Original subtitles

I can't believe I'm finally home.

Let's get you settled, then I'll believe it.

I got a call from the Army this afternoon.

It seems Tommy Satterfield has gone AWOL.

I didn't know Tommy was old enough to be in the Army.

There's only one place for him up in the hills.

- I ain't going back. - Stay right where you are, boy.

You can't hide out, Tom. They'll come get you one day.

'There's not much breathing room in them prisons.'

If anything happens to my boy, John Walton

it'll be on your head.

Liv...I was the one who drafted him.

I sent him off or he'd be alive today.

I hate this draft board job, Liv.

I can't stand playing God to my neighbors' sons.

You're gonna be sorry for the day you took my boy off to die.

- You and your draft board. - I know how you feel, Calvin.

Drinking isn't gonna do any good.

And taking it out on me isn't gonna bring Tommy back.

That depends on how I do it, I'd say.

'I'm gonna make you a trade, Walton.'

You'll pay for my son's life with the life of one of yours.

'You hear me?'

[intense music]

[theme music]

[music continues]

[music continues]

(male narrator) It was one spring day during

the war that our mother came back to us

and with her arrival everything began to look brighter.

In Europe and North Africa

the Allied forces were gaining strength

giving new hope to those of us on the home front.

There were dark days still ahead

but for now it was peaceful on the Mountain

and my family rejoiced in being together again.

[all cheering]

I'd forgotten how beautiful you all are!

Welcome back, Mama.

Elizabeth. My, how you've grown! What have you been feeding him?

'Jason. Jim-Bob, you're so thin.'

Erin, you're a young woman. Elizabeth, you too.

- 'Mama, this is Cindy.' - Mrs. Walton.

(both giggle)

So pretty.

I can't believe I'm finally home.

Let's get you settled, then I'll believe it.

Jim-Bob, get the bag.

Wait till you see the living room.

I hope you haven't changed things.

I was anxious to get your mama home and I was halfway here

before I realized we'd left the luggage at Aunt Kate's.

That was the longest part of the trip.

Grandma will regret going out when she hears you're home.

She needs a vacation, knowing how well you behaved

while I was gone.

Took us a week to save up ration points to get that roast.

I'll have another piece.

That's okay. You eat and keep your strength up.

Nothing wrong with my strength. Doctor says I'm fine.

Somebody else is coming home, Mama. Aimee Godsey.

That's good. Seems like she's been at boarding school forever.

Yeah, Elizabeth's been marking the days off the calendar.

Boys don't understand friendship all they know how to do is pow!

- "Pow"? - "Pow".

(Jason) 'You'll notice a lotta changes on the Mountain, Mama.'

(Erin) 'Oh, Mama, its almost impossible to get stockings around here.'

I'm down to my last pair.

What you ought to try and find is a new spare tire.

(Ben) 'There's a lot of new people around here.'

'Zuleika's boarding house is filled with defense workers.'

Mostly women. The men are being drafted.

'I hired Mary Ellen last month.'

She's the resident nurse of the Pickett Defense Plant.

John Curtis hardly recognizes me without my uniform on.

He's sweet, we all love him extra hard when his mama's gone.

That'll be good experience for you, when you have your baby.

[knocking on door]

'I'll get it.'

That'll be Corabeth coming over to give us the latest gossip.

- This is good. - 'Yeah, it's very good.'

- Elizabeth, is your daddy home? - Sure, come on in.

- You can use a little gossip. - Oh, it's Ep!

- It's good to see you home. - It's good to be here, Ep.

- Pull up a seat, join us. - No, John, I can't stay.

And I apologize for breaking in on you folks like this

but, I tell you, I got a call from the Army this afternoon.

Seems that Tommy Satterfield's gone AWOL.

(Olivia) 'I didn't know Tommy was old enough to be in the Army.'

(Jason) 'They're drafting at 18 these days.'

(John) 'There's only one place, in the hills.'

No, I was just there, talked to his daddy who claims

he hasn't set eyes on him. I don't believe that.

But, John, you were pretty close to that boy.

If you run across him, tell him his outfit's shipping out

and if he isn't in Norfolk by 6:00 tomorrow, he's in trouble.

I'll do that. Thanks for coming by.

I gotta go. Sorry to interrupt your homecoming like this.

- I'll see you folks. - So long, Ep.

- Bye, Ep. - Bye.

It's a pretty serious offense, going AWOL in wartime.

'Mr. Satterfield didn't want him in the Army to begin with.'

Guess I'll have to go there, find that boy and talk to him.

Good luck. They don't welcome people nosing around up there.

John, I don't understand. What has this got to do with you?

Liv, I'm the head of the draft board. I drafted him.

[dramatic music]

It sure was nice having you next to me last night.

I didn't hear you come out.

How could you, the way you're standing here staring off?

I was thinking about Tommy Satterfield.

He's gonna sail across an ocean to fight a war

and he's never even seen an ocean.

It's a wonder more of them don't run away.

We sure are lucky having Jason stationed nearby.

He's been coming home most weekends, you know.

I wish John-Boy were as close.

At least he's writing about the war instead of fighting it.

Doesn't matter. He's still in the thick of it.

I don't want to think about it just now.

[instrumental music]

Aren't you two ever going to get over that?

Not if I can help it.

It's your Mama's fault. She can't keep her hands off me.

- Bye. - You forget why you came down?

Well, you weren't in your room.

I wanted to make sure you were somewhere.

I was afraid I'd come home and nobody'd need me.

[music continues]

'Hut, two, three, four. Hut, two, three, four. Hut!'

Stay in step, Lapinsky. Hut, two, three. To the rear. Hut!

'Two, three, four. Hut! Stay in step, men.'

To the rear, hut!

By the left flank. Hut!

Stay in step there. By the left flank, hut!

'Detail, halt! Right hut!'

You're daydreaming again, Lapinsky. Snap out of it.

Sir, I'm sorry. I get mixed up.

Don't you know your right from your left?

It depends on what I'm doing already.

I shake hands with my right and I signal for turns with my left.

Sorry, Harry.

But, for the marching, I forget which is which.

Let me see if we can give you something to help you remember.

Put this in your right hand, Lapinsky.

- Your other right. - Oh, yeah.

Walton! I want to see you.

At ease, men.

Yes, Sergeant?

You'll never be a DI. You're too soft on those dummies.

- It's not easy for them. - We know that, Walton.

That's why they're in the awkward squad

while the rest of their outfit's going on with basic.

They're getting better, I think.

We need tough drill instructors around here, Corporal.

'If you have any ideas about making your third stripe'

and staying on at Camp Rockfish, you better shape up.

And get that goon squad shaped up, too!

I'm doing the best I can, Sergeant.

'Well, maybe your best just ain't good enough.'

You got to chew them out.

Blister their eardrums. Blast the cobwebs out of their skulls!

- 'You get what I'm driving at?' - Yes, Sergeant.

'Then get going, Walton.'

[engine starting]

Alright, you dog-faced goof-offs! Let's get with it!

Right face!

You notice anything, Lapinsky?

I dropped my rock.

[cheerful music]

- Morning, J.D. - Morning. Good morning.

Oh! Erin, you're just the person I'm looking for.

- Looks like you found me, J.D. - Harvey Jenkins has quit.

Gone off to California to work at some airplane factory.

- He didn't give you any notice? - Sure he did.

He sent me a telegram on his way out of town last night.

What do we do for a new assistant manager?

I'm off to Charlottesville right now to recruit a new man.

May have to go all the way to Richmond.

While I'm gone, Erin, you keep an eye on things for me.

I haven't time to keep things up in the Personnel Department.

'Well, get Mary Ellen to help you.'

'Maybe that'll keep her out of trouble.'

'Last time I came back from a business trip'

she had all my lady workers wearing slacks

and looking like that Rosie the Riveter.

J.D., the workroom is drafty.

Letting them wear slacks has cut down on absenteeism by 20%.

Don't you confuse me with figures, young lady.

Erin, I'm putting you in charge. See you in a day or two.

Do you think we'll win the war with J.D. on our side?

I doubt it.

[instrumental music]

[engine rumbling]

- Morning. - Calvin?

Calvin?

If you've come out here looking for my boy, John Walton

you're wasting your time.

I haven't got the power to take him, Calvin.

Then what you doing here?

Just want to talk with him.

I already told the Sheriff

I ain't seen him since that day you sent him away.

The Army doesn't take kindly to deserters, Calvin.

He's gonna be in trouble if he doesn't show up in Norfolk.

You had no right to make him go to begin with.

I didn't want to do it. I was just following the law.

We make our own way around here, our own laws.

That war is thousands of miles away.

'I know how you feel, Mrs. Satterfield.'

There's no use him hiding. He'll just be in trouble in the end.

You best get off my property, John.

Tommy, I've come alone. You can trust me.

- Now. - Calvin, just take it easy.

- I ain't going back. - Stay right where you are, boy.

It's okay, Pa.

Mr. Walton, you took a powerful chance coming up here.

Tom...the Army didn't put much weight on you.

It's no kind of life for me.

Too many rules and not enough breathing room.

You can't hide out, Tom. They'll come get you one day.

'There's not much breathing room in them prisons.'

A feeling come over me.

If I get on that boat tomorrow..

...I ain't never gonna come back.

I know how you feel, son.

I felt the same way 25 years ago when I was shipping out.

'I had a wife and a son, who I thought I'd never see again.'

I wanted to run, too.

Why didn't you?

Because I felt I owed something to my country, my family

most especially to myself.

'I knew if I didn't go, I'd never be able'

'to look another man straight in the eyes.'

Mr. Walton, you're getting the boy all mixed up.

You were one of the best men in my logging crew, Tom.

Quick, smart, hard-working.

I had high hopes for you.

Thought maybe you'd get out of these hills, go to school

make something of your life.

Alright, John. You said your piece. You can go now.

Tommy, you went through basic training with a lot of men.

They're all going.

None of them want to fight this war, but they're going.

For the rest of your life, you're gonna

think about how you let those men down.

I won't tell anybody I saw you.

Mr. Walton, wait.

I'll get my uniform and you can give me a lift to the station.

[instrumental music]

Son...are you sure?

He's right, Ma. It can't be helped.

It's something I gotta do.

[music continues]

If anything happens to my boy, John Walton

it'll be on your head.

[intense music]

Sure would be a good day to go fishing.

- You got a favorite spot? - Sure do.

A shady hole down along Pickawillow Creek.

There's this big old catfish who lives in the pondweed.

You could eat off him for a week.

I've been trying to catch him every summer since I was 15.

If he's that smart, he'll still be there when you get back.

It ain't that I was running away, Mr. Walton.

I ain't scared to fight if I have to.

It just seems like this war has nothing to do with me.

Tommy, a lot of people felt that when Hitler first got started.

What he was doing and saying had nothing to do with them.

Until, all of a sudden, it was too late.

It'd be better if I knew where I was going

but they won't even tell me that.

They can't tell you, son.

The Army has got to keep troop movements quiet.

Will you look in on my folks while I'm gone?

Yes, I will.

I don't know when I'll be seeing 'em again.

[melancholic music]

You're doing them right proud, son. You're doing us all proud.

[music continues]

- You should be wearing gloves. - I'd miss the feel of the dirt.

- Can I help you? - You sure can. I'm weeding.

Not that I have anything against weeds. Some are very pretty.

I just want to keep them on the other side of the fence.

Trouble is, I don't think I can tell the difference

between the vegetables and the weeds.

This is lettuce. Those are beans.

Anything in between is an intruder.

You must like the garden. You've spent lots of time here

since you've been back.

The newspapers are so full of war and killing

I like to remind myself that things still grow.

Grandpa used to say that you could almost hear

a garden breathe in the springtime.

I feel like that myself this morning.

Mrs. Walton?

That sounds so formal. Is it hard for you to call me Mama?

Just seems like there's a lot of people already calling you that.

Then call me Olivia.

How long was it before you knew you were expecting John-Boy?

About two years, but everybody's different.

You're not worried already, are you?

- Ben wants a baby very much. - Do you?

I don't know much about babies, but I want what Ben wants.

The doctor says that I'm fine, but it's taking so long.

You can't rush nature. You and Ben are young and healthy.

You'll find out you're pregnant when you least expect it.

Here. Better take care of that pretty young skin of yours.

How many more deliveries today, Daddy?

One more, late this afternoon.

I sure feel funny with those GIs around here.

You shouldn't. You're doing the same kind of work they are, son.

I know, but maybe us so-called "essential workers"

should get some kind of uniform.

Then we wouldn't be thought of as slackers.

The same draft board that gave them 1-A gave you a deferment.

I didn't have anything to do with it.

I didn't talk for you and I didn't vote.

I know that, but when I'm wearing civvies, people don't.

Stop worrying. You're gonna be in uniform soon enough.

Cindy and I have been thinking of starting our own family.

That's nice. In such times, men often do that. I know I did.

Trouble is, it's taking Cindy a lot of time to get pregnant.

I wouldn't worry about it.

Just keep working at it. Before you know it

we'll have another grandchild running around here.

And it'll be the first one named Walton, too!

What do you mean, "it"?

You mean he'll be the first one called Walton.

I'll drink to that.

[instrumental music]

Elizabeth, what do you want me to do with these cans of grease?

Just over there, on that counter.

I don't see how saving bacon grease can help the war effort.

They use it to make explosives, that's how.

Where are some tacks? I'll help you put this up.

Yeah, right there.

- You alone here? - Yeah.

Ike and Corabeth went to pick up Aimee.

- Think she'll like the sign? - Sure. Why not?

It's not as good as a brass band, but it'll do.

- Hey, here they are. - Help me clean up that counter.

Well, here we are, Aimee. Welcome home.

Not the same sort of estate that some of your friends

at Miss Holcomb's Finishing School for Girls

are accustomed to. But home, nevertheless.

You see the sign Elizabeth made for you?

How sweet.

- Hi, Aimee. - Hi, Aimee.

How wonderful to see you, Elizabeth.

I thought you'd never get here.

What d'you think, Jim-Bob? Really grown up, hasn't she?

Jim-Bob? For a moment I thought you were Jason.

- You look so much older. - It's been a long time, eh?

Let's get settled in and you and Elizabeth can have a nice visit.

Everyone at school's been asking about you.

Mama says I can have a slumber party and invite everyone.

I'd rather not, if you don't mind.

I've had enough of life in the dormitory for a while.

I don't think I'd have much in common with those girls anymore.

(Ike) 'Aimee, you're talking about your friends.'

Why don't we get together, Elizabeth, just the two of us?

- How about a picnic? - 'Anytime.'

- Maman? - Oui, viens avec moi.

Jim-Bob would be welcome to come, too, si vous voulez.

- What's that mean? - 'If you like.'

Yeah, I'll think about it.

- Elizabeth, want a ride home? - Sure.

Okay, I'll gas up and meet you out front. 50 cents' worth, Ike.

(Ike) Okay. Thanks, Jim-Bob.

Elizabeth, thank you very much for watching the store.

Sure. Aimee's changed a lot.

Yeah. But she sure has learned how to talk French.

She and Corabeth were jabbering all the way home.

I couldn't understand a word they said.

It was probably just girl-talk.

- Bye-bye, Ike. - Bye.

[melancholic music]

Alright, General. Thank you. Goodbye, General.

And keep them flying!

Freddie? I hope that Air Corps shipment goes out today.

(Freddie over intercom) 'Yes, ma'am, so do I.'

- See that it does, Freddie! - 'Yes, ma'am.'

[sigs]

If J.D. would spend less time trying to find

an assistant manager and more time tending the business

I wouldn't be stuck doing all these things he should be doing.

But, if he did it himself, things would go a lot slower.

- I should ask for a raise. - Don't ask for one, demand one.

Erin, here are some government forms I haven't taken care of.

Look them over for me, will you?

I hope this has our request for more gasoline this week.

We can't meet deadlines without it.

You can handle it. You know how to wrap those bureaucrats

right around your pretty little finger.

I'm meeting a man in Charlottesville right now

who just might turn out to be our new assistant manager.

Check with you later.

You shouldn't just ask for a raise

you ought to be the new assistant manager.

Mary Ellen, J.D. would never hear of it.

I'm too young and I'm also a woman.

You know the whole operation. You'd be crazy not to try.

- Are you serious? - I give up on you, Erin.

You've been told you're pretty for so long

that you've forgotten that you've got brains, too.

[phone ringing]

Your phone's ringing.

[melancholic music]

* When shadows fall *

* And trees whisper day is ending *

* My thoughts are ever wending home *

* When crickets call *

* My heart is forever yearning *

* Once more to be returning home *

Don't stop, please.

Come in, Lapinsky. Have a seat.

'I thought all you guys went to the post movie.'

I didn't want to go with.

I was trying to write some letters. Heard you singing here.

- Where you from? - Albany Park, Illinois.

Chicago's one of its suburbs.

I guess you're wishing you could be back there right now.

Where else? All the guys are probably down at Fat Irving's

checking out girls and eating the best hot dogs

on the North Side.

It sounds great.

I guess I'm kind of lucky, able to go home on a weekend pass.

I just finished writing Mama about you. How you took it easy

on us and didn't holler like the other non-coms.

[sighs]

Who else is back home in Albany Park?

Well, there's Papa. He runs a deli and we live over it

and my three sisters, crazies like you wouldn't believe.

I might. I got three sisters of my own at home.

[both chuckle]

Uncle Morris had a record of that song on his old Victrola.

He came to live with us after Aunt Minnie died

and he played it all the time. Took me back.

- You want to finish it maybe? - Sure, if you'll join in.

Why not? I sing in the shower.

* When the hills conceal the setting sun *

* Hide the setting sun *

* Stars begin a-peeping one by one *

* Peeping one by one *

* Night covers all *

* And though fortune may forsake me *

* Sweet dreams will ever take me home **

[instrumental music]

[door opening]

Hey, Ike, glad you're open. Just had another draft board meeting.

I've got some more greetings for you to send out.

- Yeah. Sure be glad to, John. - Something the matter, Ike?

Corabeth, I didn't see you.

What's wrong?

'We got word late this evening.'

The troopship carrying Tommy Satterfield to England

'was fired on by a German submarine.'

He was killed by a shell fragment.

Seems like only yesterday he was here asking for bubble-gum.

[melancholic music]

[door opening]

[music continues]

You've been working on that clock for a week.

Do you think you're gonna fix it in the middle of the night?

- What are you doing out of bed? - Worrying. Grieving. Like you.

I think I've figured out what's wrong.

I just can't find the right tool.

We're in a war.

Our boys are gonna go on getting killed till it's over.

Liv, that boy trusted me. I sent him to his death.

There's no way you could know that would happen.

You see, he said he had a feeling about this thing.

He said he didn't want to go.

If I hadn't gone to his house that day, he'd still be alive.

He'd be out hunting possum. He'd be..

He'd be sitting on his front porch listening to bullfrogs.

He'd probably be in jail, you'd blame yourself for that too.

Liv...I was the one who drafted him.

I sent him off or he'd be alive today.

I hate this draft board job, Liv.

I can't stand playing God to my neighbors' sons.

Let's go to bed.

We'll pay our respects to the Satterfields in the morning.

- You heard about Tommy? - Yes, we did.

I'm truly sorry. I wish I could have gone in his place.

I mean that.

I baked this morning. I thought you'd like some fresh bread.

This here's my married daughter, Pearl.

She come over from Hickory Ridge soon as she got the news.

It's a help to have loved ones near you at a time like this.

Ma's gonna miss Tommy something fierce.

Tommy never even got to fight in the war.

He died before he got there.

It seems like such an awful waste.

I know it's small comfort

but at least Tommy never had to take another life.

'Many are coming home scarred in ways we can't even see.'

I wouldn't care how he came back, Mrs. Walton.

Can I get you folks something? A glass of cider?

Some other time, Pearl.

You ever come after my Joe, Mr. Walton, I'm gonna hide him

so deep in the woods a hound dog couldn't find him.

Calvin around?

I ain't seen him since early morning.

He took the news hard.

I'd like to have a talk with him.

You'll have to come back, then.

Sometimes he goes off two, three days at a time.

Would it help if we stayed and kept you company for a while?

No need. Pearl will stay long as I need her.

She's a good girl.

I wish there was something we could say or do.

There ain't nothing.

The Lord giveth and he taketh away.

I hope you never have to see what the taking away is like.

(sobbing)

[melancholic music]

Boy, every time I read this newspaper

I wish I studied geography a little more.

Where the heck is Tunisia?

I don't know or care. Aimee and I are going on our picnic.

- Tunisia is in Africa. - That I know.

There's a whale of a battle going on right now.

Marshmallows. Hot dogs. Where'd you get this stuff?

They're fringe benefits. You forget, I work for Ike.

I also remember Aimee invited me on this picnic.

'She was just being polite.'

We wanna be alone. We got a lot to catch up on.

I'll be happy to leave you alone

after we're done roasting marshmallows.

What are you talking about, Jim-Bob?

Tagging along with all these little girls.

Aimee's not so little anymore.

Besides, Tanya started going out with soldiers from Camp Rockfish

so I thought I'd get myself a younger woman.

You and Errol Flynn, huh?

If you're gonna force yourself upon us, you'd better take that.

With pleasure.

'Bye.'

- Hi, Cindy. How you doing? - None of your business!

What's the matter?

I'm just getting tired of people wondering

whether or not I'm pregnant.

Jim-Bob only wanted to know how you're feeling.

Well, it isn't just family anymore. Now it's friends.

You know what Ike said to me?

He wondered when we'd be getting ready for a little stranger.

I could throw up, only he'd think it was a symptom.

Ike didn't mean anything by it.

Cindy, people around here, they care for each other.

They wanna share things, like marriage or having a child.

They expect to share it.

If it makes you feel uncomfortable

I'll talk to Ike and tell him to lay off.

I might not resent it so much if..

[sighs]

Ben, I want so much to have your baby

but what if it doesn't happen?

Then I'll have you all to myself.

Stupid J.D.! I've to do everything!

I have to run the Personnel Department.

I have to make sure the machinery's running.

Get the shipments out on time.

Listen to everybody's gripes. Cut government red tape.

I end up doing everything and I don't even get a raise!

Well, that felt good.

It's alright, ladies.

Erin's filing system is efficient, if noisy.

- Feel better? - You bet.

Well, then, march right into J.D.'s office

and tell him you want that job and a big raise.

- I wouldn't know what to say. - I just said it.

J.D., I want that job and a raise.

'A big raise.'

J.D., I want that job and a big raise!

- Erin. - Stronger!

J.D., I want that job and a big raise! Do you hear me?

They heard you all over Rockfish, Erin.

Of course I heard you.

Well?

- What job? - Assistant Manager.

You? Assistant Manager? My right-hand man?

(Mary) 'Come on, J.D., she's doing the job now.'

And I appreciate it.

But it's only temporary, till I find the right man.

'J.D., how can you say that?'

I've been finding the right women for this plant for months.

That's why you've stayed in business.

But you're not like 'em, Erin.

'You're too young and pretty'

'to take on that much responsibility.'

It's not her looks and her age

that have anything to do with running this tin-plated plant.

It's her ability!

You don't have to insult Pickett Metal, Mary Ellen.

We've got enough bossy women around here as it is.

'Now, I will consider a raise for you, Erin'

but you taking that job is out of the question.

Oh yes, file these, will you?

[dramatic music]

Mr. Godsey, I want you to listen to this.

"Dear Diary, I have found that life back here at home

"will not be as dreary as I had feared.

"Though Elizabeth seems rather young

"and quaint now, her brother, Jim-Bob

"has grown into a handsome and sexy young man."

Jim-Bob? Sexy?

You're not reading Aimee's diary?

It's quite alright.

Aimee has gone to a picnic with Elizabeth and Jim-Bob.

But that's supposed to be private. For her eyes only.

I know.

What else does she say?

She is obviously very interested in Jim-Bob!

But Jim-Bob's got to be three years older than she is.

Girls develop so much quicker than boys.

I'm sure that Aimee's IQ and social graces

are far more advanced than Jim-Bob's.

I wish she'd use her charms on the customers

that come into the store.

Now, Mr. Godsey, let us not undo

a whole year's training in the social graces

by exposing her to these clods in this backwater community.

It's those clods that make it possible

for her to go away to a private school!

Please, Mr. Godsey, do not remind her

that she is of the mercantile class.

I myself may have to live out a life

of drudgery in the business world

but my daughter is going to rise above it.

She will have every opportunity to experience everything in life

that an educated young lady should.

Like reading other people's diaries?

Well, I wouldn't expect you to understand.

I'm doing this for her own good.

One can't be too careful

in guiding a young girl into womanhood.

How else would I know her thoughts?

You could ask her, Corabeth!

And embarrass us both? Really!

Look out.

I hope everyone's had enough marshmallows.

It was a feast, Elizabeth.

"I cried for madder music and for stronger wine

"But when the feast is finished and the lamps expire

"Then falls thy shadow, Cynara! The night is thine."

- Who's Cynara? - She was the poet's mistress.

He had a lot of affairs, but he always came back to her.

What do they teach you there?

'The classics, mostly. Etiquette.'

How to behave when a boy asks you out for a date.

Might come in handy in a couple years.

- I've saved all your letters. - I've saved all yours, too.

Along with the ones I got from Lieutenant Channon.

You got letters from a lieutenant?

There was a military school on the other side of the river.

Lieutenant Channon was one of the students.

We met at a dance and afterwards, he'd leave letters

for me under a board on the footbridge.

- Was he cute? - He kinda looked like Jim-Bob.

My friends said he was too old for me

but I've always believed that age really isn't important

when two people are drawn to each other.

Let's go wading.

Hey, what are you doing?

Red ant. I didn't want it to bite you.

Doesn't anybody want to go wading?

[giggling continues]

(Jim) 'Oh, yeah? Red ant, huh?'

[giggling continues]

This old table always looks better

with lots of places set around it.

I've always envied big families.

That's good, considering where you've ended up.

- When did Jason call? - He didn't.

But we're setting a place for him.

Just call it woman's intuition.

Or maybe mother's wishful thinking.

Besides, it saves on the phone bills.

[dog barking]

Looks like it still works.

[instrumental music]

Hi, mama.

Sure makes a difference knowing

you're here when I'm coming home.

I know you're close by, but you seem so far away.

- How's it going? - Okay, I reckon.

You gonna get to stay on at Camp Rockfish?

I hope so. I'm still not good at doing things the army way.

You gotta be real tough to get a bunch of recruits through basic.

I know. I raised a family, remember?

Shut up, shape up or ship out. You hear me?

Yes, sir.

[laughing]

That's all there is to it. Now, why don't you try it?

Oh, come on, Ben. I get enough of this all week.

You want to be a sergeant or what?

- Yeah, come on. - Come on.

Alright. Alright.

Not that hard.

Detail.

Attention!

Right face!

What's the matter, Lapinsky?

You've got a right hand and a left hand.

- Don't you know the difference? - Lapinsky?

You gotta know the difference between your right and left.

Now get with it. Wipe that silly grin off your silly face!

Hey.

Jason, you're never gonna make it.

You're wrinkling my uniform.

Oh, yeah? Alright, you're never gonna make it.

You guys are going to the brig.

They'd say "Let's play blind man's bluff," to get rid of me

and then tie a cloth around my eyes spin me around and run off.

I mean off. They'd just ditch me!

Big brothers can sure be mean sometimes.

It wasn't big brothers. It was Mary Ellen and Erin.

It's nice, us being together like this.

Most everyone, anyway.

I wonder what John-Boy's doing tonight.

He's probably wondering what we're doing.

(male #1) 'John Walton, I want to see you!'

'It's Calvin Satterfield, Walton. Are you coming out?'

Calvin sounds like he's had a lot of mountain dew.

- You be careful, John. - 'Don't worry.'

[intense music]

Here I am, Calvin. What can I do for you?

'Stay right where you are.'

'You can hear what I've got to say right from there.'

I'm real sorry to hear about Tommy, Calvin.

It tears me up for sure.

It's gonna hurt you even more.

You're gonna be sorry for the day you took my boy off to die.

-You and your local draft board. - 'I know how you feel, Calvin.'

'But drinking isn't gonna take it away'

'and it won't bring Tommy back to take it out on me.'

That depends on how I do it, I'd say.

I'm gonna make you a trade, Walton.

You'll be paying for the life of my son

with the life of one of your own.

You hear me?

- Calvin, you're drunk. - 'Stay where you are.'

There won't be no changing me. Not when it comes

to an eye for an eye and a son for a son you hear?

[gunfire]

Stay down.

[dramatic music]

[theme music]

[music continues]

You didn't get much sleep last night.

Since when have you been keeping count?

I heard you and mama going to bed.

[sighs]

You know, you did a lotta talking.

Well, your mama and I have a lotta catching up to do.

It sounded more like arguing.

Little pitchers have big ears.

You know, Mr. Satterfield is like bad dreams I used to have

except that he's real.

Honey, I told you, last night he was drunk

and he was all upset about his son Tommy.

I'm sure this morning he's gonna feel kinda foolish.

Maybe the boys should go away for a while. I'm really scared.

There's no need for anybody to hide, Elizabeth.

I told you, I'll handle it. Stop worrying, okay?

Elizabeth, the bathroom's free, hurry up, get ready for church.

Aimee and I are going to walk together.

Good. You've hardly seen her since she's been home.

It's not my fault.

She's worried about Calvin Satterfield, isn't she?

- She's taking it too seriously. - I hardly slept last night.

I wish you change your mind about calling the sheriff.

We've been through this.

I know how Calvin feels. He's gonna work it out.

Calvin Satterfield's not a man to be taken lightly.

- And you know that. - It's all gonna blow over.

I'm not starting a shooting war in these mountains.

Wonder how you stand by and do nothing

when your sons' lives may be in danger.

I'll take action if I have to take action.

For now, I'm through talking about it.

I just can't understand why they let a man like that

run around loose.

If they locked up all backwoodsmen that

got drunk and fired a gun around here

they'd have to build a whole new jail.

I think that old man Satterfield had a better reason than most.

What reason?

I am really sorry about what happened to his son.

But I don't see anyone else threatening anybody.

Cindy, it's like the code of the hills.

I mean, a lotta these families have been up here for centuries

'and they're proud and independent.'

They settle their differences. It's like, "An eye for an eye."

Or, "If you steal my mule, I'll steal yours."

We're not talking about mules!

I was thinking of the last honest-to-goodness feud

'was settled when my daddy was just a little boy.'

It went on for so many generations

they don't even know how it got started.

'Well, how did they settle it?'

Well, all the men either died or got killed off.

I'm beginning to wonder if I even want to

bring up a child in this place.

At least, I can hope for a girl.

(Elizabeth) I don't think I'd like to go away to school.

(Aimee) Daddy didn't want me to, but mama insisted.

I don't see what's wrong with the Walton's Mountain School.

Well, nothing, if you just want to learn the three R's.

Mama says a private school makes you a more polished person.

I guess that's what is different about you. You're more polished.

Remember that book you wrote me to read, "Jane Eyre?"

- Did you? - I borrowed it from your mum.

Wouldn't you love Mr. Rochester

to come galloping through the mist towards you?

Orson Welles plays him in the movie.

Wanna see it? It opens Saturday in Rockfish.

Sure! Even though the movie never is as good as the book.

It'll be like old days, except I don't like the front row.

Who does?

[car approaching]

- Anybody want a lift? - How about it, Elizabeth?

You agreed to walk.

(Aimee) 'I know, but my feet are hurting.'

(Elizabeth) 'You shouldn't have worn high heels.'

- 'Come on.' - I'm walking.

I'm riding.

Sure you don't want to change your mind, Elizabeth?

Elizabeth told me what happened last night. Aren't you scared?

That crazy, old man? He'd better not try anything with me.

We could be in danger this very minute.

Maybe you better move over here and protect me.

Jim-Bob! I've never even had a date with you.

We can fix that. How about a movie with me on Saturday?

Saturday?

Yeah. "Jane Eyre's" playing. It's supposed to be pretty good.

You got nothing better to do, do you?

No, no, not really.

My, oh, my, oh, my!

Now, who are these lovely ladies?

Well, the flower of Southern womanhood, I do believe.

That's the way I like to see my ladies.

You sure don't look like that Rosie the Riveter this morning.

Well, thank you, J.D. It certainly is nice

to know what the boss really does like.

Although it is hard to figure what he likes

'when it comes to getting an assistant manager.'

Now, Erin, don't you trouble your pretty, little head

with working problems on your day off.

'The way you look today, I could hardly'

'think of you as my right-hand man.'

See you lovely ladies in church.

"Day off." This afternoon, I'll be doing the personal work

that I didn't have time for this week.

"Flower of Southern womanhood," is it?

- Then that's what he will get! - What?

Come along, Miss Scarlett, and I will explain it to you.

(Corabeth) Olivia!

It's so nice to have you in regular attendance

at our little house of worship again.

Nice to see you in church, Olivia.

- You too, Jason. - Thank you, Ike.

Oh, Jason, you look so nice in your uniform.

Don't you think so, Olivia?

I guess I prefer seeing him in his coveralls

but I must admit, he does something for the uniform.

[car approaching]

Well..

Olivia..

...don't you feel that Aimee is a bit young

for Jim-Bob to be pursuing so ardently?

From what I've heard, it's not just Jim-Bob

that's doing the pursuing.

- I beg your pardon? - You're right, Olivia.

I think Aimee's learned an awful lotta very adult ways

at that fancy finishing school.

Come, Mr. Godsey. We must join the choir. Come along.

You go on ahead, Jason, I'll wait for Elizabeth.

Aimee was supposed to walk to church with her.

- I'll save you a seat. - Okay.

I hate Aimee and I hate Jim-Bob

and I hate myself and I hate the entire world!

(Mary Ellen) 'No, John Curtis, hot!'

[John Curtis crying]

'John Curtis, hot! No!'

What happened?

John Curtis won't stay away from the stove

so he's gonna have to wait for his dinner upstairs.

[violin music]

Mary Ellen sure is hard on that kid sometimes.

Well, if it keeps him from putting his hand

on that stove, maybe she's being kind.

I reckon you and mama went through that.

With every one of you.

Maybe that's what I ought to start doing.

Don't you think you ought to get a family first?

I got one. The new recruits are at the base.

Sergeant thinks I ought to be tougher on 'em.

Stop babying 'em along.

I think maybe your sergeant's right, son.

I feel sorry for those guys.

They're already homesick and confused enough as it is.

'Why would I want to make things any tougher on them?'

For the same reason Mary Ellen bears down on John Curtis.

You mean being tough to be kind?

If it saves one of your soldiers from getting shot in the head

because he didn't obey orders fast enough

I'd say, that's being kind.

(Mary Ellen) Tommy Satterfield was such a nice guy.

(Ben) I wish his pa was as nice.

He needs time. Grief can be hard to live with.

(John) 'Mary Ellen's right.'

The more we think about last night, the worse it seems.

Let's try to forget about it.

It's Sunday, Liv is home and thank the Lord.

Our Heavenly Father

bless this food before us and all of us who are gathered

here on this day of rest and worship.

Bless those who are not with us, John-Boy and Grandma.

Bless families who are grieving for their lost loved ones.

Let the war be over soon

that once again there may be peace on Earth.

- Amen. - Amen.

- Looks nice, mama. - Start that, son.

Offer your wife some first.

[slow music]

Thanks, Ben.

You don't have to wait for me. Billy won't be long.

We could take you to camp if you want.

Thanks, anyway, but Billy would wonder what happened to me.

It was sure good seeing you, Jason.

It was good to be home, believe me.

You two seem to be getting along okay.

Oh, you bet. You ought to settle down, Jason, and get married.

You just find me somebody like Cindy, I'll be hooked for sure.

You find your own, soldier.

[car approaching]

(Jason) 'Look at that guy!'

He didn't even slow down for that stop sign.

(Ben) 'Hey! Watch it!'

Come on, Ben, let's get outta here.

I never figured on seeing two of the Walton boys

outta the coop so quick.

It was right obliging of you.

We've got no fight with you, Mr. Satterfield.

Better go on home, you're acting like you're still drunk.

Don't you be telling me what to do, boy.

It's lucky for you, you got your woman with you

or I'd be tempted to settle things with your pa right now.

You just tell him for me

I meant every word of what I said.

It won't come now..

...but it will come.

[dramatic music]

[car door slams]

Boy, you sure can tell there's a war on, as scarce as gas is.

I'm mighty tired of these ration stamps, I can tell you.

It'll be over as soon as they win that thing over there.

Then good, old American know-how will take over

and this won't happen again.

And if it does, well then, the Government will handle it.

- I hope you're right. - You've got to have faith.

I'll get your change.

'Figured you were drunk when you come by the house.'

I can forget that because of Tommy.

I ain't asking you to forget it.

Ben told me what happened.

You stay away from my family. This is between you and me.

If anybody's gonna have it out, we will.

It's what you might call justice.

You having to worry on your boys the way I did on Tommy.

Never knowing when something might happen to one of them.

It's your turn to play the waiting game now, John.

Here's your change, John. Morning, Calvin.

I stopped by to ask if there's any word

on when Tommy's body's coming home.

- Army said they'd let me know. - Nothing today.

It will come.

All such things do.

I'll let you know when it does.

What did he say to you? He threaten you again?

Forget it.

He's coming.

Why, it's Mr. J.D. Pickett himself!

How nice of you to come calling, sir.

Do have a demitasse and a homemade cookie

fresh from mama's kitchen this very morning.

Everyone knows how much you admire a woman

who can keep her femininity

even though she is working hard to serve her country.

[opens drawer]

So, I've decided to try and please you

as a lady of charm and grace

rather than an ordinary personal manager

or for that matter, an assistant manager

truly a strong man's job!

Now, Erin, you listen to me! You--

Oh, my! This must be today's mail.

What do you know, I haven't even done anything with

last week's mail.

Oh, fiddle-dee-dee! I'll just put it away for now.

Perhaps, I'll think of it tomorrow

or maybe the day after.

Oh, my! I do hope I haven't done anything wrong.

I do hate to see a grown man cry.

John Curtis, look, here's some toast for you.

Now, don't spill your milk, okay?

- Good morning. - Good morning, honey.

Cindy, sunny side up, just like you ordered them.

Thanks, Mary Ellen.

(Mary Ellen) Here she is, the brand-new Assistant Manager

'of the Pickett Metal Plant!'

- 'Honey, you look wonderful.' - 'Oh, thank you.'

(Erin) 'I'm trying to feel like an assistant manager.'

You certainly look the part. I'm proud of you.

I gotta give Mary Ellen some credit for getting me the job.

Well, you did most of it yourself

'with a little help from the hoop skirt of the Baldwins.'

Is everything alright, Cindy? You look awful pale to me.

- You can have my eggs, Ben. - Something wrong with them?

They just keep staring up at me.

Oh, I don't know, all of a sudden

I just feel so light-headed and queasy.

I seem to recall a feeling that way from time to time

and it always meant the same thing.

You think maybe congratulations are in order?

Morning sickness?

I have morning sickness! Oh, Ben, we have a baby!

- Oh, excuse me. - I'm gonna go with you.

[cheering]

Boy, the Allies are sure mopping up in North Africa.

We should do the same in this general merchandise store.

Those windows are a sorry sight.

Planning on doing them while you're at the Red Cross meeting.

- Gonna ask Aimee to help me. - Sorry, going out with mama.

You think she's old enough for the Red Cross?

Anyone can roll bandages.

I am eager for Aimee to take her place in society.

That way, she won't wash windows the rest of her life.

I'm also anxious for people to see

what a finished, young lady she has become.

Oh, your gloves, Cherie.

Oh, I'm sorry, mama, I left them in church.

I'll loan you a pair of mine.

A young lady never goes out in public without her gloves.

Wait here.

- Hey, Ike. Hi, Aimee. - Look who's here. Jim-Bob.

I hear the two of you have discovered each other.

Daddy..

After all, I wouldn't allow anybody to take my daughter out

but Jim-Bob, I've known him since he's

been a pint-sized twerp in baggy pants.

Come on, Ike..

Well, you know, Corabeth wouldn't even

let the Prince of Wales take Aimee out.

[Ike chuckles]

Did you bring by that scrap metal?

No, but I know about a junk car.

I was gonna get parts. You wanna come with me?

- Now? - 'It's a real pretty day.'

Daddy, would it be alright?

Well, what about the Red Cross meeting? And how about mama?

I can go out with her any day.

Young lady, I don't like your attitude.

'And I don't want you to disappoint her that way.'

Jim-Bob, Aimee has got some other plans this afternoon.

- Hi, Corabeth. - Oh, good afternoon, Jim-Bob.

Here you are, Cherie, perhaps a bit large

but scented with pomander.

Oh!

Maybe we'll go out some other time.

- I'll see you Saturday, okay? - Bye-bye.

Au revoir.

Now, see to the windows.

Don't leave them streaked, the way you did the last time.

Corabeth, I have been washing those windows

since long before you were around here.

Nobody with any mannersuses toothpicks.

Aimee, you are not speak to your father in that tone of voice..

...even if it is true.

Corporal Walton, have I got this stuff on right?

You don't have any of this gear on right, Lapinsky.

You were supposed to practice putting it on over the weekend.

I didn't have time. I was on guard duty Saturday and Sunday.

You weren't scheduled for that.

I was after Sergeant Barnes looked in my foot locker.

You didn't tell me it had to be just so..

I did tell you. You weren't listening.

- Any other men put on report? - I don't think so.

That means they were listening.

Maybe you need to be yelled at, Lapinsky.

- You think that would help? - It couldn't hurt.

Alright, dog-face! Get with it.

I'll make a soldier outta you, even if you end up hating me!

- I couldn't do that. - Wanna bet?

Take this gear back to your bunk and put it on right!

- So, you're not gonna help me? - I am helping you!

More than you'll ever know. Now, get going!

Move it. On the double.

[slow music]

[dramatic music]

[engine sputtering]

[music continues]

Ep and me are going to the Mountain.

Until we get this thing settled

I don't want you two wandering off the beaten path.

I wanna go to Satterfield's place with a loaded shotgun!

Ben, we're not gonna handle it like that.

Just 'cause Cal wants to take the law in his own hands

you can't do the same.

You sit tight, both of you.

Okay, daddy.

[engine starts]

- You sure are lucky, Jim-Bob. - Yeah, I was scared to death.

- I'll bet. - Breakfast is ready!

- I'll help you after breakfast. - Yeah, thanks, Ben.

Yeah.

- That was close, wasn't it? - Yeah, it sure was.

You know, Jim-Bob, I've been thinking

horrible things about you all week.

Yeah, I noticed you've been unfriendly. What did I do?

Aimee was to go to the movies with me.

- She didn't tell me that. - I know.

'Why didn't you say something to her?'

Well, when you're feeling hurt and left out

you don't wanna go telling people.

Anyway, I'm glad you didn't get hurt.

Elizabeth, what happened yesterday wasn't your fault.

I know. Just like it isn't your fault

that Aimee likes you more than she likes me.

'Do you wanna eat?'

I'll do the talking, John. Let's keep it legal.

That's why I brought you along, Ep.

Morning, Mrs. Satterfield. Is Cal around?

He's over in the meadow by the lake, digging our Tommy's grave.

We're sorry to hear about Tommy.

Come on, John.

Morning, Cal. You got a minute?

Cal, yesterday somebody took a shot at one of John's boys.

- And it came awful close. - Too close to be an accident.

Calvin, this thing has gone too far.

This used to be Tommy's favorite spot on the whole mountain.

Never thought I'd be burying him here.

Now, Cal, now you gotta remember

John was serving on a legally-formed draft board.

'He's not to be held responsible for your boy's death.'

'He was acting for the people of the United States.'

Did I blame John? Did you hear me say that, sheriff?

No, but you've made threats when your boy was killed.

- Well, so he says. - I got no reason to lie.

I've been living on this mountain a long time.

- Have I ever made trouble? - Before now, no.

(Cal) 'John's boy say he saw someone shooting at him?'

- He didn't wanna stick around. - Well, then, you got no proof.

It's Satterfield word against Walton word.

He's right, John.

I should've knowed this was a waste of time.

I bring the law to try and talk sense into you.

- I should've come alone. - You're right, John Walton.

Best way to settle anything. Man to man.

Hold it right there. Now, listen to me, both of you!

'My hands are tied now, but that doesn't mean'

I can't come down hard if I hear either one

of you've taken the law in your own hands.

- Do you understand me, Cal? - I understand.

'John?'

Alright. Now, if anything happens to one of John's boys.

- 'I'm coming after you, Cal.' - Be a little late, eh, Ep?

Hut, two, three, four. Hut, two, three, four.

- Over here, Walton. - To the rear, hut!

Hut, two, three, four.

By the right flank, hut!

Hut, two, three, four. Detail, halt!

Order arms!

I suppose you think you've drilled some sense

into these empty headed sad sacks?

I've been trying, sergeant. They've been working hard.

- Well, it's paid off. - I don't understand.

We're forming a new platoon when we go on bivouac.

These men are out of the awkward squad.

You'll be in charge, Sergeant Walton.

- Hey! - Knock it off!

'Wipe that silly grin off your face.'

'You're supposed to be at attention.'

Thank you, Sergeant. We'll do our best.

You know, Walton, I think you will.

All of you. Carry on, sergeant.

About, hut!

Right shoulder...arms!

Forward..

[exclaims]

Hut, two, three, four. Hut, two, three, four.

I'm going to Ike's. I thought you might wanna come.

No, thanks.

Might give you a chance to visit with Aimee.

- Something wrong? - It's kinda hard to talk about.

It won't get any easier if you keep it to yourself.

You had a best friend at my age?

I sure did. Her name was Betty Blue Webber.

'What happened to her?'

She married a man who owned a hotel.

While I was having babies, she was traveling

and going to parties and getting her picture in the society page.

We sort of grew apart.

I thought when Aimee returned, it'd be like it used to be.

We'd sew together, gather wildflowers

practice our ballet steps

but now she's too sophisticated.

Well, people grow at different speeds.

She's got a little spurt on you, that's all. You'll catch up.

We were supposed to go to the movies together

and she decided she'd rather go with Jim-Bob.

Girls have been doing that ever since I can remember.

It seems they reach an age where one date with a boy

is more important than a whole friendship.

It's especially bad when the boy is your brother.

There's something I didn't tell you about Betty Webber.

'What's that?'

If she moved down the road from me tomorrow

even after all these years

and the different kinds of lives we've led

she'd still be my best friend.

(Ep) 'Well, you didn't expect him to admit it, did you?'

(John) 'I guess they don't make rules for men like

'Calvin Satterfield.'

I did my best, John.

Anyway, he said he understood about taking on the law--

I heard him say a lot. Most of it lies.

I'd like to think that all the hard feelings

will be buried along with that boy.

On the other hand, he'll have that grave to remind him.

John, just don't do anything foolish.

Not if I can help it, Ep.

Well, you sure ordered enough of this stuff.

Leg makeup. Whoever heard of such a thing?

Quite a few people, as a matter of fact.

Movie stars, heroines of assembly lines

your wife and daughter.

If you kept up with things

you'd know that leg makeup is replacing stockings.

Yeah? What do you do when you run outta leather?

You use foot makeup?

What's the matter? Nobody gotta sense of humor, except me?

Jim-Bob! We heard about last night. Pretty close call, huh?

We are so relieved that you're alright.

- Aimee, could I talk to you? - Of course. Excuse me a moment.

Now, you two be sure to stay where we can see you both.

You'll have to excuse my father, Jim-Bob.

Sometimes he can be quite gross.

You know, it's bad enough my wife thinks I'm a jerk.

But now my daughter's starting to act that way, too.

I don't think you're a jerk, Ike.

Perhaps a bit tasteless from time to time.

All children find fault with their parents.

If they don't, they're not ready to lead lives of their own.

I think you will find that little girls

even when they become big girls

still need their daddies from time to time.

I think it's that finishing school.

She's too finished for her own good.

I hate to admit it, but I have noticed lately

that Aimee is showing signs

of turning into a regular, little snob.

I suppose, you're going to tell me you weren't even frightened.

As a matter of fact, I was scared stiff.

It takes a very brave person to admit that.

All you gotta be is honest.

Aimee.

I'm gonna have to break our date for the movies this Saturday.

Why? I told everybody about it.

Because you're too young for me.

I thought you agreed with me. It's not the age that matters

but the degree of sophistication a person has.

Why didn't you tell me that you and Elizabeth

were already planning to go see "Jane Eyre?"

- Elizabeth understands. - Well, I don't understand.

You go and spend all that time at finishing school

learning to eat with the right fork, make polite conversation.

Then you come back and you hurt your best friend.

'There are some things good manners can't make up for.'

I guess, I don't blame you for being mad.

I'm not mad. Just a little disappointed.

Perhaps we could get together some other time.

Aimee, you're real cute, but you got a lot of growing up to do.

Maybe in a couple of years.

[door opens]

Daddy.

What did he say to you? What'd he do to you?

I knew he wasn't good enough for you all along.

No. No, it's the other way around.

I've been awful to just about everyone, including you.

Well, that's what daddies are for.

Uh, you know, you're just growing up

and you gotta make some mistakes as you go along.

I've sure been doing that lately.

You mustn't blame yourself, Cherie.

We're lucky to have a kind, generous man to put up with us.

I don't just put up with you.

I just...love you both.

There's somebody else you should be talking to, too.

Elizabeth.

I don't know if I can face her.

She's an old friend, I'm sure she'll understand.

- I hope so. - Do you want us to come along?

No, no, I-I got myself into this.

Now, you're talking like Aimee Godsey.

You want me to give you a push?

No, thank you. I was just sitting here.

I hardly ever use it anymore.

- How about going for a walk? - I was gonna wash my hair.

I'll wait.

This is the first time you've come seen me since you returned.

- I've been sort of busy. - Now, I'm busy.

Oh.

Elizabeth, I didn't mean to hurt you.

I had a lotta friends at school

and a couple of them were pretty good friends.

But I never really had a friend like you.

And that's what I came over to say, really.

You know, I really missed you.

Maybe I don't have to wash my hair right now.

Let's go to my place. I've gotta new Frank Sinatra album.

Mama gotta carton of leg makeup. Let's see how it looks on us.

You gotta show me those love letters from Lieutenant Channon.

- You'll die! They're so silly. - Let's race.

Okay!

[dramatic music]

John? Just wish there was something more I could do.

You did what you could, Ep.

I'll be checking with you.

John?

[dramatic music]

[music continues]

- John, what are you doing? - There was nothing Ep could do.

You think there's something you can do with that?

Satterfield will only straight talk with a gun.

All I plan to do is talk.

I've been wishing you'd do something, but not this.

Wont let my sons walk around in fear of pot shots taken at 'em.

- And if he takes a shot at you? - Let him try.

- I'm going with you. - Liv, I have to do this alone.

[dramatic music]

- Daddy! I want to go with you. - You don't even know where.

- I have a fair idea. - You know, I gotta go alone.

Don't want you to go alone. You may walk into something.

I appreciate your worry, son.

But this is something I gotta do by myself.

[music continues]

Mama, where's Daddy going with his gun?

This rug needs beating, help me roll it up. We'll carry it out.

He's going to Satterfield's. I better go get Ben.

Jim-Bob.

All the young men are going off to fight old men's battles.

Your daddy wants to fight his own.

But we already did this rug before you got back.

Never could do it well enough to please me, remember?

Anyway, there's nothing like doing it yourself.

(knocking on door)

- Ike? - Olivia.

- Hey, Ike. - Jim-Bob.

The boy came by the store, was asking directions to your house.

And...I thought I better bring him over and so I did.

What is it, Ike? What are you talking about?

Olivia, sometimes telegrams bring good news, you know.

And I'm sure that's the case with this one.

I'm-I'm almost positive it is.

[dramatic music]

Calvin, I wanna talk with you!

Calvin!

[music continues]

You're lucky, John.

I was headed into town. You might have missed me.

This won't take long.

I just got word. Tommy's body is over at the depot.

I was gonna go fetch him.

That's a sad trip. I wouldn't like to make it.

Never could tell when you might have to.

What happened yesterday, Calvin?

You could have killed my boy, Jim-Bob.

You're too good a shot to miss.

Let's just say that boy of yours favored Tommy too much.

Maybe I had second thoughts when I was squeezing the trigger.

Or maybe it was just a warning shot meant for you, John Walton.

I've seen a lot of your son, Tommy, in my Jim-Bob.

Believe me, Calvin, this hurts me deep.

'I've worked closely with Tommy. I thought of him as my own son.'

'All those boys we send off, they're like my sons.'

If it would do any good, you could cut me down right here.

But if it's revenge you're after, here I am.

Let it be between us.

[music continues]

You're not hurting like me, John Walton.

I got a hollow space inside.

I try to fill it up with hard liquor, but it don't help.

Don't come in here. Get out! Get out!

You hiding behind your woman now?

[music continues]

[music continues]

You know I don't read, John.

"The Secretary of War desires me to express his deep regret

"that your son, Staff Sergeant John Walton Junior, has been

"reported missing in action while on special assignment for

Stars and Stripes newspaper."

[dramatic music]

'Port arms.'

Ready.

Aim. Fire.

Aim. Fire.

Aim. Fire.

Port arms.

Present arms.

[birds chirping]

[melancholic music]

[music continues]

[playing TAPS on bugle]

[music continues]

[music continues]

[theme music]

[music continues]

[music ends]