Dad was inducted into the United States Army on February 26, 1943 at age 24. He entered OCS (Officer’s Candidates School), and often spoke about the value he saw in the rigors of basic training and military discipline. He was stationed at Camp Davis in Wilson, North Carolina Dad worked for a time in the NYC Bureau of the Budget. Everyone joked that Dad was Mayor LaGuardia’s secretary. Former Mayor Abe Beame was the Comptroller
Upon Dad’s departure from the budget office, his colleagues threw a surprise party. Cousin Richie McDonald (Florrie & Joe's son) is seated at far left
After a career in civil service, Dad decided to buy a tavern
His personality was a natural draw for business. He could often be seen holding court with his regulars
With a stroke as smooth as silk, he was a formidable competitor
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