Col. McGarr continued, “Tell you what, Captain Larimore. To switch subjects, I want you to know why I don’t think you’re an executive officer type of guy.”[1]

Hearing this surprised Phil, and it must have shown because the colonel chuckled again.

“Not that you can’t and won’t do a great job, but being an XO is mostly a paper-pusher type of job. Coordinate my schedule, be sure my orders are carried out, travel with me here and there, occasionally attend some big ceremony.

“Captain, I see you more as a boots-on-the-ground type of guy, or in-the- stirrup, if you know what I mean. You’re a natural leader. I saw it in Europe, and that’s what you need to be doing here.

“But there are three reasons I wanted you here as my XO. First of all, it’s the only opening I had. Second, I want to facilitate your efforts to overturn that damned ridiculous War Department policy whereby officers with an amputation are automatically discharged once rehabilitated.

“Now, don’t get me wrong. After some men are wounded, they aren’t the same. They’ve lost their luster. But most have the experience and leadership skills that this Army needs.

“I’m not alone in believing this war we just fought will not end all wars. In the future, we’re going to need more good officers— war-hardened men, experienced men, good men—to lead.

“Amputee or not, Larimore, we need you. And having you here in Washington will expedite your appeal process by putting you close to the decision-makers in this town.”

“I deeply appreciate that, sir,” Phil replied. “Phone calls don’t seem to be working very well, and as you know, getting letters answered by the War Department or a senator seems to take a long time.”

Phil set his cigar on the edge of an ashtray. “But I’m curious. What’s the third reason, Colonel?”

McGarr looked at Ross, who smiled. “I’ll show you tomorrow.”

The colonel took the last drag off his cigar, crushed the butt in an ashtray, and stood.

Phil and Ross followed his lead.

“Men, I’m up to my ass in paperwork,” the colonel declared. “Calvert, give Larimore a quick tour of Arlington and get him settled in his housing. Then, I’ll see you in the morning, and we’ll get started.

“One more thing, guys. Your bridge-playing expertise at Fort Benning has been noticed. Ike wants you two to come over to Quarters One to play bridge sometime. He’ll contact you.”

(TO BE CONTINUED TOMORROW)

~~~~~

[1] Larimore, At First Light, 309.

[2] Larimore, At First Light, 309-310.

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December 24, 1945M