“I’ve got a civilian jurisdiction problem that directly affects my security clearance,” I said.

“I’m leaving the motel now.”

I tucked the federal guarantee form into the faded blue folder and stepped out into the punishing South Carolina heat.

I got to the base legal office at fifteen hundred hours.

The brick building stood on the corner of the main parade deck, shaded by three huge oak trees.

I went through the double doors and showed my military ID to the sentry at the front desk.

Major Thomas was waiting for me in a bare interview room.