Apologia

Shootings especially when they result in the death of a policeman generate so much paperwork. Tony stared at McGee’s apologia for the cop he shot. He needed to go through and approve it as the SFA. That way Gibbs didn’t have to read it. Everyone knew how much Gibbs hated paperwork.

The problem was Tony couldn’t sign off on the report McGee had made justifying his actions because he could tell McGee hadn’t let go of his guilt. “McGee with me.” Tony barked.

“Tony?” McGee questioned.

“Now, McGee.” Tony commanded, heading into the elevator.

McGee sighed and followed Tony into the elevator.

Once the doors closed, Tony pressed the force stop button on the elevator. “Why are you still feeling guilty? You were right to take the shot.”

“It’s still a human life, Tony, and it’s my first. I can’t just get over it that easily.” McGee murmured.

“I know. Believe me I know, but you need to rewrite your report so that it doesn’t sound like you were at fault. You weren’t at fault. Don’t let them try and take you out on a technicality just because you’re feeling guilty right now. I have faith in you. So does Gibbs. Don’t lose sight of the human life and the value it has, but your life has value too.”