Chapter 19
1930 Hours
December 20, 1940
Junior Officers Bar
The Army and Navy Club
Washington, D.C.
An institution in the nation’s capital since the late 1880s, the Army and Navy Club catered to the needs of a small clique of men. It filled a vital niche in the political and social life of the District, providing a suitable venue for active duty and retired officers to network, entertain, and conduct government business.
In light of the looming international crisis, a dedicated officer assigned to the War Department would still be chained to his desk, working late, and shepherding some official action through the bureaucratic maze. Instead of burning the midnight oil on this very cold evening, Genero had traveled to the Army and Navy Club.
Phil sat—alone—at the end of the long, orn
