Introduction

China Beach is an American dramatic television series set at an evacuation hospital during the Vietnam War.

The title refers to My Khe beach in the city of Đà Nẵng, Vietnam, nicknamed “China Beach” in English by American and Australian soldiers during the Vietnam War. The ABC TV drama aired for four seasons, from 1988 to 1991.

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Outline

During a general’s visit, Lila is promoted to command of China Beach and is asked to clean up the base and its image. In one of her first steps, she throws K.C. off the base; despite her pleas to the general, she is unable to change his mind. Airman Wayloo Marie Holmes, a former Saigon weather girl and aspiring documentarian, arrives at China Beach to handle her first journalism assignment, extolling the recreational facilities at the base. Cherry trains new American Red Cross volunteers, accompanying them and a USO trio to a firebase. Natch is grounded, leading to McMurphy visiting him at his room at Da Nang Air Force Base and admitting her feelings for him. After spending the night, she discovers Natch is married and angrily departs despite his reveal that he intends on getting a divorce to be with her. Inspired by her trip to the firebase, Cherry gives an impassioned speech about the war during a dinner with the general, causing him to admit she is right and military leadership is struggling to adjust to a new type of war. McMurphy learns that Natch was shot down and is missing in action.

Part 02.

China Beach Series

You can find a full index and overview of China Beach here.

Production & Filming Details

• Release Date: 30 November 1988.
• Running Time: 46-47 minutes.
• Rating: Unknown.
• Country: US.
• Language: English.

Video Link