As Christmas is approaching Walton’s Mountain in 1941, Mary Ellen is getting ready to go to Pearl Harbor to be with Curt. However, her plans are put on hold when news is broadcasted on the radio that Pearl Harbor was attacked. Not know whether Curt died in Hawaii, Mary Ellen and the rest of the family head home to wait for news. In the meantime, Olivia becomes worried when the boys begin talking about what branch of the service they would like to join once American joins the war. Upon hearing that President Roosevelt declared war on Japan for the attacks, Verdie arrives at the Walton’s to tell them that Jody was still alive, that he only was injured in the attacks. Unfortunately for Mary Ellen, Jim Bob arrives with a telegram to inform her about Curt’s death. While this is happening, Ben goes on his first date with Cindy, much to the displeasure of Olivia.