When they reached the South Dakota airfield, Bud radioed for clearance to land.
“This is Fastramp One requesting clearance to land.”
“Roger, Fastramp One,” replied the voice through their headsets. “You are cleared to land on
runway four-niner.” The voice hesitated for a second but then continued, “We want to extend a special welcome to John Fastramp and his party.”
John smiled at his friends. “At least someone likes us.” Everybody took seats as they prepared to land.
As they made their final turn over the airfield, Bud gasped and turned white.
“What’s the matter, Bud?” John asked anxiously.
Bud turned to face them and there was fear in his eyes. “We must have suffered damage during our tussle with that tractor beam, boss. The landing gear won’t come down! We can’t land!”