Rank: Vice Admiral
Affiliation: Compact Navy
Species: Human
Birthplace: Trantor
Birthdate: 317 IE
Bio:
Vice Admiral Eileen Burke is a high-ranking officer in the Compact Navy, known for her composed command style, strategic clarity, and unwavering loyalty to the Compact’s chain of command. At 112 years of age during the Gelt Incursion of 429 IE, she rejuvenated at the age of 35 to give her appearance more authority. She serves prominently during the incursion and its aftermath, playing a pivotal role in operations related to both Gilead (Hanar) and Amargosa.
While not as politically maneuvering as some of her contemporaries, Burke commands significant influence due to her military efficiency and moral clarity. She is one of the few officers capable of balancing duty with compassion—particularly when dealing with situations involving civilians, resistance fighters, and nontraditional allies.
Key Actions:
- Post-Incursion Operations on Gilead (Hanar):
Burke is deployed to Gilead following the Gelt’s withdrawal and the planet’s transformation into Hanar. There, she is faced with the complicated political reality of Tishla’s leadership—a Gelt woman with both human and Gelt support. While she does not necessarily approve of the situation, she refuses to initiate military action to remove Tishla, understanding the Compact would risk alienating both human survivors and potential Gelt allies. Her caution earns her the respect of peers like Commandant Herodotus and ire from more aggressive figures like Marcus Leitman. - Relationship with the Joint Chiefs:
Burke is regarded as one of the more pragmatic voices among the Compact’s military leadership. Unlike some of her fellow officers, she is not swayed by political ambition or old grudges, instead focusing on the realities on the ground. Her presence often acts as a moderating force during Joint Chiefs meetings. - Ties to Suicide and Quentin Austin:
While she doesn’t share their unconventional tactics, Burke respects the results of resistance leaders like Suicide and Rear Admiral Quentin Austin, particularly their work on Amargosa. There are implications she once served alongside one or both in earlier conflicts, though she now operates at a higher strategic tier.
Reputation:
Vice Admiral Burke is known as the “Conscience of the Joint Chiefs.” She balances military necessity with political consequences and often acts as the voice of reason during crises. Though not a frontline officer by the time of Storming Amargosa, her decisions profoundly shape the Compact’s posture toward the new Hanar regime and the eventual liberation of Amargosa.
Appearances: No Marigolds in the Promised Land, Broken Skies,Tishla's Journey, Storming Amargosa