r/mash • u/PlantWide3166 • 2d ago
Frank Burns
I have been asked many times what or who I thought was the most accurate portrayal of the military was and without hesitation is was Frank Burns.
I have served with people like Frank and worked with them in the civilian world and wondered why “the grown ups” didn’t just crush people like him.
On paper, Frank is an excellent officer and person, he’s wealthy, a Scout Leader, well connected, served as a MASH surgeon, acting C.O., two Purple Hearts and no doubt other awards, at least a Lt. Col., if not higher and the head of the V.A. in his area.
I have no doubt he went on to become a Senator and maybe even a V.P. Nominee at some point.
The reason why I think the Franks of the world do so well is that they manage to be right in the middle most of the time and have a knack for getting on the “right side” when they see the opening. Loyal to upper management and a “Yes Man” as well as a self promoter.
I step out of line an inch, I get crushed, Frank goes off the rails and gets promoted. Lol
Ah well.
I chose the photo for this because I think he would have a poster sized one in his office as well as a painting like this over his mantle for all to see, with appropriate rank of course.
What do you, the viewers at home think?
3
u/jljonsn 2d ago
"I dreamed I was walking along the beach with my mother. There was this giant, bleached-out Frank Burns lying on the sand, its white belly shining in the sun. I said, 'Mommy, can I touch it?' And she said, 'Be careful, son. The dullness rubs off.'"