Ep 18. Survivors

In the JAG season 1 episode 18, titled "Survivors," the naval legal team is tasked with investigating a mid-air collision that occurred between two fighter planes. One plane was flown by Lieutenant Alex Parker, who miraculously survived the crash. The other plane was piloted by a Lieutenant Chris Ragle, who didn't make it. The investigation soon reveals that Parker may have been at fault for the crash, and she now must face a court-martial for negligent manslaughter.

Throughout the episode, the JAG team scrambles to gather evidence and testimonies from witnesses who were nearby during the collision. They encounter difficulties, as some of these witnesses aren't eager to come forward or have mixed recollections of the accident. The viewing audience is also taken on a poignant flashback to the moments leading up to the collision, where we see both pilots flying their planes in a celebratory, daredevil fashion.

Meanwhile, Parker is coping with the aftermath of the crash in her own way. She's had a hard time coming to terms with the loss of her colleague and friend, Chris Ragle. She initially retreats into herself, refusing to talk to anyone about what happened. However, this changes when she meets with Ragle's grieving sister, who prompts Parker to finally open up about her feelings. This emotional scene is a standout moment, showcasing the deep emotional toll that accidents of this nature have on those involved.

As the investigation progresses, the situation becomes more complicated. The JAG team discovers that Ragle's plane had a malfunction, which could have contributed to the crash. There's also evidence that Parker had relayed a faulty instruction to the control tower before the collision. However, her lawyer, Harm, uncovers a technicality in the military code that may absolve Parker of responsibility for the crash.

The episode reaches its climax during the court-martial, where Parker and her lawyer face a tough prosecutor who brings forward damning evidence. Witnesses are cross-examined, and the jury is locked in a difficult decision. Ultimately, the fate of Parker's career hangs in the balance, and the episode leaves viewers on the edge of their seats until the very end.

Overall, JAG season 1 episode 18, titled "Survivors," is a thought-provoking and emotionally-charged episode that explores the intricate, multifaceted nature of military legal proceedings. It showcases the difficulty of assigning blame in complex cases, as well as the devastating emotional toll that accidents can have on those involved. With riveting performances from the cast and a compelling script, this episode is sure to keep viewers engaged and invested until the final verdict.