Ep 6. The Bus

In season 4 episode 6 of the beloved TV series M*A*S*H, entitled "The Bus," the doctors and support staff of the 4077th are faced with a sudden influx of patients after a bus accident near their campsite. The episode opens with Father Mulcahy and Rizzo, a new aide who has just arrived at the camp, driving back to the base when they come across the wreckage. With Father Mulcahy's urging, they begin to load the wounded onto their vehicle and transport them to the M*A*S*H unit.

As the staff struggles to triage the many injured passengers, it becomes clear that they are in over their heads. After all, while the medical personnel stationed at the 4077th are certainly skilled, they are also limited in terms of resources and personnel. Soon, other military officials arrive at the scene, including an ambitious, by-the-book colonel. He immediately begins to clash with the M*A*S*H crew, insisting that they should prioritize the most seriously injured passengers for evacuation out of the area.

Yet as the episode progresses, it becomes clear that such a measure is not feasible. Due to the sheer number of wounded and the limited transportation options available, there are simply not enough helicopters or other vehicles to evacuate everyone quickly. This puts the M*A*S*H staff in a difficult position, as they must decide who gets priority care and who is simply triaged and sent on their way.

The episode is particularly poignant in its depiction of the emotional toll that treating so many seriously injured people can take on medical personnel. Throughout the episode, we see characters struggle with feelings of helplessness, frustration, and inadequacy as they attempt to provide care for all those who need it. Some staff members become more callous and jaded as a result of the crisis, while others rise to the occasion and showcase their true bravery and determination.

Despite the tension and drama of the episode, there are moments of humor and lightheartedness as well. One particularly amusing scene involves Hawkeye and Trapper John, who are assigned to treat a patient who refuses to stop tickling them. Another sees Klinger attempting to trade items from the M*A*S*H stockpile in order to get his hands on a coveted bottle of whiskey.

Ultimately, "The Bus" is a thoughtful and evocative episode that explores the challenges and triumphs of medical care in a wartime setting. It is an excellent example of the show's ability to tackle serious issues while still balancing humor and humanity. Whether you are a fan of the series or simply enjoy high-quality, thought-provoking television, this is an episode that audiences will not want to miss.