The Turnabout Is Fair Play Raid

By desertpat51

It's another sunny warm winter's day on the North African desert and the Rat Patrol is waiting for their morning's quarry. Sergeant Sam Troy, Aussie hat shading his blue eyes, lays prone on a rocky outcrop, scanning the intervening hills with his binoculars.

He looks back and down to his three men chatting near the Jeeps. Sergeant Jack Moffitt, the slender tall Brit, is pointing to something of interest in one of his books while blond, bubblegum chewing Private Mark "Hitch" Hitchcock and Private Tully Pettigrew, with his matchstick clenched between his teeth, look on. They all suddenly burst out laughing.

Troy smiles a moment then brings the binoculars back up to scan the horizon but, as yet, no Germans.

Several rocky hills away a small German convoy, of one halftrack followed by a fully loaded supply truck, rumbles over the nearly non-existent rocky desert track. Captain Hans Dietrich stands on the passenger seat of the halftrack, his peaked visor cap shading his eyes, scanning the hills with his binoculars. His driver tries to minimize the rough ride while three soldiers man various guns in the back. A very young blond-haired blue-eyed soldier in the passenger seat of the truck blows a German tune on his harmonica which only Kurt, the slightly older truck driver, can hear.

Troy takes one more look, then heads down the back of the hill. He hands the binoculars to Moffitt, "Your turn." Moffitt shares a glance with Hitch and Tully then the three break into another round of laughter. Troy asks, "What's so funny?" Moffitt smiles, "Ask them." Then heads up the hill.

Troy turns to his snickering drivers and Hitch says, "Well you see… Nah. You had to be there."

Tully turns serious, "So Sarge. What's so important about these new cannon shells?" Troy grabs a canteen and takes a swig, "Not sure. That's why G2 wants them." Hitch asks, "And you think Dietrich might be in charge of this one?" Troy caps the canteen, "That's the rumor."

Just then Moffitt turns from his binoculars, heads down the hill and announces to the others, "German convoy coming. A halftrack and supply truck." Troy frowns, "No tanks?" Moffitt shakes his head, "No. Only the halftrack and truck. But it looks like Dietrich is in the halftrack." Troy nods as they pile into the Jeeps, "Alright. This may be easier than I thought. Let's try to take the truck in one piece. Shake it!"

The Rats come out of nowhere. First Troy and Hitch attack from behind. Troy shoots at the right rear truck tires blowing the inner one, then at the men in the halftrack. Dietrich shouts orders and waves to the truck, now running on one less tire, to come up along the right side of the halftrack, between his vehicle and a rocky hill, so he and his men can shield the truck from the Rat's attack.

The Germans frantically return fire. But they are surprised when Moffitt and Tully appear from around the rocky hill ahead of the convoy and strafe the halftrack, killing two of the soldiers in the back.

The Allied Jeeps halt firing for a split second while they cross paths. They turn away from the Germans, and start firing again as they come back for a second pass. Troy, on the .50 and attacking from the front this time, aims at the halftrack cab, killing the driver. Dietrich ducks just in time as the halftrack comes to a wobbly halt. He then stands quickly, shouts orders and signals to the truck driver to get out, but the vehicles are now too close. He also notes that the passenger seat is empty, and the young soldier who was playing the harmonica, is nowhere to be seen.

At the same time, Moffitt and Tully attack the truck from behind as Troy and Hitch turn away. Moffitt tries to aim low with the .50 and blows another tire… But… an EXPLOSION! And more than he expected, "Bloody hell!" Tully yells, "Fuel tank!" Then cranks it hard over and heads away.

As Hitch and Troy veer off, the last German soldier in the back of the halftrack gets off several rounds into Troy's Jeep and hits Hitch in the shoulder. He slumps with the pain then veers away.

Tully, sees Hitch slump and drives in again. Moffitt continues to fire and takes out the last soldier in the halftrack just as the explosions from the truck escalate. Then they too, veer off.

The contents of the truck explode violently, with a tremendous flash and sound, killing the truck driver.

Dietrich, who had knelt down again with the last attack, straightens just as the explosions hit their peak… A blinding light and a deafening noise, right in front of him.

The Jeeps head out for some distance. But Hitch comes to an abrupt halt, moaning and grabbing his right shoulder. Troy quickly checks for Germans, but no one is in pursuit and the explosions are escalating. He hops down from the back and checks his wounded driver as Moffitt and Tully pull up. The three congregate around Hitch who protests, "I'm… I'm alright." But he groans and Troy corrects him, "You're not alright." Troy then nods to Moffitt.

Moffitt grabs the medical pack and starts working on Hitch. Troy again checks for any pursuit from the Germans but, seeing none, turns to Tully, "Check the Jeep." Tully nods and does a quick walk-around. He finds several holes along the sides then he opens the hood and starts surveying the damage.

A couple minutes later, as Moffitt works on Hitch, Troy impatiently asks, "Well?" Tully leans on the fender with both palms and shakes his head, "Not good." Troy asks, "So what's wrong?" Tully sighs, "You name it, Sarge. I don't have enough spare parts to fix everything." He glances at the German vehicles, "But maybe I can scrounge some parts off that halftrack." Troy nods, "Let's do it."

They rig a rope between the two Jeeps, then start towing… Tully is driving with Hitch in the passenger seat cradling his right arm, now in a sling. Moffitt stands at the .50, just in case there are any Germans still alive, while Troy steers the damaged Jeep in tow.

Meanwhile, Dietrich comes to… on the sand, his cap missing, his uniform blackened and several small bloody flecks peppering his face and neck. But something is very wrong. He blinks, shakes his head, extends his hand in front of his face, "NIEN!" He's stunned, "Nien?... Hallo?... HALLO!" He rubs then gently beats on his ears, "Hallo? HALLO? Nien!" His men… the shipment… his vehicles… again and again… Now him. It's finally too much. He beats his fists on the sand, "Nien… Nien."

The Rats approach the damaged halftrack and burning German truck slowly. Moffitt says, "Not too close, Tully." Tully nods, "Right. There may be unexploded shells." Moffitt adds, "Or Germans." They pull up at a right angle to the halftrack and slightly in front, but ten feet away.

They all hop out of the Jeeps, except for Hitch who slowly stands and steadies himself on the fender. Troy walks up and, seeing that Hitch is a bit wobbly, puts a hand on his shoulder, "Why don't you just rest." Hitch nods with a grimace, "Right, Sarge." He gingerly sits back down onto the passenger seat, cradling his arm with a groan.

Troy stands next to Moffitt, watching the burning truck. Moffitt finally says, "Terribly sorry about that, Troy." Troy shakes his head, "Yeah. If we could have just gotten one of those shells out before the whole thing went up…" He sighs and glances at Moffitt, "G2 is not going to be happy."

While Tully moves to the front of the halftrack and opens the hood, Moffitt thinks, "Perhaps we might find something in the halftrack." Troy nods, "Yeah. Yeah. Good idea. We might pull this thing off…"

Tully interrupts, "Hey, Sarge. Come here. It's Dietrich."

Tully hops down off the halftrack bumper and is joined by his two Sergeants. He leads them around to the far side and in front of the truck. They see the Captain, cap missing, uniform blackened, disoriented on the sand, "Ist jemand da?... Hallo?... Hallo!... Ist Jemand da?... Hallo?..." He's exhausted and beaten.

Moffitt is about to go to him but Troy stops him, "What's he saying?" Moffitt listens, "He wants to know if anyone is here?" He listens as Dietrich continues, "Hallo… Ich kann nicht sehen!" They watch as he rubs his eyes and then his ears, "Hallo!" Then a bit defeated, "Ich kann nicht horen." Moffitt is obviously sympathetic, "Troy. He can't see or hear."

Moffitt, again, is about to move to Dietrich's aid, but Troy stops him with a devious grin, "Put on a jacket from one of those dead Germans… and a helmet." He turns, "Tully. You too. Maybe we can make him think he's with his own kind. And maybe, he might give us some important information." Moffitt thinks, "The shell plans?" Troy nods, "Maybe." Tully smiles at the thought of a deception.

A while later, Moffitt and Tully, now dressed in German garb, move to Dietrich, who has all but given up. They kneel down and take him by the arms. He tenses but is reassured when his hand runs over the jacket sleeve and feels the "Afrika" cuff-title. He breathes a sigh of relief, "Du lebst… Gut… Gut." Moffitt pats him on the arm as Dietrich allows the two men to lift him and lead him to a new location. He's lowered to the ground, but not the sand… a blanket, which Troy has gotten from the Jeep and laid out. Troy then heads for the cab of the halftrack while Moffitt pulls out the medical pack again.

Dietrich doesn't know it but he's on the ground near the back wheel on the driver's side of the undamaged Allied Jeep. Tully kneels next to him with a hand on his shoulder while Moffitt pulls out first aid supplies. Troy walks up and hands Moffitt an open German canteen with which he wets a clean gauze then gently wipes Dietrich's face and neck that were spattered by the blast. Troy, Hitch and Tully head for the other Jeep as Moffitt puts gauze over his enemy's eyes then wraps his head all around.

Dietrich grabs the arm and asks, in German, if anyone else is alive. Moffitt hesitates then puts a hand on Dietrich's shoulder and gently squeezes. Dietrich gets the message, sighs and slowly nods.

Moffitt puts the German canteen into Dietrich's hands then walks back to the damaged Jeep. He joins the others to discuss this new and unexpected development, leaving their enemy alone.

Dietrich takes a sip, relaxes, then adjusts against the tire… But something is wrong. He feels the tire then runs his hand along the metal of the vehicle. He catches his breath and his heart skips a beat as he realizes he's up against an Allied Jeep. He tries to listen, but all he can hear is the ringing in his ears.

He pulls himself up slowly, staying low, and runs his hand along the warm metal side panel, feeling what is surely a water or fuel can, and then a box just behind the driver's seat. He reaches in and pulls out an American Mk 2 grenade, with the distinctive bumps, the safety lever along the side and the round metal ring on the pin. Anger turns to resolve and he decides that his final act will be one of revenge.

The Rats are deep in conversation. Troy, Moffitt and Hitch are all standing with their backs to the German when Tully looks past them, "Sarge! Dietrich! GRENADE!"

Tully shoves past the others and takes off running toward Dietrich, and his beloved Jeep, just as Dietrich pulls the pin. He holds it in his open palm just above the box of grenades…

ONE…

Troy is hot on Tully's heals, "Tully! Hit it!"

TWO…

Tully reaches the Captain first and slaps the grenade out of his hand and high into the air.

THREE…

The other Rats, including Tully, hit the sand as Troy grabs Dietrich and rolls with him to the ground landing on top of him, shielding his head and upper body as…

FOUR… KABOOM!

Troy sits up, straddling Dietrich. He jams his palms into his enemy's shoulders, "ARE YOU CRAZY?!"

Dietrich struggles, "GET OFF OF ME!" Troy realizes he's speaking English, "You can hear!" Dietrich continues struggling, "WHAT? LET GO OF ME… GET OFF OF ME!"

The others come running up and Moffitt puts a hand on Troy's shoulder, "Troy. Let him go." Troy grumbles, then swings clear of Dietrich, who rolls to a sitting position, back turned to the Rats.

Moffitt moves to him and now puts his hand on Dietrich's shoulder, "Captain. Can you hear me?" Dietrich is a bit stunned, "WHAT?" Moffitt moves closer and yells, "CAPTAIN! CAN YOU HEAR ME?"

Dietrich sighs, "BARELY! … WHO'S THERE?" Moffitt keeps up the volume, "SERGEANT MOFFITT."

Dietrich runs his hand over the left cuff of the German tunic again, feeling the "Afrika" cuff-title, then lowers his volume, "You are out of uniform, Sergeant." Moffitt smiles, "Yes Sir." Dietrich frowns, "WHAT?" Moffitt reiterates, "YES SIR!" Then Dietrich tightens his grip on Moffitt's sleeve, "None of my men survived?" Moffitt hesitates, "NOT THAT WE'VE FOUND."

The others have been listening and now Troy moves in, "Moffitt, Tully. Put the Captain in the shade of the halftrack. If he wants to blow something up, let him blow up his own vehicle… and get his gun."

Moffitt and Tully lift the Captain off the sand. Tully grabs the blanket while Moffitt pulls the gun from its holster. But Dietrich is concerned, "Where are we going?" Moffitt leans in, "TO THE HALFTRACK." Dietrich notes the other man, "Who else is here?" Tully leans in, "PRIVATE PETTIGREW, SIR."

The Captain allows himself to be led to the driver's side of the halftrack where he's lowered back down onto the blanket. Moffitt and Tully remove the German garb while Troy says, "Hitch. You're wounded. Stay with the Captain. Make sure he doesn't get into any more trouble." But Hitch complains, "Babysitting duty? Why can't the Doc…" But the look on Troy's face shuts him up, "Right, Sarge."

Hitch plops down cross-legged on the sand to Dietrich's left, "Who's there? What's happening?" Hitch sighs, "It's me, Captain. Private Hitchcock." Dietrich is getting tired of this, "WHAT?" Hitch says again, "PRIVATE HITCHCOCK, SIR. LEAN BACK. GET SOME REST." The Captain feels the more familiar tire behind him then leans up against it and stretches his legs out, crossing them at the ankles.

Tully climbs over the two, then up onto the halftrack fender and searches for parts he can cannibalize.

Troy and Moffitt walk past Hitch and Dietrich to the back of the halftrack then on to the truck… but it's a smoldering, blackened hulk. They move around to the passenger side of the halftrack. The front of the truck is close and there isn't much room, but one by one, they squeeze in through the halftrack door. They work around the dead with Troy searching the front while Moffitt climbs into the back.

Meanwhile, Dietrich has been resting for only a few minutes when… Tink. Dietrich hears something. He cocks his head… Tink. He turns to his left and asks, "What's that noise?" Hitch asks, "WHAT NOISE?" But Dietrich sighs, "You don't have to shout, Private." Hitch takes it down a notch, "Sorry Sir. Are you getting your hearing back?" Dietrich takes a breath, "My ears are still ringing but, I thought I heard something." Hitch cocks his head, "Tully's working on the Jeep and the Doc and Sarge are…" He punts since he doesn't want the Captain to know where they are, "Maybe it was the wind?"

Dietrich shakes his head slightly, "Never mind." He leans back and relaxes again.

Hitch, blowing a bubble, picks up a pebble with his left hand and tosses it overhand so it just hits a rock about a foot across and fifteen feet away… Tink. Dietrich takes notice, "That. What was that sound?"

Hitch smiles, "Oh. You mean this?" And he tosses another pebble left-handed… Tink. Dietrich nods, "Yes. What is that?" Hitch sighs, "Sorry, Sir. I was just passing the time. It's a game Tully and I made up… sort of like darts. You pick a rock maybe a foot in diameter and about ten to fifteen feet away and toss pebbles at it. If you miss that's zero points. A hit on the side is one point and a bullseye is three. But I got shot in the right shoulder. I'm not very good with my left hand… more misses than hits."

Dietrich sighs and leans back against the halftrack tire. Hitch picks up another pebble and grimaces with the pain in his right shoulder. But he's determined and tosses the pebble… missing the rock by two feet.

Tully, his matchstick all but chewed to a nub, is jury-rigging salvaged parts into the Jeep. Moffitt and Troy are both in the back of the halftrack searching through the storage cubbies when Moffitt finds a one-foot by three-foot box with German writing. He smiles and motions for Troy to join him. They open the box to find one of the special shells, in perfect condition… along with the schematics. Troy also smiles and whispers back with a thumbs up, "Jackpot. The boys at G2 should be very happy."

Moffitt refolds the schematics, returns them to the box and closes the lid. Troy thinks a moment, "Put it in the back of my Jeep… but under a blanket. Just in case Dietrich gets nosy."

Troy continues to search the halftrack compartments as Moffitt takes their prize to the Jeep.

In the shade of the halftrack Hitch adjusts slightly then sighs. He puts a hand on the Captain's shoulder, "I'll be right back. Don't go away… or I'll… you know… I'll have to shoot you." Dietrich frowns, "What's happening?" Hitch stumbles a moment, "I… ah… I have to… ah… I have to do number one." Dietrich asks, "Number one?" Hitch frowns, "You know." But Dietrich doesn't. Hitch studies the Captain, "Oh. I guess… But I thought you… Never mind. Number one is when you have to pee, you know, urinate? And number two…" Dietrich raises his hand to stop him, "I understand." Hitch stands and takes a step when Dietrich stops him, "Wait." He stands slowly leaning on the fender. Hitch gets the message and gives him a hand, "Come on. We'll go to the back of the halftrack."

Dietrich steadies himself on Hitch's arm as they walk. Hitch says, "We'll stand back to back and take care of business." Dietrich is not happy at the situation, but a moment later two golden streams arch out in opposite directions and splash onto the sand.

As the two are putting things to right, Hitch looks over at the rocks, "Hey. Here they come." Dietrich hurriedly finishes, "Who?" Hitch smiles, "The Agama lizards." Dietrich relaxes and smiles slightly, "It almost never rains here but they still know the sound of water. Are there any Tassilian Agamas?" Hitch thinks, "You mean the ones with the blue bodies and yellow heads? Dietrich nods, "Yes." Hitch checks the congregating lizards, "A couple. There are also several with the dark and light markings, but I can never keep those straight. Doc would know."

Hitch smiles, "I'll be right back… don't go away." Dietrich adds, "Or you'll shoot me?" Hitch hesitates then smiles, "Yeah. Yeah… I'll ah… I'll be right back."

He runs to the Jeep that Tully is working on, gets a canteen and a pan from the supply box, then returns, "The Doc showed us this. Oh… ah… When the lizards come out we give them water. It just wouldn't be fair to let them go thirsty." Dietrich almost smiles, "We do the same thing." Hitch is a bit surprised then walks to the base of the hill, puts the pan down near the rocks and pours the water in, making sure it splashes loudly. He returns to the halftrack while several lizards head for the water.

Hitch chews his gum and contemplates Germans setting out water for lizards, then takes Dietrich by the arm, but the Captain hesitates, "Are they finished already?" Hitch looks at the lizards, "No. I'll get the pan later." He scans the rocks to check for other lizards who might be coming… but spots something else, "What's that?" Dietrich frowns, "What do you see?" Hitch squints, "Not sure. Wait here."

Hitch moves slowly and gives the lizards a wide berth then climbs up into the rocks. Dietrich cups his hand over his ear and tries to listen but the ringing drowns out Hitch's movements.

Hitch stops and looks down then, with his good arm, picks up what's left of a badly mangled harmonica. He makes out what looks like initials scratched into the metal, then carries it back to Dietrich, "It's a harmonica. Did one of your guys play? Maybe with the initials 'DW'?"

Dietrich sighs, "Dieter Weber." Hitch places the remains in the Captain's hand. He feels then closes his fist around the crumpled instrument, and sadly, "He would have been seventeen next week." Hitch studies his enemy then takes him by the arm, "Sorry, Captain." And leads him back to their resting place.

Just as they reach the blanket… there's a blood-curdling SCREAM!

They're both startled. Dietrich asks, "What was that?" Hitch frowns, "I don't know. Stay here." He runs around the front of the halftrack. Dietrich cocks his head, trying to listen. Then not hearing anything useful, steadies himself on the fender and moves to the front where he again cups his hand over his ear.

Troy and Moffitt have already reached the rocks on the hill, from where the scream came, with Hitch closing in. Tully spots the Captain, moves to the halftrack, and stops him, "Easy Captain." Dietrich asks, "What's happening? Who's there?" Tully says, "Private Pettigrew, Sir. And I don't know." Dietrich asks more forcefully, "Well, what do you see?" Tully watches, "The Sarge and Doc are kneeling down near some rocks." Then they hear another yell, "I think it's another German. Stay here… I mean it… or I'll…" Dietrich nods, "I know. You'll shoot me." Tully takes off and Dietrich cocks his head trying to hear.

Troy, Moffitt and Hitch have found a young, lanky, blue eyed German soldier, his blond hair spattered with blood and sprawled out on the rocks. Tully comes running up and sees the young man. But Troy is angry, "No one's watching Dietrich?" Tully chomps down on a new matchstick and smiles, "I told him if he moved, I'd shoot him." The young man catches his breath, "Dietrich? Hauptmann Dietrich? Er lebt? Bitte. Sag mir." Moffitt puts a hand on his shoulder, "Ja, ja."

The young man tries to pull away from Moffitt's hand, "Bleib weg. Fass mich nicht an!" He raises his head and sees Dietrich by the halftrack. He shouts, "Hauptmann! Hauptmann Dietrich! Da ich bin. Schutze Dieter Weber!" Dietrich hears his man, "Schutze Weber? Wie gebt es dir?" But the young man yells, "Hauptmann! Hilf mir! Sie warden mich toten! Bitte. Hilf mir!"

Troy is fed up, "Enough! Moffitt. What are they saying?" Moffitt says, "This is Schutze Dieter Weber. For some reason, he thinks we are going to kill him. He just asked the Captain for help."

Dietrich yells, "Dieter. Speak English. These men will not harm you. Let them help you." Dietrich strains to hear but there's no response, "Dieter. Do you hear me?"

Dieter is confused but he calls back, this time in English, "Mein Hauptmann… Ja. I hear you."

Troy kneels down, "You speak English? Good. We're not going to hurt you." But Dieter is still afraid so Troy speaks calmly, "Dieter, is it? Listen to me. You are now our prisoner and we must treat you according to the Geneva Convention regulations. You won't be harmed. Do you understand?" Dieter shakes his head, not wanting to believe. Troy decides to give it to him straight, "Look, I know you're scared. But everyone's scared out here. You just have to learn to live with it."

Troy stands, then to Moffitt, "Take care of him. Tully, give him a hand. Hitch…" He nods for him to follow and they head back to the halftrack, as Tully runs to the Jeep for the first aid supplies.

Dietrich is straining to hear anything, then cocks his head, "Who's there?" Troy says, "Troy and Hitch. Moffitt's working on your boy… Your boy… He does seem pretty young. How old is he, anyway?" Dietrich doesn't answer but Hitch chimes in, "He'll be seventeen next week." Troy frowns, "Seven… You mean he's only sixteen?" He shakes his head, "Recruiting them a bit young, aren't you, Captain?" When Dietrich still says nothing Troy continues, "Looks like he got pretty banged up on those rocks. But Moffitt will take good care of him." He takes Dietrich by the arm, "Come on. It might be a while. Let's get you back into the shade."

Tully returns and hands a canteen, towel and the knapsack to Moffitt. Dieter wants to back up, but fails, "Please don't hurt me." Tully tries to reassure him, "We aren't going to hurt you." But as Moffitt pulls out a morphine syrette, Dieter is beyond frightened, "No. No! Please don't."

Moffitt tries to calm him, "Dieter. This is morphine. It will lessen the pain. Try to relax." He doesn't relax but finally asks, "Morphium?" Moffitt nods, "Ja. Morphium." Dieter hesitates then slowly extends his arm. Moffitt injects the liquid straight into the vein, "You should feel better very soon."

Moffitt pours some water onto the towel, "We need to find out where that blood is coming from. Just relax." He gently wipes the blood off Dieter's forehead exposing a gash. Moffitt cleans the wound then ties a bandage all around his head. The Brit smiles, "How's that?" Dieter is beginning to feel the morphine, "Alright."

Moffitt then checks the rest of Dieter's body, accompanied by winces, groans and jerks. But when he gets to the left leg, a loud yell alerts him to a possible problem, "Tully. His leg might be broken. We need something to use as a splint." Tully grins, "How about one of those German rifles?"

With Dietrich settled back on the blanket next to Hitch, Troy moves to the front of the halftrack so he can keep an eye on both his prisoners. He watches Dieter then walks back to Dietrich and kneels down, "Captain… Why is Dieter so afraid of us? He seems terrified that we're going to kill him. Why?"

Dietrich hesitates then resigns himself, "You must forgive Dieter… he is young." He hesitates, "But more than that, when he first arrived in North Africa he was witness to the mistreatment and execution of three British soldiers. I assume he is expecting the same treatment from you." Troy is fuming, "Who was responsible?" Dietrich takes a deep breath, "Gestapo."

A while later, Tully is back working on the Jeep. Moffitt and Troy half carry Dieter back to the halftrack. His head is wrapped and a German rifle is lashed to his left leg. Hitch says, "Captain. Your boy's here." He gives him a hand up and Dietrich stands next to the halftrack as Moffitt explains, "Dieter may have a concussion and a broken leg. We've treated and wrapped his head and splinted the leg." But Dieter sees the bandages, "Hauptmann. What have they done to your eyes? What have you done to Hauptmann Dietrich?" The Captain stops him, "Dieter! We were both injured in the explosion. They have treated my wounds as they have treated yours. Now, come. Sit down." Dieter blurts out, "But Hauptmann…" Dietrich assures him, "Everything will be alright. Now… sit down."

After they sit, Dietrich asks, "Dieter… I was told everyone was dead. I am pleased you are alive." But Dietrich remembers the empty passenger seat just before the blast, "How is it that you survived?" Dieter looks down, "I… I don't remember. Perhaps… I must have been thrown clear by the blast."

Dietrich says nothing for a moment, "Perhaps." Then he remembers. He reaches into his pocket and pulls out the harmonica. He holds it out for Dieter, "I'm afraid your harmonica was also damaged in the explosion." Dieter takes the mangled instrument and holds it to his chest, "Danke, Herr Hauptmann."

The lizards are done drinking and Hitch retrieves the pan, putting it back in the supply box. He then returns to watch the Germans. Moffitt puts the medical pack back in the Jeep and Troy turns to Tully, "I'll give you a hand. I want that Jeep ready to go in thirty minutes. Sixty minutes later it's ready.

Moffitt and Tully help Dieter into the back of their Jeep so that he's lounging on several blankets with his injured and splinted leg elevated on the tool box. Then they mount up.

Meanwhile, Troy helps Hitch, with his wounded shoulder, into the back of their jeep where he also settles in. Finally, Troy helps Dietrich into the passenger seat, plucks his cap from the back and hands it to him, "We found your cap. But your binoculars were in pieces." Dietrich gingerly dons his cap.

Troy then moves to the other side of the Jeep and slides in behind the wheel. He glances at the two wrecked German vehicles, "Captain. I'm curious." Dietrich is tired and hurting, "What is it now, Sergeant?" Troy says, "Why no tank support? You made it awfully easy for us." Dietrich hesitates then sighs, "All the tanks in the area were reassigned to the battle yesterday." Troy asks, "And yet you came out anyway?" Dietrich is a bit perturbed, "I had orders." Unable to share a glance with his enemy, Troy looks back at Hitch, "So did we."

The midday winter sun heats up the desert sand and all but Dietrich watch heat shimmer above the ground. The warmth affects the men as well. As the Jeeps bounce along Dietrich groans, lowers his head and holds his stomach. Troy ignores him but Hitch stops chewing and notes the telltale signs, "You okay, Captain?" Dietrich says nothing but grips the machine gun post, trying to find some stability.

Hitch thinks a moment then puts a hand on Troy's shoulder, talking over the engine noise, "Hey Sarge. Pull over." Troy doesn't slow down, "Why?" Hitch continues, "It's the Captain. He's looking a bit green around the gills… and I don't want to have to clean up the Jeep if he loses it." Troy glances at their prisoner, grumbles, then brings the Jeep to a halt. Tully and Moffitt pull up alongside the others and Moffitt asks, "Why are we stopping?" Hitch indicates the Captain, "He's motion sick."

Troy gets out but pulls his .45, keeping Dietrich covered, just in case. Dieter watches as Hitch asks, "Hey Tully. You got any Wrigley's peppermint?" Tully sucks on his matchstick, "Yeah. I think so." He hops out and looks at the Captain, "Jeep sick, ah?" Hitch nods. Tully gently moves Dieter's leg off the tool box, digs around, grabs a pack of gum, then puts Dieter's leg back as he winces, "Sorry". He opens the pack and unwraps a stick, "Captain. Try this." Dietrich groans, "What is it?" Tully says, "Gum."

Dietrich does not accept the stick. Moffitt smiles, "You must understand, in Germany it is rude to chew gum." Tully sighs, "Look, Captain. My sister has a girlfriend who's blind. She gets motion sick in a car, a wagon… even on a horse. But chewing gum seems to help. Give it a try." He is still reluctant so Hitch asks, "You want to be sick the whole way?" Dietrich hesitates, accepts the gum… and starts to chew.

The Jeeps pull out again and after a few minutes Hitch notes that the Captain has relaxed a bit. He asks, "Captain. Are you feeling any better?" Dietrich reluctantly nods, "A little."

A few hours later the Jeeps approach a town. Hitch puts a hand on Dietrich's shoulder, "We're coming to our base. If you don't want people to see you chewing, you might want to lose the gum. Lick your fingertips, take it out and toss it." Dietrich follows the instructions and is soon free of the gum.

The Jeeps make their way through the streets of the town recently occupied by the Allies. They stop in front of a wide staircase leading up to a building with the sign 'Hospital' over the door. A small group of Allied soldiers begins to congregate as the Germans are offloaded.

As the Rats and their prisoners start up the steps, one of the GIs yells, "Hey! Those Krauts don't deserve any special treatment." Troy and Moffitt who help Dietrich, and Hitch and Tully who half carry Dieter, try to ignore them and continue up the steps. But the crowd is getting rowdy and another GI yells, "Hey! We're talking to you, Krauts!" But when no one turns, one of the angry men picks up a rock and lobs it at the group hitting Dietrich hard on his right shoulder. He flinches and groans in pain.

Troy and Moffitt turn and Troy pulls his gun, "The next man who tries something gets shot. These are prisoners of war and they'll be treated as such." But the head disruptor yells, "How can you protect those murderers?" Another instigator adds, "Yeah. Do unto Krauts before they do unto you! That's my motto." And finally, from a third soldier, "Hey! You should know… The only good Kraut is a dead Kraut."

Just then two more Jeeps screech to a halt and five MPs jump out brandishing .45s. They get between the rabble-rousers and the Rats, and the head MP yells, "Alright! Break it up!" The GIs loudly grumble, but finally, grudgingly, back off. The head MP moves up the steps to the Rats and their prisoners. He takes one last menacing look at the mob, punctuated with his .45, then ushers the group the rest of the way up the steps and into the hospital. The remaining four MPs stay outside to keep the mob at bay.

Just inside the door the MP says, "Sorry about that. The guys outside are, well, only about half their unit made it back from the battle yesterday. The rest of their buddies are in the hospital." He bangs on the first door on the left and a tall, pretty nurse in slacks, with her long brown hair pulled into a bun, sticks her head out. He points to the new arrivals, "Lieutenant, you've got a couple more for your ward." He turns to the group, "This is Lieutenant Greta Brown. She speaks German if your two prisoners don't speak English." Greta smiles, "Thank you, Sergeant." The MP gives a quick salute and leaves.

Lieutenant Brown checks out the new arrivals as Troy explains, "They were both injured in an explosion. He's got a head wound and possible broken leg, and the Captain… well, the Captain is blind." Moffitt adds, "They both speak English."

Halfway down the hall two orderlies appear and Brown says, "Gentlemen. Please take this one to X-Ray… possible broken leg. And be careful of the imaginative splint." They note the rifle strapped to his left leg, then take Dieter from Tully and Hitch. But he is terrified, "Hauptmann… Ich bin tot!" Dietrich is stern, "Schutze Weber. Speak English. You will go with these men. They will not harm you."

Dieter stops struggling and attempts to be brave. Greta gives the young man a smile, "You will be fine and you'll be back with your Captain before you know it." She nods to the orderlies who help the not so sure Dieter down the hall. He takes one last look over his shoulder then resigns himself to his fate.

Greta checks out the Rats, including the blond with his arm in a sling, and the remaining German, "So, gentlemen, you brought in a Private Weber and a Captain…" Troy chimes in, "Captain Hans Dietrich."

Greta takes Dietrich by the arm, "Captain." Dietrich manages a nod, "Lieutenant."

They watch as Greta knocks on her ward door. It opens and a tall, solid, black-haired armed guard stands in the doorway. If he weren't in the war, he'd be in the ring. Greta says, "Corporal, this is Captain Dietrich. Captain, Corporal Billy Evans is the guard currently on duty in our makeshift German ward. He is armed and will shoot if you try to leave." Dietrich sighs, "I assure you, Lieutenant, I wish to go nowhere except to a bed." Greta nods at the Rats then leads Dietrich into the room.

Hitch heads for the exit but Troy stops him, "Where do you think you're going?" Hitch taps his shoulder, "Ah, come on, Sarge. It's just a scratch." Moffitt adds, "It is not just a scratch." Troy is adamant, "You're not leaving here until the Doc says you can. Now, do I have to hog-tie you and drag you into one of those exam rooms?" Hitch sighs, "I'm going." Tully smiles, "I'm sure you'll be out of here in no time." Troy then says, "And what have I told you before?" Hitch smiles, "I know. Leave the nurses alone."

Outside the hospital the remaining three Rats head down the steps. Troy says, "Let's get the Jeeps to the motor pool. Then to Captain Boggs' office. I'm sure he'll be very interested in our little find." They remount their Jeeps and continue down the street.

Greta leads Dietrich into the room and explains, "The room is about twenty feet wide and thirty feet long with three beds on each side and a window at the far end. The window is twenty feet above the street… so I would suggest you don't try exiting the room that way." Dietrich almost smiles, "Are you making a joke, Lieutenant?" She tries to be serious but chuckles, "I do not joke, Captain."

She continues, "To your left is a small desk with two chairs where Corporal Evans and I can work. Also to your left is a makeshift storage area where we keep supplies. Come this way." Dietrich can't see it but the storage area is about eight feet by twelve feet, delineated by three privacy screens sandwiched between and kept standing by racks on the inside and the outside and filled with supplies.

They take a few steps then Greta stops them between the first two beds, "Captain, there are two Germans in the first and second beds on your right. Leutnant Brandt was severely wounded and is asleep. Feldwebel Kelner is in the second bed. They were brought in yesterday after the battle with three others who were transferred this morning to a POW camp. Feldwebel, this is Hauptmann Hans Dietrich." The Captain can't see it but both are being given IV fluids. Kelner manages a weak salute. Greta whispers, "Captain, he is saluting." Dietrich gives a salute in return, "Feldwebel Kelner, at ease. I trust you are being well treated?" He glances at Greta then nods, "Jawhol, Herr Hauptmann."

Greta glares at the German, then pats Dietrich's arm, "We treat every German patient according to the Geneva Convention regulations, Captain. Now, we have four open beds, the third bed on the right, next to Feldwebel Kelner and three more on the left beyond our storage area. Which would you like?" Dietrich contemplates his choices, but in his mind there is only one, "The third bed on the left, please."

She notes his courtesy then nods to Evans who adds 'Cpt. Dietrich' next to L3 on the blackboard above the table. He then heads for the storage area.

As Greta and Dietrich reach the bed, Evans returns with a leather satchel, a washcloth and three towels, an empty pan and a pitcher with water. He places the items on the table between the second and third beds. Then Greta adds, "Could you please bring a pair of PJ's?" Billy nods, moves a privacy screen into position then goes back into the storage area. He reappears a moment later with blue and white striped PJ's and a robe. He delivers them to Greta, who nods a thanks, then returns to his post near the door.

Greta turns to Dietrich, "Captain. The bed is directly behind you. Please sit down." He feels for the bed, sets his cap down, then sits. She takes a good long look at him, "Can you tell me anything more?" He is obviously tired, "I was caught in an explosion. I awoke to find that I had lost my sight and my hearing." She frowns, "That must have been terrifying for you." He says nothing so she pats his arm, "Well, you've regained your hearing. You'll probably also regain you sight. Let's get those bandages off."

She carefully unwraps the bandages, "This looks pretty clean." Dietrich says, "Sergeant Moffitt treated me." She pours some water into the pan, wets the wash cloth then gently wipes his face, "He did a good job… But, I wonder." She examines the underside of his tunic sleeves, "You must have raised your arms to protect your face." He frowns, "I don't remember." She says, "Well, your tunic sleeves look like they've been shredded by buckshot. But better them than your face, right? Let's get that jacket off."

Dietrich hesitates, "Before we begin, is there a latrine available?" Greta says, "We have bed pans." He shakes his head and she continues, "But since you are ambulatory, we also have the chair." Dietrich frowns, "The chair?" She takes him by the arm and helps him up, "A chair with a hole in the seat and a bucket below." She guides him to the wall with the window then behind another privacy screen, "The chair is ahead. To your right is a table with toilet paper, water and a towel. I'll wait for you by the bed."

A few minutes later Dietrich makes his way back to the bed. First the Sam Brown Belt, then the tunic is removed, though Dietrich groans with the effort. Then Greta begins unbuttoning his shirt, "Before the doctor arrives I must assess all of your injuries." He stops her and unbuttons his own shirt. Again, he groans as he slips it off his right shoulder.

She frowns, "Captain. Do you have an injury to your right shoulder?" He hesitates, "When we arrived we were met with soldiers who did not want us here. One threw a rock." Greta is immediately angry, "Oh… I am so… I told the MPs to control those hooligans. I am so sorry, Captain." She examines his back and shoulder, "The skin isn't broken. But I'm afraid you're going to have a bad bruise."

She wets the wash cloth again, wrings it out, and begins wiping down his back, being careful of the right shoulder, "Unfortunately, sponge baths are the best I can offer." Then she wipes his back dry.

As Greta wipes down his arms, she notes his dry elbows, "You men are all alike." Dietrich asks, "Excuse me?" Greta pulls a tin from her satchel, "Did you know that the skin is the largest organ of the human body?" Dietrich's eyebrows raise slightly, "I did not know that." She opens the tin as she continues, "Dry skin leads to cracked skin and cracks in the skin are perfect entry points for germs." She rubs the lotion into his elbows, "How's that?" He notes the soothing sensation but hesitates. She smiles, "It's like making sure you have clean dry socks to maintain the health of your feet… speaking of which."

"Let's get those boots off." As he pulls off the boots, Greta says, "I must admit, I've always thought that the German officer's uniforms are very, well, stylish… especially the boots." Dietrich shakes his head, "They are not as comfortable as they appear."

As he takes off his boots and socks, Greta spots a few red pressure sores on each foot, "Perhaps you were given the wrong size." He wiggles his toes, glad that they are free, "Perhaps. If I may ask, what will be done with my uniform?" Greta says, "It will be laundered and kept in the storage area so you'll have a clean uniform when you go to the POW camp." He nods slightly, "I appreciate that."

She wets the cloth and gently wipes his neck then down his front, moving his oval dog tag as she goes. As she works, Dietrich asks, "So you speak German?" Greta smiles, then since he can't see her reaction, "Ja, Herr Hauptmann. Ich spreche Duetsch." Even though his ears are still ringing, Dietrich notes, "Your accent… you sound like a native speaker. Did you learn German in school?"

Greta wets and wrings out the cloth again, then hesitates, "No. I actually learned German from my parents. I learned English in school." She sets the cloth down and picks up the towel and starts wiping his chest, "You see, my parents immigrated from Germany after the first war. You might say I was conceived in Germany and born in America… Indiana to be exact… So, where are you from, Captain?"

Meanwhile, in Captain Boggs' office, Troy sets the case with the new German shell on the desk. The Captain, along with another Captain and Lieutenant, as well as Moffitt and Tully, look on as Troy opens the case and pulls out the paper, "The Germans were even kind enough to include the schematics." Boggs smiles as the plans are unfolded and examined. The other Captain smiles, "Excellent work, Gentlemen. Our munitions experts have been waiting for this." Troy smiles, "Just in a day's work, Sir."

They replace the schematics then close the case. The Rats salute as the two G2 men leave with the case. Boggs turns to the three, "How is Hitchcock?" Moffitt responds, "He should be fine in a week or so." Boggs nods, "Well, give him my best." Troy nods, "Thank you, Sir. We will." They salute and leave.

Greta folds the privacy screen and sets it aside as Dietrich, now in the pajamas, settles into bed. A moment later a forties-something, fit, tall and black-haired man, in a white lab coat with a stethoscope hung around his neck, enters the ward, "Lieutenant. I understand you have another new patient."

She smiles, "Captain Hans Dietrich, this is Dr. Jenkins." The Captain looks in the direction he last heard the man's voice, "Dr. Jenkins. If I may inquire, how is Shutze Weber?" Jenkins turns to Greta and she reminds him, "The boy with the broken leg… injured in an explosion?" The Doctor nods, "Ah, yes. He has a hairline fracture of the left tibia. They are casting the leg now. He should be here shortly."

Dietrich nods slightly, "I appreciate the care you and your staff are providing." Jenkins studies the German, "It's all by the book, Captain. Now, I understand you were also injured in the explosion. Let's have a look at those eyes." He pulls an ophthalmoscope from his breast pocket and moves in close, examining each eye carefully, "Do you see any light at all?" Dietrich hesitates, "I see flashes of light, especially when I move my head." Jenkins takes a small flashlight from his pocket, clicks it on and moves it across each eye, "And now?" Dietrich frowns, "Perhaps… like a train approaching at night… far off."

"Well. That's a good sign." says Jenkins. "Nurse, eye drops every two hours." Greta nods, "Yes, Doctor." Jenkins turns to Dietrich, "I'll check on you tomorrow, Captain. Try to get some rest." Dietrich nods, "Thank you, Doctor." Jenkins studies the Captain, "You're welcome."

Jenkins slides the flashlight and ophthalmoscope back in to his pocket as he and Greta walk to the door. He glances back at Dietrich who lays back against the pillow, "He's very polite, isn't he?" Greta smiles, "Yes he is, Doctor." Jenkins turns serious, "Watch him. I don't trust polite Germans." Then he leaves.

Greta smiles to herself as she walks back to Dietrich, picks up a small bottle, "Captain. Time for those eye drops." But he resists, "Are the drops meant to heal my eyes, or keep me blind?" Greta is shocked, "Keep you blind? Why, in heaven's name, would you think that?" He has no words, not wanting to tell her what he had once done to Troy. So he leans his head back and she administers the drops.

Just then Dieter returns in a hospital gown and supported by the orderlies who took him away. He is sporting a knee-high cast on his left leg and a fresh bandage on his head. Greta says, "Captain. They have brought Dieter back. There are still three beds available. Where would you like us to put him?" Unexpectedly, and loud enough for all to hear, Dietrich says, "Put Dieter in the bed next to mine." The young man is surprised and Greta frowns, "Are you sure? Wouldn't you rather have some privacy?" Dietrich smiles, "I would rather have a good pair of eyes to keep watch for me." Dieter now frowns, "Hauptmann?... I do not know if…" But Dietrich reassures him, "I trust you, Dieter. Now, please."

Greta motions to the orderlies who help Dieter into the bed next to Dietrich's. The young blond seems more calm now, though there is a slight moan of pain. Greta positions a pillow under his casted leg and Dieter winces and groans with the movement. The Captain asks, "Are you alright?" Dieter nods, "Ja, Herr Hauptmann… I mean, yes, Sir. It's just that my leg hurts a little." Dietrich asks, "And they have not yet tried to kill you?" Dieter answers, rather sheepishly, "Nein… I mean, no, Sir."

One of the orderlies hands Greta a clipboard, which she scans briefly, "Yes. Dr. Jenkins said it was a hair-line fracture of the tibia." She pats Dieter on the hand, "Not too bad. But it will take about six to eight weeks for your leg to heal completely." Dieter frowns, "So long?" He leans back against the pillow.

Outside, Troy stands in front of a building with a big 'Red Cross' sign over the door. Tully comes out and Troy asks, "Did you get it?" Tully smiles and holds up a small rectangular box, "No problem. They decided to make an exception. How about you?" Troy taps his pocket, "No problem."

Back in the German ward, Dieter watches as the door opens. Troy and Tully are met by Corporal Evans. Dieter says to Dietrich, "Hauptmann. Sergeant Troy and… and Private Tully are here."

The two are led by Greta, "Captain Dietrich… Dieter… You have visitors, Sergeant Troy and Private Pettigrew." Dietrich smiles, "Sergeant Troy. Making sure we are still here? I assure you that neither of us would get very far if we tried to escape."

Troy is enjoying himself, "Actually, we come like Greeks bearing gifts." Only the two of them understands the reference… when Troy brought the pink tennis ball sized bomb into Dietrich's camp just below the radar station. Dietrich asks, "Gifts?" Then sarcastically, "How thoughtful."

Dietrich hears metal clicking as Troy takes something from his breast pocket and sets it on the table, "For you, Captain, dark glasses… I hope the sun doesn't hurt your eyes too much." Dietrich sighs and doesn't respond further. Troy studies him, "It's bright outside, Captain… In fact, there's a window to your left." Dietrich glances to his left and does see a big bright blur. He can also see the darkness of his left hand as he moves it slowly across the light, then turns back to Troy… and lies, "So I'm told."

Troy studies his enemy, "You can't see anything?" Greta breaks in, "Dr. Jenkins said he should regain his sight, in time." Troy watches Dietrich for another moment then turns to Tully with a nod. Dietrich seems to be listening intently as Tully gives the small box to Dieter, "Go ahead. Open it. It's not the same as the one you had… but it works." Dieter frowns and opens the box. But his face lights up as he pulls out the instrument, "Hauptmann. A mundharmonika… A Kratt!"

Tully is a bit apologetic, "Sorry it's not a Hohner. I stopped by the Red Cross office, told them the situation, and that's all they had." Dieter stares at the harmonica then at Tully and Troy. Tully smiles, "Go on. Give it a blow." Dieter looks to Dietrich for permission but only gets a blank stare.

Troy smiles, "It's okay. Try it out."

Dieter looks at everyone, takes a breath, and blows up the scale then sucks down. He then plays the first few bars of a favorite with both Axis and Allied soldiers, Lili Marlene. Everyone enjoys the tune.

Dietrich is surprised by the gesture. As if to himself, "A very thoughtful gift." Troy turns, "What did you say, Captain?" Dieter stops playing, and everyone focuses on Dietrich as Troy asks again, "Captain?" But Dietrich hesitates and, not wanting to give Troy the satisfaction of a compliment, thinks fast, "Sergeant. I'm curious." But doesn't continue. Troy asks, "About what?"

He thinks, "When you were blinded…" Troy corrects him, "You mean when you had me blinded." Troy looks at Dieter, "He wanted me to think I was in an Allied field hospital so I'd tell them where my men were." Listening, Greta now understands Dietrich's earlier concern about the drops.

Dieter stares at Troy then looks over at Dietrich. Troy asks again, "Curious about what, Captain?"

Dietrich hesitates, then, "The nurse…" Troy interrupts again and says to Dieter, "She was an intelligence officer." Dietrich is noticeably irritated but continues, "She assured me she put the drops in your eyes, and yet you regained your sight and escaped. I'm curious… How?"

Troy grins, "I was already starting to see and I knew I had to keep those drops out of my eyes. So I faked a cough, asked for some water, only took a sip, then she put the glass on the table next to the eye drop bottle. Then I… ah… I distracted her, squeezed the medicine out of the dropper, filled it with water then replaced the dropper. When she put the drops in my eyes, they were water."

Dietrich contemplates the explanation, then asks, "You distracted her… How?" Troy glances at Dieter then grins, "I kissed her." Dietrich is stunned, "You kissed her?" Troy is very proud of himself, "Yes, Captain. I kissed her." The Captain shakes his head and, to everyone's surprise, laughs, "Your tactics never cease to amaze me, Sergeant. I am impressed. However, your little ruse this morning did not work on me." Troy sighs and bites his lip. Dieter frowns and looks at Dietrich then at Troy, "I do not understand." Dietrich addresses Troy, "Would you care to explain, Sergeant?"

Hearing nothing from Troy, the Captain continues, "Sergeant Moffitt and Private Pettigrew donned the tunics of our dead companions in an effort to convince me that I was being rescued by our own people. But it did not work." Troy almost smiles, "It worked for a while. How did you figure it out?" Dietrich also almost smiles, "The wheels of your Jeeps are different from that of our halftracks."

Just then, the door to the ward opens and all, but Dietrich, turn to see two soldiers from the base mess hall come in, each wearing a white smock and carrying a box. Greta steps in, "I'm sorry, Gentlemen but visiting hours are over. It's time for dinner." She turns to Troy and Tully, "And for you, too, I'm sure. You're welcome to stop by tomorrow." Troy nods slightly, "Thank you Lieutenant. Ma'am. Captain." He salutes then he and Tully leave the ward.

Outside the hospital, Tully grins, "Now can we start that seventy-two hour leave?" Troy smiles, "Seventy-two hours of R & R. Sounds good. Let's go find the others and get some chow."

Later that evening, all the lights in the German ward have been doused except one lantern on the table by the door. The Leutnant, Feldwebel, and Dieter, are all asleep and a new guard, for the night shift, sits at the table, keeping one eye on his prisoners and one eye on the current copy of Stars & Stripes.

Dietrich tries to watch the guard. He blinks and squints as he tests out his healing eyes. But things are still a bit blurry. His right shoulder is aching, so he turns over onto his left side and finally falls asleep.

Just after 0300 the night nurse enters the ward to take vitals, carrying a satchel and a lantern, the light of which glints off her red hair, pulled into a pony tail. She isn't happy to be there but nods pleasantly at the night guard. The noise and the flickering light awakens the Leutnant and Feldwebel, who know the drill. Dieter is also awakened and watches as the nurse, who is of medium height and build, and very pretty, sets her lantern and satchel down on the table between the two beds then takes temperatures, blood pressures and pulses of the others and writes them on their charts.

She then walks between Dieter's and Dietrich's beds and sets her lantern and satchel down on their table. She takes Dieter's vitals and makes the requisite notes on his chart. She then turns to a sleeping Dietrich, "Hey… Wake up."

In his dream, Dietrich is back in the desert. The Rats are attacking… munitions exploding… he jerks…

The nurse is getting impatient and shakes him, her fingers digging into his bruised right shoulder, "Hey! Wake up!" PAIN! Dietrich wakes, flips over and grabs her wrist. She yells, "Let go of me!"

Confused by the remnants of the nightmare, still in pain, his ears ringing and everything blurry, Dietrich holds on to her wrist, "Was ist los?" She struggles, her wrist twisting and burning in his grip, "You lousy, filthy Kraut! Let go of me!"

This outburst, and in English, finally catches his attention and he lets go. She's furious, grabs her hurting arm then hauls off and slaps Dietrich, hard, across the face. Everyone is stunned, including her.

She gasps in embarrassment and looks at the others. Then, leaving all behind, she runs past the guard, "Lieutenant?" She rushes out the door, but he yells after her, "Lieutenant!".

The guard shuts the door, looks at his prisoners, then walks over to Dietrich, "What in tarnation just happened?" Dietrich sits up, is still stunned, confused and squinting, "I… Who are you? What was that all about?" The guard says, "I'm Corporal Stan Henry. So what happened?"

Dieter, who witnessed the whole thing says, "It was not Hauptmann Dietrich's fault. The nurse… She grabbed his injured shoulder and…"

Dietrich interrupts him, "Dieter!" The Schutze dutifully stops in mid-sentence. Dietrich asks, "Corporal. Who was that?" Stan studies the German officer, who is not looking directly at him. He waves his hand in front of his face, with no reaction, then says, "The night nurse, Lieutenant Carol Davis, Sir." Dietrich frowns, "Can you please explain why she would react in such a manner? Why she would strike me?"

Stan hesitates, "I… ah… I'm sorry, Captain." Dietrich is exasperated, "I don't want an apology, Corporal. I want an explanation."

Stan says, "Yes, Sir." He hesitates again as the Captain waits patiently… then speaks, "I don't think the Lieutenant wanted to be here… Sir." Dietrich sighs, "I don't think any of us wants to be here, Corporal." Stan says, "No, Sir." Dietrich is determined, "So?" Stan hesitates, "Where to begin. Well… you see… Lieutenant Carol Davis is married to Lieutenant Howard Davis who heads a seven man forward operating communications unit. They… ah… They never returned after the battle on Monday. No one's heard from them. We don't know if they're alive, captured or… dead. And I… I don't think she's real happy about taking care of Germans… Sir." Dietrich nods, "I see…" He rephrases, "I understand."

He extends his hand, palm up, "Well then, Corporal, perhaps you could check my vitals? And I'll need the eye drops." Stan freezes, "I… ah… I'm not supposed to, Sir." Dietrich sighs, "Is there anyone else here who can?" Stan also sighs, "No, Sir. I guess not." Dietrich extends his hand, "Then, if you please."

Stan nods, "Yes, Sir." He proceeds with the vitals and records them on Dietrich's chart. He then gently pulls down his lower eye lids, one at a time, and administers the drops. The Captain blinks a couple of times, "Thank you, Corporal." Stan sets the eye drop bottle down, "You're welcome, Captain."

The next morning Dietrich opens his eyes and can see less-blurry images. He blinks several times and looks over at Dieter. The young man is about to speak, but Dietrich gives a quick head shake as Greta approaches. He pretends to listen to her footfalls and looks past her, "Who's there?"

Greta smiles, "Good morning, Captain. It's Nurse Greta Brown. How are you today?" He gives a little smile, "I'm alright." She takes a long look at him, "I understand you had an interesting time last night. You want to tell me your side of the story?" Dietrich frowns, "Excuse me? My side of what story?" She presses him, "I hear you attacked Lieutenant Carol Davis last night. But I've found that there are always two sides to every story."

Dieter hears others, turns then says, "Hauptmann… Sergeant Troy and Sergeant Moffitt are here." Greta turns as the two approach and Troy adds, "We'd like to hear your side of the story, too."

But before he can start, a female voice chimes in, "I would like to hear the Captain's side, as well."

They all turn as a petite, five foot two, eyes of blue, curly and short haired blond, in nurse's whites, strides down the aisle but stops abruptly in front of Troy and Moffitt, "Who are you?" The two salute, "Sergeants Troy and Moffitt, Ma'am." The Major is already angry, "I see no Sergeant stripes. You call those uniforms?" Dietrich covers his mouth to hide a grin.

Troy is about to explain when she abruptly turns again and heads for Dietrich's bed, stopping at the foot, "When one of my nurses is attacked, I want an explanation."

Everyone in the room is now at attention and saluting, except Dietrich. Greta announces, "Gentlemen. This is Major Lorraine Benton, our head nurse." At the mention of rank, Dietrich sits up, as best he can, and also salutes. Greta makes an introduction, "Major Benton, this is Captain Hans Dietrich."

The Major notes the Captain's courtesy, and then to everyone, "At ease, Gentlemen." Then turns back to Dietrich, "Well, Captain? What do you have to say for yourself?" But Dietrich counters, "I assure you, Major, I did not attack the lady." Benton stands her ground, "Then what, pray tell, happened?"

Everyone perks up as Dietrich begins, making sure not to look at anyone in particular, "I was awakened to pain in my right shoulder. Someone had grabbed me and I instinctively reacted by grabbing them. In my current condition, I could not see who it was." Benton takes a hard look at him as the Captain continues, "When she began yelling at me, I let go. She then slapped me and left. The guard on duty took my vitals and administered my eye drops."

Benton watches Dietrich then turns to Greta who elaborates, "The Captain was temporarily blinded yesterday when his convoy was attacked. He was further injured here when one of our soldiers threw a rock at the group as they came up the steps to the hospital, and it hit him in the right shoulder."

Benton eyes Greta, "I want to see his shoulder." Greta nods, "Yes Ma'am." She moves to Dietrich, "Captain?" He hesitates then unbuttons his pajama top and, slowly with a slight wince and moan, and a little help from Greta, slips it off his right shoulder. He turns his back to the group. The black and blue, purple and red cantaloupe sized bruise brings winces from everyone in the room, including Troy.

Major Benton nods to Greta who helps Dietrich slide the pajama top back on. As he buttons up, he faces Benton's direction, being careful not to look her in the eye, "Major. I give you my word as a German officer. I did not intentionally attack Lieutenant Carol Davis."

Major Benton is not a fan of the enemy, "Your word? Why should I believe you?" But Troy speaks up, "Major." Everyone turns as he continues, "If Captain Dietrich gives you his word as a German officer, you can take it to the bank." That surprises everyone. Benton observes Troy then turns back to Dietrich, "It seems you have an advocate, Captain." Dietrich is also somewhat surprised but sees an opportunity, "Major. This has been an unfortunate incident and, with your permission, I would like to speak with Lieutenant Davis." Benton considers his request, "I will let her know you want to speak with her. But it will be her decision." Dietrich nods, "I understand, Major. Thank you."

Benton turns to Greta, "Carry on, Lieutenant." She then heads for the door… but stops in front on Troy and Moffitt, "The next time you two enter my hospital, you will be dressed in your proper uniforms. Do I make myself clear?" They stand at attention and almost in unison, "Yes, Ma'am." They salute and she returns it, "Dismissed." They turn quickly and head out the door while Dietrich conceals a grin again.

Outside, Troy and Moffitt head down the stairs and meet up with their waiting drivers. Hitch, who's arm is still in the sling, blurts, "So? What happened last night?" Troy, a little miffed at the Major's rebuke over their uniforms, grumbles, "There was no attack. Dietrich was asleep and the night nurse tried to wake him up by grabbing his right shoulder." Hitch asks, "The one that got hit by the rock?" Moffitt nods, "He said he woke in pain and naturally grabbed the offending hand." Troy adds, "He couldn't see it was the nurse, but let go when she started yelling at him." Moffitt smiles, "She apparently slapped him across the face and then ran out." Hitch is wide-eyed, "She slapped Dietrich?" Troy nods, "And now he wants to talk to her tonight… about the unfortunate incident." They all grin at that prospect and Tully says what they're all thinking, "I'd like to be a fly on the wall for that." Hitch nods, "You and me both."

Troy puts the past few minutes behind him and smiles at his men, "Come on. Anyone for the beach?" Tully smiles, "You bet." Hitch adds, "And girls in bathing suits!" Moffitt is more conservative, "I'd like to write a letter home and catch up on my reading." Troy smiles, "To each his own." The four head out.

After everything has returned to normal in the German ward, Dieter looks over at his Captain. He then thinks for a long while and finally lays his arm over his face. From across the room, Greta can tell something is wrong. She walks over, "Dieter? Are you alright?" But he doesn't answer… just clenches his fist and presses his arm harder across his face.

Dietrich pretends not to see but even his not yet perfect vision can tell that something is bothering his Schutze, "Dieter. You must answer Lieutenant Brown." Dieter lowers his arm and sits up on his elbows, "I wish to speak with Hauptmann Dietrich… alone."

Greta smiles, "Alright. Just let me know if you need anything." She walks back to the far end of the room, has a seat at the desk and starts reviewing the never-ending pile of paperwork.

To Dieter's surprise, Dietrich gets out of his bed, and seeming to still have difficulty seeing, extends his hand and takes the two steps to Dieter's bed. He feels then perches on the edge of the bed, glances towards the door then whispers, "Now, what is so important that you must speak with me alone?"

The young man is a bit embarrassed and hesitates, so Dietrich prompts him again, "Dieter?" He takes a deep breath, then softly, "I lied." This is not what the Captain expected, "You lied? About what?"

Dieter takes a big breath, "I wasn't thrown from the truck. I… I got out before it came to a halt. I… I was running away when it exploded. Herr Hauptmann. To my shame, I was afraid. I failed you. I am sorry."

Dietrich wishes he could look the boy in the eye, but he can't let up his deception. He shakes his head, "Dieter. You did not fail. Everyone is afraid in war at one time or another. However, you must never let your fear rule your thoughts or your actions. Do you understand?" Dieter considers for a while, "I think so." But he doesn't sound very sure of himself. Dietrich speculates, "Well, if you had stayed in the truck, you would have been killed along with Kurt. And you would not be here now to be my eyes."

Dieter hesitates, nods slightly then takes a deep breath, "Hauptmann. Is everyone afraid in war?" But Dietrich is uncomfortable with the direction the conversation is taking and doesn't answer. Dieter asks, "Hauptmann, have you ever… What I mean to say, have you… have you ever seen Sergeant Troy afraid?" The Captain is relieved and almost smiles, "Yes. Once. When he awoke to find himself blind."

Dietrich watches the boy and knows he wants to ask something more. Dieter thinks for a long time. But what he really wants to know, he has no right to ask. After all, this man is his commanding officer, someone who must never be questioned, someone who is infallible.

The Captain finally says, "Was there something else you wanted to say?" Dieter stares at his Hauptmann, and gets a blank stare in return, "I… I ah…" He hesitates then blurts out, "I do not like bed pans." This is out of the blue and Dietrich is a bit shocked, then… he laughs. He shakes his head, "Forgive me for laughing." He chuckles again, then, "I don't like bed pans either."

Dietrich calls out, "Lieutenant?" But Greta is already there, "What is going on? Did I miss a joke?" Dietrich moves over to his own bed, "Schutze Weber has something to say."

Dieter looks at his Hauptmann, then at Greta, then back to Dietrich, who still responds with a blank stare. Greta asks, "Well?" Dieter sits up, takes a deep breath, "I will no longer use a bed pan. I wish to use the chair." Greta hesitates, "Indeed. I think your leg will tell us when you can use the chair." But Dieter is determined, "My leg does not tell me what I can do. I decide." Dietrich is pleased.

That afternoon, all four Rats enjoy a well-deserved leave that starts at the beach. Lounging, swimming, girl-watching, beer… girl-watching! Hitch is an expert. The sling draws several ladies, all wanting to know how he got his shoulder injury. And the story gets wilder every time he tells it. Moffitt even gets a short letter written to his father before they, and four of the ladies, head off to a beach-side bar for drinks. Later, after changing, the group meets again for dinner and dancing. The war seems far away.

In the German ward, Dietrich is finishing his dinner, glancing between bites at the other Germans and thinking. When finished, he sets the tray down on the bed and slowly stands. From Billy's perspective, it looks as though the Captain is heading for the chair. However, he walks, with hands extended, across the aisle then makes his way to Kelner's bed. But Billy intercepted him, "Hold on, Captain. Where are you going?" Dietrich halts, "I wish to speak with the Feldwebel." Billy frowns, "I don't know." Dietrich stands his ground, "As senior POW officer, it is my right." Billy nods, "Alright. But be quick."

Dietrich turns to Kelner, "Are you doing well?" Kelner nods, "Ja, Hauptmann." Billy watches then returns to his table. Dietrich lowers his voice, "Is Leutnant Brandt related to General Brandt?" Kelner glances at his sleeping Leutnant, "Ja. His nephew." Dietrich nods, "Danke." Then returns to his bed.

In the wee hours of the next morning, Lieutenant Carol Davis, carrying her satchel and a lantern, enters the German ward. She hesitates, surveys the patients then gets a nod from Stan. She first moves to the Leutnant and Feldwebel and starts her checks. Stan is about to head for Dieter and Dietrich to wake them, but Dieter is already awake with the sounds. He turns to Dietrich, "Herr Hauptmann? Hauptmann Dietrich?" Dietrich stirs, takes a deep breath and rolls over, "Dieter?" The young man says, "Ja. The nurse is here." Dietrich squints to see but his vision is still not good enough to see details in the low light of the lantern. So he asks, "Is she the same nurse?" Dieter nods, "Yes, Sir."

Dietrich brings himself to a sitting position, sets the pillow against the rungs of the bed then leans up against it and waits. He watches as Carol moves from the Leutnant to the Feldwebel, recording temperatures and pulse rates on their charts and administering appropriate medications.

She heads for the others and sets her satchel and lantern down on the table between their beds. She smiles at Dieter, "How are you feeling?" Dieter nods, "Alright… My leg hurts a little." She sticks the thermometer in his mouth, "I'll give you some morphine to help you sleep." She then holds his wrist and checks her watch.

A moment later, she checks the thermometer, makes notes on Dieter's chart, "You're doing fine." Then she pulls a syringe from her satchel, fills it from a bottle and gives him an injection. He winces but knows it will help and nods slightly, "Danke… I mean, thank you."

Carol turns to Dietrich, who is resting against the pillow but his head is now nodding. She takes a deep breath, and says "Captain?"

He lifts his head and cocks it in her direction, "Lieutenant Carol Davis?" She hesitates, then, "Yes." He nods slightly, "Before you start, I must apologize for my actions last night. I should never have grabbed your arm… I hope I did not injure you."

She's taken aback... hesitates. The Captain asks, "Lieutenant?" She's flustered, but then, "Captain, I should be the one to apologize. I'm told you were in pain… and blind." He purposely doesn't respond as she slowly waves her hand in front of his face, "You must have been very disoriented… And no matter what a patient does, a nurse must never strike him. I'm afraid my Irish temper got the best of me. I am very sorry." He nods then vaguely sees the glint of her red hair in the lantern light.

Dietrich says, "Well… Perhaps we could consider last night an unfortunate incident. May we begin again?" This whole conversation is something she did not expect from the enemy. She takes a long breath, "Yes. I… I think that would be a very good idea."

She cleans then shakes down the thermometer, "Open your mouth, please." He opens and Carol slips the thermometer under his tongue. She checks his pulse and blood pressure, recording the information as she goes, then administers the eye drops. Finally, she checks and records his temperature.

Dietrich listens and Dieter watches as Carol slowly puts the various measuring devices back into her satchel. She hesitates as if thinking but then grabs the satchel and lantern and takes a couple of steps… then stops. Dieter watches as she looks back at his Hauptmann. She also glances at Dieter and turns again. Taking a deep breath, she sets the satchel and lantern back on the table.

Dietrich cocks his head as though he is listening, however, he has been watching her all along.

Carol bites her lip then finally asks, "Captain… May I ask you something?" Dietrich nods, "Of course."

Carol hesitates again, then, "I know you've been told about my husband and his men. Do you know where they are?" Dietrich shakes his head, "I'm sorry. I did not participate in Monday's battle. Has there been no word from the Red Cross?" Carol bites her lip again, "No. And I've checked every day."

Dietrich says what must be said, "I'm sure you know… there is a possibility that they are dead." Carol's tone changes slightly as her shoulders slump, "I know." Dietrich suggests, "But perhaps their vehicles were damaged during the fighting. Perhaps they are walking across the desert right now." Carol says, "Don't you think I've thought of that? Every day I imagine that they'll walk in the front gate."

Then she sighs, "And then I wonder if they've been captured. Captain, what will happen to them if they've been captured? Will they be treated humanely? Will they… will they be tortured?"

When Dietrich doesn't answer she asks, "What would you do if you had captured them?" He doesn't hesitate, "I would treat them according to the Geneva Convention regulations. Of course, they would be questioned and searched. After all, a communications unit would have codes and probably know troop movements. Then they would be sent to a prisoner of war camp." Carol smiles slightly, "If they are prisoners, I hope that is how they will be treated. Thank you, Captain." Dietrich nods, "Lieutenant."

Dietrich watches as Carol slings the satchel over her shoulder, takes the lantern and leaves the ward. Their end of the ward has now darkened, with the only light coming from the lantern on the table near the door where Stan has settled in for a game of solitaire. Dietrich thinks then whispers to Dieter, who has been watching and listening, "Dieter. I have an idea. Somehow, I must escape, but I will not be able to take you with me, not with that leg. Dieter, I give you my word, as a German officer. I will return for you. Do you understand?" Silhouetted against the light of the lantern, Dietrich sees the young man nod.

Just before reveille the next morning, everyone on the Allied base is rudely awakened by the roar of low-flying aircraft followed by explosions and the grating whine of the air raid sirens.

Dietrich jumps from his bed and runs to the window. He squints at the brightness of the morning. But his eyes are now almost back to normal and he spots the glint of the rising sun off of several twin-engine, single tail planes flying low over the base. He recognizes the German Ju-88s and watches as bombs are released… with a string of them falling toward the hospital and surrounding buildings.

Dietrich runs to Dieter, grabs him and yells to Billy, "Get everyone under the beds." He shoves Dieter under his bed, looking directly at him, "Stay here." Dieter nods while Billy helps the others under their beds. In the confusion, and with Billy distracted, Dietrich makes his way into the storage area.

Right after the patients are secured, a bomb explodes just outside the hospital, rocking the building and spraying glass from the window onto the floor and Dietrich's bed. Dieter covers his head. Plaster falls from the ceiling and Billy drops, taking shelter under the bed with the two Germans.

A moment later, he stands and checks for the Captain, but he's nowhere to be seen. Another explosion, debris falls and they all duck again. Billy calls out, "Captain?" He looks under beds, then searching, looks into the storage area and sees the bathrobe on the floor. He races in, kneels down but the robe is over a bundle of towels. A metal pitcher slams across his head and Billy crumples to the floor.

Troy and Moffitt are sound asleep in their room at the NCO quarters but are wide awake as the planes roar overhead. They are out of their beds and half-dressed when the air raid sirens begin to sound.

In a nearby barracks, Tully and Hitch, along with seven other Privates, are asleep but are rudely awakened by the attack. Tully and the seven others jump out of bed and start dressing but Hitch is moving slowly. Tully shakes his friend who is still feeling the effects of last night's revelry, "Hitch! Come on, buddy! The base is being bombed!" Hitch takes a deep breath and pulls on his clothes… and sling.

In the German ward, Greta runs in, her long locks hastily pulled into a ponytail, her shift not set to start for a half hour. Germans are under the beds on both sides of the room. But where is Billy? Another explosion rocks the building, plaster falls and she dives under the first bed on the right, "Is everyone okay?" Kelner nods, but then she realizes, "Where is the Captain?" She looks at Dieter, who shrugs.

Billy is also missing. She runs back to the table near the door then sees the blue and white pajamas and robe draped over someone on the floor of the storage area. She moves in.

She kneels down next to the man on the floor… it's Billy, unconscious. There's a noise. She stands quickly, turns to see Dietrich in Billy's uniform, which is bulky on him, since he has his own uniform on underneath. She also sees he's holding Billy's revolver. She gasps and he says, "Don't make a sound." She worriedly looks down at Billy, but Dietrich reassures her, "He's just knocked out. He'll be alright."

He hands her a handkerchief, "Put this over your nose and mouth. There's a lot of smoke out there."

The Ju-88s make another pass. She cringes with sounds of bombs exploding outside. More debris falls.

She slowly takes the kerchief, "We're going outside?" Dietrich pulls a kerchief up that is already tied and hanging around his neck. He slings Billy's rifle over his left shoulder, puts on Billy's helmet and picks up a laundry bag, "We're going to the motor pool." Greta eyes him, "And if I refuse?" Now Dietrich is all business and emphasizes the weapon, "Come with me and no one gets hurt. Do you understand?" She nods ever so slightly.

As they pass by the table, Dietrich gives a quick nod to Dieter who can only hope that he is successful.

Outside, everything is mayhem. The Rats have met in front of the barracks and are helping to dig others, who were not so lucky, from under the rubble of a fallen building.

Greta and Dietrich head down the steps of the hospital and he asks, "Which way?" She points to the left. They head off quickly in that direction.

There is debris and smoke everywhere. People run by. Some stop to help wounded and pull others out of the road. Then a thunderous explosion followed by many more and Greta flinches. Dietrich puts his arm around her waist, "You're alright. It sounds like they may have hit the ammo storage area."

Debris rains down and they duck behind a truck. Two soldiers join the pair and one notices the nurse, "Are you alright, Ma'am?" She glances at Dietrich then, "I'm fine. But please, the hospital's been hit."

They stare at her and the soldier with her, then Dietrich speaks up, with a very convincing American accent, "You heard the Lieutenant. Move it!" Greta is surprised but then implores them, "Please?". They nod and the one says, "Yes, Ma'am." Then they rush off.

The pair stand and Greta says, "You're full of surprises." Dietrich reverts to his normal speech, "The motor pool?" She points, "Down that alley and to the left." He grabs her arm, but too hard for her liking, "Ouch!" So he lets her go and places his hand on the small of her back, "Come on."

They head down the alley but Dietrich stops her abruptly at the end and peers around the corner to the left. The area beyond is devoid of people but full of vehicles, including two very familiar Jeeps. He smiles and again moves her forward with a hand on her lower back.

He tosses the laundry bag into the back of the closest Jeep, then checks the gas gauge… A full tank. Then the gas cans… Also full. Finally, he unscrews the top of a water can and finds it full, "Excellent."

But Greta backs up and crosses her arms defiantly, "I'm not going with you." He looks up as he screws the cap back on the water can, then circles the Jeep, "Of course not. You have patients to care for." She stares at him as he gets behind the wheel, "You are full of surprises." He looks at her, "Thank you for the care you are giving the German patients and for your kindness. And, please, tell Dieter I will keep my promise to him."

At the hospital, in the German ward, patients are back in their beds and are being checked by an orderly as soldiers continue to clean. Billy sits on the edge of the bed that had been Dietrich's as Greta puts the last bandage on his head. The Rats and Dieter look on as she continues, "And then he just drove away, dodging debris and disappearing into the smoke."

Troy is angry, "He took one of our Jeeps." Tully thinks, "He must be half way to the German lines by now." Hitch asks, "We gonna go after him, Sarge?" Moffitt shakes his head, "We'd never catch him."

Troy looks at Dieter, "So, what was the promise the Captain made?" Dieter says nothing. Troy tries again, "Dieter, if the Captain hadn't wanted us to know, he wouldn't have said anything… So?" Dieter looks at his captors, "He gave me his word… He will come back for me."

They all think about the possibility then Hitch asks, "He wouldn't come back here, would he Sarge?" Troy thinks, "No. Not here." Moffitt watches his leader, "What are you thinking Troy?" Troy considers, "Dietrich knows about Lieutenant Davis's group, right?" They all nod and Troy continues, "So, if Dietrich could find those guys…" Moffitt finishes his thought, "Perhaps a prisoner exchange?"

Captain Hans Dietrich, in an American uniform, speeds across the desert in his absconded Jeep. When he's near his own base, he stops, removes the helmet and boots then takes off the American uniform revealing his own underneath. He pulls out the laundry bag and retrieves his cap, boots and Sam Brown belt. After all he's been through, he doesn't want to be shot as an enemy soldier.

A short time later, he pulls up to the guard house at the entrance to his base. The guard notes his tattered sleeves and unshaven face. But, after explaining how he escaped from the Allied base and after showing his ID, he is allowed in and quickly makes his way to his commandant's office.

The older and higher ranking officer sits behind the desk, listening intently as Dietrich continues, "Colonel Vogler, I believe we have an excellent opportunity to retrieve seven of our own men, including General Brandt's nephew." The Colonel nods, "I agree, Captain. Well done."

A while later, the two men sit on either side of the desk and share cigarettes, tea and German sweat breads as Vogler continues, "When you did not arrive with the shells, we sent out search parties. Your vehicles and men were found on Wednesday and the bombing raid set for Thursday morning." Dietrich nods, "It gave me the diversion I needed. And from what I heard, the ammo dump was hit."

A quick knock and the door opens. A short, black haired, blue eyed officer enters. Dietrich and Colonel Vogler stand, "Sturmbannfuhrer Heinrich Gruber, this is Hauptmann Hans Dietrich." The Gestapo Major gives a brief Nazi salute while Dietrich and Vogler each give a military salute in return.

Gruber, dressed in the traditional Nazi paraphernalia with a long black coat, slowly removes his black gloves, "Hauptmann. I understand you are interesting in acquiring my prisoners." Vogler takes a step toward Gruber, "May I remind you that your commanding officer has ordered you to release Lieutenant Davis and his men to my command. Or must I make a phone call?"

Gruber considers his words, "That won't be necessary, Herr Oberst." He glares at Dietrich, reaches into his inner coat pocket and pulls out a rusty ancient-looking key, "The men you seek are of no further use to me. You'll find them on the lower level of the prison building. Personally, I am glad to be rid of them. They have been most uncooperative."

Dietrich extends his left hand, palm up. But Gruber slams the key down on the table, then leaves.

Once the door is closed, Vogler turns to Dietrich, "A most disagreeable man." He picks up the key and hands it to Dietrich, "You look tired, Hans, and a bit unkempt. You should get cleaned up." Dietrich is tired, "I apologize for my appearance, Sir. I will attend to it once I know that the Americans are safe."

Two ambulances wait as a somewhat scruffy Dietrich, and a dozen soldiers, approach a rock-walled building. Recessed into the wall is an old wooden door. Two soldiers push it in with an ominous creak. Dietrich reminds the men, "You must speak English only. Do you understand?" They all nod.

Dietrich leads the way and flips a switch which activates two naked light bulbs. One is halfway down the steps. The other casts a dim light at the bottom, illuminating prison bars on the left. As the men make their way down foot worn rock steps into the Gestapo dungeon, they all groan as they are hit with a disgusting stench. They wrap bandanas around their faces but the stench worsens as they approach the bottom of the steps, and it's all they can do to keep from losing their lunches. Several of the men gag and all quietly complain in German.

At the bottom of the steps, they stop but hear no sounds. They all now click on their flashlights and the beams illuminate men on the right side of a filthy dungeon. Their uniforms are dirty. Most of the men are curled up on the dingy rock floor, since there are no cots to rest on. One is next to the bars.

A beam moves to the left side of the dungeon. Now they know what is causing the stench… one bucket, for seven men, overflowing and surrounded by piles of feces, dampened by urine and vomit.

Dietrich whispers, "Leutnant Goetz, unlock and open the door please." He nods, "Ja… Yes, Captain." The key clanking and the creak of the door on its ancient hinges causes a stir from the lumps of humanity in the cell. Groans… moans… and a weak voice is barely audible, "Go to hell."

Dietrich moves toward the voice coming from the man clinging to the bars, but is greeted with defiance, "You get nothing… nothing." Dietrich kneels down next to the man, "Are you Lieutenant Howard Davis?" The man is weak and his mouth is dry but he manages defiance again, "Go to hell."

Meanwhile, the Germans check the prisoners. Leutnant Goetz returns, "Hauptmann. There is one who has been whipped, two with broken bones. One boy was shot in the leg and has lost a great deal of blood." He shakes his head and whispers, "These men have been tortured, Herr Hauptmann."

Dietrich stands, shakes his head at the cruelty, "Give them water. Move them to the hospital."

Leutnant Goetz organizes the German soldiers who then move among the Allies, giving water, helping men to their feet and putting the three most seriously injured men on stretchers.

Meanwhile, Dietrich kneels back down, this time with a canteen, and speaks, "Lieutenant Davis?" The man is confused, "Who… What is…?" He sees his men being moved, "Where are you taking my men?"

The Captain puts the canteen into Davis' hands, "Lieutenant Davis, drink." Davis looks at the canteen then finally drinks gratefully. Dietrich continues, "Lieutenant, I am Captain Hans Dietrich, of the German Army. You and your men are now under my authority. You will be taken to the base hospital where you will be given food and medical care… according to the Geneva Convention. Do you understand?"

Davis looks at Dietrich in the dim light, blinking his eyes, trying to focus, "The Gestapo?" Dietrich shakes his head, "Gone. You are safe now, Lieutenant." Davis frowns, "Safe?" Dietrich nods, "Now, drink the water." Davis does, as Dietrich stands. The Captain waves one of the soldiers over to help Davis up.

As the men are moved out of the dungeon, Luetnant Goetz approaches, carrying a box, "Hauptmann. Dog tags, identity papers, personal items, and…" Dietrich raises a hand to interrupt. He pulls out the remains of a harmonica noting the initials, JCL, inscribed in the metal, "I want a list of their names, ranks and serial numbers." He puts the harmonica back, "Take this to the hospital and give it to Lieutenant Davis. I'll meet you there in an hour." He rubs his unshaven chin. Goetz nods, "Yes, Sir."

An hour later, Captain Dietrich, clean shaven, in a fresh uniform and cap tucked under his left arm, enters the room in the German hospital that was set up for Davis and his men. There are seven beds, four on the right side and three on the left. There are also two armed guards standing near the door.

The men are in hospital gowns hooked up to fluid bottles hung from IV poles, their boots under their beds. They relax eating bread and drinking from cups. However, one black-haired man, in the second bed on the left, faces away from the door, his back exposed and crisscrossed with angry red welts where a whip did its job. The man cringes as an orderly applies a salve. The last bed on the left is empty.

Leutnant Goetz hands the paper to Dietrich, "Sir. The list you wanted… and something you should know." He points to Private Joseph C. Levinson… with 'Jewish' written after the name. Dietrich nods slowly then says, "One is missing." Goetz says, "Yes, Sir. I believe it's Levinson. He is still in surgery."

Just then the one in question is wheeled in to the ward. He's hooked up to fluid and blood bottles hand carried by an orderly. The Americans smile and several ask, "Hey look! "It's Joey." "Is he going to be alright?" A man in surgical whites, stained with blood, enters and calms the group, "He should be fine."

Still unconscious, Joey is transferred to the bed and the bottles are hung from an IV pole.

Dietrich asks, "Doctor, how are my patients?" He shakes his head, "They are lucky to be alive. One more day and that one…" He motions to Joey… "probably would have bled to death. However, they should all make a full recovery… Oh, and Hauptmann. I understand you were recently wounded. At your convenience, please stop by my office. I would like to check your eyes." Dietrich nods, "I will. Thank you, Doctor." The physician is visibly tired and leaves the ward.

As the orderlies wheel the now empty bed out, Dietrich scans the written list of his prisoners: Lieutenant Howard Davis, Sergeant Karl Becker, Technicians Fifth Grade Roberto Garcia and Louis Au Clair and Privates Bryce McFarland, Antonio Bartoli and Joseph Levinson… Quite an eclectic group. He remembers the initials, JCL, on the damaged harmonica and there is only one person with those initials. He looks over at Joey then whispers something to Goetz who nods and leaves.

Dietrich sets his cap down on the table next to the door then moves to the man in the first bed on the right side. The box sits empty on the floor next to his bed and everyone now wears their dog tags. With the grime washed away, the Captain can see Davis' curly brown hair and green eyes, "Lieutenant Davis?" The man has been watching him, "You're Captain Dietrich?" The German nods. Davis sets his bread and cup down, "I want to thank you for…" He looks around the room, "For all of this. But I'm a bit confused. Why are you doing this? I mean, if you wanted seven American soldiers, you could have gone to your local POW camp and picked out some healthy guys." He glances around the room, "Seems to me, you're spending an awful lot of time and resources on us. Don't get me wrong. I'm grateful. But… Why us?"

Dietrich smiles then takes one of the chairs from the table and sits next to the bed, "Yes. I can see how this might seem confusing. It's actually rather straightforward… in a roundabout way. You and your six men were captured on Monday. I and my six men were attacked on Tuesday." He hesitates, "However, five of my men were killed. My Schutze, or Private, and I were both injured, captured and taken to your base hospital." Davis asks, "Injured?" Dietrich nods, "I was blinded and Dieter has a broken leg." Davis looks at the Captain, "Blinded?" Dietrich says, "I have since regained my sight. But… your wife was my night nurse." Davis is stunned, "My wife? Carol?" Dietrich nods, "Yes. And we had a rather long discussion last night about you… The fact that you had not returned from the battle."

Davis is shocked, "You've seen Carol? Is she alright?" Dietrich stops him, "She is understandably worried. But, as far as I know, she is fine." Davis thinks, "What do you mean, 'as far as you know'?"

Dietrich locks eyes with the man, "Early this morning your base was bombed, which did provide the diversion I needed to escape. There was a great deal of damage, and I am assuming she is alright. However, I was not able to bring my Schutze, Dieter Weber, with me because of his leg, and I want him back." He purposely leaves out the part about the General's nephew, "To that end, I have obtained permission to propose a prisoner exchange… the seven of you for seven Germans… including Dieter."

Davis is stunned, "A prisoner exchange?" Dietrich stands and replaces the chair, "Yes. In fact, I must now go to the radio room to make a call. We will talk further when I return."

After Dietrich leaves, Sergeant Becker, who is in the bed next to Davis, asks, "Lieutenant? Did I hear right? A prisoner exchange?" The others listen as Davis is also trying to process the news, "I think so."

At the Allied base, the Rats are helping with the clean-up. They lift a heavy beam away from a door. But Hitch grimaces, "This is not how I wanted to spend my leave." Moffitt says, "At least we're alive." Troy reminds him, "And you're supposed to be taking it easy." Hitch takes a step back, "Be my guest."

Troy, Moffitt and Tully push on the door and against the fallen debris inside the building. The nurses, who were trapped, are grateful to finally be freed from what they thought would be their tomb… especially one Lieutenant Carol Davis. A few have some minor cuts and bruises but no serious injuries.

As the Rats help the ladies out of the debris, a Corporal comes running up, "One of you Sergeant Sam Troy?" Troy calls out, "Yeah. Here." The Corporal adds, "You're wanted in the radio room." Troy frowns, "Radio room?" The Corporal nods, "Yeah. Seems a German Captain wants to talk to you."

Thirty minutes later, Dietrich returns to the hospital ward. As he enters he notes that only Joey is still on the two IVs while the others rest and enjoy some fruit and cheese with their bread. Goetz has been waiting with a small rectangular box. But he first inquires, "Were you able to make the arrangements, Sir?" Dietrich shakes his head slightly, "Not yet." Then he turns to Davis, "It seems, Lieutenant, that the Allies want to make sure I actually have you and your men. The two of us will return to the radio room in one hour. Davis asks tiredly, "How far is it to the radio room?" Dietrich smiles slightly, "You will only have to walk to the car that will be parked out front." Davis also smiles slightly, "I think I can do that."

Dietrich now accepts the small box from Goetz and then turns back to Davis, "I saw the damaged harmonica. I believe it belongs to Private Levinson?" Davis catches his breath, "Please, Captain. Don't hurt Joey. He's just a kid." Dietrich is a bit taken aback, "I don't intend to hurt any of you. I need all of you for the exchange." He holds out the box, "In fact, this is a gift to replace his harmonica. By the way, how was it damaged?" Davis' face darkens, "Under the boot of the Gestapo Major."

Davis then slowly takes the box, "I don't know what to say… Thank you, Captain." He stares at Joey who holds his broken harmonica to his chest, "Actually, Captain, would you be willing to give it to Joey, yourself?" Dietrich remembers how Dieter reacted when the Rats gave him the new harmonica. Then he nods slightly and takes the box, "Alright." Davis pulls his gown around his backside and notes the cold of the smooth floor on his bare feet as he and the Captain walk to Joey's bed.

Everyone is watching as the two men approach. Joey tries to turn away but can't because of his leg and the tubes from the IV bottles. He feels trapped and almost panics, "Please… Please don't hurt me." Dietrich stops next to the bed, "I'm not going to hurt you." He holds out the small box, "I have a gift for you." But Joey is still unsure. He looks over at his Lieutenant, who nods, "It's okay. Go ahead. Take it." Slowly and still with fear, Joey takes the box and opens it… and is stunned, "Lieutenant, it's a harmonica… a Hohner." He holds it up, "Hey! Look!" And all the other men break out in smiles.

Davis finally says, "Why don't you give it a try?" Joey is still somewhat unsure but then, just as Dieter had done, takes a deep breath and blows up the scale then sucks down. One of the guys calls out, "Give us a tune, Joey." The others join in to encourage him. He looks around the room, and finally settles on a song that everyone present, Alley and German alike, will know: Lili Marlene.

There are smiles all around as the tune progresses. Davis, who is still tired, smiles at Joey than heads back and takes a seat on the edge of his bed. Dietrich follows and joins him to watch and listen.

Davis surveys the room and sees the change in his men, "I don't know how to thank you, Captain." Dietrich glances at him then watches Joey, "No need. I am just returning a favor." Davis looks at the Captain, "Favor?" Dietrich explains, "The men who captured us gave Dieter a new harmonica after his was damaged in the explosion." He watches the boy, "Your Joey reminds me of Dieter. Both are far too young for this war." Davis nods slowly, "I agree." Then sighs, "Joey will turn eighteen next week." Dietrich looks over at Davis, "And next week, Dieter will turn seventeen."

Joey finishes the song then smiles. He starts into Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy and all in his unit join in to sing the words and clap to the beat.

Luetnant Goetz checks his watch then approaches Dietrich and whispers, "Fifteen minutes, Sir." An orderly brings over a bathrobe and pair of slippers which Davis puts on. He doesn't want to interrupt the revelry, so nods to Becker who nods back then watches as the two leave the room.

Outside the hospital, a staff car with driver waits. The driver holds the front passenger door open for Dietrich who climbs into the back then, after Davis settles into the passenger seat, shuts the door. It's a short drive to the radio room and Davis notes the stares from the German soldiers on the street. He runs his fingers through his short brown curly hair but he'd need a comb to do it right.

In the Allied radio room, Troy and the rest of his team, along with Captain Boggs, a Major and Carol Davis wait patiently for the call. There's a crackle, then a German-accented voice in English, "Allied base, this is German Headquarters, come in, please. Over." The American radio operator, "German base, this is Allied Headquarters, we read you. Standing by with Major Bell of our communications division. Over." The German radio operator says, "Lieutenant Davis is standing by. Over."

Davis and Bell are both handed the mics and Bell starts. "Lieutenant Davis? This is Black King One. I repeat, this is Black King One. Over." Davis looks around the German radio room then to Dietrich, "This code will only be used this one time." Dietrich nods, "I understand." Davis takes a deep breath, depresses the key and speaks into the mic, "Black King One, this is White Castle Seven. I repeat, Black King One, this is White Castle Seven. Over."

There's a pause, then the Major comes back, "White Castle Seven, this is Black King One. I hear the skiing is great in Vermont. Over." The Germans look at the radio then each other as Davis smiles, "Black King One, this is White Castle Seven. I prefer the beaches in Florida, myself. Over." Then they realize it's all part of the recognition code. Major Bell glances at Carol who smiles, "It's him!" Then says, "Howard. How are you and your men?" Davis relaxes, "Doing much better now, Sir… Thanks to Captain Dietrich."

A while later, after agreeing on the details for the next day's exchange, and letting Howard and Carol have a word, Dietrich and Davis head back to the hospital where everyone is brought up to speed. Then they all settle down to a hearty dinner and some good music by Joey and his new harmonica. Dietrich realizes he's only had tea and German sweet breads all day and heads for the Kantine for dinner.

At the Allied base, the Rats are assigned the task of finding four Germans to round out the group for the exchange. In discussions with Leutnant Brandt, who is doing a bit better, and Feldwebel Kelner, they head to the POW camp and retrieve the two Unteroffiziers (Corporal equivalents) and the Oberschutze who were transferred to the POW camp on Tuesday. They also find another "private" to make seven.

As the Rats enter the German ward with the four extra prisoners, a rather loud discussion is being had by Dieter and Greta, "You have to keep weight off that leg if it's going to heal properly." But Dieter is adamant, "I will not be carried. I will use crunches." Greta is at her wits end, "That's crutches." She turns to Troy, "He wants to use crutches tomorrow for the exchange." Troy smiles, "I don't think one night will hurt. Besides, his leg will tell him when to rest. And we'll keep an eye on him tomorrow." The other Rats concur, and Greta knows she's lost the fight, "Alright." She nods to Billy who retrieves a pair of crutches and adjusts them for Dieter's height. He tucks them into his arm pits, "I must practice." He steps and swings around the room, and only once does he almost lose his balance.

The new Germans trade their uniforms, which will be cleaned, for hospital gowns and are assigned their beds. As Dieter practices, he reminds them, "You will be treated according to the Geneva Convention. You must not try to escape." The new men have no idea who this fellow is, giving orders as he steps and swings. They look to their Feldwebel, who smiles, "Do what he says. No escapes." Just then dinner arrives and they all settle down to eat… under the watchful eyes of three armed guards.

The next morning, back at the German base, freshly laundered uniforms are returned to Davis and his men. However, Private Bartoli's jacket, that had been shredded by the whip, has been replaced with a clean German shirt. They are all well rested, feel much better and enjoying a hearty breakfast.

At the Allied hospital, the Germans, in their freshly laundered uniforms, are also being treated to a hearty breakfast, including Leutnant Brandt who is sitting up and enjoying solid food again. And the others finally realize that Dieter, who was giving orders the night before, is only a Schutze.

Dieter finishes quickly as the Rats enter, "Sergeant Troy?" Troy smiles, "Good morning." Dieter, picks up the crutches, "I must practice on sand. I must not fall in front of my Hauptmann." Knowing Dieter's determination, Greta okay's it and Hitch and Tully take him outside.

It takes nearly three hours for the two convoys to arrive at the meeting place halfway between the two bases. As agreed, Dietrich has one German halftrack with his driver and two armed soldiers, including Goetz, while Troy has his two Jeeps and his three men. Both have a truck with a driver, a guard, an orderly and their respective seven prisoners. Troy, Dietrich and the guards carry side arms, holstered.

The two groups come to a stop about fifty yards apart. For a moment the enemies study each other. Then Sergeant Troy dismounts and Hitch hands him a pole with a white flag attached, while Captain Dietrich dismounts his halftrack and Leutnant Goetz hands him a similar white flag. With a quick glance and nod to their men, the two leaders start walking towards each other.

With men from both sides watching through binoculars, the two finally meet in the middle and drill their flag poles into the sand. Troy salutes, "Captain." And Dietrich returns it, "Sergeant." Troy watches Dietrich, then, "When did you regain your sight?" Dietrich hesitates, "Light, dark and motion by the end of the first day. I could see fairly well by the second." Troy remembers their conversation in the hospital, then smiles knowingly, "You lied." Dietrich shrugs, "I had a very good teacher."

Troy shakes his head and almost laughs, "I should never have told you what I did." But Dietrich counters, "If you hadn't, we might not be here now… Shall we proceed?"

They each turn and signal the drivers of their trucks. According to the prearranged instructions, the trucks slowly move forward. Just before they reach the two leaders, they each turn to their right and stop so the backs of the trucks face the flags.

The flaps on the back of each truck are pushed aside revealing the prisoners. The guard and orderly in each wait as their driver dismounts and moves to join then at the back of the truck. Then one by one each of the prisoners are helped out. Most of the Germans are able to hop down themselves, though Leutnant Brandt is lowered on a stretcher. Dieter must be helped down, then stands using his crutches.

Dietrich turns to Troy, "What is Dieter doing? He should be on a stretcher." Troy smiles, "He's okay. When he found out there would be an exchange, he demanded to be taught how to use crutches." Dietrich frowns, "Demanded?" Troy nods, "He didn't want to be carried. He even asked to be taken outside this morning so he could practice in the sand. I think he didn't want to trip in front of you." Dietrich is a bit surprised, then Troy adds, "He helped us a lot last night with those four guys we brought over from the POW camp. He's a good kid." Dietrich watches the youth and smiles slightly.

Then Troy and Dietrich turn toward the American group and watch as two of the men are lowered on stretchers. Two more are helped down, one with an arm in a cast and sling, the other groaning with every move. The last three, including Lieutenant Davis, are able to disembark, but with some effort.

Troy takes a good look at the Allied soldiers and realizes their deplorable condition. He glares at Dietrich, "What the hell happened to them?" Dietrich faces him and matter-of-factly, "They were nearly three days in the hands of the Gestapo before I got to them." Troy looks back at the men then faces Dietrich and quietly demands, "I want a name."

Dietrich does not answer but turns to the driver and orderly next to the German truck and motions for Joey, who is on a stretcher, to be moved to Troy's side of the flags. Troy knows he won't get anything else from the Captain, so he turns to the driver and orderly next to the Allied truck and motions for Leutnant Brandt to be moved to Dietrich's side of the flags. Both stretchers are set down. Troy smiles at Joey, "Welcome home." Joey smiles, "Thank you. Oh, Captain?" Dietrich turns and Joey holds up the harmonica, "Thank you." Dietrich nods, "You are welcome." Brandt then says, "Hauptmann? Danke." Troy watches as Dietrich turns to his own man, "Gern geschehen, Leutnant." The guards and orderlies switch stretchers and carry their own men back to their trucks where the stretchers are slid in.

Dieter nods to Feldweble Kelner to start his walk. Davis gives the sign for Private McFarland, who is on the second stretcher with cracked ribs, to be carried to the center.

As the exchange continues, Dieter looks over at Joey, "Hallo." Joey rolls slightly to his side and looks over at Dieter, "Hello." Dieter says, "You have a mundharmonika." Joey frowns, then, "Oh. You mean this?" And he holds up the instrument, "What did you call it?" Dieter says, "Mundharmonika." Joey asks, "What does that mean?" Dieter says, "Mouth harmonica." Joey smiles, "Is there any other kind?" Dieter returns the smile, "I suppose not." Joey says, "Say. You speak pretty good English." Dieter smiles, "I learn in Gymnasium." Joey asks, "In what?" Dieter thinks, "Oh, you say high school."

Joey nods then shows him the harmonica again, "Captain Dietrich gave it to me. It's a Hohner. Mine… It was, well, crushed when we were prisoners." Dieter digs into his pocket and pulls out his harmonica, "My… harmonica was damaged when we were attacked. Sergeant Troy and Private Tully gave me this… It's a Kratt." Joey looks at it, "Say, that's a nice one."

The war seems to stop for the two young men as they become absorbed in a shared love. Joey says, "I bet you know this song." And he starts playing Lili Marlene. Everyone turns to listen as Dieter smiles and joins in. Dietrich and Troy exchange glances but decide not to interrupt the impromptu concert and they motion for the men to keep moving. In fact, the music inspires the men to pick up the pace.

One German and one American exchange, then the next pair. Troy welcomes each American 'home' but notes that each man, without exception, also thanks Dietrich.

The music continues in harmony now as the fifth and sixth men from each side make the walk. In between the two groups, Troy turns to Dietrich and nods towards the American truck, "I think Dieter has grown up a bit in the last three days." Dietrich glances at his Schutze, "I agree."

Finally, all but Dieter and Davis have made the walk. The American orderly steps in, "I hate to break this up but it's time for you to go, Dieter." Hearing the name, Joey blurts out, "You're Dieter? Captain Dietrich told Lieutenant Davis about you. You're the reason we're all here." Dieter shrugs, "I don't know about that… What's your name?" Joey says, "I'm Joey…" Then he smiles, "Well, bye Dieter. You know, I hope we never have to fight each other." Dieter smiles, "Bye Joey. I hope we don't either."

The orderly puts a hand on Dieter's shoulder, "Come on." Dieter puts his harmonica in his pocket then adjusts the crutches, "I'm ready." The orderly whispers, "Just take it nice and slow."

Dieter suppresses a smile and takes his first step. When Davis sees the German on crutches begin, he starts his slow walk. They both meet in the center and Dieter salutes his Hauptmann. He stands so straight he almost topples… But catches himself and Dietrich proudly returns the salute. At the same time, Troy salutes Davis, "Welcome back Lieutenant." Davis tiredly returns the salute, "Thank you, Sergeant… Oh, Captain?" Dietrich turns and Davis salutes him, "Thank you for everything you did for me and my men." Dietrich gives a proper salute, "You are most welcome, Lieutenant."

Dieter is now determined as he steps and swings to the German truck. Davis is tired but makes his way to the Allied truck. When all are aboard, Troy and Dietrich give their signals. The truck engines come to life and the drivers turn right, heading back to their waiting vehicles, and leaving the two leaders alone.

Both are glad the exchange has been completed without a hitch and pick up their own white flag. But for Troy it's not over yet, "I want that name." Dietrich turns ever so slightly so his back is directly facing his own people, knowing he is being watched. He hesitates, then says, "Gestapo Major Heinrich Gruber." Troy nods then salutes, "Captain." Dietrich returns his salute, "Sergeant."

They each take a couple of steps backwards, nod, then slowly turn and head back to their own vehicles.

Dietrich mounts his halftrack and gives his standard upward double fist pump to signal the vehicles to head out. As the halftrack turns, Dietrich watches Troy who stands by his Jeeps talking to his men, "Gestapo Major Heinrich Gruber." Hitch smiles, "Sounds like we've got another mission, Sarge." Troy nods, "You're damn right about that. Come on. Let's get these guys home." He smiles, "Shake it."

The sun is near to setting when both groups pull into their bases.

Dietrich and his men are met by Colonel Vogler and several other soldiers. Volger congratulates the Hauptmann on a successful exchange then welcomes Leutnant Brandt, still on the stretcher, "Your Uncle sends his best." He nods, "Danke, Herr Oberst." Then, with little fanfare, the Germans are offloaded and taken into the hospital for checkups.

Troy and company pull up in front of the Allied hospital and are met by Captain Boggs and Major Bell. However, the street is also jammed packed with cheering soldiers as the men are helped down out of the truck. Medical personnel flood out of the hospital, including Lieutenant Carol Davis, who stands momentarily on the top step. She spots Howard as he helps one of his men out of the truck and yells, "Howard!" He looks around then sees her as she waves. She runs down the steps and pushes her way through the crowd. They collide in a warm embrace as his men gather around.

A week later, in the German hospital, Dieter is sitting on his bed, with his leg propped up on a pillow, talking with an orderly and holding a bent metal hanger. Captain Dietrich enters the ward with his cap tucked under his left arm and carrying a sack. Dieter's face lights up as he approaches, and he salutes, "Hauptmann Dietrich. I am honored that you would visit me." Dietrich gives a snappy salute in return, "I was glad to hear you are doing better." Dieter smiles, "The Doctor says the bone is healing… It's just that my leg itches. But the orderly has shown me how to use a hanger to scratch it." Dietrich nods, "That is a fine invention." Dieter hesitates a moment then looks up, "Hauptmann, if I may I ask, how are your eyes?" Dietrich smiles, "My eyes are doing much better. Thank you for asking."

Dietrich sits on the edge of the bed, "Now, according to my records, today is your birthday." Dieter's eyes light up as Dietrich continues, "And to celebrate I have brought German sweet breads." He hands over the sack and Dieter excitedly peaks inside, "Oh… Danke… I mean, thank you very much." Dietrich smiles, "I am pleased that you are practicing your English."

Dietrich then reaches into his tunic breast pocket and hands Dieter an envelope, "I am also pleased to give you this." Dieter opens the envelope and pulls out a letter. As he unfolds it, a small round khaki patch, with a brown diamond shape embroidered 'pip' in the center, falls out. His jaw drops slightly as he scans the letter then picks up the patch. He looks at his Hauptmann, "This is an Oberschutze patch." Dietrich nods, "Yes it is. And I believe you have earned it." Dieter grins, "I… I thank you, Herr Hauptmann." Then he turns the patch over in his hand. The grin fades and he looks at Dietrich, "Hauptmann. If I had a wish for my birthday… I would wish for the war to be over." Dietrich considers then nods, "That would be a very fine wish. A very fine wish, indeed." Then he smiles, "Now, may I join you in having some of those sweet breads?" Dieter smiles, nods and digs into the bag.

On the Allied side of the war, in the mess hall, Lieutenant Davis, his wife and his men are gathered around a big table with half-eaten meals on their plates. On the back of Joey's chair hangs a cane. Louis Au Clair struggles to eat with his left hand, his right arm in the cast. Someone has just cracked a joke and everyone is laughing, except for Bryce McFarland who groans and grabs his middle, "My ribs… don't make me laugh!" But they all laugh even harder.

The door opens and in walk the four members of the Rat Patrol. Hitch's arm is no longer in a sling and, although they are all a bit weary, they are also happy to be there. Howard raises an arm, "Over here!" As the Rats pull up chairs to join the group, Troy says, "Sorry we're late but we had some unfinished business to take care of…" He lowers his voice and leans in, "I am pleased to announce that no one will be hearing from Major Gruber or his thugs ever again." Carol notices as the men share guarded glances, then Howard puts on a brave face, "We appreciate that… And we are also glad you could make it." Moffitt smiles, "We wouldn't miss this for all the tea in China." Hitch adds, "And for an Englishman, that's saying something!" They all laugh and Howard smiles, "Please. Get some food… join us."

After everyone has had their fill, Howard excuses himself and heads for the kitchen. A moment later he returns with the cook who carries a single layer cake and smiles as he sets it down, "I understand it's someone's birthday." Everyone laughs at the words on the frosted top that are spelled out in pieces of apple, 'Happy Bday Joey'. The cook hands Howard a knife, and he passes it over to Joey. But Carol says, "Wait!" She pulls a small candle from her shirt pocket, "You can't have a proper birthday cake without a candle." She presses the candle into the frosting, Troy pulls out his lighter and the flame flickers. Carol says, "Now, Joey. Make a wish. But don't tell us what it is or it won't come true." Joey thinks long and hard. He looks around the table at the other members of his unit, and then at their new friends, the men of the Rat Patrol. He gives a little smile and a nod, closes his eyes for a moment, then opens them. He takes a big breath and blows the candle out.

Author's Notes:

Hans Gudegast/Eric Braeden wrote in his book about the German boots he had to wear: "tall, pain-in-the-ass boots". Very uncomfortable!

Giving lizards water comes from a real experience when my husband and I went to Big Bend NP in Texas after 4 years of drought. When he peed, lizards came running. We poured water onto a rock for them.

According to what I found, chewing gum does help the blind stave off motion sickness.

Harmonicas: M. Hohner founded his harmonica company in 1857 in Trossingen Germany. In WW2 they were used by German soldiers, along with accordions. W. Kratt immigrated from Germany twice and in 1925 started a harmonica company in New Jersey. In WW2 the War Department requested that his company make harmonicas for US soldiers to increase morale. One glitch: If GIs were caught with a Hohner harmonica during WW2, it would have been considered "contraband". Hey. It's a story! Enjoy!