Ep 2. Museum Piece

In the second episode of Dad's Army's first season, titled Museum Piece, tensions rise as the platoon prepares for a visit from a new commanding officer. Captain Square, a strict and by-the-book officer, is due to arrive in Walmington-on-Sea to inspect the Home Guard's performance - and the platoon is determined to impress him.

The episode begins with the platoon marching through the streets of Walmington-on-Sea, much to the amusement of the locals. As they pass the local museum, Mainwaring - the platoon's manager - suggests that they might donate some of their equipment to the museum as a show of goodwill. The other members of the platoon support the idea, and Mainwaring decides to write to the curator to arrange the donation.

Meanwhile, a new volunteer named Jones - a butcher with a penchant for tall tales - joins the platoon. Mainwaring initially suspects that Jones may be a secret agent, but eventually comes to see him as a valuable member of the team. Jones's first task is to repair some damaged gas masks, which he does with a great deal of enthusiasm.

As the day of Captain Square's visit draws closer, tensions within the platoon begin to rise. Fraser, a Scottish member of the platoon, is convinced that the other members are not preparing adequately, and begins to organize his own training program in secret. When Mainwaring discovers this, he is initially angry, but eventually sees the value in Fraser's efforts and decides to support him.

On the day of Captain Square's arrival, the platoon performs a series of exercises and demonstrations to show off their abilities. Despite a few mishaps - including a comical incident involving a live grenade - the platoon manages to impress Captain Square. However, their hopes of being praised by the new commanding officer are dashed when Captain Square announces that the platoon will be disbanded.

Faced with the prospect of losing their beloved Home Guard, Mainwaring and the other members of the platoon mobilize to try and convince Captain Square that they are worthy of being kept in service. They manage to persuade him to attend a hastily-organized display of military might, which includes a parade of tanks and artillery. As they watch the impressive display, Captain Square finally agrees to let the platoon continue operating.

Overall, Museum Piece is a lighthearted and enjoyable episode of Dad's Army, filled with silly gags and plenty of physical comedy. Despite its humorous tone, the episode also touches on more serious themes relating to patriotism and the importance of national defense. Fans of classic British sitcoms are sure to enjoy this charming and nostalgic trip back in time.