When civil war breaks out on the Caribbean island of Maricado, the troops learn that they may actually face combat, despite John's attempts to alter Fort Bendix's status in the Pentagon's computer system. Fears are put to rest when everyone is declared unfit to fight, except Eddie who seeks comfort from Chaplain Flaherty.

Rusty falls for the daughter of the town's wealthiest family, but their first date results in a bar brawl involving half the town. Dave decides to smooth things over by holding a formal military ball, and John provides a crash course in social graces to prepare Rusty and the troops for their big night.

It's time for the annual war games against Fort Arnold, and Colonel Henchy threatens to start training the men every morning at dawn if they don't win this year. When Lana gambles away Eddie, their secret weapon, in a poker game, Dave, John and Rusty resort to desperate measures to win him back and insure their victory.

Dave uses his winnings from a lucky streak to enter a poker tournament. Meanwhile Lana reports that she's being overpaid. As a result, the Army decides to promote her, which will help her with her possible romance with Rusty.