Vietnam

This is probably my favourite episode of the series. Yes some of the war scenes in Vietnam were a little 'Hollywood'. However, this back story provides great insight into the Pearson family and their different 'addictions' - be it food, alcohol, work/perfectionism, drugs - it shows just how much what happens to us and how we deal with it shapes who we are. Coming from a multi-generational family of addiction myself, I thought this portrayed sensitively and truthfully Jack's brother, father and grandfather, the impact of addictive behaviours and that even when we want to be different and break the cycle, we can end up hurting the ones we love. To me it has a huge part to play in how we see the characters unfold and develop in future series.

I remember sitting in a bar on the night of the draft lottery. I was 23 at the time and had finished college. One of my best friends was so hopeful, like Nick. He was born on September 14, the very first date. Although those under a hundred were likely to go. I lucked out. I think this part of Jack's life needed to be presented. He was a hero. He came looking for his brother when he could have avoided the whole thing. I thought the battle scenes were very good, although my understanding is that you kept your mouths shut as you made your way through this unfamiliar terrain to face an enemy who was born and lived there. We get more insights into Jack's father and mother and how he was formed.

He plays Nick Pearson. I liked this episode. You just never know what ur gonna get.

To the person who made a smart ass comment about Milo's mouth here is what the issue is. He was born that way with lack of nerves on that side of his face very similar to Sylvester Stallone

This powerful episode was co-written by Tim O'Brien, a Vietnam vet who later became a successful writer. Much of Nicky's character is drawn from Mr. O'Brien's experience.