M*A*S*H Season 2 Episode 16 Henry in Love

In M*A*S*H season 2 episode 16 titled "Henry in Love," the camp is experiencing a shortage of penicillin, causing the medical staff to ration the medication. Meanwhile, Colonel Henry Blake receives a letter from his wife, revealing that she is unhappy in their marriage and wants a divorce. The news devastates Henry and he becomes withdrawn from his duties.

As the camp's stock of penicillin runs low, the medical staff must decide who to treat with the limited supply. When a wounded soldier named Joe falls ill with a life-threatening infection, the doctors must make a difficult decision about whether to give him the last dose of penicillin or save it for others who may need it. Meanwhile, Henry confides in Hawkeye about his marital problems and seeks his advice.

Hawkeye tries to help Henry by offering him his own perspective on love and marriage. He tells Henry about a former girlfriend who ended their relationship because she wanted to be with someone who could provide a more stable life. Hawkeye explains that although he loved her, he realized that their values were not aligned and the relationship was not meant to be.

As the medical staff works to save Joe's life, tensions rise as they debate whether to use the last dose of penicillin on him or wait for additional medication to arrive. In the end, they decide to use the penicillin on Joe, but Henry removes himself from the decision-making process.

Despite the difficult situation, the staff manages to save Joe's life and the arrival of additional medication makes their rationing unnecessary. Meanwhile, Henry receives a second letter from his wife, expressing regret for her previous letter and apologizing for hurting him. Henry realizes that he still loves his wife and decides to try to save their marriage.

Overall, "Henry in Love" is a poignant episode that explores themes of love, sacrifice, and difficult decisions. It highlights the challenges faced by both medical personnel in a wartime setting and individuals in relationships. Despite the serious subject matter, the episode manages to balance humor and heart.