The Enlistment

"The Enlistment" finds Thelma doing the cooking and cleaning in Florida's absence, away for her cousin's funeral, typically burning breakfast and putting too much starch in her father's shirt. Unfortunately, James returns home early with news that he was 'temporarily' laid off, which to him means permanent. JJ figures his job as a theater usher means he'll be the bread winner, only to receive the stunning news that the theater is closing down. With no other options available JJ decides to raise money by enlisting in the army, despite his father's objections: "what would you do in the army, you scared of your own shadow!" 12 weeks of not seeing any girls means cruel and inhumane punishment: "I guess the chicks will just have to make the sacrifice!" The physical is hilarious, as the exasperated doctor (William Christopher) can't find JJ's chest for the X-ray!

I remember this a a kid, I saw every episode. And the doctor scene stole the show. Later on as an adult, I wonder if the producers initially wanted Alan Alda or one of the other characters from MASH to play the Army doctor, since MASH was a popular around the same time. The best part was when JJ was running up and down the steps and the doctor was distracted by a phone call and drinks some water. I think it's sad that American sitcoms have lost a lot of its appeal in todays' society. Television was more wholesome and comedy was far less vulgar. All family members no matter their age enjoyed it.