Bad Ass

Frank Vega, a decorated Vietnam War veteran, strolled down the sidewalk with an air of confidence and conviction that commanded attention. However, the years had taken their toll, and the glory he once received for his heroism in 'Nam was now nothing more than an elusive memory. Frank had been shunned by society upon his return, denied the job opportunities he so desperately desired, and, worst of all, abandoned by his high school sweetheart. He had struggled to come to terms with the treatment he received from those he considered friends and a society that failed to recognize his sacrifices. As Frank continued his solitary march, he couldn't help but think about the choices he made during the war. He thought about the young men he lost and, of course, his own brother he never got to reunite with. Forty years had passed since those pivotal moments, and Frank's life had become monotonous. Frank lived a life that lacked any sense of purpose. On a typical Tuesday, during rush hour, while riding a commuter bus in the outskirts of a quiet Los Angeles suburb, an incident made him a hero once again. Frank intervened in a heinous attack by saving dozens of innocent bus passengers by fighting back his attackers, a gang of armed teenagers. The news spread like wildfire with the local media portraying Frank as an unstoppable force and "The Bad Ass" - a local hero. The sudden attention revived an unquenchable spark deep within him. For the first time in decades, Frank felt a sense of belonging. Frank started to rebuild his life with newfound purpose. With his notoriety came a job offer, and he started to connect with his long-lost high school sweetheart again. Frank found a family of his own, friends, and love that welcomed him for who he was, and not for what he did. However, his newfound happiness was short-lived. Frank's best friend Hector was found dead in an alley behind a local bar. As news spread of Hector's untimely demise, Frank felt the darkness creep in. Hector was more than just his best friend; Hector was the one person who truly understood Frank's experiences and struggles. As Frank inquired more about the incident with Hector's family and the police department, he was appalled to learn that the murder remained unsolved. The Los Angeles Police Department seemed more interested in covering up the incident than in finding the perpetrator. A sense of anger and injustice ignited within Frank, a rage that threatened to engulf him. When confronted about the lack of progress into the case, the authorities told him that they would be more than happy to reopen the case, but with no lead or evidence, they weren't in a hurry. As the days passed by and the police failed to find a lead, Frank couldn't help but wonder what they were doing. Frank realized he couldn't sit idly by and watch the killer of his friend go free. Despite his advanced age and wearied body, Frank knew that he had to take charge of finding the truth and seeking justice for Hector. With the help of his family, the same family that first welcomed him with open arms, Frank embarked on a journey of justice for Hector and the truth his friend deserved. The battle was no longer just about Frank; it was about all those who lost loved ones and couldn't get answers. It was the spark that ignited the flame within Frank to fight, and the fire that fueled Frank's journey was no longer a result of pride but of principle.