Ep 2. Rainbow Bridge

The M*A*S*H season 3 episode 2 entitled "Rainbow Bridge" follows the medical staff of the 4077th as they face the aftermath of a deadly battle. The episode begins with a desperate plea from the unit's commanding officer, Colonel Potter, for more blood. He has received word that a massive battle has just occurred and the 4077th is in desperate need of blood to save the wounded.

As the medical staff scrambles to gather blood from the surrounding area, Hawkeye and Trapper head out to the front lines to collect the wounded. When they arrive, they are met with a horrific scene, with injured soldiers scattered everywhere and one soldier in particular, Francis Mulcahy (William Christopher), who is on the brink of death.

Hawkeye, Trapper, and the rest of the medical staff work tirelessly to save the wounded soldiers, but as the night wears on, it becomes clear that they cannot save them all. As they try to come terms with the harsh realities of war, they must also deal with the emotional toll it takes on the staff, as well as the patients themselves.

One patient, a young soldier named Billy Tyler (Timothy Brown), is particularly affected by the events of the battle. He struggles with his own mortality and is torn apart by the loss of his comrades. Through his struggles, the medical staff must come to grips with the weight of their responsibilities in a war that takes such a heavy toll on everyone involved.

As the episode comes to a close, Hawkeye delivers a moving eulogy for all of those who lost their lives in the battle. He reflects on the fragility of life and how quickly it can be taken away. He also comments on the importance of remembering those who have fallen, and how the sacrifices of others make it possible for people to live in peace and harmony.

Overall, "Rainbow Bridge" is a powerful episode that captures the heart-wrenching realities of war. It brings to light the emotional and psychological toll that is taken on everyone involved and serves as a reminder that, even in the darkest of times, there is still hope and the possibility for healing. It is a moving tribute to those who have fallen and a powerful call to action to work towards a more peaceful future.