia Ramiro, you are promoted to the rank of Ittô Juni.
Shoi Nayacesen Takeyu, you are promoted to the rank of Taii. You are also awarded a Good Conduct Award, for exceptional performance and leadership.
Shosa Jalen Sune, you are promoted to the rank of Chusa.
Shosa Helen Klein, you are promoted to the rank of Chusa.
You are each also issued the following awards: The Star Army Service Award and Star Army Combat Award, for Eucharis Mission 16, our assault on the NMX Rabaal "Nest."
Santô Hei Jonathan DarkSky, you are promoted to the rank of Nitô Hei. As the newest member of the crew, we would like to give you a special welcome."
As each crew member met Hanako at the table and bowed, she gave a return bow, a warm but brief hug, and a "congratulations" and handed them the approrpriate rank emblems and awards. Once everyone returned to the formation, Hanako went back to the Podium.
"Please join me in reciting the Star Army Creed," Hanako said. "I am soldier of the Star Army of Yamataian expert in combat and exploration; a warrior ready to destroy our enemies where ever they are found.
I am a dignified professional, highly trained and highly disciplined; I will act in a manner that reflects well on the Star Army. I will maintain my mind, body, and equipment in constant readiness. I will take pride in my starship or unit and work hard to make it the Star Army’s finest.
I am loyal to the Empress. I will follow her orders and the orders of those appointed over me. I serve the people of Yamatai; I will never betray their trust in me and I will always do what's right."
Blueberry returned to the Podium. "This concludes today's ceremony. Thank you all and good evening. You are dismissed."