holding the fort
- manningSupplying workers for
- guardingActively protecting something
- defendingProtecting against harm
- steadyFixed, not fluctuating
- watchfulCarefully attentive, observant
sentinel · caretaker · temporary · waiting · steadfast · reliable · outpost · vigil · stationed · substitute · covering · keeping watch · standing guard · interim · backup · stronghold · watchman · duty
responsibility and duty
holding the fortdeserting
Abandoning one's obligations
dereliction of duty · dropping the ball · abdicating · walking away · abandoning ship
presence and engagement
holding the fortleaving
Act of going away
departing · disappearing · taking off · absconding · checking out