Milo carefully said nothing when Major de Coverley stepped into the mess hall with his fierce and austere dignity the day he returned and found his way blocked by a wall of officers waiting in line to sign loyalty oaths. At the far end of the food counter, a group of men who had arrived earlier were pledging allegiance to the flag, with trays of food balanced in one hand, in order to be allowed to take seats at the table. Already at the tables, a group that had arrived still earlier was singing 'The Star-Spangled Banner' in order that they might use the salt and pepper and ketchup there.
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Milo remained silent as Major de Coverley entered the mess hall, embodying a stern presence. Upon his return, he found himself confronted by a line of officers who were all required to sign loyalty oaths. This scene underscored the tension and rigidity surrounding authority and allegiance within the military environment.
Meanwhile, the atmosphere in the mess hall reflected absurdity as various groups engaged in rituals to gain access to basic amenities. Some men, clutching their meals, recited their pledges of allegiance, while others sang the national anthem just to use condiments. These actions highlight the ridiculous lengths individuals must go to in a system that prioritizes adherence to protocol over genuine camaraderie.
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