Klink's Transfer

by Jonathan M. Brown

Klink has been ordered to active combat duty and Hogan and his heroes are faced with their operation coming to an end unless they can find a way to stop the transfer.

Introduction: In case the reader has not read the previous two entries in my imagined seventh, finale season of Hogan's Heroes, a brief summary would be helpful in understanding what unfolds in this episode. Although my episodes are not necessarily being written and posted in chronological order, this story does take place after the events of the first two episodes. D Day took place in June of 1944, in August the Allies executed a second large scale landing in the South of France. Paris has fallen and the Allies are pushing through the low countries and Germany is in serious peril. The outcome of the war now is inescapable and Hogan has secured Burkhalter's assistance in exchange for a guarantee of safety after the war, provided he isn't guilty of anything in the way of war crimes (which he is not). Burkhalter is not aware of Hogan's involvement with the underground or of his escape route through Stalag 13. All Hogan has told him was he would guarantee his safety after the war, in exchange for some help and information in the closing months of the war.

"Klink's Transfer"

Roll call! Everybody up, up, up, up! Sergeant Schultz makes his way around the barracks, smacking the bedposts as he repeats, "Everybody up, up, up. Schnell! Everybody rous, rous, rous, time for roll call!"

From every direction there are growls and jeers, general displeasure, "Get out of here Schultz!" Kinch Snaps.

Carter Adds, "I don't want to go out there and face the cold yet, it's too early!"

Newkirk agrees, "'Ear's an idea Schultz, why don't you count us while we're still in our bunks and then just go out and tell the bleedin' commandant that we're all 'ear!" Kinch, Lebeau and others laugh at the suggestion, even though they would be thrilled if Shultz followed the advice.

Schultz is unmoved, "Jolly jokers, all of you, jolly jokers! You are going to get me into trouble with the Commandant!"

Finally, Colonel Hogan emerges from his room and orders the men, "Alright, come on you guys, you heard the Sergeant, time for roll call so let's move!"

Sergeant Schultz is grateful for the help, "Good morning Colonel Hogan, thank you Colonel Hogan!"

Hogan replies, "You'll have to forgive the men Schultz, we had a late night last night."

Schultz queries Hogan, "A late night?"

Hogan nods, "That's right."

Schultz asks, "What was it that kept you up so late Colonel?"

Hogan, "Well, we heard that there was this bridge not far from here that the Germans had rigged for demolition, so we thought…"
Schultz puts his finger up to his lips, "Shh! Nevermind! I hear nothing, I know NOTHING! NOTHING!"

Hogan smiles, "Okay boys let's get out there!"

As the men take their positions, Schultz hustles down one row and back the other way, trying to make up the time lost thanks to the prisoners' antics. In an accelerated pace he counts, "Eins, Zwei, Drei, Vier, Funf…"

Lebeau taunts him, "Hurry up Schultz! Here comes the Commandant!"

Schultz's voice pitches up as he tries to finish counting before the Commandant calls for him, "Vierzehn, funfzehn, sechzehn!"

He hurries to face the Commandant, just as Klink shouts, "Report!"

Schultz replies, "Herr Kommandant, all present and accounted for!"

Klink clears his throat before speaking, "Prisoners, as always I my most pressing concern is the security here at Stalag 13 and our perfect record of never having had a successful escape. To that end, I have decided to erect an additional guard tower outside the perimeter fence. I am now asking for volunteers among the prisoners to act as work parties on this project. Each barracks will conduct a poll of the men and report to the Barracks Guard, who will then report to me."

Jeering from the prisoners comes pouring down on Klink from all sides.

Newkirk shouts, "Rhubarb!"

Lebeau repeats, "Jamais, Jamais!" (meaning never)

Carter's offer is, "Us? Collaborate? Ha!"

Kinch says, "I'd sooner trim Hitler's mustache!"

All the while Schultz is trying to contain the uproar, "Shhhhh! Quiet! QUIET!"

Colonel Hogan finally speaks up, "Alright men, pipe down!"

The prisoners finally begin to calm and Hogan says, "Doesn't look like there are any volunteers here sir!"

Klink retorts, "I suggest you reconsider! Because if you do not, all rations will be cut in half and the lights will be turned off one hour earlier from now on!"

Again the prisoners erupt into jeering, booing and whistling and the guards go through the motions in a vain attempt to quiet them.

Klink doesn't bother waiting for the men to quiet down, he shouts, "Dismissed!" and turns around to march back into his office.

Back in the barracks the men gather in Colonel Hogan's office.

Carter asks, "What I don't get is why would Klink decide all of the sudden that now is a good time to add a guard tower?"

Hogan replies, "That's a very good question Carter!"

Carter responds, "Really? You know sometimes I do that! I remember once back home, we were having trouble with my dad's car and I…."

Lebeau cuts him off, "Nevermind Carter! Not now!"

Kinch says, "There haven't been any escapes, not even any failed attempts and yet now he comes up with this? I don't get it either."

Newkirk suggests, "Could he be putting on a show for someone? Visiting brass or something?"

Hogan answers, "That would be like him, wouldn't it?"

Kinch grabs a map of the camp off the wall and Hogan asks him, "What's up Kinch?"

Kinch replies, "Oh, it just occurred to me whether a guard tower could possibly cause a problem."

Hogan asks, "What kind of problem, what do you mean?"

Kinch, "I mean if they put the guard tower on top of a tunnel, could that cause a cave in?"

Newkirk says, "Blimey! That'd be lovely that would!"

Carter thinks out loud, "Nah, I don't think a tower would be heavy enough, not even with the footings in the ground, do you Colonel?"

Hogan answers, "I don't know for sure Carter but we better find out one way or the other."

Seated at his desk, hunched over his blotter, Klink shuffles papers across his desk, wearing his now trademark sour expression on his face. A knock on the door interrupts him, he barely looks up as he says, "Come in."

Helga appears as she opens the door and announces, "Herr Kommandant, Colonel Hogan is here to see you sir."

Klink sighs, "Very well, show him in."

Hogan strides into the room and casually hangs his cap on the Kommandant's decorative 'pickelhaube', the helmet that Klink displays on his desk. He sits down and before he can begin, Klink reaches out and snatches the cap and tosses it into Hogan's lap, "Colonel Hogan, I'm very busy today and I'm not in the mood for your joviality!"

Hogan replies, "Oh, I'm sorry sir. No disrespect intended, I just thought we could discuss your little problem."

Klink shakes his head, "Oh no you don't, you're not going to do this to me again Hogan…this is NOT my problem, it's YOUR problem!"

Hogan feigns confusion, "What do you mean sir?"

Klink persists, "Your men will help with the new guard tower or face the consequences!"

Hogan replies, "Sir, we've been down this road you and I many times. And I think you'd have to agree, when it comes to my men, I know how to get the most out of them."

Klink insists, "I'm in command here Hogan and it's high time your men learned that!"

Hogan agrees but before he can say anything there is another knock at the door.

Klink again says, "Come in."

Helga opens the door and enters the room with a small stack of mail, she waves the envelopes and says, "Mail just arrived Herr Kommandant." She smiles at Hogan as she turns around after handing Klink the mail. Hogan returns her look with a wink.

Klink quickly shuffles through the envelopes and stops when he finds a yellow envelope, a familiar sight, as this type of envelope comes from headquarters. He begins to open the letter as he says, "You were saying Colonel Hogan?"

Hogan is intrigued at the sight because he remembers Newkirk's guess that perhaps the guard tower had something to do with visiting brass or something official. He stumbles over his words as he watches Klink's every move, "Well sir, what I meant was…that is to say…"

Klink casually pulls the letter from the envelope, his eyes move left to right, left to right and then suddenly he stops.

His face is frozen, his eyes are fixed, his mouth partly opened but he says nothing. After a few seconds Hogan finally speaks up, "Sir?"

Klink doesn't even blink.

Hogan tries again, "Colonel Klink? Is everything alright sir?"

Still nothing, Klink has not moved a muscle.

Hogan stands up, keeping his eyes on Klink as he backs up to the door and opens it, "Frauline Helga, please call Sergeant Schultz in here right away!"

Hogan calmly closes the door and again asks, "Colonel Klink? Sir?"

Just then Sergeant Schultz knocks and enters, "Colonel Hogan, Fraulein Helga said you…"

Just then he notices the statuesque Klink. He motions with his thumb, like a hitchhiker, "What's with him?" he asks. Hogan shrugs his shoulders, "I dunno. We were sitting here talking and after he opened that letter he just froze!"

Sergeant Schultz, looks at his superior officer and says, "Herr Kommandant!"

Still nothing.

Schultz, never one for subtlety raises his voice, "Herr KOMMANDANT!"

Hogan, growing more exasperated by the minute, suddenly realizes the potential connection, "Just what does this letter say!?" He takes the paper out of Klink's hands but he doesn't notice, he continues to stare straight ahead, his hands still in the same positions.

Hogan mumbles, "Colonel Wilhelm Klink, serial number 238…blah blah blah…you are hereby BEING TRANSFERRED TO COMBAT DUTY!?"

Schultz exclaims, "DONNERWETTER!"

Hogan slaps Klink across the face while he shouts, "Colonel Klink! Wake up!"

Klink begins to stutter nonsensically, "Bah abba adda…"

Hogan grabs Klink's shoulers and gives him a shake, "That's it sir, come on, come back to us."

Hogan then suggests, "Schultz, why don't you have Helga bring in a glass of water for the Colonel?"

Schultz nods, "Ya, ya right away!" and hurries out the door.

Klink mumbles, "Transferred…I'm being transferred…How can this be?"

Hogan continues to attempt to communicate with the dazed Klink, "Sir? Can you hear me sir?"

Klink finally releases his fixed gaze and turns his head, looking up and to the right at Hogan.

"Yes, yes I can hear you…."

Hogan and the Heroes sit around the table as Hogan recites the events of the past hour.

"So then Helga brought in some water and we splashed a little in Klink's face and he gradually came out of it."

Newkirk chuckles, "Talk about a shock to the system! Blimey that would 'ave been a sight!"

Kinch observes the obvious, "All kidding aside Colonel, this could be big trouble! If we lose Klink, we're out of business!"

Carter agrees, "Yeah Colonel, what are we going to do?"

Hogan shakes his head, "I don't know…yet. But the first thing I want to do is get Burkhalter down here and see if he can stop the transfer, it might be that easy."

Lebeau, "How are you going to do that mon Colonel?"

Hogan, "I have to be careful. Burkhalter agreed to cooperate with us but the main condition was that he had to be protected. So it's not as though I can just call him. I'll have to try and convince Klink to get him here."

Hogan spent the rest of the day trying to get an audience with Klink but he hadn't been in the office. Captain Gruber was the 'acting Kommandant' and had refused to allow Hogan to visit Klink's quarters. The Heroes now had to try and create some kind of ruckus that would force Klink out of his quarters. The men discuss the options in the tunnel…

Kinch suggests, "Why not just have a man missing at evening roll call?"

Hogan hesitates, "That might do it Kinch but what if it doesn't? We need to create a fuss and then a quick follow up, something with a lot of noise, something that will pique Klink's curiosity and force him out of his funk."

Newkirk asks, "What if we have an escape that causes the Krauts to release the dogs, they'll raise a racket!"

Lebeau agrees, "Oui! C'est perfect!"

Carter wonders, "But if the dogs just run out the front gate, the noise won't last long."

Kinch nods, "That's true Andrew. It's gotta be something where the dogs stay in the camp."

Lebeau volunteers, "I could hide in the water tower and leave a scent for the dogs!"

Hogan points at the little Frenchman and snaps his fingers, "That's it! That's the ticket, Lebeau can come up out of the tunnel in the dog kennel and leave a scent right to the water tower."

The Heroes all nod and chatter in agreement as they disperse.

After lights out, the prisoners gather in the barracks as they put their plan into motion. Carter helps Lebeau apply shoe polish to darken his face as Newkirk maintains a watch through the sink periscope. Hogan and Kinch go over the sequence within earshot of the rest of the men.

Hogan uses his fingers to list each stage of the plan, "First Lebeau comes up through the kennel, be sure you don't drop any of the chunks of meat inside the kennel, or the dogs may not come out as usual, got that?"

Lebeau nods, "Oui mon Colonel, I have it all in mind!"

Hogan continues, "Carter, you go out the window in my room and create a distraction just as Lebeau exits."

Carter answers, "Yes sir, you can count on me boy! Uh, sir!"

Hogan goes on, "Once you hear that Carter has the attention of the guards and tower lights Lebeau, you hustle to the water tower, leaving a trail of the meat you've got in your pocket."

Lebeau gestures with the thumbs up and holds up a small bag, containing scraps from the camp kitchen.

Hogan then says, "Lebeau heads up the ladder into the water tower, I will come out of the barracks and get involved with Schulz as he apprehends Carter. That will lead to the revelation that Lebeau is missing and the alarm will be sounded and the dogs released!"

Kinch follows along on his list, "That's it Colonel, timing is everything but we shouldn't have a problem."

Newkirk asks, "Sir, even if Klink does come out to see what all the racket is over, what makes you so sure you'll be able to get him alone long enough to suggest he call Burkhalter?"

Hogan answers, "Nothing is a sure thing Newkirk, but this is the best we can do short of coming out of the tunnel in his quarters…and that would be awfully hard to explain!"

The men laugh, releasing some tension.

Newkirk looks through the periscope and raises his right hand, the bunk entrance is open and Oleson is stationed at the top of the ladder, staring at Newkirk…when Newkirk sees that the guards are in the right positions, he drops his hand, signaling for the operation to begin.

Oleson softly calls into the tunnel, "Geronimo!"

Kinch hears the signal and shouts "Okay, all clear!" down the tunnel.

Hogan hears Kinch's signal and gives Lebeau the thumbs up as he douses the light, he whispers, "Good luck Louis!"

Lebeau nods and hurries up the last couple steps before slowly pushing the dog house up, he peers around to ensure no one is around and he quickly exits.

Back in the barracks, Newkirk is vigilantly monitoring the operation, he sees Lebeau begin to come out of the tunnel and signals Carter with his other hand and whispers "Go, go go!"

Carter then pushes the window open, peeks around and begins to crawl out.

Back in the kennel, a couple of the dogs quickly smell what he has in his pocket and he has to shoo them away, "Not now Wolfgang, later! Later!"

Lebeau makes his way to the gate and quickly slips out, as he reaches into his pocket to remove the bag. He drops two scraps quickly to establish the direction he wants the dogs to go and then in a crouched run, hurries to the water tower, scattering the scraps along the way.

Carter walks around the corner of the barracks, where he sees Sergeant Schultz sitting on the bench in front of the barracks, he casually walks towards him and the moment he realizes that he is not asleep, he shouts, "I SURRENDER!"

Schultz is jarred out of his semi conscious state and practically leaps to his feat, "What? Where? Who?"
Carter takes another step toward the big guard, "I'm right here Schultz."

Schutlz finally realizes what's happening and quickly raises his rifle, though he somehow doesn't realize he's holding it upside down, "Ah Hah! You you you thought you could get away Carter!"

Carter shakes his head, "Darn it Schultz, you caught me! Better sound the alarm now."

Schultz lowers his gun and looks puzzled, "Why? Why should I raise the alarm Carter?"

Carter shakes his head, "Well you want to get credit for preventing an escape don't you? That might get you a ten day pass!"

Schultz smiles broadly, "Ya!" He then shouts, "Sound the alarm! Prisoner escape! Capture made by Sergeant Hans Schultz, serial number 234789!"

The alarm horn begins to sound loudly, and the tower lights begin to shift, glaring a bright spotlight on Schultz and Carter. The guard dogs begin to bark, louder and louder, more and more as a guard rushes over and opens the kennel. A couple of the dogs begin to run toward Schultz and Carter but the majority of them pick up Lebeau's scent and begin snacking along the way, making a straight line to the water tower.

Colonel Hogan comes out of the barracks into the chaos and sees that Klink is indeed coming out of his residence and heading toward the action.

Hogan says to Schultz, "Good work Sergeant, no wonder no one has ever escaped from Stalag 13! With men like you around, it's just impossible!"

Schultz is eager to agree, "Being alert as usual, I heard a noise and went to investigate!...

Hogan interrupts, "Yeah Schultz that's great, what are the dogs doing sniffing around the water tower I wonder?"

Schultz notices and begins to rush in that direction, leaving Hogan and Carter standing there. Klink is approaching quickly, Hogan tells Carter, "Get back in the barracks!" Carter questions him, "But sir!?"

Hogan annoyed, "Carter just do as I say!"

Carter lowers his head, "Yes sir" and heads back into the barracks.

Hogan rushes to intercept Klink, "Colonel Klink!"

Klink responds, "What is the meaning of all this?"

Hogan answers, "Looks like an escape attempt sir!"

Klink annoyed, "At this hour?"

Hogan feels rushed to get to the point, "Sir, while we have a moment I thought I might make a suggestion."

Klink looks at Hogan incredulously, "What? Now? In the middle of this nonsense!?"

Hogan nods, "Granted sir, my timing isn't ideal but it occurred to me that perhaps General Burkhalter might be able to help you."

Klink answers, "How is General Burkhalter going to help me?"

Hogan reminds Klink, "Your transfer sir, wouldn't the General make a phone call on your behalf sir?"

Klink pauses, "You know, that's a possibility. The General has the highest respect for me and my record here at Stalag 13, perhaps he would order that I remain here!"

Hogan instantly pounces, "Good thinking sir! Oh I love the way you military men are always one step ahead of the rest of us!"

Klink replies, "And speaking of that!.." And he begins to stride toward the water tower.

Hogan smiles and follows.

The next morning the prisoners are once again in formation for roll call. Sergeant Schultz makes his way up and down the rows of men, counting as usual. Commandant Klink comes out of his office and marches to the center of the compound, shouting the familiar, "Report!"

Schultz replies, "All present and accounted for, Herr Kommandant!" Technically he is correct, even though Lebeau is in the cooler as punishment for last night's escape attempt. Carter received no punishment as Schultz was convinced that he would be in big trouble if two of his prisoners were found to be out of the barracks at the same time.

Klink dismisses the men and just then, General Burkhalter's car comes through the main gate. Hogan knows he can't afford to miss his chance to speak to the General. He casually makes his way toward the front of Klink's office building.

Schultz opens the door and Burkhalter exits, Colonel Klink is naturally waiting close by. Hogan positions himself behind Klink so that he can't order him away, hoping to force himself into the conversation and somehow signal Burkhalter that he wants to talk. This is one of those moments when Hogan's greatest skills serve him best; improvisation under great pressure with limited time and probably just one shot at success.

Klink greets the General with his usual glad handed style, "Welcome General Burkhalter, so very nice to see you again sir!" As he salutes and then reaches out his hand.

Burkhalter gruffly responds, "Yes Klink, I know, I know. Now what was it that you wanted to see me about that was so urgent?"

Hogan interjects, "General!" He salutes.

Burkhalter returns the salute and Klink scolds Hogan, "What are you doing here Hogan, get back to your barracks!"

Hogan responds, "Of course sir, right away. I was just wanting to extend my greetings and respects to the General, you know, out of military courtesy!" Hogan looks Burkhalter right in the eyes, hoping he will pick up on his expression.

But Klink has other plans, "Oh very well Hogan, thank you. Now you are dismissed!"

Hogan continues, "Oh yes sir, right away! I know you two have a lot to discuss and you probably want to tell the General all about how you foiled that escape the other night!"

Burkhalter bites, whether intentionally or not, Hogan isn't sure…

Burkhalter widens his eyes, "Klink! You prevented an escape did you?"

Klink smiles, "Yes sir, I was going to give you a full report in my office in just a moment."

Hogan pushes one last time, "Well sir, if you would like to hear from someone who witnessed the entire heroic effort, I would be happy to tell you what I saw."

Burkhalter agrees, but Hogan is still unsure of why.

The three men make their way into Klink's office and sit down to talk.

Burkhalter asks Klink, "Tell me Klink, how did you manage to foil this escape?"

Klink smiles and answers, "Well sir, you know that part of the secret of Stalag 13 being escape-proof is the training I provide our personnel."

Hogan jokes, "Does that include training the dogs sir?"

Klink tries to hide his annoyance, "Hogan, our dogs are a vital part of maintaining our record of no escapes!"

Burkhalter asks, "Well Klink? Was it the dogs or you who prevented this escape?"

Klink now caught, "Well sir, naturally the dogs can't be of any use unless they are directed by me and my guards!"

Burkhalter accepts the explanation.

Hogan then prompts Klink, "Sir, perhaps the General would like to hear about the other matter, the one that came in the mail the other day."

Burkhalter turns to Klink, "Yes Klink, you mentioned that there was an urgent matter when you called me, what is it?"

Klink laughs nervously, "Sir there obviously has been a terrible mistake somewhere…" He then hands Burkhalter the transfer order and continues, "This was what came in the mail the other day sir and I was hoping that perhaps you could help us straighten it out."

Burkhalter reads the order and seems legitimately bothered but says, "I don't see any mistake here Klink, this looks like a perfectly valid order to me."

Klink rebutts, "But sir, surely I can't be spared from my duty here…"

Burkhalter interrupts, "Unfortunately the tactical situation leaves the Third Reich with a shortage of combat manpower, it is more and more common to see these types of transfers, there is nothing that I can do about this."

Klink deflates at the news, almost returning to the same state of shock he was in when he read the order the first time.

Hogan jumps at the opening, "Colonel Klink, you look a little pale, perhaps you should excuse yourself for a moment?"

Klink stands up and mutters, "Yes, I think I will get myself a glass of water, please excuse me" and leaves the room. As soon as the door closes, Hogan turns to Burkhalter, "Is that the straight story General?"

Burkhalter nods, "It is. Remember when we agreed to cooperate, I said that above all I must not draw attention to myself."

Hogan asks, "So you COULD stop this but you won't risk it?"

Burkhalter pauses, "Is it possible? I suppose it might be- but just attempting to rescind this order will attract attention and if asked, what explanation could I possibly give?!"

Hogan offers, "Well let's face it General, you and I both know that Klink would be of no help to any unit in the Luftwaffe and keeping him here could only help the war effort!"

Burkhalter persists, "But Hogan, why would I spend one minute interfering with what I just told you is a perfectly valid and very common order these days?"

Hogan pauses, "I see your point General and I did promise to hold up my part of the bargain. But I just can't believe that in the present state of affairs in Berlin that there isn't a way to get away with fouling up some paperwork in what must be an already fouled up bureaucracy!"

Burkhalter pauses again, thoughtfully. "Now you may be onto something with that Hogan."

Just then Klink reenters the room but before he can sit down Burkhalter stops him. "Klink, I want you to return to your quarters. I will join you shortly."
Klink is puzzled, "Yes sir, but, but, but…"

Burkhalter growls, "Klink!"

Klink bows his head and in a soft voice says, "Yes sir, right away sir." He then leaves the room again.

As soon as Burkhalter and Hogan are alone again,

Hogan suggests, "What if we were to find a small error in that order sir?"

Burkhalter asks, "What kind of error?"

Hogan asks, "Do you suppose there is another Wilhelm Klink in the German army?"

Burkhalter rolls his eyes, "I certainly hope there isn't!"

Hogan continues, "If not another Wilhelm Klink, perhaps a Wilhelm Fink or Klank…something close and then all we'd have to do is change the serial number to that man and transfer him instead of the Colonel!"

Burkhalter touches his chin thoughtfully, "Hmmm, that is an ingenious idea Hogan, I must admit!"

Hogan, "Thank you sir. But obviously I don't have access to German personnel files, so you would have to be the one who finds this man and his serial number."

Burkhalter thinks for a moment before agreeing, "Very well Hogan, we have a deal. But I'm warning you, if this somehow backfires on me, you had better fulfill your end of the bargain!"

Hogan confidently states, "We made a deal and I will stand by it General, you can take that to the bank."

Burkhalter shakes his head, "I don't know why Hogan but somehow I believe you."

The Heroes sit around the table in their barracks, Carter, Newkirk, Kinch and Lebeau play cards as Colonel Hogan observes, though he is restless. After a few moments, Kinch notices the fidgety Hogan and asks, "Something bothering you sir?"

Hogan sighs, "I have to confess, I'm feeling nervous!"

Newkirk quips, "No need sir! With the jolly General working for us!" The boys all laugh.

Hogan smiles, "No doubt, that's darn good insurance Newkirk. But it has occurred to me, what if he doesn't come through, what's plan B?"

Kinch nods, "Hey, that's a good point, where will be if Klink really does get shipped out?"

Carter suggests, "One thing for sure, that would be a good thing for our side!"

Lebeau swats Carter with his beret, "No matter how big a clutz Klink is, he can't do any more for our side than he does right here!"

Hogan adds, "I don't know how many options we would have if Klink does get transferred but I think it's time we at least think about it."

Each man scans the room, looking and hoping, waiting for someone to speak up and describe a plan that will allow them to continue doing their vital work. But no one speaks.

Kinch finally speaks up, "So that's it then?"

Carter asks, "It can't be! Can it?"

Newkirk adds, "I think we've 'ad it mates."

The men all hang their heads until their leader reminds them, "Hey boys, let's not forget that we've come back from some pretty tight spots before, so I wouldn't count us out just yet. And even if this is the end of the line, we all know the war isn't going to last much longer, so if we have to stop operating, we just have to sit tight and wait for liberation."

Lebeau brightens up, "Oui mon Colonel, we have a lot to be proud of and you're right, the end is in sight!"

Days pass with no word from Burkhalter and Klink's transfer is now imminent. Though the Heroes had been buoyed by their leader's inspirational words, their morale had slowly declined in the meantime. They were certain that the loss of Klink meant their operation, and their usefulness would come to an end. Even Colonel Hogan himself had reached a point of near total desperation, trying to come up with a way he could get in touch with Burkhalter. As they take a break from working in the motor pool, they discuss the situation once again.

Hogan asks, "I can't understand why Burkhalter hasn't done anything about this yet, what is he waiting for?"

Lebeau suggests, "You can never trust the bosch mon Colonel!"

Newkirk adds, "Lebeau might be right sir, Burkhalter's only worried about saving his fat hyde!"

Carter asks, "Why can't we just call Burkhalter, pretending to be someone else?"

Kinch answers, "Yeah, I guess we could just call him! What do you think, Colonel Hogan?"

Hogan replies, "The problem is that we can't be sure how Burkhalter will react to that and we have to remember, at this point he isn't aware that we have that capability. I'd be giving him an awfully big card that he could play against us."

Kinch agrees wholeheartedly, "Yeah, that's right too, it's too big a risk."

Newkirk disagrees, "'Too big a risk!?, what do you mean? If we lose Klink, we are out of business!"

Hogan replies, "I get your point Newkirk but remember this, if we do nothing the worst that can happen is we lose Klink and we can't operate, at least nowhere near to the degree we have up to now. But if we take the risk and call Burkhalter and it goes against us, we could lose it all, including our lives!"

For the first time in a long, long time the men seem at odds over the best course of action. Hogan makes a tough call and brings the matter to a vote.

Hogan states, "Look fellas, this is a big one and it could mean the difference between surviving the war and possibly not. I don't think it's right for one man to make that decision for all of us, we've come too far and been through too much together. I say we call a vote to decide whether to use our underground phone to call Burkhalter."

The men briefly look at one another and nod in agreement.

Hogan observes the reaction and says, "All in favor of calling Burkhalter, raise your hands"

Newkirk's arm shoots up.

Carter hesitates a moment and then raises his arm above his head. Newkirk pats him on the back…but that's the last of the yes votes.

Hogan then says, "Okay, all in favor of not calling Burkhalter and sitting tight, raise your hands."

Hogan raises his hand first, Lebeau quickly follows and Kinch right after. Newkirk hangs his head.

Hogan then says, "Okay then, by a vote of 3-2 we sit tight. Sorry Newkirk, no hard feelings right?
Newkirk looks at Hogan and smiles, "No sir, none at all."

Just a few minutes after lunch the following day the prisoners are in the barracks when Schultz comes through the door, "Formation outside! Everyone out, out, out, rous, rous, rous! Formation outside rrrrite away!"

Carter asks, "What's the deal Schultz? Why is there a formation now?"

Schultz ignores the question and repeats, "Rous, rous, rous, everyone outside, formation at ONCE!"

Hogan orders his men, "Alright boys, let's go, everybody out, you heard the Sergeant."

Just by the tone of Hogan's voice the other prisoners get the hint, this must be it. This must be Klink's farewell. They solemnly make their way out into formation.

Colonel Klink is at his usual position at the front of the formation, facing the prisoners. He signals Captain Gruber, standing a few steps away.

Gruber shouts, "Have the prisoners come to attention!"

Schultz and the other barracks guards all shout, "Achtung! Attention!"

The prisoners snap to attention in a uniquely smart manner, a sign of respect for a man that has meant more to them than he would ever know.

Klink barely notices however, as he begins to speak, "The prisoners may stand at ease."

The men now stand, feet slightly apart, hands behind their backs.

Klink clears his throat and begins reading from an order he holds in his hands, "By staff order 8983254M2, duly signed by General Ludvig Kraussmeyer, I, Wilhelm Klink herewith relinquish command of Stalag 13 to Captain Fritz Gruber." He then steps forward, stands adjacent to Gruber and the two men turn and face one another. They salute, Klink then steps back and Gruber steps forward and says, "Your beloved Kommandant has been transferred to active duty, with the change in command certain changes will be made. You prisoners will now obey every rule and every regulation to the letter! Failure to do so will result in immediate and severe discipline!

Goldman, sensing the prisoner's depressed state of mind, defiantly shouts, "Atta boy Fritz baby!" The prisoners erupt in loud laughter.

Gruber orders, "Sergeant Schutz!"

Schultz replies, "Yawhol, Herr Captain!"

Gruber points at Goldman, "That man there, 10 days solitary!"

Schultz salutes, "It shall be done Herr Captain!"

Gruber then dismisses the prisoners, most of them disperse and head back into their respective barracks but Hogan and the men walk toward Klink.

Hogan says, "Colonel Klink sir?"

Klink turns and answers, "Yes Colonel Hogan?"

Hogan continues, "My men and I would like the chance to say goodbye and offer you our best wishes sir."

Klink hesitates just for a moment, possibly overtaken by the sincerity of Hogan's voice. Klink's voice is barely loud enough to hear as he answers, "Yes, of course." He then clears his throat.

Lebeau is the first to shake Klink's hand, "Au revoir mon Commandant."

Klink nods, "Thank you Louis, and thank you for all the wonderful meals you created over the years, they will be among the few happy memories I shall have of this place."

Lebeau nods and without speaking, backs away.

Newkirk is next up, "Colonel Klink, You've been good to us here sir and that won't be forgotten."

Klink shakes Newkirk's hand saying, "Thank you Corporal, I appreciate that very much."

Carter then shakes Klink's hand next, "Colonel Klink, I really hope you get a good assignment and get home safe real soon."

Klink reciprocates, "Thank you Sergeant, that is very kind of you."

Kinch steps forward, "Colonel Klink sir, I don't think anyone here will argue with me that it was very fortunate for us as prisoners to get a commandant like you."
Klink smiles, missing the hidden meaning, "Thank you Sergeant."

Hogan finally gets his turn to speak, "Well Colonel, I think you can see by what my men have said here that you will be missed and not soon forgotten. I hope that you stay safe and that our paths cross again someday."

Klink shakes his hand, "Thank you Colonel Hogan, thank you very much." He then steps back and speaks to the group, "Thank you all so very much for this sign of respect and affection. I wish you all the best and may we all be home soon, reunited with our loved ones."

The men applaud and look on respectfully as Klink turns to Schultz, "Well my old comrade, I hope we see each other again someday soon."

Schultz, looking sincerely sad says, "Yes sir Colonel Klink that is my hope too."

Klink then turns back to the men and waves, "Goodbye all and best wishes to everyone!"

The prisoners, along with Schultz and Langenscheidt return the waves and cheers of best wishes. Schultz opens the back door of the staff car and stands at attention, saluting Klink as he gets into the car. The door is closed and the car drives off, through the gates and out of sight.

The men hang their heads and make their way back across the compound to the barracks.

Later that night Kinch is in the radio room, taking down a routine message from London when all hell breaks loose up in the barracks. Sergeant Schultz comes through the door, looking as though he just rolled out of bed himself. He shouts, albeit not very loudly, "Roll call! Everybody up, up, up, roll call!"

Carter angrily asks, "Roll call? In the middle of the night!?"

Newkirk adds, "Bloody awful! Bloody awful waking us up in the middle of the night like this!"

Schultz fires back, "How do you think I feel about it, Newkirk? I was sound asleep myself when the new Commandant ordered a surprise roll call!"

The men realize Kinch isn't in his bunk, Lebeau is the first to notice and motions to Oleson, who's bunk is nearest to Colonel Hogan's room. Oleson catches on and nods, he jumps down from his bunk and waits…

Lebeau then motions to Carter, who is in the bunk right below and then lays back down, pretending to be asleep.

Carter then stands in front of Schultz, making him turn around and away from Hogan's door, he then says, "Hey now just one minute Schultz, I don't think it's fair that I have to get up if Lebeau doesn't!"

Schultz looks confused, "What are you talking about Carter, EVERYBODY has to get up!"

Carter points at Lebeau and says, "Well he isn't up, so I am going back to bed too!" and he climbs back into his bunk.

Schultz inhales deeply, "Alright that is enough, both of you out, out, out!"

Carter leaps out of his bunk quickly, pretending to be offended, "Alright geez Schultz, you don't have to shout do you!?"

Schultz then leans his rifle against the bedpost and uses both hands to shake Lebeau 'awake'. Lebeau starts to roll over and he opens his eyes, "Yes Schultz, can I do something for you?"

Schultz growls in frustration, "NO! You cannot, all you have to do is get out of bed and out into formation!"

Lebeau climbs out and looks behind Schultz to see Oleson has returned from Hogan's room and he winks at him.

Oleson then calls out, "Hey, where is Colonel Hogan?"

Newkirk then says to Schultz, "That's right Schultz, we can't have a roll call without Colonel Hogan!"

Schultz agrees, "Well yes, of course we can't. But where is he?"

Carter suggests, "I don't think he's awake Schultz, you'll have to go into his room and get him."

Schultz nods in agreement and starts walking toward Hogan's door but then he hears Lebeau, "Oh Sergeant, aren't you forgetting something?"

Schultz turns around to see Lebeau holding his rifle. Lebeau hands the rifle back and the

minute Schultz knocks and enters Hogan's room, Lebeau turns to operate the tunnel hatch, Kinch is already at the foot of the ladder. Lebeau whispers down urgently, "Come on Kinch, hurry up, Schultz is in the Colonel's room!"

Kinch hustles up the ladder and then hurriedly closes it up.

Hogan had been informed by Oleson to stall Schultz as long as possible, so when Oleson knocks at the door and says, "We're all set out here Colonel", that is all the signal Hogan needs. The men file out quickly and roll call takes place without any further incident.

As the men file back into the barracks Hogan asks, "What happened there?"

Lebeau answers, "Sir, it was a surprise roll call!"

Kinch adds, "And it just happened to be just after 01:30 which was the time London told us to stand by for a radio message!"

Hogan takes off his cap and scratches his head, "Well, we got away with one there, nice work boys. Now everybody, back to bed and we'll deal with the message in the morning, if it can wait Kinch?"

Kinch nods and everyone heads back to their bunks.

The next morning, after another roll call at the usual time, the men are sitting around the table sipping coffee. Hogan is at the head of the table, Kinch is sitting with the message in hand and a pen and pad, ready to take down the reply.

Hogan says, "Okay Kinch, let's hear it."

Kinch replies, "Yes sir!" and begins reading point form, "Allies advancing rapidly, supply lines stretched, becoming problematic. German resistance spotty, We need to concentrate our efforts on soft spots, can you coordinate with underground to observe German troop positions facing our lines? Report back soonest, over."

Newkirk happily observes, "The krauts are folding like a cheap suit! Lol"

Lebeau agrees, "Oui, look how quickly they got to Paris!"

Hogan nods, "Things are moving faster than I even expected but we have to be careful not to get our hopes up too high. Kinch, get in touch with our underground contacts and see what can be arranged, might be a good idea to consult with H.Q. for the latest front line positions first."
Kinch scribbles down notes as he answers, "Yes sir, will do"

As the men enjoy the afternoon exercise period, Hogan stands in front of the barracks and watches. Kinch comes out of the door and motions toward the Colonel and approaches him. "Okay Colonel, I've been talking to H.Q. and our underground contacts in town. Hogan replies, "Okay great, will they be able to help us out?" Kinch nods, "Yeah but there is a problem."

Hogan shrugs, "There's always a problem, what is it this time?"

Kinch answers, "Well, it's just that we can't get the information from the underground in the usual ways!"

Hogan asks, "Why not, what do you mean?"

Kinch replies, "We can't have a meeting outside the camp and we can't bring them here with Gruber pulling all these surprise roll calls."

Hogan grimaces, "Yeah, it's too risky for us to attend a meeting outside the camp so the problem is how do we get the information from the underground to give to London."

Kinch says, "Exactly."

Hogan thinks out loud, "I suppose we could put our underground contact in touch with London directly but that kinda makes our operation pointless."

Just then there is a commotion at the front gate and Hogan and Kinch see General Burkhalter's car approaching. The guards all scramble to get the gates open and stand at attention as the car drives past.

Hogan furrows his brow, "So now he shows up. I'd love to have a word or two with him right now!"

Kinch reminds him, "Easy Colonel, you don't want to do anything you're going to regret."

Burkhalter's car pulls up in front of the office building and Sergeant Schultz rushes over and opens the door, saluting as the General exits.

Burkhalter returns the salute and asks, "Sergeant Schultz! Where is Captain Gruber?"

Schultz answers, "General sir, the Captain in his office!"

Burkhalter orders Schultz, "Very well, do not disturb him. I wish to look around the camp on my own before speaking with him."
Schultz stands at attention and replies, "Yawohl! Herr General, as you wish!"

Burkhalter then makes his way to where Colonel Hogan and Kinch have been standing. As he approaches the two men salute, though in a less than courteous manner.

The General returns the salute, "Good morning gentlemen."

Kinch and Hogan both, "Good morning General."

Burkhalter comes to the point immediately, "Sergeant Kinchloe, I'd like to have a word with Colonel Hogan in private if you please."

Kinch looks at Hogan, almost as if he wants his permission to leave. Hogan nods and Kinch then replies, "Yes sir." and walks away casually.

Burkhalter asks Hogan, "So Colonel, am I correct in assuming you suspect I have failed to keep my end of our bargain?"

Hogan replies frankly as usual, "The thought has crossed my mind sir."

Burkhalter widens his eyes and rocks forward, standing on his toes for a second, "I was able to find a Colonel Wilhelm Klunk in the German Army."
Hogan's expression is a combination of surprise and annoyance, "If that's the case, what was the problem?"

Burkhalter answers, "The problem was that this Colonel Klunk happened to be on Von Rundstedt's staff!"

Hogan is instantly deflated, "And obviously you can't transfer a member of Von Rundstedt's saff without making waves. Thank you sir, I appreciate you giving me an explanation."

Burkhalter reminds Hogan, "I want to be clear Hogan, this arrangement means a great deal to me and I would not abandon it unless absolutely necessary." The two men salute and Burkhalter makes his way to Gruber's office.

A couple of days later the men are gathered in Hogan's room, discussing how they might be able to coordinate so much delicate information coming from so many different contacts. They haven't been able to get around Gruber yet and there is little hope anything will change. Just as the men feel things can't get any worse, Kinch comes into the room holding a piece of blue paper and shaking his head. Hogan is concerned immediately and asks, "Kinch, what's wrong?"

Kinch shakes his head, "You're not going to believe this."

Lebeau holds his head in his hands, "If it's more bad news, I quit!"

Kinch nods, "I'm afraid it is bad news."

Hogan looks at the floor, "Okay Kinch, give it to us straight."

Kinch explains, "I just heard Gruber on the phone with Headquarters. He is requesting a permanent radio detection unit for this area, to be housed here in Stalag 13!"

The Heroes all gasp. Newkirk snaps, "That's it then, we can't operate."

Lebeau nods, "We are finished!"

Carter asks, "Now what?"

Kinch continues, "Gruber figures that with this area being a center for sabotage and unexplained accidents and such, it's logical to station a radio detection unit here to try and find the people responsible because he figures they must either live in this area or operate in this area often."

Hogan says, "That figures, it took Gruber 3 days to figure out what Klink couldn't in 3 years."

Kinch asks, "I don't suppose you can ask Burkhalter to do something about that!"

Hogan shakes his head, "Nope. That would look awfully suspicious, trying to stop an officer from doing his duty."

The men realize that they have never been as close to having their operation come to and end as they are right at this moment.

They remain in Hogan's room for a few more minutes but not much is said. Finally, the men just disperse and head to bed for the evening.

The following morning the mood around the camp hasn't improved. The men walked around, hanging their heads and no one turned out to the planned volleyball game.

Just after lunch the men notice a ruckus at the front gate. The guards seem surprised and men are running back and forth, and the guard at the gate has called the office at least twice that the men saw. Hogan asks, "I wonder what all the fuss is about?"

Lebeau wonders, "Maybe Schutlz can tell us something?"
Kinch observes, "I haven't seen Schultz all day!"
Carter volunteers, "Colonel Hogan, do you want me to see if I can find Schutlz?"

Before Hogan can answer, a staff car approaches the gate and Hogan notices the men smiling as they peer into the back seat!

Hogan says, "That's not something you see every day! German camp guards smiling?"

The car is admitted through the gates and drives up to the office and stops. But no one exits the car." Before anyone can react, the car then drives off and stops in front of Klink's quarters!

Hogan guesses, "Could this be a new commanding officer!?"

Newkirk offers, "We can't do much worse than Gruber, can we?"

The driver of the staff car gets out and runs around to open the back door. Instead of standing at attention and saluting, he reaches into the car!"
Hogan furrows his brow, "What in the world is he doing!?"

Kinch offers, "It looks like he's helping someone…."

And just then, to the shock of everyone, the guard assists Colonel Klink out of the car! Klink is wearing his uniform cap but despite that, it can be seen that his head is heavily bandaged. He stands on one food, the other is also heavily bandaged. The guard then reaches into the back seat and hands Klink a pair of crutches!"

Carter asks, "Klink got himself injured?"

Newkirk adds, "He sure looks beat up!"

Hogan just smiles and shakes his head, "I don't believe my eyes."

Klink makes his way slowly up the walkway and into his quarters with the help of the driver.

Just then Lebeau tells Colonel Hogan, "Look Colonel! Coming through the gate! It's Burkhalter again!"

Hogan tilts his head and squints his eyes, "What is going on here?"

Kinch asks, "Do you think Burkhalter and Klink cooked something up together to get Klink out of that transfer?"

Hogan refuses to believe it, "No, no way in the world."

Burkhalter's car drives not to Klink's quarters but right to the office building. Gruber comes rushing out, much in the same way Klink used to. He salutes the General and the two men walk back into the office.

Hogan waves his arm, "Let's go men, this is one conversation we don't want to miss!"

The men gather around the coffee pot and listen intently.

Burkhalter states, "Captain Gruber, I am returning you to the position of adjutant. Colonel Klink will again be Commandant of Stalag 13, is that clear?"

Gruber responds, "Yes sir, quite clear."

Burkhalter continues, "Very well, I am going to speak to Colonel Klink in his quarters for a moment and then will be departing."

Gruber says, "Yes sir."

Hogan, too shocked to say anything and in too big a hurry to bother, rushes out of the room and into the compound, hoping to intercept Burkhalter.

The two men stand at the bottom of the stairs of the office and stand face to face. After exchanging the usual military courtesies, Hogan asks, "What on Earth happened to Klink sir?"

Burkhalter teases Hogan, "Are you imagining Colonel Klink being injured in his new combat assignment Colonel Hogan?"

Hogan responds, "Well….yes, that would be my first guess sir."

Burkhalter smiles as he looks down and shakes his head, "No, he was not injured in combat. He was assigned to a Luftwaffe squadron, one of the last operational squadrons on the entire front. In short order the Allies decimated that squadron and since Klink was a logistics officer and that unit no longer had any logistical concerns, he was returned to his previous post."

Hogan is confused, "Then how did he get all bandaged up?"

Burkhalter scowls, "Because that dummkopf was in such a hurry, he fell as he got off the train, twisted his ankle and hit his head!"

The End….until the next episode.