Here it is folks! This is the 41st chapter of this story!
Now, in this chapter, Henry Blake ends up going blind due to an accident that occurs from adjusting the gas stove furnace in his office, he has Radar help him get around the compound with the others giving their contribution, save for Frank, Klinger tries to take advantage of his state, and some other stuff will occur. How will things go for Henry when he can't see? Find out right now readers!
IN COLONEL BLAKE'S OFFICE - 19:38
It was a cold night at the M*A*S*H 4077. It was windy outside, and everyone stationed there was in their tents in their coats, hats, and gloves on to keep themselves warm with a going fire in the gas furnace that's set up in every tent.
In particular, we see Henry in his office, struggling to keep warm in his jacket, hat, earmuffs, and gloves. He was having a glass of bourbon in an attempt to keep himself warm, to no avail. It was freezing in South Korea, and the 4077th wasn't spared. Henry could only wonder when this cold snap would come to an end.
Gee whiz, ain't it cold out tonight? I'm here freezing my keister off in this office. This cold weather is a kick in the horse's patoot. Henry thought while shivering. We should keep the brass monkeys in tonight. Otherwise, we'll likely get the chills in the caboose.
Feeling that this was now a good time to check on the gas stove, Henry approached the one that was in his office and decided to turn on the heat and allow a fire to run. Sadly, when he got onto his knees to turn it on, nothing was happening. It wasn't working correctly, and there wasn't a fire lighting up in there. This didn't sit well with Henry.
"Ah, rats," Henry groaned, unable to turn it on. "What rotten luck. The stove won't turn on."
Fortunately for him, Radar heard him from his office, and he decided to poke his head into Henry's office. "Something wrong sir?"
"Yeah Radar. The ol' furnace is jammed up again," Henry told him. "The furnace chose a bad time to stop working, that's for damn sure. Just as my keisters are put on thin ice too."
"Gee. Sorry to hear that sir," Radar apologized to him.
"No worries Radar," Henry sighed. "A circuit must've backed up with this furnace. No trouble. It can be fixed in a jiffy."
"Want me to get Sgt. Zale over? Get him to fix it right away? Uh, sir?" Radar suggested.
"Thanks, Radar, but I think I can handle this here copper pot," Henry opened up the gas furnace and put his head into it along with his right arm. "I don't mind telling ya Radar, but this ain't the first time a heater went out on me."
"You don't say," Radar seemed curious by that.
"Yeah. My wife has a heater back at home. She runs it every winter," Henry explained as he tried messing with it. "One time the ol' heater stopped working and Lorraine wanted to call a person from maintenance to repair it."
"Did you?" Radar queried.
"Like hell I didn't," Henry scoffed. "Having someone come in to fix the heater would've cost us $2000 in repair. And knowing how Lorraine is with the [cheque]book, my pile of credit cards, and my wallet, she would've spent a fortune on it. So I insisted on doing the repairs myself."
"Wow," Radar gasped. "Was it fixed? Your heater from Bloomington that is? Colonel Blake, sir?"
"Yes, siree," Henry told him. "I'll tell you what though, it took longer for the heater to start operating once I fixed it. But it was a hell of a lot better than going with Lorraine's suggestion of calling in an expert for a large price."
"Gosh," Radar murmured. "That's something, sir."
"Ain't it? And months later, we had heat running as nothing happened," Henry said. "Alright Radar. I think I fixed it. It should start working again."
"Good sir," Radar said as Henry pulled his head out of the furnace along with his right arm.
"Now we need some good ol' fire to get this here baby up and running once more," Henry turned to face the company clerk. "Radar?"
"Here's a match sir," Radar gave him a match that he needed to use to start the fire.
"Okay doke, now to light a match," Henry swiped the match across the black surface and was able to light a fire. "Neat. Now to throw the match, let mother nature do the rest, and now we should be good to go."
And so, Henry tossed the lit match into the gas furnace, with his face staring into the furnace from up close, as he wanted to see the furnace work for himself. Radar was wondering if it was a good idea for him to be doing that.
Unfortunately, before Radar could even get his question out, an explosion took place in that furnace, a bright flashing light occurred for a couple of seconds, which was followed by Henry yelling in pain at what just happened. This got Radar shocked and horrified.
"HOLY SMOKES!" Radar yelled. "SIR!? SIR?!"
"RADAR!" Henry yelled as he had his eyes covered. "RADAR?! I CAN'T SEE! MY EYES! I DAMAGED MY EYES!"
"Holy cow!" Radar was starting to panic.
"Don't panic Radar! Get me help," Henry told him while yelling. "I can't see!"
"This is bad," Radar shouted while escorting Henry out, who was covering his eyes with his hands.
Fortunately, the screaming drew the attention of some of the other personnel, and most of them were worried about the Colonel.
"Holy Toledo!" Klinger gasped. "Colonel? Can you hear me?!"
"Yes I can hear you, Klinger," Henry grunted. "But I can't see you. I've gone blind."
"Dear Lord," Father Mulcahy muttered in worry. "What kind of blasphemy could've damaged something as sacred as our Colonel's eyesight?"
"Radar, what the hell happened to the Colonel," Andrew demanded.
"Long story sir," Radar explained. "Blake was fixing his furnace. He lit a match and tossed it in there. Next thing I know, an explosion happened, and now he's blind."
"Henry, I told you a thousand times never to stare into the sun," Hawkeye told him. "Staring into the furnace is just as bad."
"Yeah," Trapper agreed. "Especially if your willing to give your eyes a permanent third-degree burn."
"Colonel, do you need some medical attention," Margaret wondered.
"I need some eye medical attention Major," Henry told her. "I can't see!"
"Well we can't perform eye surgery," Andrew pointed out.
"That's not in our practice," Hawkeye mentioned. "We never did eye surgery before."
"And we never will," Trapper commented dryly as Frank came into the office. "Unless of course, you don't have a problem with us operating on your eyeballs."
"That won't be necessary McIntyre," Henry insisted. "I need a real expert."
"Colonel, what's going on in here," Frank queried.
"There's our expert for you Henry," Hawkeye retorted sarcastically.
"Colonel?! What's the meaning of this," Frank asked again, ignoring Hawkeye's comment entirely. "Did something happen to your vision?"
"No Frank. I was just digging up some coal from the furnace, and some of the ash struck me in the eye," Henry retorted. "What does it look like?"
"Frank, something happened with the Colonel's furnace, it blew up in his face, and now he can't see a thing," Andrew explained to him.
"Oh. Well, in that case, I insist that he be brought to Post-Op on the double," Frank suggested. "And that he doesn't move from his spot."
"Great work Frank. Probably the smartest thing you've said in months," Trapper retorted.
"Bet it took you 6 months to come up with that, right Frank," Hawkeye wondered in annoyance.
"Oh, can the malarkey Pierce and McIntyre," Frank scoffed.
"We better get the Colonel into Post-Op immediately," Margaret suggested. "Help me get him to a bed."
"Right," Andrew nodded. "Radar? I suggest you call the 121st Evac. We need their ophthalmologist! Tell them that our Colonel got a severe case of flash burns!"
"Yes sir," Radar then asked. "What's the guy's name?"
"From what I read, he's Major James Overman," Andrew revealed. "Get on the phone, and get his keister up here pronto!"
"Right away sir," Radar saluted before heading for the horn while the rest of them escorted Henry to Post-Op.
"Fellas, I really can't see anything. It's pitch black out tonight," Henry commented.
"If your lucky Henry, you'll only be blind until the war is over," Hawkeye told him.
"And when that happens, the next time you'll be able to see will be when all the action is over," Trapper said dryly.
"And then we'll all be done in Korea and we can all head home," Hawkeye finished.
"Oh shut your yap Pierce," Frank scoffed. "He probably has a slight burn in his eyes. He'll be fine. Nothing like simple goldbricking on a cold breezy night like this."
"You want to make sure of that Frank," Trapper wondered in irritation.
"Well I'm not an eye doctor," Frank yelped. "It's enough that I had to cheat just to get through my medical exam."
"First time you admit to something rotten Frank," Hawkeye retorted.
"Can I be of assistance?" Father Mulcahy queried.
"If I were you, Father, I'd start praying for the Colonel's eyesight to come back," Andrew suggested. "Otherwise, our M*A*S*H unit will be run by a blind commander."
"We couldn't have that sir," Klinger commented.
"Alright, let's get him to a bed," Margaret demanded.
Without another word, they helped Henry to a bed in Post-Op the moment they got there, hoping that Radar would have Major James Overman from 121st Evac to show up as soon as possible...
Meanwhile, in Radar's office, we see the company clerk working on getting a hold of the 121st Evac onto the phone, so things could be taken care of. It was quite a hassle to get through to them, but Radar was successful. Now all he had to do was to get that Major down to the 4077th immediately.
"Hello? 121st Evac? This is M*A*S*H 4077th speaking. And we need someone from there to get over here. Major James Overman. Yes, the eye doctor," Radar spoke into the phone as he explained the situation. "You see, Colonel Blake was fixing gas stove in his office. He lit a match and threw it in. The next thing's happening, our Colonel's gone blind, and needs an eye specialist. So get him over here, on the double."
Radar then heard a voice on the other line, which got Radar's face to drop.
"You're what? Huh? Can't come down? Held up? Listen bud, this is an emergency! We need him!" Radar wasn't making himself clear, so he had to try something else as he then cleared his throat to sound like a general. "Now look, you dumb clerk. I'll tell you this once, and I want you to get it straight. This is General Walter O'Reilly. Three stars and 'really' mad. If Major Overman isn't over here by the time they crack my powdered eggs for breakfast, I'll have you digging a latrine for every G.I. in Korea! [You] got that? Good? Send him over right away, and that's an order!"
With that, Radar slammed the phone back into its pouch, hoping that he got his point across. He didn't care if he was impersonating a lieutenant general, it was for Henry's sake, so he could see again. This was an emergency, and the Colonel needed some help right away. He could only hope that they show up soon. If there was something that the outfit didn't need, it was for the commanding officer to be unable to see anything permanently. It wouldn't do go for morale, and it wouldn't do good for the outfit, and the hospital that he has to run. That was a given...
IN POST-OP - 20:54
It took a while, but Major James Overman was able to get to the 4077 on such short notice, to be able to treat Henry's eyes. After examining Henry's eyes, the Major was able to treat them and then bandage them up by wrapping a gauze around his head where his eyes were.
"There we go. That should do it," the Major finished. "Alright. Now with that gauze wrapped around your eye, your eyes should heal in no time."
"Righty-o sir," Henry brought up. "Just a quick question, if it ain't a problem."
"Alright. Shoot," James Overman accepted.
"Will I ever be able to see again?" Henry asked. "Or am I permanently blind from the face down?"
"I...can't say for sure about that, Colonel Blake," the Major told him sheepishly.
"Welp, I sure hope on my Aunt Fanny that I can see," Henry exclaimed. "Because when I get back to Bloomington Illinois, that's where I'm from, I'd like to be able to see what my wife Lorraine did with the bed in our bedroom. Not mention this hear ol' Illini anchorman would love to see my wife and how she's been holding up all this time when I've been stationed here to run this hospital with the practice that I've been into."
"All I can say, Colonel, is that it may take a week at most," Major Overman said. "And that's when I'll be back to check up on you."
"Terrific," Henry sighed. "Thanks a heaping bunch for the help doc. And in the meantime, I still have to run this man's outfit and the hospital. Just because I'm blind doesn't mean I can't put the war on hold. We'll get casualties in here eventually."
"Well, I'll be back in a week. In the meantime, I suggest you take it easy, and try not to walk around the compound," James said. "Unless you have an escort to get you places."
"Great. I'll be sure to keep that in mind," Henry moaned. "I'll see you in a week."
"Right," the Major turned to face Andrew. "By the way, Major uhh..."
"Peterson. I'm Major Peterson," Andrew told him.
"Okay," he decided to ask. "Now tell me, where can I find this General O'Reilly?"
"Oh, him? Well, Major, it's a long story," Andrew chuckled sheepishly. "Allow me to explain the details."
"Yeah, and we can help you back to your jeep sir," Margaret decided to join in.
"That'll do just fine," James accepted as they headed out of Post-Op. "Now tell me about General O'Reilly."
"Well sir, it starts like this," Andrew started as he and Margaret got the Major out of Post-Op and back to his jeep.
Meanwhile, Henry Blake felt like a sitting duck being unable to see in this predicament. He had no idea how he would get around the compound when he's gone blind.
"Alrighty. So in the meantime, I'm gonna figure out how to get around these parts," Henry murmured. "I just don't know what to do. I can't see anything. So what can I do about it?"
"Want me to get an eye-seeing dog," Radar offered. "I can find one to get you 'round."
"Is it the dog that I left behind in Bloomington?" Henry asked rhetorically.
"No sir," Radar shook his head.
"Then no. An eye-seeing dog isn't gonna work for me," Henry said.
"Henry, I think the best thing for you to do is to take it easy and not worry about anything," Hawkeye said. "We can take care of things, and we can help get you around this compound."
"Well what am I gonna tell the casualties," Henry queried. "That they can't show up on account that I'm unable to see?"
"If I were you, I'd tell the casualties that I have an excuse to not show up in OR," Trapper retorted dryly. "Specifically a note from your eye doctor to be excused from all hospital details."
"Very funny McIntyre," Henry huffed. "Try telling that to the men who get shot or wounded by the other side."
"Well what do you expect us to do when those commies keep blasting away at our fine American soldiers," Frank scoffed.
"Frank, the only way we could stop them is if the North Koreans were unable to see either," Hawkeye snorted. "Then we could tell the Peace Talk that we can head home since they can't fight back."
"Better blind the Chinese too while we're at it," Trapper deadpanned. "They'll end up helping the North Korean that have gone blind until they go blind too."
"Why don't you two stuff it," Frank snapped. "I don't need to put up with your bickering comments!"
"Okay, let's can the tomfoolery! I'm still in command of this post, whether I can see or not," Henry informed them. "Be sure to remember that. All of you."
"Want me to get you something, sir?" Klinger asked.
"Yes Klinger," Henry came up with something. "Go into my office, get my orange Illini mug that's sitting there, fill it up with some coffee, and then bring it to me in Post-Op."
"You got it, sir," Klinger saluted before heading to Henry's office.
"If I may contribute, I'd like to pray for your vision to come back Colonel," Father Mulcahy stepped in. "Dear the Lord, we are gathered here tonight to give a simple prayer; a prayer in which our Colonel's eyesight that was bestowed upon him by birth will be resurrected so he can envision the world like he once did. Thy Lord, we hope and pray that Colonel Blake's vision returns to normal in due time. And that he knows that God hasn't forsaken him with this curse and that his sight is a blessing. God bless you, lord. Amen."
"Amen," the rest of them said immediately after Father Mulcahy was done speaking.
"Okay doke, now that that's been taken care of, I suggest that you all go back to what you were doing before," Henry insisted. "Except for Radar. I might need your help in case I need to take a trip to the sandbox, or when something else comes up."
The others all nodded as they all left, save for Radar, who remained by Henry's side. Once they were gone, Radar gave Henry his full attention as he was worried about him.
"Sir? You gonna be alright?" Radar queried.
"Yeah, I should be fine Radar. Or not," Henry sighed before asking. "Radar, let me ask you something; have you ever gone blind before?"
"Oh no, sir. I mean yes sir," Radar corrected himself. "I mean I wear glasses for a reason. Can't see anything without them. The eye doctor told me so."
"That's what I figured," Henry then decided to give Radar some advice. "Radar? A little fatherly advice for you, okay? Don't ever mess around with gas furnaces. Unless you want to end up like this Illini anchorman."
"Yes sir. Sure sir. That is, roger," Radar said. "Next time it happens, I'll get an expert to fix it. Okay?"
"Well Radar, I was going to suggest that you get Sgt Zale to fix it since he's...an expert," Henry realized what he said. "But you took the words out of my mouth, again."
"Okay Colonel Blake, sir," said Radar.
Nothing else was said, as Radar decided to keep Henry company until he had to go to bed for the night. They did some small talk about things that Henry felt like bringing up, but otherwise, it remained quiet in Post-Op for the most part. It seemed like nothing else was going to happen for the remainder of the night...
THE FOLLOWING MORNING:
A new day had arrived in South Korea. And in the M*A*S*H 4077th, things were going along smoothly. Well, except for the fact that Henry was still blind. When he woke up, he had issued Radar to escort him to his office to sign the reports once Radar was done filling them out.
Once Henry was in the chair behind his desk, Radar told him to stay put and not go anywhere while he works on filling out the reports. For what it's worth, Henry obliged and remained sitting behind his desk.
At the moment, Henry was just sitting there, minding his own business as nothing was going on at the moment. He had to wonder how long it would take for things to get back to normal around here, especially with himself. He couldn't live life like this forever. Especially since something like this has never happened to him before.
As whistling for a few minutes, the door to his office opened up. Stepping inside was Klinger, who was wearing his green gown with white polka dots. In his hands was a Section 8 discharge form, as he had the hope of tricking Henry to sign it, seeing that Henry's current state will make him unable to see what it is he is signing. It should fly by as long as he lies to the Colonel about what he's signing being important.
Klinger didn't make a sound as he stopped in front of the desk and gave him a salute. Henry could smell him from nearby, as he guessed as to who that was.
"Klinger right?" Henry guessed.
"Drat. What gave it away sir," Klinger asked.
"Lebanese aftershave. I can smell it from over here," Henry pointed out matter-of-factly. "My eye might not work, but my nose still works."
"Well when you put it that way sir, there's no arguing with you there," Klinger remarked.
"Anywho, what can I do for you Klinger," Henry wondered. "That I'll have to have tattooed onto my forehead by the time this is over."
"It's simple sir. I need you to sign this," Klinger put the paper right in front of Henry.
"Okay, and may I ask what it is that I'm signing this time?" Henry queried.
"It's...one of the reports that you have to sign Colonel," Klinger lied. "Radar told me to get you to sign this since he's busy filling out the other forms. I'm doing this to save him time."
"Oh poop, that Radar," Henry sighed. "Always working like a busy beaver around these parts. Sometimes I have to wonder if anything would get done around here without him."
"I can guarantee you sir that it wouldn't," Klinger stated. "Anyway, you only need to sign this."
"Righty-o. Just like I always do," Henry tried to find a pen. "Now where did I put that pen?"
"Here, let me help you, sir," Klinger offered to assist as he found the pen and put it into Henry's hand. "Now, let me help you sign it since you can't see it."
"Well yeah, I suppose there's no harm in that," Henry shrugged as Klinger helped him out.
"Now I'll be your eyes and get you to sign your name on the line below," Klinger smirked since he was so close to a discharge.
I can't believe it! I should have done this ages ago! Klinger thought eagerly. This is my ticket out of here! I'm homeward bound at last!
Keeping that to himself, Klinger helped Henry begin to sign the Section 8 Discharge paper that'll get him out of the army.
However, right before Henry could start writing out his name on the paper, Andrew came into the office to check up on the Colonel.
"Hey, Colonel Blake? I was wondering if you needed anyth-" Andrew cut himself off when he saw Klinger getting Henry to sign something. "Klinger? May I ask you what it is your getting the Colonel to do?"
"Oh, uh, Major? I was just getting the Colonel here to sign this form," Klinger lied again. "I was doing Radar a favor, and I wanted Colonel Blake to fill out his name ahead of time."
"Oh? Is that so?" Andrew wasn't convinced as he approached them and saw what it was Klinger was getting Henry to sign. "Wow. Would you look at that? I didn't know that he had to fill this out. Klinger? Would one of the forms happen to be a Section 8 Discharge paper that could get you out of the army?"
"KLINGER?!" Henry dropped the pen and removed his hand from Klinger's grip once Andrew said that.
"MAJOR!" Klinger was upset that his cover was blown.
"Nice try Klinger," Andrew shook his head and smirked. "You thought you could take advantage of the Colonel being unable to see and you could trick him into signing a discharge form, did you? To be honest, I expected you to pull this stunt, so I'm not surprised. Klinger, when are you going to learn?"
"Well, what can I say? I'm desperate," Klinger cried. "I want out!"
"Klinger, the only horse's patoot that is getting out of here is this discharge paper," Henry groaned. "As in this paper is getting torn up and thrown into the trash can. You can forget it, Klinger."
"But sir," Klinger tried to beg, but he was cut off.
"And if you try doing something like this again, I'll make sure that your caboose remains stuck and enlisted in the army until the hair on your head turns gray," Henry warned him.
"That's 'really' hitting below the belt sir," Klinger said.
"Do we have an understanding?" Henry queried.
"Yes sir," Klinger moaned. "It won't happen again, Colonel."
"Oh goodie. Glad we got that taken care of," Henry sighed. "Move along Klinger."
"Right sir," Klinger said as he turned around and walked out of the office as the discharge paper was torn up and tossed into the trash can.
"Well, I'm glad that has been taken care of," Andrew dusted his hands. "Now there's no more needing to worry about that."
"Tell me about it," Henry sighed in relief. "Major, I'd like to thank you for coming in when you did."
"Hey, it was no trouble at all," Andrew remarked. "I was just fortunate to have stepped into your office at the right time."
"Welp, that happens to be a good way to put it," Henry admitted.
"Yup. Anyway Colonel, how have you been holding up, with being unable to see and whatnot?" Andrew decided to ask him.
"Eh, could be better," Henry shrugged. "I wish that I could see my office, let alone the rest of the compound."
"I know how it feels Colonel," Andrew said. "But I'm pretty sure that your vision will come back in about a week."
"I sure hope so, Major," Henry moaned. "Because truth to tell, I would like to be able to see my wife once the war is over."
"I'm sure any man would love to see his wife when this war is over," Andrew told him dryly.
"No kidding there Major," Henry admitted. "Something else that I look forward to seeing is what Lorraine did to the bed."
"I see," Andrew rubbed his chin in amusement. "That is peculiar."
"It sure is," Henry sighed before he felt like sharing something with Andrew. "Major? Can I share something with you?"
"Sure thing. What do you want to share?" Andrew was curious about this.
"Listen," Henry cleared his throat. "Do you remember that one letter that my wife sent to me?"
"Hmm," Andrew did some thinking for a moment. "Well, you've gotten so many letters from your wife sir. You'll have to be more specific."
"Right," Henry decided to elaborate a bit on that. "It was the one where Lorraine was permitting me to fool around with other women, but I ended up taking it as her being unfaithful."
"Oh. Yeah, I remember that one," Andrew snapped his fingers. "Did you originally think she was clowning around with someone called Lyle Pendergrast?"
"The one who was always kissing her hand," Henry confirmed. "And one time, he got his mustache caught in her ring. And his eyes watered."
"Right," Andrew mused. "And as it turned out, it was someone entirely different, correct?"
"Yes. Al Franklin," Henry sighed. "He's this tall guy, 12 handicapped, and he drives a yellow Jag. Met him at the Pumpkin Dance at the country club."
"Yeah. Wasn't he an orthodontist?" Andrew had to double-check.
"Yes. I couldn't believe it," Henry moaned. "And what's more, they saw the movie Brief Encounter. You know that movie, don't you Major?"
"Sure I do. It's about these two married people who become attracted to each other, and start spending more time together," Andrew answered. "But they never actually sleep together before they decided to part ways."
"As I tried to tell her, it was only a movie," Henry confessed. "I tried to tell her that it was just a coincidence that it happened, but then the call got cut off. It made me feel worse that he was an orthodontist."
"But sir, it's like you said, it's just a movie. Sometimes things have a strange way of happening, and this is one of them," Andrew assured him. "It's possible that your wife was most likely feeling guilty for just considering it an affair."
"Boy, didn't I find that out the hard way," Henry groaned. "When I called her next, I found out that it was just a misunderstanding."
"A misinterpretation," Andrew corrected. "But yeah, it was all a big mistake."
"You said it," Henry sighed. "Didn't I tell you how I've seen women in this man's outfit before?"
"Yeah, sorta," Andrew smiled sheepishly. "But I tend not to think too much about it."
"I can see why," Henry remarked. "One time after I came back from Tokyo on R&R, I started feeling the big L-U-V."
"Love Colonel," Andrew deadpanned. "I think I've been told about that."
"Welp, it's true. I've gotten head-over-heels, puppy-dog in love." Henry admitted.
"Wasn't she Nancy Sue Parker?" Andrew question. "The girl who was only 20 who turned 21 in August?"
"When you put it that way Major, yes," Henry said. "She's a civilian clerk/typist at a USAF office in Tokyo."
"I see," Andrew muttered. "She was also a very young preppy-looking cheerleader type of girl too, from what I was told. And somehow, you felt this fling for her."
"Yup. I was pretty ashamed of it after a while," said Henry. "I don't why I was like that."
"Well Colonel, it's nothing to get upset about. True, she was only 20, and your around 44," Andrew reassured him. "But it happens to everyone who reaches your age, sir. Chances were you were being struck by a mid-life crisis."
"Yeah, that's likely."
"Sure it is. I mean face it, your 44. You are at the point where a mid-life crisis is natural. You went to Tokyo for R&R, you met this young energetic girl named Nancy, and you start to fall for her," Andrew explained. "Along with that, you tried to make yourself look 20 years younger, and you made yourself look and feel more energetic just like you were back in the day. It's very easy to understand sir."
"Yeah. That would be part of why I darkened my gray hair, got a You Make Me Feel So Young record to play in the Officers' Club jukebox, and did some jogging and pushups to get in better shape. I wore myself out and got a case of bleeding hair."
"I can see that. But it was just a phase. It happens to everyone."
"Yes, sirree, Bob. And to think that Radar got a hold of my wife on the phone for me to talk to her, along with the letters that my wife sent to me."
"You were essentially brought back to the ground afterwards, right?"
"Yup," Henry said. "It's a good thing too. I don't think I'll be willing to do that again."
"I hope not," Andrew admitted. "Either way, I'm glad that we had this discussion Colonel."
"Believe me, Major, it's great to have this discussion with somebody when I can't even see," Henry told him. "Anywho, I think it's time for Radar to come in here with those forms for me to sign."
"Yeah," Andrew said as Radar came into the office with the forms. "Radar is on the ball with that kind of stuff."
"He sure is," Henry cleared his throat. "Hey, Radar!?"
"Here's the forms sir," Radar put them on his desk. "Filled out, ready to be signed."
"Okay doke, Radar," Henry said. "By the way, you managed to sneak up on me when I can't even see you. You know that?"
"I've seen it, sir," Radar then decided to help out. "Now you can sign here."
"Radar, it's a good thing you're here," Henry confessed as Radar helped him sign his name on the forms. "Otherwise, I don't know how things would get done around this medical unit."
"Comes with being a Corporal sir," Radar chuckled lightly. "All signed sir."
"Great," Henry said as Radar took the forms and pen from him "That was easier than I thought."
"Was it, sir," Radar commented." Oh, sir, also, you got a letter in the mail. From your wife."
"Oh, gee. Let's hope it's not another bill," Henry was already dreading this. "Welp, better open it up and get this over with. The sooner, the better. So just read it for me, will ya Radar?"
"Me? Read it?" Radar was a bit startled by that. "But sir? What if it's personal sir? I dunno if I should."
"Well, I don't think it's too personal if it's from my wife," Henry remarked casually. "So just open that ol' letter and read it aloud to me."
"Well, alright sir," Radar was reluctant, but he eventually relented as he took the letter out of the envelope and began to read it out loud. "Shall I start sir?"
"Whenever your ready Radar. Let's hear it," Henry encourage.
"Okay sir," Radar took a deep breath and started to read it. "Ahem... Dear Hennie Poo."
"Hennie Poo?" Andrew had an amused smirk on his face.
Henry sighed in embarrassment at that. "It's a pet name Lorraine gave to me since we've slept in bed together."
"I see," Andrew seemed amused by that.
"Continue reading it for me, Radar." Henry issued.
"Yes, sir," Radar resumed. "I want you to know that everything back at home has been going well for us. Your daughters Jane and Molly started to use the toilet. They said 'potty' all by themselves. They also thought that crayon was candy, so they had nibbled on it. As for your son Andrew, he's fine. He's getting some nice, and imperative trombone lessons."
"Not bad Henry," Andrew crossed his arms, seeming bemused.
"Shhh," Henry shushed him as Radar had to continue.
"One more thing. I, uh, hope you get home soon and lick my fingernails," Radar continued. "I also miss seeing your cuddly toes while in bed, and the sweet way you snore to get you to, uh, hold me close, so we can strip..."
"Uhhhh, on second thought Radar, I think you better stop," Henry had to stop Radar before he got to the juicy part. "I'll read it on my own when my eyesight comes back."
"Alright sir," Radar felt like asking while putting the letter on the desk. "By the way, Colonel? What was your wife saying about needing to, uh, strip?"
"Oh, well uh, you see Radar...That's a very interesting question. Absotively interesting," Henry started speaking awkwardly just like he does at those lectures on sex. "Welp, uh...errr...you see...well...there are birds, and there are bees...it's..."
"What the Colonel is trying to say Radar is that it involves how Human Reproduction works," Andrew told him shamelessly without hesitation. "You know, it's exactly how you were born."
"Oh geez. Oh. Sir. Sorry, I ask. Colonel Blake," Radar was shocked by what Andrew just said.
"It's hunky-dory Radar," Henry told him. "I'm just glad that it wasn't heard on the P.A system."
"Me either sir," Radar agreed.
"Yeah. This is something that should remain on a personal private level," Andrew remarked.
"Prezactly what I was thinking Major," Henry told him. "Let's keep a lid on this conversation, understand?"
"Sure do Colonel," Andrew obliged.
"Roger sir," Radar said afterwards. "Colonel, by the way, it's good to know your daughters can use the toilet."
Suddenly, Henry felt the urge to go himself. "Awww Radar? Why did you have to say 'toilet'?"
"You have to use the toilet Colonel," Andrew wondered.
"As painful as it is to admit, yes," Henry sighed. "And unless I can pay $5 to whoever can use the latrine for me, there's nothing I can do about it."
"That's a good point," Andrew understood this.
"Welp, best get this done and over with," Henry tried standing up. "Radar, would you mind-"
"Escorting you to the latrines to do your business," Radar said in unison as he helped Henry onto his feet and helped walk him out. "Yes, sir."
"Well, I might as well head back to my tent," Andrew remarked. "Let me know if you need anything else Colonel."
"I'll keep that in mind," Henry said as he and Radar were leaving his office. "Thanks for the talk."
"Anytime sir," Andrew said as he watched Radar escort Henry out of the office.
Once he was gone, Andrew decided to take his leave as he went straight for his tent. He had to wonder how things around here will go with Henry being unable to see anything. This was going to be a strange week for everyone...
RIGHT OUTSIDE THE LATRINES - 9:48
At the moment, Radar was waiting right outside the latrine where Henry was doing his business in. Radar waited several moments for him to be done in there, but it was taking a long time. Worried that the Colonel might be stuck in there, Radar decided to check up on him by knocking on the door.
"You alright in there sir?" Radar hollered.
"Almost done Radar," Henry told him. "Be out in a few moments."
Radar could only sigh as he decided to wait a couple more moments for Henry to come out of the latrine. Unfortunately, this moment was interrupted when Margaret came to the area to let Radar know about something important.
"Corporal?" She started. "You're needed by the delivery truck to sign some forms needed to accept the supplies shipped by requisition."
"Oh. Ma'am, can't right now," Radar tried to explain to her.
"This instant O'Reilly," Margaret put her foot down. "And that's an order."
"Fine," Radar sighed. "But your gonna have to escort Colonel Blake to his office after he's done with the latrine."
"Fair enough," Margaret shrugged her shoulders. "You're dismissed."
"Yes ma'am," Radar said as he walked off while Margaret waited for Henry to be done with the latrine.
Eventually, Henry was finished with the latrine, and he found himself opening the door. He was expecting Radar to grab his hand, but then he realized that it wasn't Radar's hand. Rather, it was more feminine in touch. Henry also got a good smell of the perfume that Margaret was wearing, and with some amount of luck, he guessed as to who it was.
"Major Houlihan?" Henry guessed.
"Yes Colonel," she smiled. "What gave it away?"
"The manicure. Not to mention the perfume," Henry admitted as she escorted him to his office. "You know, my wife wore the same perfume on our wedding anniversary."
"You don't say," Margaret seemed intrigued by this.
"Yes indeed-y," Henry nodded. "And to think that the perfume cost a total of $400 from the fashion store she went to."
"Really? Mine only cost $200 from the store I sent for," Margaret remarked.
"Must've been a discount then," Henry got back on track. "But to be perfectly honest, I can remember that night as if it were only yesterday."
"I'm sure your wife can remember that too," she told him. "Just as much as she can find you a bit obscene."
"Now Major, ain't that hitting below the belt a little," Henry wondered.
"Well it's true," Margaret huffed. "Or do I have to remind you about it?"
"No no. It's fine. I remember now," Henry stopped her. "Just get me to my office."
"Yes Colonel," Margaret obliged.
However, right before they could make it to his office, some choppers and ambulances showed up and the P.A. Announcement was heard throughout the compound.
"ATTENTION, ALL PERSONNEL! INCOMING WOUNDED! TIME TO ROLL OUT THE WELCOME WAGON EVERYONE!"
"Oh, rats. Should've known," Henry groaned. "The war doesn't stop for just anybody. Not even a blind Colonel."
"Do you think you can be able to operate while in that condition sir?" Margaret had to ask.
"I've got to," Henry said. "I'm still in command around these parts. I have to make sure the hospital runs to its full efficiency."
"Well, if you say so," Margaret sighed. "Would you like me to get you scrubbed up and prepared for OR?"
"That would be nice," Henry admitted.
Without another word, they made their way into the scrub room to get prepped up for OR, since some of the other personnel were handling the wounded and to get them through triage and then through the admitting ward. With the condition that Henry was in, this was going to be an interesting O.R. session...
IN O.R. - 10:57
Things were busy in OR, as usual. A lot of chatter amongst the doctors and nurses was heard through OR, and the casualties were being operated on. As it may seem, Hawkeye was treating a patient who needed plasma, Trapper was working on someone who required traction, Frank was handling one of the minor wounds, and Andrew was working on extracting some shrapnel with forceps. Needless to say, they were busy at work.
"Well, it seems to be quite a busy shift today," Andrew decided to comment.
"Ah, yes. Nothing like simple meatball surgery to get the blood pumping," Hawkeye remarked dryly.
"Unless of course, you mean getting your stomach to pump blood out of your mouth," Trapper deadpanned. "Then yes. It is something."
"Can we kindly can the chatter," Frank demanded. "It's hard enough working on these patients without the need to discuss spitting out blood!"
"Frank has a point," Andrew agreed. "The last thing I want to hear right now while I'm taking this shrapnel out of this person is the thought of someone vomiting blood."
"You said it, not me," Hawkeye told him.
"Hey by the way, how d'you think Henry's making out," Trapper queried. "Think he's getting by okay without his eye vision?"
"Probably," Andrew said. "I'm sure he's getting around these parts. Wouldn't hurt for us to have an extra hand in OR though."
"Oh phooey bahooey," Frank scoffed. "It's his fault for getting himself blind in the first place! His place is in bed, not the OR. You wouldn't catch me working with a blind man in surgery."
"I couldn't catch you working with anyone smart in surgery," Hawkeye countered.
"Especially one who is liable to get affected by malpractice thanks to your scalpel." Trapper retorted.
"Oh shut your face," Frank fired back. "It's a good thing the Colonel isn't here. The one thing that I don't want to have in OR is for someone blind working on the surgery!"
Then, just as if fate was messing with Frank, the door opened and entering was Henry Blake, still unable to see, but was in his Scrub uniform and was escorted by Margaret.
"This way sir," Margaret instructed. "We're almost there."
"Well, hello hello hello," Hawkeye smirked. "Look who it is."
"Welcome to the club Henry," Trapper remarked. "Park yourself to the nearest desk and make yourself at home."
"Hey, Frank? Guess who's joining us for surgery," Hawkeye said in a taunting manner.
Needless to say, Frank wasn't impressed when he looked up. "Colonel! What are you doing in here?!"
"Gee, I dunno Frank. Maybe I'm operating on a ham," Henry retorted. "What does it look like I'm doing?"
"Colonel," Frank decided to bring up. "It's against regulations for blind personnel to operate on the wounded when they can't see!"
"Welp, why don't you tell that to Captain Pierce," Henry suggested, parking himself next to Trapper. "He's the chief surgeon."
"Captain Pierce," Frank hollered across the room. "The Colonel shouldn't be here! Aren't you going to do something about it?!"
"Why should I," Hawkeye remarked. "I've always wanted to practice meatball surgery while blindfolded. This might be a new experience for him."
"Colonel!?" Frank was getting irritated.
"Well Frank, you heard him," Henry said. "Straight from the horse's mouth."
"Honestly, I don't have a problem with this," Andrew commented. "Just as long as there are no mishaps."
"You can trust me that there won't be Major," Henry said, getting situated. "Besides, I'm still the C.O. It's my job to keep you all from getting out of control while in the operating room."
"Try telling that to Frank," Trapper retorted. "He's the one who won't use a clamp to keep his mouth shut, since that mask isn't enough to stop him."
"Why don't you go peddle your patient McIntyre," Frank barked at him.
"Anywho, McIntyre, what is it I'm trying to do," Henry decided to ask, disregarding what Frank said.
"We're handling a patient who needs traction," Trapper answered. "Just hand me the instruments, and I'll handle the rest."
"How about you give him a trumpet, saxophone, and a clarinet," Hawkeye joked. "Those could be useful instruments."
"Very funny Pierce," Henry deadpanned. "In any case, I better get some help with the instruments McIntyre."
"Great idea. Nurse? Give Henry here a hand with the instruments, will ya?"
"Yes doctor," the nurse obliged as she decided to help Henry out with this.
"I can't believe it. I've seen it all," Frank grumbled. "As if two medical misfits working in OR with me isn't enough, now we got a blind Colonel performing on these crumbs when he should leave this to those who can see."
"Oh, put a lid on it, Frank," Henry told him to hush up.
"Maybe this might teach us something," Andrew decided to comment. "That blind people could prove to be useful when it comes to achieving tasks such as this."
"That's what you think Major," Frank snorted. "Today is a blind person. But tomorrow will be someone who's deaf, has a broken arm, or worse, be in a cast."
"Don't fret Frank. Nobody in this outfit can have as much of an ego as you," Hawkeye told him.
"Yeah. Why don't you lay it on us?" Trapper suggested jokingly.
"I don't have to lay anything on you guys," Frank scoffed. "Now pipe down."
"Right," Andrew sighed as he returned to his work, putting the shrapnel parts into a scrap bucket. "Alright, I got the pieces of shrapnel that were in this patient's wound with the forceps."
"Doctor, you did a magnificent job with extracting the shrapnel from his belly wound," Margaret, who walked over to where Andrew was working, complimented on his work.
"Thanks," Andrew thanked her while putting down the forceps. "Now I just have to stop the bleeding, and then clean up the blood from the wound."
"Right Andrew. Just let me know what you need, and I'll supply it for you," the head nurse offered.
"Great," Andrew got started. "Clamps?"
"Clamps." Margaret gave him the clamps, which he gladly took.
Andrew then inserted the clamps into the wound to slow the flow of bleeding that was happening.
"Sponge?"
"Sponge." Margaret gave him a sponge to clean up the blood that was still leaking from the wound. "You are doing a marvelous job with the surgery Andrew."
"Thanks, Margaret," Andrew thanked her. "Anyway, shall we do my tent at 8?"
"That's fine by me." Margaret smiled from underneath the mask. "I'll be counting the minutes."
"Me too," Andrew gave her a smile from under the mask. "I love you buttercup."
"I love you too honey," Margaret said as they continued to finish up their patient.
"Alright Henry, I'm gonna need the suction," Trapper announced.
"Righty-o McIntyre," Henry obliged. "Uh, nurse? Can I get help with getting the suction for McIntyre over here?"
"Yes doctor," the nurse helped out Henry by getting him the suction and helping him give it to McIntyre.
"Pleasure doing business with you Henry," Trapper told him as he used the suction. "Maybe after the war, we can go to the park and see if they allow blind people to visit."
"I'd rather be at the country club," Henry said. "Presuming that it's the same as I left it."
"It probably is Henry," Hawkeye commented. "Just picture it as you remember it."
"Welp, that ought to be easy for me to do," Henry stated. "Seeing that I've been there several times before being drafted to Korea."
"Nurse! I said I wanted the scalpel! Not the forceps!" Frank howled at the nurse he was working with.
"But you never asked for the scalpel," the nurse told him.
"Don't do what I ask! Do what I want!" Frank ordered.
"Yes Doctor Burns," the nurse said in such a snide and mocking manner.
"YOU WATCH YOUR MOUTH WITH ME!" Frank howled. "YOUR TALKING TO A SUPERIOR OFFICER!"
"Really? Did it come from the nearest army manual?" The nurse was being very sassy.
"Just get me that scalpel, on the double!"
"Why Frank? Gonna practice some more malpractice on your patient?" Hawkeye wondered.
"If we're lucky, the scalpel might take Frank's eye out," Trapper retorted.
"COLONEL, DID YOU HEAR THAT!?" Frank bellowed. "THEY'RE AT IT AGAIN!"
"Simmer down Frank," Henry huffed. "Just because I can't see doesn't mean I can't hear. I've heard every word."
"Now that's outrageous," Frank grunted.
"I agree. These sessions of meatball surgery are outrageous," Hawkeye scoffed. "Frank, if I were you, I'd write a long critical letter to Harry Truman about how he keeps having these soldiers drafted to Korea."
"Make sure to mention how important General MacArthur is too," Trapper added. "And also how these soldiers should be more like MacArthur and less like you."
"Go peddle your fish you two," Frank was growing annoyed by this.
"Okay guys, that's quite enough," Andrew spoke up. "So let's just get back to treating these patients, and not continue this debate any longer."
"Andrew is right," Margaret agreed. "Let's cut the bickering and do our job."
"Well they started it," Frank protested.
"Frank? Do I have to put it on your record that you don't work or play nice with others again?" Henry had to ask.
"No sir." Frank shook his head.
"Then button it, Frank," Henry issued.
Frank gave him an offended look but said nothing else as he continued to work on his patient, with everyone else doing what they had to. This was going to be a long session in OR for everyone...
IN THE MESS TENT - 12:44
Quite some time had passed since OR. Everything went smoothly, and the surgeons and nurses were dismissed from the operating room. Afterwards, everyone was allowed to continue with their day. Currently, it was lunchtime, and the personnel was lining up in the chow line, waiting with their trays in their hands for the slop that was being served today.
One of them happened to be Henry, who was standing in line while Hawkeye assisted him with his lunch tray. Henry couldn't see, so he had to find out what was going on and where he was.
"Hey, Pierce? What's going on? Where are we?" Henry queried.
"Henry, we're currently in the chow line, waiting to be served whatever sloppy mess they're serving in the mess tent today," Hawkeye answered.
"That puts me at ease Pierce," Henry deadpanned.
"I know," Hawkeye sighed. "When my father told me that I'd have to escort a blind person around one day, I didn't think it would be when it comes to seeing what chow the K.P is serving in the mess tent."
"Don't get too upset Pierce," Henry told him. "This ain't exactly a walk in the park for me either."
"Especially since said 'park' is a medical compound located right in the middle of a war." Hawkeye retorted.
"That would explain all the noise that I'm hearing at night," Henry groaned.
"Alright Henry, your next," Hawkeye stated. "I'll get your food taken care of."
"Righty-o Pierce. You handle the rest," Henry stayed right beside the captain.
"Good afternoon sirs," Klinger who was serving the grub today greeted. "What'll it be today? Slop or dreck?"
"Just give us whatever kind of mess you're serving for lunch today Klinger," Hawkeye said. "And be sure Henry gets the same thing I'm getting."
"Yes, sir," Klinger ended up taking their trays and putting the slop that's being served today onto the respective trays. "There we go. This is for Captain Pierce. And this is for Colonel Blake."
"Gee, thanks Klinger," Hawkeye huffed. "I'll be sure to thank you with a hairnet and a pair of bloomers."
"Don't mention it, sir," Klinger groaned as Hawkeye had possession of his tray and Henry's tray.
"Klinger?" Henry brought up. "There's not a Section 8 Discharge paper within this dreck, is there?"
"Oh no sir," Klinger shook his head. "That's not gonna happen this time. I put that behind me."
"Good," Henry sighed. "Because I'd hate to make your stay in the army for who knows how long Klinger."
"Wait a minute, Klinger tried to trick you into signing a discharge paper Henry," Hawkeye had to ask before giving Klinger a smirk. "Klinger, you son of a gun you."
"Oh please, sir. I was just desperate," Klinger grumbled. "I don't want to think about it again."
"Suit yourself," Hawkeye shrugged his shoulders. "Come on Henry, let's go."
"Alrighty," Henry obliged. "If I can find my way around this place."
To make the navigating easier for the Colonel, Hawkeye decided to put the two trays onto a nearby table first before grabbing Henry's arm and escorting him across the mess tent. Eventually, they found themselves and their tray seated at a table where the rest of the gang was sitting at.
Hawkeye found a seat next to Trapper while Henry was brought to sit down next to Radar. Trapper was having the same slop as the others and didn't enjoy it any better than they did. By contrast, Radar was chowing down on his food like it was nothing.
Also notable about the table was that Andrew was sitting next to Margaret, who was sitting in between Andrew and Frank. They too were trying to eat their meals, with little success.
"Well, look who decided to join us," Trapper spoke up. "How's your lack of vision treating you, Henry?"
"Eh, could be better," Henry shrugged. "But I guess I shouldn't be complaining."
"He's done well so far," Hawkeye remarked.
"Not bad for someone who's blindfolded by a gauze," Trapper said.
"How's it going, sir," Radar decided to query with a full mouth of food.
"Pretty good Radar, I suppose," Henry told him. "And try not to talk with a full mouth."
"Ulp. Sorry sir," Radar swallowed.
"Well Colonel," Andrew spoke up. "It's good to see you join the rest of us for lunch today."
"Believe me, Major, I didn't think it would be possible," Henry told him. "But I suppose that comes from not being able to see where the tray is."
"Hmph! Well? Are you bozos gonna sit there?" Frank scowled. "Or are you gonna help the Colonel eat his lunch? Just like you've been helping him with everything else today."
"Alright, Frank. Henry, would you like us to feed you," Hawkeye asked snidely.
"Welp, normally I wouldn't. The fact is I haven't been fed since I was 2," Henry stated. "But I guess in this predicament, I suppose it couldn't hurt to be fed."
"Should I feed him, or should you Trap," Hawkeye queried.
"You do it. Your closer Hawk," Trapper told him.
"Well you have the better hands for the job," Hawkeye said.
"Oh for goodness sake," Andrew pinched the bridge of his nose.
"Can you two clowns stop messing around and decide who should feed the Colonel?" Margaret asked in pure annoyance.
"Bottom line Hawk, you feed him," Trapper scoffed.
"Alright, fine," Hawkeye hugged with both hands up. "But I'm only doing this because nobody else has done this kind of thing before Trap."
"That's more like it," Trapper remarked. "Better open your mouth, Henry. Hawkeye is going to feed you."
"I can hear that McIntyre," Henry sighed. "Alright Pierce, let's get this over with."
"Your word is as good as mine Henry," Hawkeye worked on feeding him.
With that, Hawkeye took the spoon, scooped up the stuff, and brought it to Henry's mouth, which was opened up. From there, Hawkeye put the spoon of food in there, and convince Henry to close his mouth and swallow the food as he pulled the spoon out of his mouth.
"Well, Henry? How does that taste?" Hawkeye had to ask.
"Hmmm...Welp, if I have to be honest, it tastes the same as I remember it," Henry told him honestly.
"That's more like it," Hawkeye smirked. "Shall I continue feeding you?"
"As long as you don't mention any of this to my wife, then feel free to," Henry remarked. "Let's just make it quick."
"I'll go as quickly as my proctologist told me to," Hawkeye deadpanned, as he started feeding Henry again.
Needless to say, it was the same result as before, as were all the other attempts. The others had no comment on how Henry was being fed the mess tent food. Frank, however, was pretty disgusted by how they were having to feed the Colonel.
"Hmph! How disgraceful," Frank sneered. "Feeding the Colonel as if he was a toddler. It's disgusting. Purely disgusting to watch."
"Frank, if you want, I can feed you next," Hawkeye offered teasingly. "I can give you porridge; one that's too hot, one that's too cold, and one that's just right."
"Then you can sleep in the bed that's neither too hard nor too soft," Trapper joined in on the teasing. "We can check you in as Goldilocks at the nearest hotel, and you can give us your number."
"Oh why don't you can the malarkey, you bozos," Frank shouted.
"Trap? Do they serve some malarkey in South Korea?" Hawkeye asked just to spite Frank.
"I dunno," Trapper shrugged casually. "I could ask around and let you know the first chance I get, Hawk."
"You two are a couple of sickos," Frank scoffed. "We are eating in an American compound stationed in Korea."
"Alright Frank, why don't you go and eat the American flag for us," Hawkeye suggested.
"Don't leave any leftovers," Trapper added. "We don't eat flags for lunch."
"Or at all for that manner," Andrew deadpanned in annoyance.
"Can we cut the tomfoolery people?" Henry requested. "I would like to eat my food in peace."
"Don't we all want to eat in peace," Hawkeye questioned. "As in without the war going on and whatnot?"
"But Pierce, if there was no war going on, then there'd be no reason for us to be here," Andrew pointed out dryly.
"Exactly Andrew," Hawkeye stated.
"Well you can't go wrong with eating while a war is going on," Trapper said sarcastically. "It's the only way to eat in this dump."
"I'll eat to that," Hawkeye deadpanned.
"Here here," Radar agreed while gulping another spoonful of food.
"Radar, you'll eat to anything," Andrew brought up. "I mean you can handle this dreck."
"Good point," Radar understood what Andrew was saying.
"I think we should eat quietly without any more commotion," Margaret suggested.
"I agree with that," Andrew told her.
"Let's just can the chatter. This slop isn't getting better," Frank grumbled.
"Then again, what slop will get better around these parts," Hawkeye questioned rhetorically.
Frank only gave him a sharp glare but said nothing else. As for the others, not another word was uttered as they continued to eat their lunch, with Hawkeye feeding Henry. They had no idea about what they would do after they were done with eating in the mess tent...
IN COLONEL BLAKE'S TENT - 19:49
"Alright Colonel Blake," Father Mulcahy had offered to escort Henry to his tent when it came time for him to go to bed. "We're here, in your tent."
"Oh goodie Father," Henry sighed in relief. "This is the one place that I'd like to be right now."
"In your current condition, it most likely is," Father Mulcahy agreed with him. "Now you try to get some rest Colonel, and hopefully the Lord will restore your vision by week's end."
"I sure hope so Father," Henry remarked as he was brought to his cot. "I don't mind telling you, but I really would like to get my vision back soon."
"I hope so too my son," Father Mulcahy got Henry to sit on his cot and untied his boots. "Your eyesight was a blessing bestowed upon you at birth. It's something that you should use wisely, and not to take it for granted."
"Tell me about it," Henry stretched his arms as his boots were taken off. "Welp, I'm bushed. Today was rather hectic, considering how I can't see anything."
"Anyone who's been in your boots would've had it pretty hectic if I do say so myself Colonel," the Father informed him. "It must feel like purgatory, being unable to see."
"You don't know the half of it Father," Henry got comfy. "Since I've been unable to see, I was almost tricked by Klinger to signing a Section 8 Discharge paper. Major Peterson entered in the nick of time to put the kabob on it. I've had a nurse help me hand instruments to McIntyre. And I had Pierce feed me the lunch they were serving in the mess tent. Not to mention being escorted all over the place, even if it's something as simple as the latrines."
"Not an easy task for someone who's blind to accomplish," the Chaplin admitted. "But I must give you some credentials for attempting to get things done, being the commanding officer of this outfit."
"Yeah, that's true," Henry moaned. "I mean, I'm the one in charge of this man's hospital. So I have to make sure the sessions in O.R. go by without a hitch."
"Seems to me that your job here at the 4077th is nothing to be taken lightly," Father Mulcahy deduced.
"You could say that Father," Henry admitted. "Though it's only how things go in OR that's a priority. Anything outside of OR isn't something to worry about. Being able to see had made me realize that."
"Of course," he remarked. "Would you like anything before you turn in for the night Colonel? A prayer or a blessing, or something?"
"Nah, Father. Just help me get into my cot. All I want is for eight hours of sleep," Henry stated as Father Mulcahy helped him into his cot. "I want to be able to get through the remainder of this week until my vision comes back and I can see again."
"Perfectly understandable Colonel," Father Mulcahy got him tucked in for the night. "Does that feel comfortable?"
"Yes, Father. It's fine," Henry yawned. "You know, this reminds me of the time where I was still in Bloomington Illinois, and it was Sunday morning. With Lorraine and me in bed, along with the kids, and the dog with the Sunday papers. You can never put that dog next to any papers."
"That must have been very beguiling sir," the Father remarked.
"It sure was Father," Henry sighed as he was now comfortable in his bed. "Welp, I don't think I need anything else for the night."
"Well, alright," Father Mulcahy went with it. "But if you need anything, don't hesitate to call out for someone to come over."
"I'll keep that in mind Father," Henry told him. "Thanks a heaping bunch for this."
"Anytime my fine son," Father Mulcahy said. "As I'd like to say, farewell, and hope your tomorrow is a brighter one than what you had today."
"Right Father," Henry gave his farewell. "That'll do. Goom-bye, and farewell."
Afterwards, Father Mulcahy decided to leave Henry's tent as Henry was just about ready to turn in for the night. Today was absolutely busy for Henry. He could only find out how the remainder of this week is going to go for him with the lack of eyesight...
IN ANDREW'S TENT - 20:05
Meanwhile, in Andrew's tent, we see the Major getting comfortable in his tent. At the moment, he was attending his typical rendezvous with Margaret. And it was taking place as they planned it.
They had to admit, tonight seemed pretty decent outside. Yet, at the same time, Andrew couldn't help but think about Henry's condition with being unable to see. That was just about the only thing that was on his mind at the moment.
By contrast, Margaret had wanted Andrew to say something but also noticed that he was in deep thought. She had to break the silence, even if it started rather casual.
"It's a lovely night, ain't it?" She felt like asking.
"Yeah. It sure is," Andrew nodded. "Margaret, can I ask you something?"
"Anything Andrew. What is it?"
"Do you think the Colonel is going to be alright," he wondered. "I mean, with being unable to see anything and such."
"Hmmm..." Margaret had a thoughtful expression on her face. "I'm pretty sure he'll be alright."
"I know. But I have to wonder if his vision will come back or not. I mean, he is still our C.O."
"Yeah, that's true. I'm more than certain that his vision will be back by the end of this week."
"Yeah. That eye doctor who gave him the treatment said he'd be back in a week. It's been well over a day, which means there are a few more days to go. I think he can manage as long as we're here to help him out."
"That's probably the only way that he can make it by this," Margaret remarked. "Let's not forget that he has the rest of the compound to be responsible for."
"Uh-huh," Andrew nodded. "Maybe we can have some fun while we're here together."
"Oh Andrew, I thought you'd never bring that up darling," Margaret smirked.
"Well I just did, dear," Andrew teased her playfully. "Remember, you're my little shot."
"And you're my big shot," Margaret went over and embraced him. "I love you, honey."
"I love you too, buttercup." Andrew returned the embrace. "Should we start kissing now, my dear?"
"Oh shut up and kiss me, you fool," Margaret told him.
"You got it," Andrew remarked willingly.
At that moment, the two Majors engaged in yet another kissing fest. There was nothing different from this one than there was in the previous ones that they took part in. Eventually, they took it to Andrew's cot, and it was made out to represent a makeout session, in addition to their kissing fest. Even with everything that was going on with Henry Blake at the moment, these two were going to be in for one hell of a night, just like all the other nights they had these rendezvous and ended up sleeping together in Andrew's cot...
Several days have gone by since Henry Blake lost his vision. Each day was pretty much the same for Henry. Wounded came in, Henry helped out with the assistance of a nurse, he'd get fed his food, sign some forms Radar filled out, and get escorted to his tent when it came to turning in for the night.
Although Henry started to feel less comfortable the longer he went without his vision, he did wish that he could see again. He missed being able to see who was around him, what the others were doing, and how things were going within the compound.
It would be made worse if his vision didn't come back by the time the war was over and when he'd go back home to Bloomington. Then he'd never be able to see his wife or his kids again. That wouldn't be good for his family, let alone himself.
Luckily for him, a week had eventually gone by, and that was around the time where ophthalmologist Major James Overman had returned to the 4077th, to check up on Henry and see if his vision has improved and that the Colonel could see again.
Currently, everyone was in Post-Op as Henry was issued to sit on one of the beds while Major Overman slowly takes off the gauze that's been covering his eyes. The others were watching from nearby, while Frank had that usual scowl on his face. They were hoping that things could get back to abnormal around the M*A*S*H 4077. The ophthalmologist had eventually removed the gauze from his head, having taken his time taking it off so things won't take a turn for the worse.
Upon removing the gauze, it was revealed that Henry had two cotton balls placed over his eyes this whole time to avoid getting sunlight into his eyes. Before he removed them, the Major had to make sure Henry did something important.
"Alright Colonel, before I remove these cotton balls, I want you to shade your eyes," Major Overman warned him. "Otherwise, it's likely that your vision will be messed up."
"Okay, doke. You're the ophthalmologist around these parts," Henry stated. "Take out the cotton balls, and I'll shade my eyes."
"Alright," the Major removed the cotton balls from his eyes, in which Henry shaded his eyes with his hands. "Now Colonel, I want you to open them slowly."
And that's just what Henry did. He slowly started to open his eyes, blinking a few times to make sure his vision could be restored. As he did this, he slowly moved his hand away, no longer shielding it. Major Overman had to know if this was a success.
"Well?" He asked. "Can you see?"
"Uh, I dunno," Henry squinted his eyes.
"Okay. How about this," Major Overman held his hand out with all five fingers shown. "How many fingers am I holding up?"
"Lesse..." It took a couple of moments, but Henry was barely able to count exactly how many fingers were in his hand. "Is it five?"
"Yeah. You got it," Major Overman told him. "They work. Your vision is back. You can see again."
"That's great Major," Henry slowly opened his eyes completely while he was also excited. "Didn't you guys hear that? I can see again."
"We sure did," Andrew was the first to congratulate him. "Congratulations on getting your vision back."
"Glad that you can see again," Radar smiled.
"I'm glad that I can see again too, Radar," Henry had to chuckle. "This is probably the best thing to have happened since I first married Lorraine."
"Well Henry, we're happy that you can see again," Hawkeye told him. "But please be sure to never stare at the sun, or stare so close into a bright explosion in the gas furnace again."
"You should consider yourself lucky Henry," Trapper jumped in. "Your eyes didn't get a permanent third-degree burn from that accident."
"Yeah. That's one reason not to be in the sun for too long," Henry joked.
"Glad to see that your vision's back sir," Klinger said.
"We should thank the Lord for restoring your vision which he had bestowed upon you in the first place," Father Mulcahy told him. "Our prayers and hopes were fulfilled thanks to you, good Lord. Amen."
"Yeah, amen to that, Father," Henry said sheepishly.
"Great to know that your vision is back Colonel," Margaret said simply.
"Well Colonel, let this be a reminder," Frank was rather blunt. "Don't ever try to mess with a gas furnace again. Unless you rather have me become the new commanding officer in this outfit."
"I'll be sure to keep that in mind Frank," Henry gave him a forced smile. "Thanks for that."
"Well, in any case, it should be a good thing for things to get back to abnormal around here," Andrew decided to shift focus away from Frank.
"I'm happy about that too Peterson," Henry then turned his attention to Major James Overman. "Anyway, I'd like to thank you for making this possible."
"Anytime Colonel. And if you have anyone else who loses their vision, feel free to get a hold of me."
"Well, I doubt that anyone in this man's outfit will lose their vision," Henry insisted. "But I'll be sure to get a hold of you if it does happen, so you can come back to our neck of the woods and give us a helping hand."
"Alright. That's good to know," Major Overman said.
"So anyway Colonel, what are you going to do now that your vision is back?" Andrew felt like asking.
"I dunno about you Peterson, but I'm gonna do something that I never thought that I'd want to do willingly," Henry turned to face Radar. "Hey Radar?"
"All forms are on your desk, sir. Ready to be signed," Radar finished for him.
"That's what I want to know," Henry sighed. "I can't believe I'm saying this, but I'm looking forward to seeing my signature for a change."
"It goes to show you that your signature can be a sight for sore eyes," Hawkeye commented.
"In some cases, one would have to be nearsighted not to read your signature Henry," Trapper added dryly.
"That's good to know guys," Henry chuckled lightly. "Welp, I'm heading to my office to fill out those forms. You guys may go back to whatever it was you were doing before. Dismissed."
With that, everyone went back to what it was they were doing before, or what they had to do, while Henry went to his office to put his signature onto those forms. He was planning on having a cigar and a glass of bourbon afterwards too. It was great to have things back to normal around the M*A*S*H 4077, or whatever normal meant to the compound.
In any case, things would continue at the M*A*S*H 4077th, and hopefully, no more disruptions would take place like what happened to Henry. But if something like this did happen, they would be ready for it...
END OF CHAPTER 41...
Yeah, that's it for this chapter. I hope you all enjoyed it, even with how long it took to write this chapter, just like the previous chapters.
After how the previous chapter focused only on two characters, this chapter brings the other characters back. In addition to that, this chapter gave some focus to Henry, which is why most of the scenes here focus on Henry. Just so you all know.
Anyway, the next chapter will give some focus to Father Mulcahy; the first chapter in this story to do so. In it, Father Mulcahy tries to do something to make himself be seen as useful to the 4077th, and some other stuff will occur. How will this go? Find out, next time readers!
For now, if you want to leave a review, feel free to do so. I got nothing else to say on that matter, so it can be either-or.
Otherwise, that's all folks. So until the next chapter, I hope you take care of yourselves, and on that note, thanks again for reading everyone!