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Title: Lt Jack Barber Leaves for the Pacific.
Before the show begins, the story behind the story is shared about Jack Gillman, the actor who plays John Barber. The character’s life over the past years has been patterned after the real life service of the actor.
John Barber is home on leave before being shipped overseas. Today he awaits a jeep, but takes time to say his goodbyes with the family. Mother may be getting old, gut he can’t imagine her not being here for him when he gets back. A confidential chat is shared with Hazel, remembering the hard times he gave her and Claudia when they had boyfriends around.
Next, he has a man to man talk with Pa Barber, and despite the myriad of things to talk about, nothing comes to mind. Pa reminds him that he feels the family is the cornerstone of strong government and leadership. Comparisons to the last war, which Pa was a part of, are made and emotions make it difficult for Pa to handle seeing his boy drive away. Saying his farewell
now, Jack moves on to his nurse sister.
She is practical in her encouragement to do what it takes, but to not take chances. Doing his duty and returning in one piece. Jack talks with Paul and is a little bothered that the conversation has been a little trivial. He expected something more profound in sayinghis words with the family. Paul does get a little deep when he talks about God, and his experiences in his military service. Jack brings up the question every military man has about being inadequate, or shrinking in the face of danger, when that time comes. Can Paul help encourage him on that topic?
With time drawing short, Jack spends his final moments on the ranch with Betty. The emotional moment sums it up icelhy. Do what it takes to make it happen, and bring a swift end to the war. Come back and return to safety and the comfort of loved ones.
