BULL$#!^. I have frequently have eaten at Fran O'Brien's at every opportunity over the last several years of visiting the wounded troops.(www.adoptasoldier.us) I have never found it to be a "Sleazy" hangout.I have found the service impeccable even when I show up in tevas, cut offs and a dirty T shirt after visiting the troops at Walter Reed. Marty does however stick me away from the regulars who are are usual in 3 piece suits from work at the Pentagon,Capital or the usual haunts for those working in DC. Suspicious activity? Just what the hell type of accusation is that suppose to bee? I suspect you and your reason for posting here! So far as Hilton resuming the dinners ...what a crock! Hilton would love to take over the goodwill generated there for strictly PR purposes. The dinners will not be the same without Hal period no ifs and or butts! Just ask any soldier who knows him. Eric you need to check your facts before you post...Just where did you serve anyway? Oh perhaps you did not???.... because anyone who took the oath would know and not have to rely on a nameless source at the Hilton!
I've known the guy for seven years. If anything, he's to the right of me. One thing he is is bluntly honest, even when his observations counter what he'd rather believe. He based his comments on what he heard from his contact, and from being there himself. Personally, I trust him.
Yeah, he's probably somewhat biased. As, you admit, are you. What I presented is a different viewpoint, reasoning the Hilton could have that has zero to do with the dinners for the troops. There's a disclaimer at the end that the locals, such as yourself, can verify or dispute it. Which you did.
Hilton's on record as saying they will continue taking care of the injured troops and their families. If O'Brien's finds a new location, it sounds like they will too. Hopefully, not on the same night.
-Eric