Give 'Em Hell, Hawkeye

In this episode, one Colonel Ditka complains about the "combative" attitude taken by the M*A*S*H staff when he tells them they should beautify the camp in exchange for a water heater--he seemed to forget that being "combative" is an army's purpose.

Robert Mazzella.

Hawkeye is fed up with peace talks going nowhere, and decides to write a letter to President Truman. The camp really needs an industrial size water heater. Instead of listening, a Colonel tells the leadership they need to "beautify" the camp. If they do a good job, they will get a water heater. The camp does get into the project but they aren't happy. Mulcahy is instructed to try to reduce the problem with venereal diseases. Charles is given the job of immunizing prostitutes and is quite annoyed. Margaret is in charge of project but feels something is lacking. They talk about creating a fountain for their new garden. Also a young Marine who has lost his sight because of ethyl alcohol. All these things are sent to Harry and as most episodic offerings, this works pretty well.

Here Hawkeye writes to President Truman, providing an opportunity to recount vignettes (funny and sad) to the Commander in Chief. Anyway, this episode guest stars Lance Toyoshima and Xander Berkeley. It's fascinating seeing established stars starting off early in their careers.