Character

Tom Bailey

Tom Bailey stands as the father of Will Bailey, the newly appointed Deputy Communications Director. President Bartlet highlights Bailey's former role as Supreme Commander, NATO Allied Forces Europe, calling it the only title superior to his own. This reference bolsters Will's credentials during a pivotal late-night commissioning amid the Khundu crisis, where Bartlet orders military deployment. Absent from the room, Bailey's military legacy underscores themes of inherited leadership and strategic gravitas in the West Wing's high-stakes environment.

2 appearances

Tom Bailey's Journey

A timeline through the narrative

2 moments

S4E15 · Inauguration Part II: Over There

From Doctrine to Deployment: Bartlet Announces Khundu Intervention and Commissions Will

Not present; his persona provides contextual gravitas for Will's credibility.

Tom Bailey is invoked by Bartlet to confer credibility on Will through family military prestige; he is not physically present but functions as reputational ballast.

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S4E15 · Inauguration Part II: Over There

Commissioned and Charged: Will's Promotion Amid a Deployment Order

Not present; mentioned as a reputational bolster for Will and the decision.

Tom Bailey is referenced by Bartlet to underline Will's pedigree and the symbolic weight of his appointment; his presence is evoked though he is off-stage.

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