Army Wives s05e05 Episode Script
Soldier On
Previously on Army Wives Who am I kidding? Why didn't I just go for the Atlanta job right away? Because I'm still in love with Chase.
Let's go! Wheels up in 20! We've got a long flight ahead of us.
Come on! Hey, Chase.
Listen, I need to talk to you, so give me a call as soon as you get this.
The Secretary of the Army has asked me to express his deep regret that your son, Jeremy, was killed in action outside Kandahar, Afghanistan.
Jeremy was our first KIA.
The guys really need me right now.
We need you, too.
I need you.
Home and safe, okay? It's a unit coin.
Without your help, I wouldn't be deploying tomorrow.
Hell, I might not even be here.
Lord, hold us in our loss and hear our prayers for Jeremy Sherwood, who lives beyond our touch yet within your closeness.
May those who loved him emerge from the pain of grief to find comfort in the memories of the time you shared together and gain strength from your grace to find peace and hope again.
I'm gonna reenlist.
What I mean is, I'd like to reenlist.
- Jeremy - My contract's up in a few months, just when I'm starting to get more responsibility.
I can do more.
It's like I finally know my job.
You'll redeploy.
You'll go to Afghanistan.
You know that.
I know.
But, Mom, I won't do this if you don't want me to.
D? D? Why don't you come to bed, honey? It's 2:00 a.
m.
You need your rest.
I'm going to stay a little longer.
Okay.
Was it the pizza? Excuse me? You were tossing and turning all night.
I figured it was the pepperoni.
Right.
Vegetarian next time.
Is that a unit coin? Yeah.
Jeremy Sherwood gave it to me.
I'm going to get the baby dressed.
Don't want to be late.
Denise? It's me.
In the nursery.
Morning.
Hey.
Just changing her into something warmer.
It's kind of chilly in here, isn't it? A little, maybe.
You want me to turn up the heat? No, I'll get it.
Don't worry, sweetheart, Mommy's going to warm you up.
Where's Frank? Out for a run.
Uh, Roxy called.
She wanted to know if you'd like gumbo for dinner.
Nah, tell her thank you, maybe next time.
All right.
How's that, sweetheart? Nice and toasty? Yeah.
I should've never let him reenlist.
It's what he wanted.
Yeah, if I had said no, he would still be alive.
Denise, you can't look at it that way.
I'm his mother.
He put his life in my hands.
Morning, Frank.
- Morning.
Here.
- Thanks.
Let me get that.
Yeah, I did a little straightening.
Dishwasher's running.
Okay? Thank you.
I've tried to clean up several times, but Denise keeps saying she's going to do it herself.
And I'm sure she will.
She hasn't left the house since the funeral.
It takes time, I know.
How are you holding up? Well, you know.
It's hard.
Frank, I'm here if you need anything.
Thank you.
These are great.
Are you sure Lucas is done with them? Yeah.
Major growth spurt.
But they should fit Finn, right? Yeah, perfect.
And whatever you can't use, just drop off at the clothing drive, okay? Gotcha.
Have you heard from Chase? No.
God knows where he is.
You know, on a mission somewhere.
You know, he still doesn't know that I turned down that job in Atlanta.
I know.
Sorry.
It is crazy how fast they grow up, huh? I know.
Our babies aren't babies anymore.
Not in some ways, anyway.
Finn's been sleeping in my bed lately.
Since Jeremy Nightmares? No.
He's worried about his dad.
I guess we're kind of helping each other.
Trevor was right there.
Just steps away from Jeremy.
It could have easily been him.
But it wasn't.
Not this time.
You can't go there.
How can I not? I know.
At ease.
Walk with me, Sergeant.
Yes, sir.
I'm putting Bravo Company up for a unit citation for your actions during Operation Diamondback.
You saved the mission when the Afghan unit couldn't get it done.
Thank you, sir.
The men will appreciate that.
How are you doing, Sergeant? I'm doing okay, sir.
The men are taking it pretty hard.
Specialist Sherwood was our first KIA.
I know.
It never gets easier, but the first time, it stays with you.
What's on your mind, Sergeant? Speak freely.
Sir, the Afghan Army isn't ready.
Specialist Sherwood was killed because we relied heavily on the Afghans to step up and they froze.
Specialist Sherwood was killed in combat, Sergeant, which by its very nature is chaotic and unforgiving.
Yeah, the Afghan Army is young and inexperienced, but it takes time to build a national force.
Time, leadership, and sacrifice.
Specialist Sherwood gave his life nobly in that cause.
Yes, sir.
You set the example, Sergeant.
Let's focus on the mission.
Headquarters is well aware of the challenges and we're taking measures to meet them.
- Understood, sir.
- Good.
You're doing outstanding work, Sergeant LeBlanc and I'm proud to have you in my command.
Thank you, sir.
Carry on.
You're breaking up, Rob.
Look, I'm back in Washington tonight.
We'll meet with the undersecretary first thing tomorrow, go over the specifics.
Rob? Rob? Damn it.
Max.
- Morning, General.
- Morning.
Our preliminary report.
The summary, anyway.
Thought you might like to review it before I take off.
Good.
Come on in.
Well? Good report.
But? But nothing.
I'm sure that's exactly what the State Department wants to hear.
- Coffee? - No, thanks.
You don't agree with the analysis? Do you? Well, the statistical models employed are proven Come on, Max, put away the spreadsheets and the PowerPoints and look at what's going on out there.
You really think the Afghan Army is ready to stand on its own? With the timelines we're facing? Our soldiers don't believe it.
And I don't, either.
And I'm concerned about morale for the long term.
So what are you saying? I think we need That's not going to happen.
I know that's not going to happen, but at the very least, we need more time.
If you could get that message across Understood.
Thanks for your help.
Yeah.
Travel safe.
Sounds like the normal stages of grief to me.
I mean, Denise needs to work through this in her own way.
I know.
I'm worried though.
She's neglecting herself.
And Frank.
She's obsessing over Molly.
It's not healthy.
If you were over there, Roland, you'd see for yourself.
Look, I've been there, Claudia Joy.
All I meant was, maybe you could talk to her.
Look, Denise is my friend, she's not my patient.
I thought, as a friend, you might be able to help.
The way you helped Emmalin after Amanda died, the way you helped me.
Okay, I'm sorry.
You have patients.
Hey, look.
If you think Denise needs counseling, here are two excellent therapists that I can recommend.
- Just tell them you spoke with me.
- All right.
I've got a group session.
Can you please give Denise my love? Sure.
There you go, folks.
Let me know if you need anything else, okay? You want me to take that? Be right back.
Shady! Twice in one month, lucky me.
Well, tell me, missy.
How lucky would you feel seeing me every day? Why, Shady Jackson, are you proposing? As a matter of fact, I am, Rox.
You got a minute? Um Hey, Alicia, could you run this? It's the guy in the baseball hat.
Thanks.
It's got to be quick.
What's going on? Well, you know how much I love the open road, but I can't see myself driving rigs much longer.
Then again, I can't see myself sitting on the couch watching the History Channel all the time either.
Tick tock.
Get to the proposing part.
Okay.
Well, ever since they closed Tully's a few months ago, it seems the only decent truck stop is 60 miles away.
Now I noticed that empty lot down the street was for sale and at a bargain price.
And with the traffic pattern the way it is on the strip, well You want to buy it and build a truck stop.
Bingo.
Well, that would bring more customers here.
And the Hump would bring more truckers there.
You read my mind.
What do you think? Are you kidding? I'm all for anything that brings more customers.
Good.
I was hoping you'd say that because, Rox, I want you to be my partner.
His partner? He wants you to be his partner? I know.
I thought he was joking at first.
But he's got a business plan and everything.
He wants me to help him manage the place, which I think I could do with some juggling.
It's the money part that's tricky.
Wait, what do you mean? He wants me to go in with him.
Okay, I knew this sounded too good to be true.
Here's the thing.
Shady's putting up 70%.
He only needs me to go 30.
Yeah, but that's still a lot.
Can you swing that? Well, I'd need a loan.
But I've got the Hump as collateral and my credit's good.
But, Roxy, you just paid off the IRS.
You sure you want to go into debt again? Well, Shady seems to have the numbers all worked out and they look good.
We'd be in the black in 18 months.
So what'd you tell him? I told him I got to think about it.
And I've got to talk to Trevor, obviously.
Right.
You think he's going to go for this? I don't know.
He gave me a hard time about the Hump Bar, but, hell, I turned that around, right? If Shady's numbers check out, I'll have the boys' college money before they even get to high school.
Yeah, but what happens if Trevor gets reassigned and you have to leave Fort Marshall? Well, a lot of things can happen, right? I just I got to be more prepared.
Yeah, I don't know, Rox.
I mean, this week has been just awful.
I know I can't wrap my head around anything right now.
Are you sure this is the best time to be thinking about this? Well, when should I? No, I'd just hate to see you do anything you'll regret.
I won't.
I was really surprised, Michael.
I thought Roland would want to talk to Denise, try to help.
Jeremy was his patient.
Roland cleared him for active duty.
That's got to be a weight.
True.
That didn't dawn on me.
One soldier's death affects so many people.
How are you doing, honey? I've been better.
I Well, on top of everything else, every time I think about Jeremy, I can't help thinking about Amanda.
I know.
I've been thinking about her, too.
A lot.
Have you talked to Emmalin? Mmm-hmm.
Last night.
She was a little down, but she's hanging in there.
It's not fair, to go through what she's been through so young.
She'll be okay, Michael.
Our little girl has amazing strength.
Wonder where she gets that from.
Hmm.
I miss you.
I miss you, too.
Okay, let's pick it up here next time.
All right.
Whatever you think, Doc.
Donna, would you schedule PFC Green for two more sessions? Sure.
So, same time next week? Actually, if you could give me just a minute.
Sure.
Yeah.
Sorry, Dr.
Burton, but, you had Patty give away his Wednesday slot.
You told us this was his last session.
Yeah, I know, but we've got some more work to do.
Just schedule him another time.
Okay, uh What? Green's commanding officer called.
He was expecting him to be cleared for duty this week.
Well, he's not.
Right.
I'll figure it out.
Thank you.
I want to thank all of you for coming out to our reenlistment ceremony today, to honor these outstanding warriors who've chosen to extend their commitment to our country.
We have an expression around here.
That when the Army enlists a soldier, it signs up a family as well.
And because of that, we are the strongest fighting force in the world.
Please raise your right hand and repeat after me.
- I I State your name.
Do solemnly affirm Do solemnly affirm That I will support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic.
That I will support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic.
That I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same.
That I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same.
And that I will obey the orders of the President of the United States.
And that I will obey the orders of the President of the United States.
And the orders of the officers appointed over me.
And the orders of the officers appointed over me.
According to regulations According to regulations And the Uniform Code of Military Justice.
And the Uniform Code of Military Justice.
Good to have you on board, Specialist.
Yes, sir.
I'm proud of you, Son.
Thank you, sir.
Thanks, Mom.
So help me God.
So help me God.
I don't know, Rox.
A truck stop? It's the perfect location, Trevor.
Like I said, the closest competition is like But what do you know about truck stops, babe? Well, it's a business.
Just like the Hump Bar is a business.
And I do pretty well for myself there.
Look, it's just It's crazy to invest money in something like this in a down economy.
Well, you know how I am.
Just crazy.
Look, come on, Rox, you asked my opinion, this is my opinion.
What if gas prices go through the roof, huh? Not to mention the fact that we would be in debt again.
Yeah, but And we don't have a clue where we're going to be six months from now.
Do you ever think about that? Yes, I thought about it.
Babe, I don't want to argue with you.
If it's really that important to you, we can talk about it when I get back, okay? When you get back.
Great.
Well, why don't you give me a date and I'll pencil it in? All I am saying is that if it's a good deal now, it will still be a good deal then, okay? Roxy? Never mind.
So, I got fried rice and moo shu pork.
I said I wasn't hungry, Frank.
D, we need to talk.
Uh Headquarters is asking when I'm going to be ready to go back.
Go back? Afghanistan.
Look, I don't have to just yet.
I can take extended bereavement.
But I've got a job to do, D.
Yeah, we lost a son.
But there are still a thousand sons and daughters over there and they're my responsibility.
I just don't know that I should be leaving right now, that's all.
- You want to go, go.
- D.
I want to do what's best.
I have been trying to help you.
I don't know that I am.
Hell, I don't know that I'm helping myself either.
Well, nothing can help right now, Frank.
Roland.
Roland.
What time is it? Little after 6:00.
Thanks.
How long have you been here? I don't know.
You want to talk about it? About what? It's just a little trouble sleeping, that's all.
I'm starting to worry about you.
Why? I'm concerned, babe.
You haven't been yourself lately.
It's been a tough week.
It'll pass.
And so it begins.
I've got her.
Why don't we go for a walk? It's a beautiful day.
You've been cooped up here all week.
Oh, I don't know, Claudia Joy.
It's almost time for her nap.
Oh.
I think fresh air would do her some good.
When's the last time Molly was outside? Come on, we'll keep it short.
You can put her down the minute we get back.
Sound good? Okay.
Good.
- Come on, baby.
- Come on, Molly.
Let's go for a little walk.
Yeah.
Frank's going back to Afghanistan.
Really? In a week.
I told him it was okay.
Hmm.
When Amanda died, I found long walks were the only thing that gave me some sense of peace.
I don't think I'll ever know peace again.
Oh! You will, honey.
You have a lot to live for.
Molly, Frank.
Your friends, work.
I think I'd like to go back now.
Please.
Sure.
Hey.
I got your message.
You wanted to talk? Now, the rig parking's over there.
Mmm-hmm.
Fuel island's over there.
The repair shop's there.
Behind that's the showers and laundry.
Laundry? Truck stops have Laundromats now? - Well, all the fancy ones do.
- Huh! Well, how about we offer free Internet, too? Well, there you go.
That's a great idea, Rox.
Now, you're starting to change your mind, aren't you? Maybe.
What happens if gas prices go up? Well, trucks ain't going to disappear.
I mean, people still need food, clothing, the basics.
How they going to get them? I'm telling you, I think this thing could be a bonanza for both of us.
Well, 30% is a little steep for me.
Think we could go 20? Rox, I'm leveraged to the hilt as is.
I suppose I could dig a little deeper.
Could you do 25%? I'll need a loan.
Understood, but you got the collateral.
Yeah, but then I'm on the hook for the Hump Bar.
Yeah.
Well, the way I see it, missy, everything in life's a gamble.
I mean, it's up to you, Rox, but if you need more time, I guess No, no, no.
I'm in.
- Yeah? - Put her there, partner.
- Wow.
- Yeah.
So, how you been? Don't joke.
Why not? Because I keep thinking that it could've been you.
When I saw the Casualty Notification Officers walking up, I Whoa.
What are you talking about? Oh, my God.
You don't know? Know what? Jeremy Sherwood was killed in Afghanistan.
Oh, no.
Yeah.
His funeral was last week.
- So it's been kind of rough around here.
- Oh! No.
It makes you think about what really matters.
Hey.
I left you that voicemail because I wanted to tell you that I turned down the job in Atlanta.
I want to spend the rest of my life with you.
Oh, my God, you're getting married? Quiet.
I don't want anyone to know yet.
You're getting married? I knew it! When's the big day? Well, we haven't decided yet because with Denise and all, you know.
- Yeah.
- We don't want to make things harder.
- I'm so happy for you.
- Thanks.
So how did it happen? Uh Well, this morning, I had to pick up a few groceries and when I drove back to the apartment, Chase was there.
Just waiting outside.
Did you know he was back in town? No.
Typical Chase.
Complete surprise.
I dropped the groceries.
Literally dropped the groceries on the sidewalk.
So what did you say? Um I don't think I said anything.
I just kissed him.
And then? You want me to paint you a whole picture? - Absolutely.
- Roxy.
Pamela, I have suffered through this soap opera for months.
You cannot cut me out of the final episode.
Okay.
Well, we ended up in the apartment.
I really don't know how, it's all kind of a blur.
And then he swooped you up in his arms and carried you into the bedroom? We didn't make it that far.
Not the first time, anyway.
Pamela Moran! I know.
It was kind of amazing.
With the enemy successfully repelled in this region, the key now is holding our ground.
Building relationships with the locals, establishing a peace that can be maintained as we draw down.
That is the mission now, gentlemen.
Any questions? Excellent.
Good luck.
Airborne.
Dismissed.
General Holden, hang back.
Yes, sir.
There's simply no way to sugarcoat this, Michael.
The short list for West Point superintendent has gone from three names to two.
You're not one of them.
Well, I appreciate you letting me know, sir.
The hell you do.
It's a bitter pill, but no sense keeping you in the dark until they're ready to formally announce.
Yes, sir.
Would you happen to know why I'm no longer in contention? You haven't seen today's Times? The Times, sir? It's a printout of an op-ed by Maxwell Abrams from the State Department.
- Max was just here.
- I know.
He quotes a high-level officer involved with day-to-day operations who claims that the American public have been sold a bill of goods on the drawdown.
We need more time and more troops to get the job done.
He doesn't mention my name.
Well, the Pentagon knows who he talked to.
"Bill of goods," Michael? - I never said that.
- What about the rest? It was a private conversation.
Michael, didn't the McChrystal incident teach you anything? Abrams is not a member of the press corps, General.
No, he's a member of the State Department with a book coming out, which is worse.
Sir, I never intended my personal opinions to be made public.
Then you shouldn't have said them.
Of course, officially, you didn't.
Your record remains intact, Michael.
There will be no formal entry in your file, no follow-up.
Just no promotion.
You've had a good run.
You should be proud.
Good day, ma'am.
Specialist Sherwood's personal effects have arrived from Afghanistan.
May we bring them in? - His personal effects? - His footlocker, ma'am.
Yeah, of course.
Where would you like it? - Uh, I don't know.
Over there.
- Okay.
The key.
Is there anything else we can do for you today, ma'am? Any questions? I can't think of anything.
Very well.
Sorry to disturb.
I blew it.
Oh, Michael, don't say that.
All you did was tell the truth.
No.
I gave my opinion which nobody asked for.
Have you reached Abrams? He was very apologetic.
Said he never meant to expose me.
You believe him? Does it matter? Yeah, it does to me.
The hell of it is I do believe him.
He says I told him to send a message.
He thought that meant he could use what I told him.
He could have checked with you before he published.
Yeah, he could have.
But he didn't.
Well, I'm proud of you.
You said what you did out of concern for your troops.
Nobody can fault you for that.
They can and they have.
Honey, I know you were excited about West Point, you'll have other opportunities.
There won't be a third star, Claudia Joy.
Not after this.
I've gone as far as I'm going to go.
You can't be sure of that.
It was a lapse in judgment with public consequences.
Not exactly what the Army's looking for at their highest levels.
So what now? Well, I've still got a job to do here.
I mean after that.
Honestly, I have no idea.
"Hey, Trevor" You got to be kidding me.
Boys! Two-minute warning! Go wash up! Trevor? What the hell are you doing, Roxy? I'm making dinner.
Why? Funny.
You know what I'm talking about.
Oh.
You got my e-mail? Yeah, I got your e-mail.
I thought we agreed not to do anything about the truck stop until I got back.
No, we did not agree on that.
And Shady says there are other buyers sniffing around.
So what? That can't be the only empty lot in town.
No, but it's the only one down the street from the Hump Bar.
And interest rates are going up.
It's good for the boys.
How is it good for the boys, Roxy? - Because I'm looking out for their future.
- Oh, and I'm not? That's not what I meant and you know it.
Can we please discuss this like adults? What's there to discuss? It's a done deal.
It's not a done deal.
I still have to get a loan.
I told you I don't want you spending our money on this.
Well, I'm not spending a penny from your paychecks.
It's all coming from the bank and the Hump Bar.
I thought the Hump Bar was our money, too.
It is, but I have to make some decisions on my own.
Why? Because you are not here.
Look, I supported you when you decided to stay with your men.
You can support me on this.
So that's what this is about? The fact that I didn't come back for the funeral? - No.
- Because if it is, Rox, really It's not.
It is not.
You keep telling me to be strong.
Well, I'm being strong.
For the family.
Hello? Trevor? Fine.
You do what you want.
Obviously, what I say doesn't matter anyway.
Hey, D? I'm home.
D? Hello? Claudia Joy, it's Frank.
Is Denise with you? No, why? Well, she's gone.
The small suitcase is missing, some of her clothes.
She took the diaper bag and Molly's favorite blanket.
She didn't call, leave a message, leave a note anywhere? No, she didn't.
And I've gone through the house twice.
- She's not answering.
- Let me just try.
Denise, it's Claudia Joy.
Would you please call me as soon as you get this? I'm worried about you.
Okay? Why the hell would she leave without telling me? Frank, after Amanda died, one night I just got in the car and started driving.
I was halfway to Asheville before I even realized it.
Well, did you take a packed bag with you? No.
Jeremy's? They brought it this afternoon while I was out.
So Denise was here alone when it arrived.
Yeah.
Frank, I'm sure she'll call.
She's not going to do anything foolish, especially when Molly's with her.
Well, then where the hell is she? I'm done.
When's dinner? It should be here any minute.
Not pizza again.
Nope.
So what is it? Why don't you go see? Anybody order cheeseburgers? - Dad! - Dad! When'd you get here? Today.
Cool cast, buddy.
- Thanks.
I got it playing football.
- I know.
Your mom told me.
How long are you going to be here for, Dad? Well, it could be quite a while, actually.
- Hey.
- Hey.
So you guys, sit down for a second because before we eat, your dad and I have something we want to tell you.
Uh-oh! No, no, this is good.
How would you guys feel if your mom and I got back together? You mean get married? - That's exactly what we mean.
- Oh, my gosh! - That's crazy! - Really? - I think they're okay with it.
- So are we gonna go to our old school? - Are we going back to post? - Whoa, one at a time.
One at a time.
We haven't figured any of that stuff out yet.
Did you propose like in the movies? Uh - Well, no.
Not exactly.
- Well, why not? Because it doesn't work that way when you've been married before.
Oh.
It could.
Where's your engagement ring? - In the sock drawer.
- I'll get it! Hey, how do you know where my engagement ring is? We know where everything is.
Okay.
- Here.
- All right.
Thanks.
Here we go.
- Okay.
Here it goes.
- Chase.
No, no, no.
I got to do this right.
Pamela Moran, will you marry me? Hmm - Mom! - Mom! Yes, I'll marry you.
On one condition.
You've got to take these kids, too.
Hmm - Dad! - Dad! - Okay, it's a deal.
Yes! Yay! Roland It's okay, honey.
It's okay.
How did you find me? I remembered how much you loved this place.
You said it was so peaceful.
I wish you hadn't come.
I'm not going back, Claudia Joy.
I can't.
Let's go! Wheels up in 20! We've got a long flight ahead of us.
Come on! Hey, Chase.
Listen, I need to talk to you, so give me a call as soon as you get this.
The Secretary of the Army has asked me to express his deep regret that your son, Jeremy, was killed in action outside Kandahar, Afghanistan.
Jeremy was our first KIA.
The guys really need me right now.
We need you, too.
I need you.
Home and safe, okay? It's a unit coin.
Without your help, I wouldn't be deploying tomorrow.
Hell, I might not even be here.
Lord, hold us in our loss and hear our prayers for Jeremy Sherwood, who lives beyond our touch yet within your closeness.
May those who loved him emerge from the pain of grief to find comfort in the memories of the time you shared together and gain strength from your grace to find peace and hope again.
I'm gonna reenlist.
What I mean is, I'd like to reenlist.
- Jeremy - My contract's up in a few months, just when I'm starting to get more responsibility.
I can do more.
It's like I finally know my job.
You'll redeploy.
You'll go to Afghanistan.
You know that.
I know.
But, Mom, I won't do this if you don't want me to.
D? D? Why don't you come to bed, honey? It's 2:00 a.
m.
You need your rest.
I'm going to stay a little longer.
Okay.
Was it the pizza? Excuse me? You were tossing and turning all night.
I figured it was the pepperoni.
Right.
Vegetarian next time.
Is that a unit coin? Yeah.
Jeremy Sherwood gave it to me.
I'm going to get the baby dressed.
Don't want to be late.
Denise? It's me.
In the nursery.
Morning.
Hey.
Just changing her into something warmer.
It's kind of chilly in here, isn't it? A little, maybe.
You want me to turn up the heat? No, I'll get it.
Don't worry, sweetheart, Mommy's going to warm you up.
Where's Frank? Out for a run.
Uh, Roxy called.
She wanted to know if you'd like gumbo for dinner.
Nah, tell her thank you, maybe next time.
All right.
How's that, sweetheart? Nice and toasty? Yeah.
I should've never let him reenlist.
It's what he wanted.
Yeah, if I had said no, he would still be alive.
Denise, you can't look at it that way.
I'm his mother.
He put his life in my hands.
Morning, Frank.
- Morning.
Here.
- Thanks.
Let me get that.
Yeah, I did a little straightening.
Dishwasher's running.
Okay? Thank you.
I've tried to clean up several times, but Denise keeps saying she's going to do it herself.
And I'm sure she will.
She hasn't left the house since the funeral.
It takes time, I know.
How are you holding up? Well, you know.
It's hard.
Frank, I'm here if you need anything.
Thank you.
These are great.
Are you sure Lucas is done with them? Yeah.
Major growth spurt.
But they should fit Finn, right? Yeah, perfect.
And whatever you can't use, just drop off at the clothing drive, okay? Gotcha.
Have you heard from Chase? No.
God knows where he is.
You know, on a mission somewhere.
You know, he still doesn't know that I turned down that job in Atlanta.
I know.
Sorry.
It is crazy how fast they grow up, huh? I know.
Our babies aren't babies anymore.
Not in some ways, anyway.
Finn's been sleeping in my bed lately.
Since Jeremy Nightmares? No.
He's worried about his dad.
I guess we're kind of helping each other.
Trevor was right there.
Just steps away from Jeremy.
It could have easily been him.
But it wasn't.
Not this time.
You can't go there.
How can I not? I know.
At ease.
Walk with me, Sergeant.
Yes, sir.
I'm putting Bravo Company up for a unit citation for your actions during Operation Diamondback.
You saved the mission when the Afghan unit couldn't get it done.
Thank you, sir.
The men will appreciate that.
How are you doing, Sergeant? I'm doing okay, sir.
The men are taking it pretty hard.
Specialist Sherwood was our first KIA.
I know.
It never gets easier, but the first time, it stays with you.
What's on your mind, Sergeant? Speak freely.
Sir, the Afghan Army isn't ready.
Specialist Sherwood was killed because we relied heavily on the Afghans to step up and they froze.
Specialist Sherwood was killed in combat, Sergeant, which by its very nature is chaotic and unforgiving.
Yeah, the Afghan Army is young and inexperienced, but it takes time to build a national force.
Time, leadership, and sacrifice.
Specialist Sherwood gave his life nobly in that cause.
Yes, sir.
You set the example, Sergeant.
Let's focus on the mission.
Headquarters is well aware of the challenges and we're taking measures to meet them.
- Understood, sir.
- Good.
You're doing outstanding work, Sergeant LeBlanc and I'm proud to have you in my command.
Thank you, sir.
Carry on.
You're breaking up, Rob.
Look, I'm back in Washington tonight.
We'll meet with the undersecretary first thing tomorrow, go over the specifics.
Rob? Rob? Damn it.
Max.
- Morning, General.
- Morning.
Our preliminary report.
The summary, anyway.
Thought you might like to review it before I take off.
Good.
Come on in.
Well? Good report.
But? But nothing.
I'm sure that's exactly what the State Department wants to hear.
- Coffee? - No, thanks.
You don't agree with the analysis? Do you? Well, the statistical models employed are proven Come on, Max, put away the spreadsheets and the PowerPoints and look at what's going on out there.
You really think the Afghan Army is ready to stand on its own? With the timelines we're facing? Our soldiers don't believe it.
And I don't, either.
And I'm concerned about morale for the long term.
So what are you saying? I think we need That's not going to happen.
I know that's not going to happen, but at the very least, we need more time.
If you could get that message across Understood.
Thanks for your help.
Yeah.
Travel safe.
Sounds like the normal stages of grief to me.
I mean, Denise needs to work through this in her own way.
I know.
I'm worried though.
She's neglecting herself.
And Frank.
She's obsessing over Molly.
It's not healthy.
If you were over there, Roland, you'd see for yourself.
Look, I've been there, Claudia Joy.
All I meant was, maybe you could talk to her.
Look, Denise is my friend, she's not my patient.
I thought, as a friend, you might be able to help.
The way you helped Emmalin after Amanda died, the way you helped me.
Okay, I'm sorry.
You have patients.
Hey, look.
If you think Denise needs counseling, here are two excellent therapists that I can recommend.
- Just tell them you spoke with me.
- All right.
I've got a group session.
Can you please give Denise my love? Sure.
There you go, folks.
Let me know if you need anything else, okay? You want me to take that? Be right back.
Shady! Twice in one month, lucky me.
Well, tell me, missy.
How lucky would you feel seeing me every day? Why, Shady Jackson, are you proposing? As a matter of fact, I am, Rox.
You got a minute? Um Hey, Alicia, could you run this? It's the guy in the baseball hat.
Thanks.
It's got to be quick.
What's going on? Well, you know how much I love the open road, but I can't see myself driving rigs much longer.
Then again, I can't see myself sitting on the couch watching the History Channel all the time either.
Tick tock.
Get to the proposing part.
Okay.
Well, ever since they closed Tully's a few months ago, it seems the only decent truck stop is 60 miles away.
Now I noticed that empty lot down the street was for sale and at a bargain price.
And with the traffic pattern the way it is on the strip, well You want to buy it and build a truck stop.
Bingo.
Well, that would bring more customers here.
And the Hump would bring more truckers there.
You read my mind.
What do you think? Are you kidding? I'm all for anything that brings more customers.
Good.
I was hoping you'd say that because, Rox, I want you to be my partner.
His partner? He wants you to be his partner? I know.
I thought he was joking at first.
But he's got a business plan and everything.
He wants me to help him manage the place, which I think I could do with some juggling.
It's the money part that's tricky.
Wait, what do you mean? He wants me to go in with him.
Okay, I knew this sounded too good to be true.
Here's the thing.
Shady's putting up 70%.
He only needs me to go 30.
Yeah, but that's still a lot.
Can you swing that? Well, I'd need a loan.
But I've got the Hump as collateral and my credit's good.
But, Roxy, you just paid off the IRS.
You sure you want to go into debt again? Well, Shady seems to have the numbers all worked out and they look good.
We'd be in the black in 18 months.
So what'd you tell him? I told him I got to think about it.
And I've got to talk to Trevor, obviously.
Right.
You think he's going to go for this? I don't know.
He gave me a hard time about the Hump Bar, but, hell, I turned that around, right? If Shady's numbers check out, I'll have the boys' college money before they even get to high school.
Yeah, but what happens if Trevor gets reassigned and you have to leave Fort Marshall? Well, a lot of things can happen, right? I just I got to be more prepared.
Yeah, I don't know, Rox.
I mean, this week has been just awful.
I know I can't wrap my head around anything right now.
Are you sure this is the best time to be thinking about this? Well, when should I? No, I'd just hate to see you do anything you'll regret.
I won't.
I was really surprised, Michael.
I thought Roland would want to talk to Denise, try to help.
Jeremy was his patient.
Roland cleared him for active duty.
That's got to be a weight.
True.
That didn't dawn on me.
One soldier's death affects so many people.
How are you doing, honey? I've been better.
I Well, on top of everything else, every time I think about Jeremy, I can't help thinking about Amanda.
I know.
I've been thinking about her, too.
A lot.
Have you talked to Emmalin? Mmm-hmm.
Last night.
She was a little down, but she's hanging in there.
It's not fair, to go through what she's been through so young.
She'll be okay, Michael.
Our little girl has amazing strength.
Wonder where she gets that from.
Hmm.
I miss you.
I miss you, too.
Okay, let's pick it up here next time.
All right.
Whatever you think, Doc.
Donna, would you schedule PFC Green for two more sessions? Sure.
So, same time next week? Actually, if you could give me just a minute.
Sure.
Yeah.
Sorry, Dr.
Burton, but, you had Patty give away his Wednesday slot.
You told us this was his last session.
Yeah, I know, but we've got some more work to do.
Just schedule him another time.
Okay, uh What? Green's commanding officer called.
He was expecting him to be cleared for duty this week.
Well, he's not.
Right.
I'll figure it out.
Thank you.
I want to thank all of you for coming out to our reenlistment ceremony today, to honor these outstanding warriors who've chosen to extend their commitment to our country.
We have an expression around here.
That when the Army enlists a soldier, it signs up a family as well.
And because of that, we are the strongest fighting force in the world.
Please raise your right hand and repeat after me.
- I I State your name.
Do solemnly affirm Do solemnly affirm That I will support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic.
That I will support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic.
That I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same.
That I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same.
And that I will obey the orders of the President of the United States.
And that I will obey the orders of the President of the United States.
And the orders of the officers appointed over me.
And the orders of the officers appointed over me.
According to regulations According to regulations And the Uniform Code of Military Justice.
And the Uniform Code of Military Justice.
Good to have you on board, Specialist.
Yes, sir.
I'm proud of you, Son.
Thank you, sir.
Thanks, Mom.
So help me God.
So help me God.
I don't know, Rox.
A truck stop? It's the perfect location, Trevor.
Like I said, the closest competition is like But what do you know about truck stops, babe? Well, it's a business.
Just like the Hump Bar is a business.
And I do pretty well for myself there.
Look, it's just It's crazy to invest money in something like this in a down economy.
Well, you know how I am.
Just crazy.
Look, come on, Rox, you asked my opinion, this is my opinion.
What if gas prices go through the roof, huh? Not to mention the fact that we would be in debt again.
Yeah, but And we don't have a clue where we're going to be six months from now.
Do you ever think about that? Yes, I thought about it.
Babe, I don't want to argue with you.
If it's really that important to you, we can talk about it when I get back, okay? When you get back.
Great.
Well, why don't you give me a date and I'll pencil it in? All I am saying is that if it's a good deal now, it will still be a good deal then, okay? Roxy? Never mind.
So, I got fried rice and moo shu pork.
I said I wasn't hungry, Frank.
D, we need to talk.
Uh Headquarters is asking when I'm going to be ready to go back.
Go back? Afghanistan.
Look, I don't have to just yet.
I can take extended bereavement.
But I've got a job to do, D.
Yeah, we lost a son.
But there are still a thousand sons and daughters over there and they're my responsibility.
I just don't know that I should be leaving right now, that's all.
- You want to go, go.
- D.
I want to do what's best.
I have been trying to help you.
I don't know that I am.
Hell, I don't know that I'm helping myself either.
Well, nothing can help right now, Frank.
Roland.
Roland.
What time is it? Little after 6:00.
Thanks.
How long have you been here? I don't know.
You want to talk about it? About what? It's just a little trouble sleeping, that's all.
I'm starting to worry about you.
Why? I'm concerned, babe.
You haven't been yourself lately.
It's been a tough week.
It'll pass.
And so it begins.
I've got her.
Why don't we go for a walk? It's a beautiful day.
You've been cooped up here all week.
Oh, I don't know, Claudia Joy.
It's almost time for her nap.
Oh.
I think fresh air would do her some good.
When's the last time Molly was outside? Come on, we'll keep it short.
You can put her down the minute we get back.
Sound good? Okay.
Good.
- Come on, baby.
- Come on, Molly.
Let's go for a little walk.
Yeah.
Frank's going back to Afghanistan.
Really? In a week.
I told him it was okay.
Hmm.
When Amanda died, I found long walks were the only thing that gave me some sense of peace.
I don't think I'll ever know peace again.
Oh! You will, honey.
You have a lot to live for.
Molly, Frank.
Your friends, work.
I think I'd like to go back now.
Please.
Sure.
Hey.
I got your message.
You wanted to talk? Now, the rig parking's over there.
Mmm-hmm.
Fuel island's over there.
The repair shop's there.
Behind that's the showers and laundry.
Laundry? Truck stops have Laundromats now? - Well, all the fancy ones do.
- Huh! Well, how about we offer free Internet, too? Well, there you go.
That's a great idea, Rox.
Now, you're starting to change your mind, aren't you? Maybe.
What happens if gas prices go up? Well, trucks ain't going to disappear.
I mean, people still need food, clothing, the basics.
How they going to get them? I'm telling you, I think this thing could be a bonanza for both of us.
Well, 30% is a little steep for me.
Think we could go 20? Rox, I'm leveraged to the hilt as is.
I suppose I could dig a little deeper.
Could you do 25%? I'll need a loan.
Understood, but you got the collateral.
Yeah, but then I'm on the hook for the Hump Bar.
Yeah.
Well, the way I see it, missy, everything in life's a gamble.
I mean, it's up to you, Rox, but if you need more time, I guess No, no, no.
I'm in.
- Yeah? - Put her there, partner.
- Wow.
- Yeah.
So, how you been? Don't joke.
Why not? Because I keep thinking that it could've been you.
When I saw the Casualty Notification Officers walking up, I Whoa.
What are you talking about? Oh, my God.
You don't know? Know what? Jeremy Sherwood was killed in Afghanistan.
Oh, no.
Yeah.
His funeral was last week.
- So it's been kind of rough around here.
- Oh! No.
It makes you think about what really matters.
Hey.
I left you that voicemail because I wanted to tell you that I turned down the job in Atlanta.
I want to spend the rest of my life with you.
Oh, my God, you're getting married? Quiet.
I don't want anyone to know yet.
You're getting married? I knew it! When's the big day? Well, we haven't decided yet because with Denise and all, you know.
- Yeah.
- We don't want to make things harder.
- I'm so happy for you.
- Thanks.
So how did it happen? Uh Well, this morning, I had to pick up a few groceries and when I drove back to the apartment, Chase was there.
Just waiting outside.
Did you know he was back in town? No.
Typical Chase.
Complete surprise.
I dropped the groceries.
Literally dropped the groceries on the sidewalk.
So what did you say? Um I don't think I said anything.
I just kissed him.
And then? You want me to paint you a whole picture? - Absolutely.
- Roxy.
Pamela, I have suffered through this soap opera for months.
You cannot cut me out of the final episode.
Okay.
Well, we ended up in the apartment.
I really don't know how, it's all kind of a blur.
And then he swooped you up in his arms and carried you into the bedroom? We didn't make it that far.
Not the first time, anyway.
Pamela Moran! I know.
It was kind of amazing.
With the enemy successfully repelled in this region, the key now is holding our ground.
Building relationships with the locals, establishing a peace that can be maintained as we draw down.
That is the mission now, gentlemen.
Any questions? Excellent.
Good luck.
Airborne.
Dismissed.
General Holden, hang back.
Yes, sir.
There's simply no way to sugarcoat this, Michael.
The short list for West Point superintendent has gone from three names to two.
You're not one of them.
Well, I appreciate you letting me know, sir.
The hell you do.
It's a bitter pill, but no sense keeping you in the dark until they're ready to formally announce.
Yes, sir.
Would you happen to know why I'm no longer in contention? You haven't seen today's Times? The Times, sir? It's a printout of an op-ed by Maxwell Abrams from the State Department.
- Max was just here.
- I know.
He quotes a high-level officer involved with day-to-day operations who claims that the American public have been sold a bill of goods on the drawdown.
We need more time and more troops to get the job done.
He doesn't mention my name.
Well, the Pentagon knows who he talked to.
"Bill of goods," Michael? - I never said that.
- What about the rest? It was a private conversation.
Michael, didn't the McChrystal incident teach you anything? Abrams is not a member of the press corps, General.
No, he's a member of the State Department with a book coming out, which is worse.
Sir, I never intended my personal opinions to be made public.
Then you shouldn't have said them.
Of course, officially, you didn't.
Your record remains intact, Michael.
There will be no formal entry in your file, no follow-up.
Just no promotion.
You've had a good run.
You should be proud.
Good day, ma'am.
Specialist Sherwood's personal effects have arrived from Afghanistan.
May we bring them in? - His personal effects? - His footlocker, ma'am.
Yeah, of course.
Where would you like it? - Uh, I don't know.
Over there.
- Okay.
The key.
Is there anything else we can do for you today, ma'am? Any questions? I can't think of anything.
Very well.
Sorry to disturb.
I blew it.
Oh, Michael, don't say that.
All you did was tell the truth.
No.
I gave my opinion which nobody asked for.
Have you reached Abrams? He was very apologetic.
Said he never meant to expose me.
You believe him? Does it matter? Yeah, it does to me.
The hell of it is I do believe him.
He says I told him to send a message.
He thought that meant he could use what I told him.
He could have checked with you before he published.
Yeah, he could have.
But he didn't.
Well, I'm proud of you.
You said what you did out of concern for your troops.
Nobody can fault you for that.
They can and they have.
Honey, I know you were excited about West Point, you'll have other opportunities.
There won't be a third star, Claudia Joy.
Not after this.
I've gone as far as I'm going to go.
You can't be sure of that.
It was a lapse in judgment with public consequences.
Not exactly what the Army's looking for at their highest levels.
So what now? Well, I've still got a job to do here.
I mean after that.
Honestly, I have no idea.
"Hey, Trevor" You got to be kidding me.
Boys! Two-minute warning! Go wash up! Trevor? What the hell are you doing, Roxy? I'm making dinner.
Why? Funny.
You know what I'm talking about.
Oh.
You got my e-mail? Yeah, I got your e-mail.
I thought we agreed not to do anything about the truck stop until I got back.
No, we did not agree on that.
And Shady says there are other buyers sniffing around.
So what? That can't be the only empty lot in town.
No, but it's the only one down the street from the Hump Bar.
And interest rates are going up.
It's good for the boys.
How is it good for the boys, Roxy? - Because I'm looking out for their future.
- Oh, and I'm not? That's not what I meant and you know it.
Can we please discuss this like adults? What's there to discuss? It's a done deal.
It's not a done deal.
I still have to get a loan.
I told you I don't want you spending our money on this.
Well, I'm not spending a penny from your paychecks.
It's all coming from the bank and the Hump Bar.
I thought the Hump Bar was our money, too.
It is, but I have to make some decisions on my own.
Why? Because you are not here.
Look, I supported you when you decided to stay with your men.
You can support me on this.
So that's what this is about? The fact that I didn't come back for the funeral? - No.
- Because if it is, Rox, really It's not.
It is not.
You keep telling me to be strong.
Well, I'm being strong.
For the family.
Hello? Trevor? Fine.
You do what you want.
Obviously, what I say doesn't matter anyway.
Hey, D? I'm home.
D? Hello? Claudia Joy, it's Frank.
Is Denise with you? No, why? Well, she's gone.
The small suitcase is missing, some of her clothes.
She took the diaper bag and Molly's favorite blanket.
She didn't call, leave a message, leave a note anywhere? No, she didn't.
And I've gone through the house twice.
- She's not answering.
- Let me just try.
Denise, it's Claudia Joy.
Would you please call me as soon as you get this? I'm worried about you.
Okay? Why the hell would she leave without telling me? Frank, after Amanda died, one night I just got in the car and started driving.
I was halfway to Asheville before I even realized it.
Well, did you take a packed bag with you? No.
Jeremy's? They brought it this afternoon while I was out.
So Denise was here alone when it arrived.
Yeah.
Frank, I'm sure she'll call.
She's not going to do anything foolish, especially when Molly's with her.
Well, then where the hell is she? I'm done.
When's dinner? It should be here any minute.
Not pizza again.
Nope.
So what is it? Why don't you go see? Anybody order cheeseburgers? - Dad! - Dad! When'd you get here? Today.
Cool cast, buddy.
- Thanks.
I got it playing football.
- I know.
Your mom told me.
How long are you going to be here for, Dad? Well, it could be quite a while, actually.
- Hey.
- Hey.
So you guys, sit down for a second because before we eat, your dad and I have something we want to tell you.
Uh-oh! No, no, this is good.
How would you guys feel if your mom and I got back together? You mean get married? - That's exactly what we mean.
- Oh, my gosh! - That's crazy! - Really? - I think they're okay with it.
- So are we gonna go to our old school? - Are we going back to post? - Whoa, one at a time.
One at a time.
We haven't figured any of that stuff out yet.
Did you propose like in the movies? Uh - Well, no.
Not exactly.
- Well, why not? Because it doesn't work that way when you've been married before.
Oh.
It could.
Where's your engagement ring? - In the sock drawer.
- I'll get it! Hey, how do you know where my engagement ring is? We know where everything is.
Okay.
- Here.
- All right.
Thanks.
Here we go.
- Okay.
Here it goes.
- Chase.
No, no, no.
I got to do this right.
Pamela Moran, will you marry me? Hmm - Mom! - Mom! Yes, I'll marry you.
On one condition.
You've got to take these kids, too.
Hmm - Dad! - Dad! - Okay, it's a deal.
Yes! Yay! Roland It's okay, honey.
It's okay.
How did you find me? I remembered how much you loved this place.
You said it was so peaceful.
I wish you hadn't come.
I'm not going back, Claudia Joy.
I can't.