Tour of Duty is an American war television series that aired on CBS from 1987 to 1990. Set during the Vietnam War, the show follows a group of soldiers in the United States Army's Bravo Company, 3rd Battalion, 187th Infantry Regiment. The series is known for its realistic portrayal of the war and the soldiers who fought in it. One of the most iconic episodes of the series is Season 3 Episode 21, which we will be recapping in this article.
The Plot of Tour of Duty Season 3 Episode 21
The episode, titled "Three Cheers for the Orange, White and Blue," follows the soldiers of Bravo Company as they are tasked with securing a village that has been abandoned by its inhabitants. The village is suspected of being a base for the Viet Cong, and the soldiers are instructed to search it for any signs of enemy activity. The soldiers enter the village and begin their search, but they quickly realize that something is not right.
The Action Begins
As the soldiers search the village, they come under fire from an unknown enemy. The soldiers take cover and return fire, but they are quickly outnumbered. The enemy seems to be everywhere, and the soldiers are unable to locate their position. The situation becomes more dire as the soldiers realize that they are running low on ammunition and supplies.
The Search Continues
The soldiers decide to split up and search different areas of the village. The decision proves to be a mistake as one of the soldiers, Ruiz, is ambushed and killed by the enemy. The rest of the soldiers are forced to retreat and take cover in a nearby building. They are now surrounded by the enemy and have no way out.
The Tension Rises
The tension in the episode is palpable as the soldiers wait for reinforcements. They are low on supplies and ammunition, and they know that the enemy is closing in on them. The situation seems hopeless, and the soldiers begin to question their ability to survive the night.
The Turning Point
Just when things seem their bleakest, the soldiers receive a radio transmission from another unit. The unit has located the enemy's position and is preparing to launch an attack. The soldiers of Bravo Company are given the green light to make a run for it and are told that they will be picked up by a helicopter.
The Thrilling Escape
The soldiers of Bravo Company make a daring escape from the village, running through enemy fire and narrowly avoiding death. They make it to the helicopter just in time and are lifted to safety. The episode ends with the soldiers reflecting on the events of the night and mourning the loss of their fallen comrade, Ruiz.
The Legacy of Tour of Duty Season 3 Episode 21
Tour of Duty Season 3 Episode 21 is remembered as one of the most intense and thrilling episodes of the series. It is a testament to the bravery and sacrifice of the soldiers who fought in the Vietnam War and a reminder of the horrors of war. The episode has become a favorite among fans of the series and is often cited as one of the best examples of the show's realistic portrayal of the war.
In Conclusion
Tour of Duty Season 3 Episode 21 is a must-watch for anyone interested in the Vietnam War or military history in general. It is a gripping and emotional episode that will leave you on the edge of your seat. If you haven't seen it yet, we highly recommend checking it out. You won't be disappointed.
