McHale's Navy Season 1 Episode 31 Alias Captain Binghamton
- May 16, 1963
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7.8 (22)
McHale's Navy Season 1 Episode 31: Alias Captain Binghamton
In this episode of McHale's Navy titled "Alias Captain Binghamton," the zany crew of PT-73 finds themselves caught up in a series of unexpected events when they are unexpectedly thrown into a case of mistaken identity.
The episode begins with McHale, Binghamton, and the rest of the crew enjoying a rare evening off-duty, gathered at a local bar on Taratupa Island. As usual, Binghamton is grumbling and barking orders, making everyone's night less enjoyable. However, their peaceful evening is abruptly interrupted when a group of mysterious men bursts into the bar, demanding to see "Captain Wallace Binghamton."
Confused and alarmed, McHale and his crew become even more bewildered when they realize that these men are not actually enemy spies but rather a group of high-ranking U.S. Navy intelligence officers. It seems that Captain Binghamton, played by Joe Flynn, has been mistakenly lauded as a hero by the Navy for his supposed bravery in defeating a group of Japanese spies. The real Captain Binghamton can't believe his luck, enjoying a reputation he doesn't deserve.
The intelligence officers reveal that Captain Binghamton is to be awarded the Navy Cross for his alleged heroism, and they have come to deliver the news personally. With Binghamton's reputation at stake, he insists that this is all just a big misunderstanding and that their hero worship should be redirected to someone more deserving, like Admiral Rogers (played by Ned Wertimer).
McHale volunteers to help Binghamton and suggests that they use a classic disguise tactic: Mr. Magoo glasses. With McHale impersonating Captain Binghamton, they plan to convince Admiral Rogers that Binghamton is too modest to accept the honor and that McHale should receive the Navy Cross instead. Binghamton reluctantly agrees to the plan, realizing it's the only way to save his reputation and keep his command.
As McHale dives headfirst into his new role as Captain Binghamton, he quickly discovers the perks that come with the Captain's uniform. Everyone treats him with newfound respect and reverence, a drastic change from the usual disdain he receives from his superiors. McHale thoroughly enjoys the attention but struggles to keep up the charade as the demands of the impersonation become increasingly complex.
Meanwhile, at the base, the real Binghamton finds himself relishing his newfound anonymity. Free from the pressures of command, he takes full advantage of his time off, spending his days lounging on the beach and enjoying the company of attractive nurses. Binghamton's carefree attitude and absence worry McHale, who fears the real Captain Binghamton's antics might jeopardize their plan.
Back on the base, McHale and his crew desperately try to convince Admiral Rogers of their ruse, with Rogers growing increasingly suspicious of their story. McHale's quick thinking and resourcefulness are put to the test as he improvises one scheme after another to keep the deception going, all while avoiding Binghamton's interference.
As the episode progresses, the tension builds, with McHale's crew carrying out their clever plan and Binghamton reveling in his newfound freedom. The stakes are high as McHale's crew races against time to convince Admiral Rogers of the truth before the real Binghamton's outrageous behavior exposes their charade.
"Alias Captain Binghamton" is an entertaining and fast-paced episode that showcases the hilarious hijinks and camaraderie of McHale and his crew. Filled with slapstick humor, mistaken identity, and witty dialogue, this episode highlights the timeless appeal of McHale's Navy, bringing laughter and levity to the challenges faced by these unconventional heroes.
Will McHale and his crew successfully maintain their charade and protect Captain Binghamton's reputation? Tune in to McHale's Navy Season 1 Episode 31, "Alias Captain Binghamton," to find out.