12 O'Clock High (1964)

Episode Overview

Tom Lockridge, serving as copilot, takes command when the pilot is killed, allowing the crew to evacuate. His close friend, Captain Wade Ritchie, defies orders by flying cover with his B-17. On the ground, Savage informs Ritchie that he’ll face charges for leaving the formation. When Lockridge learns of this, he turns away from the General, who tries to clarify the importance of formation discipline, but Lockridge is focused solely on his friend. Ritchie is court-martialed and demoted to 1st Lieutenant. Savage then speaks with Libby MacAndrews, Lockridge's girlfriend, and they both try to influence him. On their next mission, Ritchie serves as copilot to Savage, and when they come under fire, Lockridge, now the aircraft commander, understands he must maintain formation.