Ep 35. Military School
- TV-PG
- May 18, 1961
- 25 min
-
8.5 (25)
The Donna Reed Show season 3 episode 35, entitled "Military School", follows the Stone family as their eldest son Jeff has been given an ultimatum: either straighten up his act or be sent to military school. With Jeff constantly neglecting his responsibilities and showing a lack of respect for authority, his parents, Donna and Alex, believe that the structure and discipline of military school may be the best solution for him.
Despite his reluctance to go, Jeff begins his training at the school and quickly learns that the strict rules and intense training are not to be taken lightly. He struggles to keep up with his fellow cadets and initially resists the instructors' orders.
Meanwhile, the rest of the Stone family is left to adjust to life without Jeff at home. Mary struggles with the idea of her brother being away and expresses her worries to her parents. Donna and Alex also confront their own anxieties surrounding Jeff's departure, questioning whether they made the right decision.
As they adjust to their new situation, the Stones receive a surprise visit from Jeff's commanding officer. He praises Jeff's progress and informs the family that he will graduate from the school with honors. This news brings relief and joy to the family, who had been worried about Jeff's progress and well-being.
In the end, Jeff returns home, reformed and matured from his time at military school. He expresses gratitude towards his parents for sending him and admits that he now sees the value in discipline and structure. The episode ends with the family coming together, grateful for their time apart and their eventual reunion.
Overall, "Military School" is an episode that highlights the importance of discipline and structure in a young person's life. Through Jeff's journey, viewers see the impact that strict training can have on one's character and mindset. The episode also touches on the anxiety that can come with letting a child go, showcasing the struggles and worries that parents face when trying to guide their children towards a better path.
