It is a bloody game as old as nations and politics. And it has always been played with the lives of the most loyal and brave.

Colonel "Wild Bill" Fogarty has been a dedicated soldier for most of his adult life -- an able warrior who was bloodied but survived the folly called Vietnam. Now short-sighted policy-makers in Washington are manufacturing another little war for questionable purposes, gambling with human lives in cut-throat game of power, greed, and personal ambition. "Wild Bill" has seen too many young men destroyed in pursuit of shadow causes. But it is not his role to question, simply to serve--no matter where or for what reasons...no matter who has to die.

From bestselling author, decorated Vietnam veteran and former Secretary of the Navy James Webb comes a blisteringly authentic novel of the ruthless politics of war -- a searing indictment of those at the top who dictate military policy...and a moving tribute to the courageous soldiers who must pay the ultimate price.It is a bloody game as old as nations and politics. And it has always been played with the lives of the most loyal and brave.