Marino's command vehicle was positioned in the middle of the convoy. The air was humid, filled with the smell of soil and decaying leaves, masking the scent of oil and sweat.
The soldiers tightly gripped their AR70 rifles or Beretta M12 submachine guns, warily scanning the dim forest on both sides.
Sunlight filtered through the gaps in the branches, casting dappled patches of light, with each flickering shadow causing a shock to the heart.
"Major, there's a shallow stream ahead. The tanks can cross, but the infantry fighting vehicles might need to find a firmer spot by slightly detouring," came the voice of the lead tank commander through the headset.
