In the summer of 1988, the U.S. President is briefed on an Iraqi military incursion at the Kuwaiti border. The government-sponsored super-team Youngblood, led by Battlestone, is dispatched and successfully routs the Iraqi forces. After the mission, Battlestone’s decision-making is challenged when Lt. Gamble and Colonel Boggs act independently and pay the price in fatalities. Battlestone is relieved of command. The following year, Shaft is introduced as the new leader and the team poses for a publicity photo, signaling a new phase for Youngblood.