John-Boy faces a tough decision when he discovers a friend stealing chickens from a farmer who is shot by a thief the following night.
Jason loses his musical scholarship because of the school's lack of money and takes a job playing music at a local roadhouse to pay his tuition. At the same time he helps a famous musician (MERLE HAGGARD) overcome the loss of his son.
John Walton's peace of mind is threatened when an internationally known evangelist comes to Walton Mountain to preach and lead a baptismal service.
The war deeply affects the Waltons when Curt is called into active duty and G.W. Haines is killed during training.
Mary Ellen becomes dependent on drugs while preparing for her final exams for nursing school. Sissy wants to divorce Yancy.
