Ep 8. Harrison B. Harding of Camp Crowder, MO

In this episode of The Dick Van Dyke Show, titled "Harrison B. Harding of Camp Crowder, MO," we see Rob, Laura, and Buddy preparing for a visit from one of Rob's old army buddies. Harrison B. Harding, or "H.B." as Rob refers to him, is on his way to New York and plans to stop by the Petrie home for a visit.

As they wait for H.B.'s arrival, Rob and Buddy reminisce about their time in the service together. Laura seems a bit left out of the conversation, as she wasn't a part of that chapter in Rob's life. However, she tries to participate by sharing stories of her own past.

When H.B. finally arrives, Rob is surprised to find that his old friend has changed quite a bit since their army days. H.B. has become a successful businessman, wearing expensive suits and speaking in a polished manner that contrasts with his rough-and-tumble past. Rob, on the other hand, is struggling to make ends meet as a comedy writer.

Despite their differences, Rob and H.B. seem to pick up right where they left off. They spend the evening drinking and telling stories, while Laura and Buddy listen in awe. However, as the night wears on, H.B. becomes increasingly critical of Rob's career choice and his financial struggles.

The next day, Rob confides in Laura that he's hurt by H.B.'s comments. He worries that he's made the wrong career choice and that he'll never be as successful as his old army buddy. Laura tells Rob that he's doing what he loves and that he shouldn't let H.B.'s opinion get to him.

Later in the episode, Rob and H.B. have a heart-to-heart conversation where they both reveal their insecurities and fears. H.B. admits that he's not as happy as he seems and that he sometimes longs for the simpler days of his youth. Rob, in turn, tells H.B. that he's not as confident as he pretends to be and that he worries about providing for his family.

By the end of the episode, Rob and H.B. have come to a mutual understanding. They realize that success can mean different things to different people, and that being true to oneself is more important than living up to someone else's expectations.

Overall, "Harrison B. Harding of Camp Crowder, MO" is a poignant episode that explores themes of success, friendship, and self-doubt. We see both Rob and H.B. grappling with their own insecurities and fears, and we see how their time together helps them both gain a new perspective on their lives. It's a touching and relatable episode that showcases the show's signature blend of humor and heart.