Army Wives s07e02 Episode Script
From the Ashes
Previously on Army Wives Michael? What is it? Did something happen to Frank? Claudia Joy she's gone.
(Denise) Roxy.
Hi.
Made it.
Hey, you.
Pamela.
Have you thought about, uh what type of service you'd like? There's not gonna be a traditional service.
What? She wanted to be cremated.
How are we gonna get through tomorrow? The same way we always do-- together.
For Michael and Emmalin.
For Claudia Joy.
Hi.
(Sighs) (Sniffles) (Jangles keys) (Sighs) (Michael) Thanks for coming.
You are the people who meant the most to Claudia Joy.
She loved you all so much.
You're the ones she wanted here today.
Not to say good-bye, just until we meet again.
As I know she believed we will.
Denise.
(Sighs deeply) My dear, sweet friend.
You asked us to celebrate today, not to mourn.
(Sniffles) Well, we'll try.
Um it's not gonna be easy.
There's so many things that I'll remember about you your smile your laugh.
But mostly (Voice breaking) I'll remember you as my best friend.
I only hope that I can be that kind of friend to others.
Because it's the only way that I will get over losing you.
(Exhales deeply) I'll miss you every day.
(Whispers) I love you.
(Denise and Emmalin crying) Wow.
(Sniffles) Okay.
(Clears throat) My turn.
I didn't have to prepare anything because, typically, Claudia Joy took care of that herself.
(All chuckle) She wrote this (Sniffles) The night before her kidney surgery (Sniffles) just in case.
(Denise sobs) "So the worst has happened.
And now you've gathered to pay your respects.
" (Sniffles) "I'm not gonna say don't be sad.
Just don't feel sad too long.
" "As I sit here tonight, my heart is full of joy" (Crying) "Thinking about all the happiness my family and friends have brought me through the years.
" (Emmalin coughs and sniffles) "I have enjoyed a life fully lived.
" (Emmalin continues crying) (Voice breaking) "I married a man I fell" "head over heels in love with when I was 24.
" (Sobs) (Sniffles) It's okay.
"I married a man I fell head over heels in love with when I was 24" (Sniffles) "and never fell out of love with.
A man I admired as much as I adored.
A man who made me laugh, made me think, made me curse on occasion" (Chuckles) (Crying) "But always made me feel loved.
" "Deeply, truly loved.
" (Voice breaking) "Michael, no wife was ever happier.
" (Sniffles) (Sniffles) "Together we raised two vibrant, beautiful, intelligent daughters Amanda, whose time with us was much too brief, and Emmalin, whom I drew strength from even when she didn't know she was giving it.
I have such faith in you, my darling girl" (Sobs) "To embrace life and be a strong-willed, big-hearted woman in the holden tradition.
" "No mother" (Crying) "has every been prouder.
" (Sniffles) "I'm grateful beyond words for my friends.
People outside the army can never know just how much we rely on each other, how much we need each other, how much we love each other.
I only wish we could've enjoyed it longer.
" (Sniffles) "For all of you, my family and friends, here is my last wish" (Sniffles) "Live life to the fullest.
Continue loving one another.
" (Sniffles) "That is what makes life complete-- love.
" "Thank you for filling my life with so much of it.
I love you all.
" (Sniffles) Um (Crying) "If hands can reach out from beyond this world, mine will always be in yours.
" (Sniffles) "Claudia Joy.
" (Clears throat) (Crying) (Michael sniffles) Okay.
(All crying and sniffling) (Exhales deeply) (Emmalin sobbing) (Clears throat and sniffles) (Crying) (Continues crying) (Sniffles) Good-bye, mom.
(Sobs) (Emmalin crying) (Denise sobs) (Crying) (All crying and sniffling) (Crying) (Keys jangle) Hello, soldier.
Now before you get mad-- mm.
(Exhales) (Exhales) Dad? Morning.
What are you doing down here? (Groans) I couldn't sleep.
Here, let me help.
Thanks.
You want breakfast? I'm not hungry.
Are you sure? I could make pancakes.
No, thanks, kiddo.
(Baby crying) (Denise laughs) Whoa, ladies.
It sounds like a maternity ward in here.
Oh, more like a day care center.
(Molly babbles) Right.
Anything I can do to help? I hope not.
Good ol' Pamela, always running from the face of danger.
(Fussing) Hey, lady, I served my time.
No more diaper duty for me.
Oh, just wait until you have grandchildren.
I can wait.
You are gonna be the world's most doting grandma.
Will not.
You talk a good game, Pamela Moran, but I know you.
You're gonna spoil those kids rotten.
(Playful voice) Grammy Pammy.
Okay, stop.
(Denise) You sure you're okay watching Molly? Because I can just drop her off at day care.
Oh, don't even mention it.
What else am I gonna do all day? Okay.
Come on.
(Indistinct conversations) Roland, hey.
Morning.
Back to work, huh? Yeah, you, too? Gotta keep going, right? Pamela and Roxy still here? Oh, Pamela leaves today, and Roxy's here another couple of days.
Trevor and the boys are somewhere in South Dakota.
She doesn't want to get to Lewis-McChord before they do.
That makes sense.
Mm.
Yeah, it's just us now, Roland.
Thank God we have each other, right? Roland? Nothing.
(Sighs) I was gonna tell you later, but, uh, I'm moving.
What? It's only temporary.
I've been asked to participate in a clinical study at Johns Hopkins.
The focus of the study is suicide prevention in the military.
A paper I wrote's been getting a lot of attention.
Wow.
Well, that's fantastic.
Congratulations.
Thanks.
Um what about the kids? I'll be taking 'em with me.
But we'll all be home again before Joan finishes with her tour.
And-- and Joan's good with this? Uh, actually, I haven't told her yet.
This all came up in the last few days, but, uh, I think she'll be on board, considering the cause.
Well, I-I think it's great, Roland, really.
We should celebrate.
Absolutely.
I got rounds.
Go.
Okay.
(Jet engines roaring) (Indistinct conversations) Saying good-bye never gets easier, does it? No.
Remember our deal.
Phone calls every week.
And visits every year.
No matter what.
No matter what.
Okay.
(Laughs) (Roxy and Pamela laugh) All right.
Duty calls.
Here you go.
Right, right.
Come here.
Come here.
Okay.
(Sighs) (Babbles) Bye, little one.
Bye.
(Voice breaks) Bye.
Bye-bye.
Bye-bye.
(Chuckles) (Clicking keyboard keys) (Michael cries) (Michael cries) (Michael sniffles and sobs) (Sniffling and crying) (Continues crying) - They're asleep, finally.
- Mm.
- Molly was a perfect angel today.
- Aw.
And believe me, I needed one.
After Pamela left, I was a little iffy there for a while.
Mm.
I know what you mean.
(Doorbell rings) I got it.
Okay.
Honey, what's wrong? (Sighs) It's my dad.
She's concerned about you, Michael.
She says you slept on the couch and (Inhales deeply) you haven't been eating.
That's temporary.
She overheard you crying a little while ago in-- in the bedroom.
You know, I think I think she just needs a little reassurance that you're okay.
Yeah, you're right.
You're right.
I'll take care of it.
Thanks, Denise.
I-I'll let myself out.
She never got her turn.
She put her career on hold for me.
And there was still so much she wanted to do.
Claudia Joy loved the life that you had together.
She adored being Mrs.
Michael Holden and raising Amanda and Emmalin.
She never had any regrets.
Don't ever doubt that.
I still can't believe she's gone.
Oh, that must have been rough, seeing Michael that way.
Yeah.
I'll keep an eye on him.
Who's gonna keep an eye on you, with Roland gone? I still have Jackie and my friends at the hospital.
And I got Molly to keep me busy.
I'll be all right.
You need anything, I'm on a plane in a heartbeat.
You know that, right? Hey, look where we are-- your old house.
Looking way better than it did when we lived there.
Yeah, they did some remodeling and expansion.
Of course they did, right after we move out.
God bless the army.
(Chuckles) (Woman) Everyone in the car, and I mean now.
Gabe, honey, you can finish this on the way, okay? (Dishes clatter) Tucker! No! Ugh! Hey, come here, fella.
Tucker! Come back here.
Yeah, hey.
Come here.
There you go.
Take it easy.
- Thank you so much.
- Sure.
Oh, bad dog.
Shame on you.
Oh, he's adorable.
He's a terror.
Don't look at me with those brown eyes.
(Denise and Roxy laugh) My husband's dog, but he's deployed.
"Oh, the kids will take care of the dog, honey.
" Right.
We know who takes care of the dog.
Oh, yeah, been there.
In the same house you're living in, in fact.
Really? Roxy Leblanc.
Latasha Montclair.
Denise Sherwood.
Nice to meet you.
(Boy) - Mom! - Gotta run.
- Thank you again so much.
- Sure.
All right.
Back in the house with you.
Nothing changes, does it? In the army? Uh, no.
(Both laugh) (Cell phone rings) Oh.
(Ring) Hey, Gloria.
What's up? Did you order an airplane propeller? What? I'm looking at two guys holding an airplane propeller, and they say we ordered it.
We did.
We did? Yeah, I'm sorry.
I-I-I forgot to tell you.
Um, I saw it on eBay.
I thought it would make the air force guys feel more at home.
Okay, so where do you want it? I don't know.
You decide.
It's big, Rox.
(Chuckles) I can be there in 20 minutes, okay? Okay.
Bye.
The boss will be right over.
In the meantime, have a seat.
Lunch is on the house.
Just put it anywhere.
Excuse me? I'm sorry.
What can I get you? Actually, I was wondering, do you need any pies? Pies? Yeah, you know, apple, cherry, blueberry, rhubarb.
You name it, I bake it.
I don't mean to brag, but I was runner-up at the Effingham County fair two fairs running.
Really? That's great.
But I'm afraid we don't do much of a dessert business.
In fact, we don't do any.
Oh.
Okay.
Sorry.
(Indistinct conversations) You think I could leave this here in case you change your mind? Sure.
Awesome.
Um, my number is on the bottom.
It's what we do at county fairs and such so people know who made what.
Right.
Thanks.
Bye.
Bye.
Can I get a check? Sure.
(Indistinct conversations continue) Keep it.
Thanks.
You want a slice of pie? Some girl just dropped it of.
Free sample.
No, thanks.
I'm having dessert somewhere else.
Okay.
(Turns engine off) I thought you'd never get here.
(Jackie) Where's Roxy? Uh, she's at The Hump.
Ah.
It's been so nice to have her here.
Mm.
I'll bet.
(Sighs) You okay? Just thinking about Claudia Joy.
We were supposed to do tonight's meeting together.
You know, the-- the town hall about the merger.
Right.
She was so good at those things.
So are you.
I'm not as good under fire as Claudia Joy when it comes to disgruntled spouses.
Well, you're gonna do great.
How are you doing? I'm okay.
Denise.
(Sets cup on saucer) It's me.
I just lost another piece of my heart.
I don't know how much more is left.
Look, I-I know Claudia Joy was your best friend, and no one can replace her.
But I'm here for you.
Just know that.
Thank you.
(Kissing and moaning) (Shower running) (Door slams) (Gasps) What was that? What? (Boy) Mom, we're home.
(Gasps) (Girl) What's going on? Uh, nothing.
Be out in a minute.
Okay, uh, go.
What were you two doing in there? What do you think they were doing? We were taking a shower.
Together? Are you really that stupid? Don't talk to your brother like that.
He's not my brother.
He's my stupid stepbrother.
Caroline, that's enough.
May I use the bathroom now, or do you have other plans? Go.
What are you doing home so early? It's a half day.
Teacher conferences or something.
(Door closes) You didn't know? When are we gonna get out of here? - Soon.
- That's what you said last week.
I hate having to live in the same room as that bitch.
- Tanner Reilly.
(Caroline) - I heard that.
Mm.
Where are you going? Boarding.
(Door closes) I can't do this anymore.
Come on, Mags.
You did three tours.
You can get through this.
Yeah, at least when I was in uniform, I could shoot back.
Look, when we get a new house, this will all get better.
Yeah? And when's that gonna be? I can't tell you.
Well, I'm going down to that town hall tonight and give them a piece of my mind.
Play nice, Maggie.
I will.
I cannot afford any more static, not with my record.
You don't need to remind me.
Okay.
I love you.
I love you, too.
(Blows air) Can you take time out for lunch? Sure.
Eggplant, avocado, alfalfa sprout, and mozzarella on 7-grain bread.
Wow.
You made this? Had it delivered.
I thought so.
Are you eating? Of course.
What, a bacon cheeseburger? No, same thing you are.
Really? I can eat healthy on occasion.
Mm.
Yeah.
Like when I'm around.
More or less.
Look, about that, kiddo.
Uh I know it's been a rough few days but I'm feeling better, and, uh (Sighs) I need to get back to work starting tomorrow.
Roger that.
Which means we need to get you back to school.
Uh, no, we don't.
Em-- I decided to take this semester off.
I'm gonna move back home.
Emmalin-- I talked to my college advisor.
She said there's still plenty of time for me to withdraw without a penalty.
That may be, but I am-- Dad my mind is made up.
I want to be here with you.
Can we talk about this? Sure.
But you know us Holden women.
Once we set our mind on something, you don't want to mess with us.
Mmm.
Great sandwich.
(Roxy) A little to the left.
Back to the right just a hair.
Yes.
Okay.
Perfect.
(Exhales) I don't know about you, but I'm exhausted.
Seriously, I'm hungry.
(Chuckles) You want some lunch? I need chocolate.
Sorry.
We don't have anything sweet? What's that? Oh, a pie some girl brought in.
She was trying to sell it.
I told her we don't do dessert.
Get me a plate.
Well, it looks good anyway.
(Utensils clatter) Oh, my God.
Terrible? It's fantastic.
Whoa.
Who'd you say brought this in? Her name's on the bottom.
(Knock on door) - Hi.
- Hi.
I'm Roxy Leblanc.
I own The Hump bar.
You came by earlier today with the pie.
Oh.
(Laughs) Right.
Holly Truman.
Sorry.
This is George.
(Laughs) Hello, George.
- Oh, please come in.
- Okay.
(Door closes) I gotta say, I think that was the best apple pie I've ever tasted.
Oh, really? Oh, thanks.
Is that your husband? (Sighs) Tim.
He's a good-looking fella.
I'm-- I'm guessing this is your first deployment.
(Crying) I'm sorry.
No, no.
There's no reason to be.
Here.
Thank you.
(Laughs) How long have you been married? Six months.
And I'm thinking you don't get out much.
(Crying) I miss him so bad.
Aww.
It's okay, honey.
It's okay.
It's okay.
(Joan) You want to move to Baltimore? Just for a few months, Joan.
Well, that means pulling the kids out of school.
Yes, but there are some great schools in the area.
I checked.
I don't think that'd be good for David or Sara Elizabeth.
Look, it may not be ideal, but, uh, they'll adjust.
It's not much different than getting PCS'ed I thought you didn't want to be PCS'ed.
Hey, look, Joan, this is a great opportunity, and it's for a great cause.
I don't have to tell you that suicide is pandemic in the army.
No, it-- it it's just a lot to think about, that's all.
I mean, you can't just drop a bomb like this and expect me to be perfectly okay with it.
I know.
Uh take your time.
What about Piedmont place? I've got associates to take on the work, and they're willing to help cover the rent.
Honestly, babe, I think this could be good for the entire family.
What does that mean? You're not gonna be in the army forever.
I've already got a good relationship with Johns Hopkins.
And you know I've been looking for a situation where I can teach as well as practice.
Uh, I gotta go, Roland.
But, Joan, I need to give Johns Hopkins a decision by the end of the week.
Why so quick? 'Cause they want to start the study.
I really can't talk about this right now.
When can you talk about it? I'll call you.
When? I don't know.
I'm in a war zone.
I don't control my schedule.
Okay.
Night.
Night.
Change is never easy.
We're aware that the merger of Fort Marshall and bring Air Force Base has caused some temporary frustrations.
But please be assured that the benefits of joint basing will improve everyone's lives in the long run This taken? It is now.
Did I miss anything? The usual BS-- we're making best efforts, y'all need to manage expectations.
You know the drill.
Roger that.
Now we would like to open the floor for any questions.
Yes.
Evening, ma'am.
Latasha Montclair.
My husband's a corporal in 1st Brigade Bravo Company.
And ever since the merger, I have had the devil's own time getting my kids to school.
Traffic's more than doubled since they closed that south gate.
Now I know you all are going through some economic reductions, but that move just doesn't make sense to me.
Well, as you say, there have been cutbacks in on-post personnel which prohibits keeping that gate open.
I'm not talking all day, ma'am.
Just during rush hours.
Heck, I bet we can get some volunteers here who'd man the gate if it meant we didn't have to leave for school a half an hour earlier than before.
Thank you very much.
(Woman) Amen! Uh, garrison will certainly look into it.
Thank you, ma'am.
(Sighs deeply) More BS.
(Chuckles) I didn't know we were in the pie business.
Well, we are now.
Gloria, meet Holly.
Holly, Gloria.
Hi.
Her husband's in Hector's platoon.
Pleased to meet you, again.
Same here.
Is Hector your husband? He was.
We're getting divorced.
Oh.
Okay, come on.
Let's, uh, put these over there.
Yes.
Thank you, ma'am.
Maggie Hall, former airborne.
My husband's a staff sergeant on Rear D.
We PCS'ed here a month ago, and since then, me and my husband and our two kids have been living in a single motel room.
I've been told we're next in line for a 3-bedroom, but we keep getting bumped by air force families.
I understand.
The-- the housing lists between the two branches have been combined, which means that some higher-ranking air force personnel have naturally moved up the list.
But we are aware and we are making our best efforts to place everyone ASAP.
Just hang on a little longer.
Due respect, ma'am, I've been hanging on for a month now.
Why don't you give me your contact information before you leave tonight? We'll see what we can do.
Thank you, ma'am.
(Exhales) Don't hold your breath.
Don't plan to.
You up for a drink when this is all over? Abso-fricking-lutely.
(Chuckles) (Exhales deeply) Hey, dad.
Can we talk? I know you're worried about me.
Honestly, I'm a little worried about me, too, but that doesn't mean there's a whole lot we can do about it.
Let me finish.
(Exhales) Your mother meant the world to me.
For 30 years, she was my world.
And I'm not sure exactly how I go on without her, but I know I have to.
And so do you.
And, sweetheart having you here isn't gonna help either of us to get there.
In fact, it's only gonna make things worse.
I don't want you feeling responsible for me, Em.
But I want to be.
I know.
And I love you for that.
But because I love you, I can't let you do it.
We both need to grieve for your mother.
And we can't do that (Crying) if we're trying to make each other feel better all the time.
I don't want to go back to school.
I know.
I am gonna miss her so much.
I know.
But when things get bad, you just pick up the phone.
(Sniffles) And I promise I'll do the same.
It's what your mother would want, for us to go on living, for you to be back at school making Dean's List and playing hockey (Huffs) partying too much.
(Sniffles) Do you really want me to go back? I do.
Picturing you on campus laughing with your friends-- that's the one thing that will make me feel better.
Okay.
Mm.
(Indistinct conversations) This place is great.
Can I get you a beer or something? I can't.
I'm only 18.
Right.
How about a soda? Root beer? You got it.
(Cash register drawer opens) Here.
Pick out a few songs.
Got any Nicki Minaj? Absolutely.
Awesome.
(Indistinct conversations continue) This is just what Latasha needs.
The bar's pretty crowded.
Over there.
(Indistinct conversations continue) Want to dance? No, thank you.
I'm married.
Where's the lucky guy? He's in Afghanistan.
Aww, that's a shame.
You know, soldiers can't make the long haul like truckers can.
Oh, hands off.
Ooh, frisky, huh? Didn't you hear her? She's not interested.
Was I talking to you? No.
You're talking to me.
This is my place, and I am inviting you to leave.
We ain't done nothing.
Not yet anyhow.
Hey.
Hey.
The lady asked you guys to leave.
Back off! (Grunts) (Grunting) Glasses.
(Grunts) My glasses.
(Crunch, indistinct shouts) (Grunting) (Gloria) Roxy, are you okay? (Grunting) Okay, what do we got? Bar fight.
Minor laceration needing stitches.
The others insisted on coming in with her.
Her? (Chuckles) (Curtain rings clatter) Roxy.
I can explain.
Bravo Company can draw ammunition at 0700 tomorrow.
And I found 20 sets of extra body armor.
Frank.
Oh, sorry.
Come again.
Bravo Company requisitions have been processed.
Roger that.
Is there something on your mind, Frank? Well, I spoke to Denise a little while ago.
She says she's okay, but she's not.
I mean, how could she be? She doesn't want to worry you.
I know, I know.
You know, sometimes I think our spouses have it harder than we do.
How's that? We're the ones who leave.
We leave.
They stay behind.
Their whole lives revolve around our movements, our needs.
Ah, nothing new there, huh? I'll talk to you later.
(Sighs) What a mess.
Don't sweat it.
At least nobody called the cops.
Did I ever tell you about the time General Holden declared this place off-limits? No.
You need some help? Hey.
What are you doing here? (Roland) Uh, Denise told us you had a little altercation.
We thought you could use a hand.
Denise, you brought the whole team? - What can we do? - Uh, nothing.
- We-- we can handle it.
- Right.
You can forget that.
(Chuckles) Yeah.
Uh, you need to pack, Roxy.
Think of this as a farewell gift.
Gloria, stop that right now.
(Voice breaking) I can't help it.
Just when I was getting used to having you around again.
It's how we all feel, Roxy.
Yeah, some of us aren't quite as demonstrative.
(Chuckles) Look, it's not like I'm going away forever.
Yeah? When you comin' back? When you least expect it.
(Indistinct conversations) We're gonna be fine.
(Indistinct conversations continue) We're gonna be okay.
And I'm proud of you for going back.
Thanks.
Call me when you get there.
- Text.
- Call.
- Dad-- - Humor an old man.
(Sighs) Okay.
This once.
(Indistinct conversations continue) How much do I love you? Bigger than the universe.
(Indistinct conversations continue) (Sniffles) Travel safe.
Mm-hmm.
(Cell phone rings) (Beeps) Hey.
(Joan) Take the job.
Joan? (Sighs) It's okay.
Hey, listen, Joan, I don't want you agreeing in anger.
I'm not angry.
You sure? It's a big move, but you're the one on the home front.
If you want to take it on, go ahead.
The kids will adjust.
I think they will.
I'm not saying it's gonna be easy, but-- You'll handle it.
I know you.
(Huffs) Thank you.
(Roxy) It's gonna be a three-ring circus at the airport-- a boy on each arm, two car seats, a backpack, diaper bag.
Somehow we soldier on.
Yes, we do.
Are you gonna be okay? Yeah.
I know it seems like we're all scattered to the four winds, but it's not true.
Pamela, Roland, you, me Claudia Joy, we're always gonna be together.
Just not here.
(Chuckles) Well, remember what Claudia Joy wanted-- "continue loving each other.
" Absolutely.
I love you.
I love you, too.
(Chuckles) Come here.
(Molly fusses) (Fusses) Okay.
Stay out of bar fights.
You meet some interesting people.
(Singsongy) Bye.
Bye, Roxy.
Bye, Roxy.
(Engine starts) (Car drives away) (Babbles) (Whispers) Here you go.
(Babbling) (Sniffles) (Continues babbling) (Sighs) We've done okay, haven't we? Of course.
What makes you ask that? Oh, just thinking about the roads not taken.
You know, we've given up a lot.
But we've gotten a lot, too, right? Absolutely.
Yeah.
I wouldn't trade it.
No, me neither.
When I married Frank, I chose a course, for better or worse.
And I've been through both.
Mm.
But either way, up or down, it's been my choice.
I'm an army wife, and I'm proud of it.
Me, too.
Sometimes I have to remind myself.
(Laughs) (Laughs) And that's why we have each other.
(Seagulls crying) (Sighs deeply) How you doing, sweet pea? (Kisses) (Babbles) (Exhales deeply) (Babbles) Blocks.
(Babbles) (Laughs) (Gasps) Here's one.
(Babbles)
(Denise) Roxy.
Hi.
Made it.
Hey, you.
Pamela.
Have you thought about, uh what type of service you'd like? There's not gonna be a traditional service.
What? She wanted to be cremated.
How are we gonna get through tomorrow? The same way we always do-- together.
For Michael and Emmalin.
For Claudia Joy.
Hi.
(Sighs) (Sniffles) (Jangles keys) (Sighs) (Michael) Thanks for coming.
You are the people who meant the most to Claudia Joy.
She loved you all so much.
You're the ones she wanted here today.
Not to say good-bye, just until we meet again.
As I know she believed we will.
Denise.
(Sighs deeply) My dear, sweet friend.
You asked us to celebrate today, not to mourn.
(Sniffles) Well, we'll try.
Um it's not gonna be easy.
There's so many things that I'll remember about you your smile your laugh.
But mostly (Voice breaking) I'll remember you as my best friend.
I only hope that I can be that kind of friend to others.
Because it's the only way that I will get over losing you.
(Exhales deeply) I'll miss you every day.
(Whispers) I love you.
(Denise and Emmalin crying) Wow.
(Sniffles) Okay.
(Clears throat) My turn.
I didn't have to prepare anything because, typically, Claudia Joy took care of that herself.
(All chuckle) She wrote this (Sniffles) The night before her kidney surgery (Sniffles) just in case.
(Denise sobs) "So the worst has happened.
And now you've gathered to pay your respects.
" (Sniffles) "I'm not gonna say don't be sad.
Just don't feel sad too long.
" "As I sit here tonight, my heart is full of joy" (Crying) "Thinking about all the happiness my family and friends have brought me through the years.
" (Emmalin coughs and sniffles) "I have enjoyed a life fully lived.
" (Emmalin continues crying) (Voice breaking) "I married a man I fell" "head over heels in love with when I was 24.
" (Sobs) (Sniffles) It's okay.
"I married a man I fell head over heels in love with when I was 24" (Sniffles) "and never fell out of love with.
A man I admired as much as I adored.
A man who made me laugh, made me think, made me curse on occasion" (Chuckles) (Crying) "But always made me feel loved.
" "Deeply, truly loved.
" (Voice breaking) "Michael, no wife was ever happier.
" (Sniffles) (Sniffles) "Together we raised two vibrant, beautiful, intelligent daughters Amanda, whose time with us was much too brief, and Emmalin, whom I drew strength from even when she didn't know she was giving it.
I have such faith in you, my darling girl" (Sobs) "To embrace life and be a strong-willed, big-hearted woman in the holden tradition.
" "No mother" (Crying) "has every been prouder.
" (Sniffles) "I'm grateful beyond words for my friends.
People outside the army can never know just how much we rely on each other, how much we need each other, how much we love each other.
I only wish we could've enjoyed it longer.
" (Sniffles) "For all of you, my family and friends, here is my last wish" (Sniffles) "Live life to the fullest.
Continue loving one another.
" (Sniffles) "That is what makes life complete-- love.
" "Thank you for filling my life with so much of it.
I love you all.
" (Sniffles) Um (Crying) "If hands can reach out from beyond this world, mine will always be in yours.
" (Sniffles) "Claudia Joy.
" (Clears throat) (Crying) (Michael sniffles) Okay.
(All crying and sniffling) (Exhales deeply) (Emmalin sobbing) (Clears throat and sniffles) (Crying) (Continues crying) (Sniffles) Good-bye, mom.
(Sobs) (Emmalin crying) (Denise sobs) (Crying) (All crying and sniffling) (Crying) (Keys jangle) Hello, soldier.
Now before you get mad-- mm.
(Exhales) (Exhales) Dad? Morning.
What are you doing down here? (Groans) I couldn't sleep.
Here, let me help.
Thanks.
You want breakfast? I'm not hungry.
Are you sure? I could make pancakes.
No, thanks, kiddo.
(Baby crying) (Denise laughs) Whoa, ladies.
It sounds like a maternity ward in here.
Oh, more like a day care center.
(Molly babbles) Right.
Anything I can do to help? I hope not.
Good ol' Pamela, always running from the face of danger.
(Fussing) Hey, lady, I served my time.
No more diaper duty for me.
Oh, just wait until you have grandchildren.
I can wait.
You are gonna be the world's most doting grandma.
Will not.
You talk a good game, Pamela Moran, but I know you.
You're gonna spoil those kids rotten.
(Playful voice) Grammy Pammy.
Okay, stop.
(Denise) You sure you're okay watching Molly? Because I can just drop her off at day care.
Oh, don't even mention it.
What else am I gonna do all day? Okay.
Come on.
(Indistinct conversations) Roland, hey.
Morning.
Back to work, huh? Yeah, you, too? Gotta keep going, right? Pamela and Roxy still here? Oh, Pamela leaves today, and Roxy's here another couple of days.
Trevor and the boys are somewhere in South Dakota.
She doesn't want to get to Lewis-McChord before they do.
That makes sense.
Mm.
Yeah, it's just us now, Roland.
Thank God we have each other, right? Roland? Nothing.
(Sighs) I was gonna tell you later, but, uh, I'm moving.
What? It's only temporary.
I've been asked to participate in a clinical study at Johns Hopkins.
The focus of the study is suicide prevention in the military.
A paper I wrote's been getting a lot of attention.
Wow.
Well, that's fantastic.
Congratulations.
Thanks.
Um what about the kids? I'll be taking 'em with me.
But we'll all be home again before Joan finishes with her tour.
And-- and Joan's good with this? Uh, actually, I haven't told her yet.
This all came up in the last few days, but, uh, I think she'll be on board, considering the cause.
Well, I-I think it's great, Roland, really.
We should celebrate.
Absolutely.
I got rounds.
Go.
Okay.
(Jet engines roaring) (Indistinct conversations) Saying good-bye never gets easier, does it? No.
Remember our deal.
Phone calls every week.
And visits every year.
No matter what.
No matter what.
Okay.
(Laughs) (Roxy and Pamela laugh) All right.
Duty calls.
Here you go.
Right, right.
Come here.
Come here.
Okay.
(Sighs) (Babbles) Bye, little one.
Bye.
(Voice breaks) Bye.
Bye-bye.
Bye-bye.
(Chuckles) (Clicking keyboard keys) (Michael cries) (Michael cries) (Michael sniffles and sobs) (Sniffling and crying) (Continues crying) - They're asleep, finally.
- Mm.
- Molly was a perfect angel today.
- Aw.
And believe me, I needed one.
After Pamela left, I was a little iffy there for a while.
Mm.
I know what you mean.
(Doorbell rings) I got it.
Okay.
Honey, what's wrong? (Sighs) It's my dad.
She's concerned about you, Michael.
She says you slept on the couch and (Inhales deeply) you haven't been eating.
That's temporary.
She overheard you crying a little while ago in-- in the bedroom.
You know, I think I think she just needs a little reassurance that you're okay.
Yeah, you're right.
You're right.
I'll take care of it.
Thanks, Denise.
I-I'll let myself out.
She never got her turn.
She put her career on hold for me.
And there was still so much she wanted to do.
Claudia Joy loved the life that you had together.
She adored being Mrs.
Michael Holden and raising Amanda and Emmalin.
She never had any regrets.
Don't ever doubt that.
I still can't believe she's gone.
Oh, that must have been rough, seeing Michael that way.
Yeah.
I'll keep an eye on him.
Who's gonna keep an eye on you, with Roland gone? I still have Jackie and my friends at the hospital.
And I got Molly to keep me busy.
I'll be all right.
You need anything, I'm on a plane in a heartbeat.
You know that, right? Hey, look where we are-- your old house.
Looking way better than it did when we lived there.
Yeah, they did some remodeling and expansion.
Of course they did, right after we move out.
God bless the army.
(Chuckles) (Woman) Everyone in the car, and I mean now.
Gabe, honey, you can finish this on the way, okay? (Dishes clatter) Tucker! No! Ugh! Hey, come here, fella.
Tucker! Come back here.
Yeah, hey.
Come here.
There you go.
Take it easy.
- Thank you so much.
- Sure.
Oh, bad dog.
Shame on you.
Oh, he's adorable.
He's a terror.
Don't look at me with those brown eyes.
(Denise and Roxy laugh) My husband's dog, but he's deployed.
"Oh, the kids will take care of the dog, honey.
" Right.
We know who takes care of the dog.
Oh, yeah, been there.
In the same house you're living in, in fact.
Really? Roxy Leblanc.
Latasha Montclair.
Denise Sherwood.
Nice to meet you.
(Boy) - Mom! - Gotta run.
- Thank you again so much.
- Sure.
All right.
Back in the house with you.
Nothing changes, does it? In the army? Uh, no.
(Both laugh) (Cell phone rings) Oh.
(Ring) Hey, Gloria.
What's up? Did you order an airplane propeller? What? I'm looking at two guys holding an airplane propeller, and they say we ordered it.
We did.
We did? Yeah, I'm sorry.
I-I-I forgot to tell you.
Um, I saw it on eBay.
I thought it would make the air force guys feel more at home.
Okay, so where do you want it? I don't know.
You decide.
It's big, Rox.
(Chuckles) I can be there in 20 minutes, okay? Okay.
Bye.
The boss will be right over.
In the meantime, have a seat.
Lunch is on the house.
Just put it anywhere.
Excuse me? I'm sorry.
What can I get you? Actually, I was wondering, do you need any pies? Pies? Yeah, you know, apple, cherry, blueberry, rhubarb.
You name it, I bake it.
I don't mean to brag, but I was runner-up at the Effingham County fair two fairs running.
Really? That's great.
But I'm afraid we don't do much of a dessert business.
In fact, we don't do any.
Oh.
Okay.
Sorry.
(Indistinct conversations) You think I could leave this here in case you change your mind? Sure.
Awesome.
Um, my number is on the bottom.
It's what we do at county fairs and such so people know who made what.
Right.
Thanks.
Bye.
Bye.
Can I get a check? Sure.
(Indistinct conversations continue) Keep it.
Thanks.
You want a slice of pie? Some girl just dropped it of.
Free sample.
No, thanks.
I'm having dessert somewhere else.
Okay.
(Turns engine off) I thought you'd never get here.
(Jackie) Where's Roxy? Uh, she's at The Hump.
Ah.
It's been so nice to have her here.
Mm.
I'll bet.
(Sighs) You okay? Just thinking about Claudia Joy.
We were supposed to do tonight's meeting together.
You know, the-- the town hall about the merger.
Right.
She was so good at those things.
So are you.
I'm not as good under fire as Claudia Joy when it comes to disgruntled spouses.
Well, you're gonna do great.
How are you doing? I'm okay.
Denise.
(Sets cup on saucer) It's me.
I just lost another piece of my heart.
I don't know how much more is left.
Look, I-I know Claudia Joy was your best friend, and no one can replace her.
But I'm here for you.
Just know that.
Thank you.
(Kissing and moaning) (Shower running) (Door slams) (Gasps) What was that? What? (Boy) Mom, we're home.
(Gasps) (Girl) What's going on? Uh, nothing.
Be out in a minute.
Okay, uh, go.
What were you two doing in there? What do you think they were doing? We were taking a shower.
Together? Are you really that stupid? Don't talk to your brother like that.
He's not my brother.
He's my stupid stepbrother.
Caroline, that's enough.
May I use the bathroom now, or do you have other plans? Go.
What are you doing home so early? It's a half day.
Teacher conferences or something.
(Door closes) You didn't know? When are we gonna get out of here? - Soon.
- That's what you said last week.
I hate having to live in the same room as that bitch.
- Tanner Reilly.
(Caroline) - I heard that.
Mm.
Where are you going? Boarding.
(Door closes) I can't do this anymore.
Come on, Mags.
You did three tours.
You can get through this.
Yeah, at least when I was in uniform, I could shoot back.
Look, when we get a new house, this will all get better.
Yeah? And when's that gonna be? I can't tell you.
Well, I'm going down to that town hall tonight and give them a piece of my mind.
Play nice, Maggie.
I will.
I cannot afford any more static, not with my record.
You don't need to remind me.
Okay.
I love you.
I love you, too.
(Blows air) Can you take time out for lunch? Sure.
Eggplant, avocado, alfalfa sprout, and mozzarella on 7-grain bread.
Wow.
You made this? Had it delivered.
I thought so.
Are you eating? Of course.
What, a bacon cheeseburger? No, same thing you are.
Really? I can eat healthy on occasion.
Mm.
Yeah.
Like when I'm around.
More or less.
Look, about that, kiddo.
Uh I know it's been a rough few days but I'm feeling better, and, uh (Sighs) I need to get back to work starting tomorrow.
Roger that.
Which means we need to get you back to school.
Uh, no, we don't.
Em-- I decided to take this semester off.
I'm gonna move back home.
Emmalin-- I talked to my college advisor.
She said there's still plenty of time for me to withdraw without a penalty.
That may be, but I am-- Dad my mind is made up.
I want to be here with you.
Can we talk about this? Sure.
But you know us Holden women.
Once we set our mind on something, you don't want to mess with us.
Mmm.
Great sandwich.
(Roxy) A little to the left.
Back to the right just a hair.
Yes.
Okay.
Perfect.
(Exhales) I don't know about you, but I'm exhausted.
Seriously, I'm hungry.
(Chuckles) You want some lunch? I need chocolate.
Sorry.
We don't have anything sweet? What's that? Oh, a pie some girl brought in.
She was trying to sell it.
I told her we don't do dessert.
Get me a plate.
Well, it looks good anyway.
(Utensils clatter) Oh, my God.
Terrible? It's fantastic.
Whoa.
Who'd you say brought this in? Her name's on the bottom.
(Knock on door) - Hi.
- Hi.
I'm Roxy Leblanc.
I own The Hump bar.
You came by earlier today with the pie.
Oh.
(Laughs) Right.
Holly Truman.
Sorry.
This is George.
(Laughs) Hello, George.
- Oh, please come in.
- Okay.
(Door closes) I gotta say, I think that was the best apple pie I've ever tasted.
Oh, really? Oh, thanks.
Is that your husband? (Sighs) Tim.
He's a good-looking fella.
I'm-- I'm guessing this is your first deployment.
(Crying) I'm sorry.
No, no.
There's no reason to be.
Here.
Thank you.
(Laughs) How long have you been married? Six months.
And I'm thinking you don't get out much.
(Crying) I miss him so bad.
Aww.
It's okay, honey.
It's okay.
It's okay.
(Joan) You want to move to Baltimore? Just for a few months, Joan.
Well, that means pulling the kids out of school.
Yes, but there are some great schools in the area.
I checked.
I don't think that'd be good for David or Sara Elizabeth.
Look, it may not be ideal, but, uh, they'll adjust.
It's not much different than getting PCS'ed I thought you didn't want to be PCS'ed.
Hey, look, Joan, this is a great opportunity, and it's for a great cause.
I don't have to tell you that suicide is pandemic in the army.
No, it-- it it's just a lot to think about, that's all.
I mean, you can't just drop a bomb like this and expect me to be perfectly okay with it.
I know.
Uh take your time.
What about Piedmont place? I've got associates to take on the work, and they're willing to help cover the rent.
Honestly, babe, I think this could be good for the entire family.
What does that mean? You're not gonna be in the army forever.
I've already got a good relationship with Johns Hopkins.
And you know I've been looking for a situation where I can teach as well as practice.
Uh, I gotta go, Roland.
But, Joan, I need to give Johns Hopkins a decision by the end of the week.
Why so quick? 'Cause they want to start the study.
I really can't talk about this right now.
When can you talk about it? I'll call you.
When? I don't know.
I'm in a war zone.
I don't control my schedule.
Okay.
Night.
Night.
Change is never easy.
We're aware that the merger of Fort Marshall and bring Air Force Base has caused some temporary frustrations.
But please be assured that the benefits of joint basing will improve everyone's lives in the long run This taken? It is now.
Did I miss anything? The usual BS-- we're making best efforts, y'all need to manage expectations.
You know the drill.
Roger that.
Now we would like to open the floor for any questions.
Yes.
Evening, ma'am.
Latasha Montclair.
My husband's a corporal in 1st Brigade Bravo Company.
And ever since the merger, I have had the devil's own time getting my kids to school.
Traffic's more than doubled since they closed that south gate.
Now I know you all are going through some economic reductions, but that move just doesn't make sense to me.
Well, as you say, there have been cutbacks in on-post personnel which prohibits keeping that gate open.
I'm not talking all day, ma'am.
Just during rush hours.
Heck, I bet we can get some volunteers here who'd man the gate if it meant we didn't have to leave for school a half an hour earlier than before.
Thank you very much.
(Woman) Amen! Uh, garrison will certainly look into it.
Thank you, ma'am.
(Sighs deeply) More BS.
(Chuckles) I didn't know we were in the pie business.
Well, we are now.
Gloria, meet Holly.
Holly, Gloria.
Hi.
Her husband's in Hector's platoon.
Pleased to meet you, again.
Same here.
Is Hector your husband? He was.
We're getting divorced.
Oh.
Okay, come on.
Let's, uh, put these over there.
Yes.
Thank you, ma'am.
Maggie Hall, former airborne.
My husband's a staff sergeant on Rear D.
We PCS'ed here a month ago, and since then, me and my husband and our two kids have been living in a single motel room.
I've been told we're next in line for a 3-bedroom, but we keep getting bumped by air force families.
I understand.
The-- the housing lists between the two branches have been combined, which means that some higher-ranking air force personnel have naturally moved up the list.
But we are aware and we are making our best efforts to place everyone ASAP.
Just hang on a little longer.
Due respect, ma'am, I've been hanging on for a month now.
Why don't you give me your contact information before you leave tonight? We'll see what we can do.
Thank you, ma'am.
(Exhales) Don't hold your breath.
Don't plan to.
You up for a drink when this is all over? Abso-fricking-lutely.
(Chuckles) (Exhales deeply) Hey, dad.
Can we talk? I know you're worried about me.
Honestly, I'm a little worried about me, too, but that doesn't mean there's a whole lot we can do about it.
Let me finish.
(Exhales) Your mother meant the world to me.
For 30 years, she was my world.
And I'm not sure exactly how I go on without her, but I know I have to.
And so do you.
And, sweetheart having you here isn't gonna help either of us to get there.
In fact, it's only gonna make things worse.
I don't want you feeling responsible for me, Em.
But I want to be.
I know.
And I love you for that.
But because I love you, I can't let you do it.
We both need to grieve for your mother.
And we can't do that (Crying) if we're trying to make each other feel better all the time.
I don't want to go back to school.
I know.
I am gonna miss her so much.
I know.
But when things get bad, you just pick up the phone.
(Sniffles) And I promise I'll do the same.
It's what your mother would want, for us to go on living, for you to be back at school making Dean's List and playing hockey (Huffs) partying too much.
(Sniffles) Do you really want me to go back? I do.
Picturing you on campus laughing with your friends-- that's the one thing that will make me feel better.
Okay.
Mm.
(Indistinct conversations) This place is great.
Can I get you a beer or something? I can't.
I'm only 18.
Right.
How about a soda? Root beer? You got it.
(Cash register drawer opens) Here.
Pick out a few songs.
Got any Nicki Minaj? Absolutely.
Awesome.
(Indistinct conversations continue) This is just what Latasha needs.
The bar's pretty crowded.
Over there.
(Indistinct conversations continue) Want to dance? No, thank you.
I'm married.
Where's the lucky guy? He's in Afghanistan.
Aww, that's a shame.
You know, soldiers can't make the long haul like truckers can.
Oh, hands off.
Ooh, frisky, huh? Didn't you hear her? She's not interested.
Was I talking to you? No.
You're talking to me.
This is my place, and I am inviting you to leave.
We ain't done nothing.
Not yet anyhow.
Hey.
Hey.
The lady asked you guys to leave.
Back off! (Grunts) (Grunting) Glasses.
(Grunts) My glasses.
(Crunch, indistinct shouts) (Grunting) (Gloria) Roxy, are you okay? (Grunting) Okay, what do we got? Bar fight.
Minor laceration needing stitches.
The others insisted on coming in with her.
Her? (Chuckles) (Curtain rings clatter) Roxy.
I can explain.
Bravo Company can draw ammunition at 0700 tomorrow.
And I found 20 sets of extra body armor.
Frank.
Oh, sorry.
Come again.
Bravo Company requisitions have been processed.
Roger that.
Is there something on your mind, Frank? Well, I spoke to Denise a little while ago.
She says she's okay, but she's not.
I mean, how could she be? She doesn't want to worry you.
I know, I know.
You know, sometimes I think our spouses have it harder than we do.
How's that? We're the ones who leave.
We leave.
They stay behind.
Their whole lives revolve around our movements, our needs.
Ah, nothing new there, huh? I'll talk to you later.
(Sighs) What a mess.
Don't sweat it.
At least nobody called the cops.
Did I ever tell you about the time General Holden declared this place off-limits? No.
You need some help? Hey.
What are you doing here? (Roland) Uh, Denise told us you had a little altercation.
We thought you could use a hand.
Denise, you brought the whole team? - What can we do? - Uh, nothing.
- We-- we can handle it.
- Right.
You can forget that.
(Chuckles) Yeah.
Uh, you need to pack, Roxy.
Think of this as a farewell gift.
Gloria, stop that right now.
(Voice breaking) I can't help it.
Just when I was getting used to having you around again.
It's how we all feel, Roxy.
Yeah, some of us aren't quite as demonstrative.
(Chuckles) Look, it's not like I'm going away forever.
Yeah? When you comin' back? When you least expect it.
(Indistinct conversations) We're gonna be fine.
(Indistinct conversations continue) We're gonna be okay.
And I'm proud of you for going back.
Thanks.
Call me when you get there.
- Text.
- Call.
- Dad-- - Humor an old man.
(Sighs) Okay.
This once.
(Indistinct conversations continue) How much do I love you? Bigger than the universe.
(Indistinct conversations continue) (Sniffles) Travel safe.
Mm-hmm.
(Cell phone rings) (Beeps) Hey.
(Joan) Take the job.
Joan? (Sighs) It's okay.
Hey, listen, Joan, I don't want you agreeing in anger.
I'm not angry.
You sure? It's a big move, but you're the one on the home front.
If you want to take it on, go ahead.
The kids will adjust.
I think they will.
I'm not saying it's gonna be easy, but-- You'll handle it.
I know you.
(Huffs) Thank you.
(Roxy) It's gonna be a three-ring circus at the airport-- a boy on each arm, two car seats, a backpack, diaper bag.
Somehow we soldier on.
Yes, we do.
Are you gonna be okay? Yeah.
I know it seems like we're all scattered to the four winds, but it's not true.
Pamela, Roland, you, me Claudia Joy, we're always gonna be together.
Just not here.
(Chuckles) Well, remember what Claudia Joy wanted-- "continue loving each other.
" Absolutely.
I love you.
I love you, too.
(Chuckles) Come here.
(Molly fusses) (Fusses) Okay.
Stay out of bar fights.
You meet some interesting people.
(Singsongy) Bye.
Bye, Roxy.
Bye, Roxy.
(Engine starts) (Car drives away) (Babbles) (Whispers) Here you go.
(Babbling) (Sniffles) (Continues babbling) (Sighs) We've done okay, haven't we? Of course.
What makes you ask that? Oh, just thinking about the roads not taken.
You know, we've given up a lot.
But we've gotten a lot, too, right? Absolutely.
Yeah.
I wouldn't trade it.
No, me neither.
When I married Frank, I chose a course, for better or worse.
And I've been through both.
Mm.
But either way, up or down, it's been my choice.
I'm an army wife, and I'm proud of it.
Me, too.
Sometimes I have to remind myself.
(Laughs) (Laughs) And that's why we have each other.
(Seagulls crying) (Sighs deeply) How you doing, sweet pea? (Kisses) (Babbles) (Exhales deeply) (Babbles) Blocks.
(Babbles) (Laughs) (Gasps) Here's one.
(Babbles)