Taking orders from politicians for fifteen years is hardly building anything of value.”

“Operational command means managing two thousand personnel and ninety million dollars in assets,” I said.

“It means taxpayer charity keeps you employed,” Richard said, taking a slow sip of his water.

“Gerald built Ulette Insurance from the ground up while you ran away to sit on a base.”

Margaret smiled, her double-strand pearls catching the chandelier light.

“We try to be patient with family members who couldn’t handle private industry.”

Richard laughed, a loud barking sound that drew the attention of six local business leaders standing nearby.