Executive Orders: Part 2 of the Homeland Series by R.A. Mathis Page A

farms, health and medical resources, as well as all educational and welfare functions. Control of these resources will allow the State to efficiently gather and distribute food, fuel and medicinal rations to the people according to their need.”
    Another camera switch.
    “All citizens are hereby ordered to register at their local post office in order to comply with Executive Order 11002. They are to do so by the end of the month. Upon registering, you will receive an RFID identification chip and vaccination.” Eduardo held up his left hand, pointing to the small lump between his thumb and forefinger. “I’ve already been chipped and can tell you that it is relatively painless and completely harmless. You have nothing to fear.” He lowered his arm. “Citizens must present their chips as proof of registration in order to receive food and fuel rations, medical care, or any other product or service. Additionally, firearm records will be checked at the time of registration. All guns must be turned in to authorities at this time or registration will not be allowed. Amnesty stations will be set up at each registration center for this purpose. The amnesty period for firearm turn-in will end on November 30th. All citizens in possession of illegal weapons after that date will be considered armed and dangerous and dealt with accordingly.”
    Eduardo’s expression turned stern.
    “Remember, anyone could be a terrorist. Friends, neighbors, even family. These radicals will often reveal themselves to those they trust by criticizing the government or voicing discontentment with State policies. Remember, dissent equals treason and silence equals collusion. To hide a criminal is to become a criminal, so if you hear something, say something.”
    He switched cameras again.
    “Lastly, President Tophet and his administration wish to encourage all of us to have faith that America’s best days lie ahead and to remind us that we will emerge from this trying time a better, stronger country, but only if we work and sacrifice together to make it happen.”
    His flashed his signature smile.
    “This concludes today’s broadcast. For the People’s National News, I’m Eduardo Garcia.”
    “We’re clear!” the director yelled as techs and staff hurried to close out the broadcast. “Mr. Garcia, I need you back here first thing in the morning to do some radio spots.”
    “Sure thing.” Eduardo took off his microphone, walked over to Valerie and said, “What did you think?”
    “You improvised. That part with you showing your chip. It wasn’t in the script.”
    “But you liked it.”
    “It was a nice touch. Don’t ever do it again.”
    “C’mon, you know I’m better thinking on my feet. I’m spontaneous. It’s what I do.”
    “Not anymore.”
    “We’ll see.” He gave Valerie a mischievous smile.
    “There’s something else, Eddie.”
    “What now? Did I leave the toilet seat up?”
    Valerie didn’t laugh, though her face was no longer stern. Her brow softened, betraying something that truly frightened him. Sympathy.
    “What’s wrong?” he asked.
    “I’m not sure how to say this…”
    “Angie,” Eduardo said, nearly whispering, hoping he was wrong.
    Valerie nodded.
    “What is it? Is she okay?”
    Valerie shook her head. “No, Eddie. She’s not.”
    Eduardo’s legs went numb. “What wrong?”
    “She’s dead.”
    “How?”
    “Pneumonia. She needed a special medicine. It was supposed to arrive with a medical supply shipment a few days ago, but the convoy was hit by radicals en route. The extremists killed everyone in the unit and stole everything, including the vehicles. There was nothing the doctors could do without the medication. She passed away last night.”
    Eduardo sank to the floor.
    “Eddie. Are you okay?”
    Eduardo put his hands over his face.
    Valerie called out to some passing workers, “A little help here!”
    “No.” Eduardo got slowly to his feet. “I’m okay. I just need a