In Excelsis Deo

[@michaelrchan]

Toby replies, "I can only hope, sir," while President Theodore Roosevelt's portrait appears to look at him, and the cut to President Bartlett, where President Washington, appears to be looking at Toby as well. That is stellar cinematography/framing.

[@MrGunny2009]

As a veteran, I just loved Toby's response to the President's question, "I can only hope, Sir."

[@martinironfoot2844]

MrGunny2009 What Bartlett said was disgraceful. People like him are where they are because of veterans like them...

[@samsonguy10k]

Even with the best Veteran's care there will still be those who fall through the cracks. Some because they feel they don't deserve the care they need, for whatever reason whether it be pride, shame, you name it. We are only human, vulnerable to all the sins. What is important is that we do try to do what we can. Toby did try. He made it his mission to find anybody important to that veteran so they could reach closure and feel comfort that someone cared. And President Bartlett let it happen.

[@catmansma]

My brother is (was ) a Vietnam War veteran. He died this morning. I happened to remember this. Would you be able to explain what Toby said...that he got better treatment at.....I can't spell it? I was curious about the reference. But...if you don't want to, I understand. Completely. Thank you.

[@GmodAdict]

@@catmansma Panmunjom is more or less the border between North and South Korea, Kaesong on the North Korean side, and Paju on the South Korean side. It’s currently where the DMZ resides along the 38th parallel. Here is the Wikipedia page if you’d like to learn more: en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Panmunjom And my condolences to you for your brother. The life of a service member is not an easy one, and I take pride in knowing one day I’ll be buried under the flag that I fought for. Take pride in the service your brother gave, it’s not an easy job, but one that our citizens should be proud to do

[@stephenkutrip6226]

@@catmansma I believe what he says is "I got better treatment at Panmunjom" which is where the negotiations were held to end the Korean War. The implication being he character was a Korean War vet and that he received better care on the battlefield than the homeless vet received in downtown DC.

[@Mackinstyle]

"I can only hope, Sir" lives with me to this day.

[@Elensila2718]

I hope that I never watch this without crying.

[@Macfeste]

I went to give you a thumbs up and then realized I already had. Me too.

[@ds2112]

And this will make me binge watch the whole series again... :)

[@johnparker2252]

Writing, editing and acting that can not be surpassed.

[@StephenRaphael-i2p]

Me too! "Thank you for your Service" My father was in During the Korean Conflict (War!)... Finally received honors during presentation on the ship Lane Victory for Korean Vets

[@carycimino7699]

This is television at it finest what it was meant to be

[@withonelook1985]

Ive always felt that Bartletts four closest advisors (Toby, Leo, Josh, and CJ) represented four distinct aspects of his greatness. Josh represents loyalty. CJ, compassion. Leo, integrity. And Toby represents morality. The also each have an episode where the main story line is dedicated to that.

[@fishbone3333]

That's a pretty good take

[@donelson52]

Very thoughtful, very nice

[@jelliclejemima07]

I watch this episode once a year during the holidays. A reminder that the holidays are hard for a lot of people and we should show compassion.

[@David-fn1ek]

Korean War Veteran, 2nd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment. Chosen Reservoir. December 1950 USMC

[@williamcho7724]

Gratitude toward all Korean war veterans... Thank you for saving us South Koreans from tyranny and fighting for democracy and freedom

[@williamsweeney2012]

Somebody did their homework.

[@Tempestus-f8p]

Hope you’re having a good life my dude

[@thomasodetto4670]

David, many thanks for your service. I hope that life has been good to you. Just remember that you will always be a hero to us in the USA 🇺🇸.

[@downhomesunset]

David, not only in the USA, but wherever people understand sacrifice and the greater good. I'm from Canada and I thank you for your service.

[@johnflesner8086]

As 77 year old disabled Vietnam combat vet this reduces me to tears, sobs actually every time I watch it. I watched my father's military funeral at the San Bruno National Cemetery in June 1967. 7 months later I was in Nha Trang Vietnam.

[@MurdochCapitol]

Wow -- a good little story. Thank you for your service.

[@ianmarchment9202]

I think it says a lot that what you see in the clip is a real Marine Corps honour guard doing exactly what they would do at a real funeral. The approach of the show and the powerful message about service (no veteran left behind, etc) persuaded the powers-that-be to allow this to be filmed at Arlington as if it was real. Most shows don't receive that kind of cooperation but then again The West Wing definitely wasn't most shows.

[@dmbirkeland]

I think the man standing next to Mrs. Laningham is John C. Metzler who was the Superintendent of Arlington National Cemetary at the time this episode was filmed. And I understand the Chaplin was not an actor.

[@megstheent]

None of the Marines or the chaplain or the guy from Arlington were actors. When the show approached them about filming and explained the plot, ANC let them come and film and got a real burial party and chaplain, etc to do this scene, @@dmbirkeland

[@dee_dee_place]

The fact that the solemnity of the funeral was punctuated by the White House staff appearing "in formation" during the singing of "The Little Drummer Boy" makes me bawl my eyes out. Everything about this scene lends great respect to our military who laid down their limbs & lives for the preservation of our country, & our democracy. We, The People, owe our military a debt that can never be repaid. To My Brothers & Sisters who have bravely served our country, I thank you. To My Adopted Brothers who lost their lives due to the Vietnam War, I love you & will never forget you; I carry your memories in my heart, soul, & mind.

[@cld3761]

​@@dmbirkelandit is

[@safriedrich1631]

it's Dec.2024.. though I've heard so much about this TV series.. I never followed it.. and seeing this clip for the very 1st time.. I am now a slobbering mess. God bless all our VETERANS. SEMPER FI

[@universalcollective427]

one of the greatest moments of one of the greatest television shows in history. what we aspire to be.

[@MotownGuitarJoe]

"What we aspire to be." Of the many glowing, gushing words I *could* use to describe The West Wing, yours are the best I've found. When a work of art inspires one to reach higher, that's really something. When it serves as a goal (intended or not) for a country to reach for, that is other-worldly.

[@johnlawrence495]

This is the America we should all aspire to be.

[@Acnoth]

I didn't cry when I first saw this, because I was in a toxic relationship that would have seen me be savagely mocked for crying. But I can cry now. And cry I do every time Mrs. Landingham asks if she can come too.

[@yafflehk]

One of the things I really like about this clip is the succinctness with which Toby explains to the president what has happened, there is a guy who works with words.

[@MickeyMolad]

It's a long series of coincidences that gets summed up in a sentence. It's an excellent observation!

[@mvslice]

Mrs. Landingham seems to be saying, "I'm glad you did that."

[@jimpad5608]

Early in the show she talked about her two sons who died in combat.

[@aldizzert1342]

Every so often, I need to review this sequence, to reaffirm my humanity.

[@michaelwarren1538]

My favorite TWW episode...showing what excellent television could look like. Chokes me up every time as my dad passed years ago and was given a burial with full military honors...and his favorite Christmas carol was "Little Drummer Boy."

[@marklander5141]

If you can’t watch this without a tear down your face…

[@geertdecoster5301]

As a child one of my first books was about a drummer boy with Napoleon's army in Egypt. I can't stress this more: lets hope that they are similar kindhearted people out there who'll never be able to watch this without crying

[@lauramaclachlan487]

Tears. Every. Single. Time.

[@robertwong4060]

If all you ever knew about Toby was from this clip, it would be enough. We can conclude that (1) he cares very much for people he has never and will never meet and (2) he could not care less about what people think of him, even if that means staring down the President of the United States...while standing IN the Oval Office.

[@jackbrady9738]

also: he was a vet himself; he "son'd" the President, he didn't just stare him down. he literally Son'd him Bartlett was an academic, he never served. Zeigler served. Zeigler therefore has son equity over him

[@sandimiller6465]

I was nine years old when this episode aired and I cried then. Since then, I can't say how many times I've watched the episode or the scene, but I can say I've cried every time.

[@joeyfortney5685]

This is a required Christmas episode for me. This demonstrated that, though Toby is surly, he has a very big heart.

[@DuvalDem]

As a son of a veteran and brother of another I play this episode once a year. And as always I find myself weeping at the end.

[@georgeandrews6454]

Am I am right now -- and every Holiday Season...

[@timspencer8841]

Tears stream every time I watch this .

[@paulgoldstein3590]

10/10 Astonishingly, breathtakingly, poignantly brilliant. Only ever been bettered once in the history of TV and that was Two Cathedrals.

[@brianbuckley4770]

Two Cathedrals is the finest episode ever to air on television--at any time, on any subject, in any genre.

[@simcaptainrik]

How could anyone NOT like this episode? Having served for 20 years in the military this strikes a chord with my soul like no other.

[@dennis_ohara]

Thank you for your service.

[@chef-la-da4199]

Those were real marines, the producers wanted real disciplined stuff that actors wouldn’t be able to do at short notice

[@locutus99]

Thank you for your service.

[@downhomesunset]

Thank you for all you've done from a grateful Canadian

[@hindenburg2006]

Thank you for your service🙏🏾

[@victoriak9757]

Absolutely top notch in everything, I watch this every Christmastime. Our country needs THAT West Wing.

[@HazellRahh]

Every time. This episode (and the series) gets me every time. Powerfully done and beautifully written / acted. US Veteran. 90-94. Respect.

[@hindenburg2006]

Thank you for your service🙏🏾

[@tomleffel9312]

Agree 87-91

[@carnivaltym]

One of the most moving sequences in TV history.

[@RealPaulPickering]

“I’d like to come along.” That’s where the tears start.

[@Elthenar]

Especially after the "I miss my boys" scene from an earlier episode. That one gutted me.

[@jeffhemmen9888]

Her sons were killed in Vietnam

[@williamsweeney2012]

Buried my brother at Arlington a year ago. Brought back a lot of memories.

[@terrancestanton8129]

My sincere sympathy. Hope the ceremonies to honor your brother brought your family comfort. And that you can use the special permit to visit and remember often. My gratitude to your brother for his devotion.

[@downhomesunset]

Thank you to your brother for his service from a Canadian

[@TheMRxCRUMPET]

'I can only hope so'...

[@joeyg370]

This is BY FAR the best scene in the entire series. What a great show this was with great writers.

[@terrancestanton8129]

Retired Army Reserve 32 yrs, 27 months Afghanistan, and I am torn to watch this again, even tho' I break down and cry from the memories, pathos, and tragedy...

[@stephenirwin2884]

terrance stanton thank you

[@dcma2005]

Thank you for your service. I hope you will find peace.

[@terrancestanton8129]

​@@dcma2005 Thank you so for your wishes ! Yes, I have . VA care has been excellent, and I was SO fortunate, compared to thousands of brave men and women who never returned or returned gravely injured from Afgh and Iraq. Remember also those of previous wars, like my Dad (WW2, 104th ID, whom I 'visit' at Arlington), who never had this level of care.

[@terrancestanton8129]

@@stephenirwin2884 Very kind of you! See below reply to dcmc.

[@locutus99]

Thank you for your service.

[@CDJCMstryker]

To date I’ve folded and presented over 650 flags. I did not expect to cry so much tonight.

[@bguilfoil]

Thank you for continuing to serve in such an important role. I know that it means the world to the families that you are there.

[@netlawyerdc]

My father is buried at Arlington. He was a Viet Nam veteran and retired from the Army. The support and care we received from everyone starting with the people that meet with you to explain the process and help with benefits to the military members that conducted the ceremony was just outstanding. They and the veterans they serve are the best of us.

[@Dewebje]

A nearly perfect clip. The acting, the montage (music, filmshots)..

[@boatrat]

Aw, dammit. Buncha full-dress Jarheads with M-14s... made me get salt-water all in my keyboard.

[@mikaku]

Aaaaaand here comes the Emmy for that episode. Not that surprise anybody. The West Wing got 17 Primetime Emmys and 12 Creative Arts Emmys.

[@mitchdupler2123]

I just made the mistake of clicking on this while at work. if anyone comes into my office now, they will see the tears. Every time.

[@rudyjuarez4535]

This was hands down one of the best moments on the show; Toby's finest hour and Richard Schiff's best acting.

[@MrHikerToYou]

"I can only hope sir."

[@m.s.brackney2643]

True!

[@jonemeigh5588]

And Sheen played the reaction to that line perfectly. The subtle change of expression when he realized Toby was absolutely right.

[@brianziska9788]

Truly one of the best scenes of one of the best shows on television 😥

[@mariag1470]

Love Toby and Mrs. Landingham.

[@ElneClare]

This always makes me cry.

[@d.l.l.6578]

Veterans shouldn’t be homeless in the first place. We should do better for them than that.

[@farje1]

Nobody should be homeless.

[@d.l.l.6578]

@@farje1 You are so right.

[@gerrysarduy8452]

Those six words say so much " I can only hope sir" Our fighting men and women are truly the best of us and should all be buried in hallowed ground.

[@uncahay]

That's 5 words.

[@wpgems]

This is , by far, the best and greatest tv series ever produced. Hands down.

[@SonOfGod3000]

Mrs. Landingham lost her two sons in Vietnam. Her scolding of Toby wasn’t in any way her disrespecting the Veterans.

[@tylergodefroy8713]

i could only hope that they would all come and ask for help

[@Mr.Quinnn]

My favorite christmas episode, i watch it every year. Here is to the incoruptable Tobias Ziegler.

[@marklander5141]

Ok, my wife and I were trying to think of a Christmas movie to watch, and we independently said yes to this. This was writing, acting, filming.

[@niferanne53]

This episode, and especially what is shown here, grab my heart with a fierce grief

[@amanchabra8947]

This is one of the greatest episodes in TV history! The story starts with a unique, sad, and interesting coincidence, slowly building in its gravity and importance before culminating in the funeral scene, which is beyond powerful! While it is evident that this show's point of view leans to one side of the aisle, I always loved how it showed respect for the other side, and wasn't afraid to incorporate elements of spirituality and religious doctrine to make scenes more meaningful. The montage at the end is a perfect example of this. It conveyed the message more meaningfully and powerfully than any dialogue ever could.

[@veronicamcclure]

Anyone ever notice "The Little Drummer Boy" is the same tempo as the footsteps of the honor guard at a Veteran 's funeral?

[@dee_dee_place]

And the White House staff lines up "in formation" when listening to it being sung.

[@TomLloyd-18]

The finest Episode ever produced in the history of TV or Film in general. No one will ever come close. And the actors did a spectacular job.

[@donelson52]

This episode went deep into my heart. I cry for the world we have against the world we could have. Thank you, Aaron

[@tjjones2907]

USN 1980-1991 My favorite episode, even though I tear up each time.

[@lindabryant296]

Thank you - a favorite show for many reasons - stunning episode

[@sarcasm5]

Such an poignant scene. One of my favorites from the series.

[@kirk8429]

Respect, humanity and patriotism...powerful scene

[@MrKco63]

absolutely one of the most powerful scenes in Any series.....A+ writing and direction always hits a nerve

[@ernesthill4017]

Only a heart of stone could fail to be moved by this

[@thomasodetto4670]

WOW. !! An unbelievable display of honor. To all the brave Men and Women who gave their lives in defense of our Country. Rest In Peace.

[@jackbrady9738]

Empire* dont insult it by calling it a country please

[@jacknakash2677]

Wow the best scene in this series far none. Every Marine who had to "eat" dirt & grit for our defense no matter the conflict deserves a hallowed ground burial. Marines never "cut & run" only cowards do. Semper Fi from this Marine Alpha Company First of the Fifth

[@hindenburg2006]

Thank you for your service🙏🏾

[@varianschirmer9375]

4:05 Donna arrives with Josh Already pretty much signifying she was a full cast member with that shot.... wouldn't officially be a full member until her promotion to main titles in the season 2 opener.

[@francine997]

Very moving and inspiring. He was well honored as should be.

[@atdeacon]

I can't hear this song without remembering how emotional this scene always makes me.

[@TuanNguyen96]

Notice the Marine kneeled in front of the brother to present him the flag. Kneeling is a sign of respect.

[@psuro]

One of my favorite episodes.

[@christuttle4156]

I think think Is most powerful video of the series.

[@lissajedi]

Loved this show, and I cry so hard every time I watch this episode. It brings back memories of when my mom was presented with the flag at my dad's funeral, for sure, but what breaks me is how many of our veterans wind up like this and don't get the recognition. If only there was a Toby for each one of them. Just heartbreaking

[@27devarshi]

Goosebumps. Everytime.

[@matthewnewnham-runner-writer]

I was only an officer for 5.5 years, but wow, this is so moving.

[@jackbrady9738]

I can only hope.

[@mc76]

What a nation we would be if our leaders had this kind of empathy.

[@jealva]

I’m writing in June 2020 when a statue of Teddy Roosevelt has been designated for removal from the NY Museum of Natural History. In this clip, a painting of T.R. is seen in the Oval Office.. I think that is appropriately respectful of such a great President.

[@mauricethompson7932]

I feel the same about this episode.

[@megafr8nk]

who put all the onions there... sniff...

[@teddykgb3865]

0:39 Shut up Mandy! Uggh!

[@jerodast]

Right? 2:02 is even worse - hard to find a sharper contrast between the ideals of the show and the Mandy of the show...

[@terrypetersen2970]

Did anyone notice Toby's reference to Korea. I've seen first hand how homeless veterans are treated. If they have emotional or substance problems they're put aside and ignored. In the last decade there has been steps forward but unfortunately very little steps.

[@poco981]

Amen to Toby’s comment on hope. USN 66-72

[@evanlucas8914]

I tried my hardest at each memorial day and funeral but I never could stop myself from jumping at each volley of 3..

[@joshmcdonald5520]

"The only thing we ask in return is for a small piece of land to bury our dead." If our government truly believed the military creed of "I will never abandon a fallen teammate." We woupd be in a far better place.

[@davidgibson7044]

Semper Fi, fictional Marine, Semper Fi.

[@jeffhemmen9888]

Thats an actual Marine honor guard too. They weren't actors

[@kellylaflash1016]

Sorkin at his best.

[@maxschon7709]

Some meant a liberal can't have really respect for the veterans. He proofed it has nothing to do with left or right.

[@teddykgb3865]

Except for creating the character of Mandy, yes, Sorkin at his best.

[@howardadamkramer]

This is my single all-time favorite moment from the West Wing.

[@swolfe9668]

The best episode

[@brendancook7611]

Wouldn’t it be nice, if those in the federal government actually cared about individuals rather than a bigger or a less personal view.. Toby is doing the right thing here and correctly doesn’t care about the impact of his action. I so wish that our government, would think about the individuals that gave themselves to this country…. Some never come home… many did and it changes the course of their lives. WE NOW OWE THEM EVERYTHING…. We need to provide the best support, be it physical or social or mental, to those that served this country. They did it without question and with considering the risk to themselves. We as a community and country, now owe them everything..

[@jeffhemmen9888]

Mrs Landinghams sons in the series were killed in Vietnam. Probably why she went

[@christophercaldwell6888]

If we can dream it, write it, act it, show it, comment on it ... can we do it? Please? Soon?

[@jgarrison1309]

I wonder who the actress who played Nancy knows to get a line in this episode. LOL One of the many trivia questions connected to this show and Sports Night.

[@LBOcgn]

She's Martin Sheen's daughter...

[@joncoish]

If you’ve fought in a war you should never be left behind by your country.

[@YTEdy]

One question I have is who's the other guy who's in attendance. I don't think they ever said. There's Toby and Ms. Landingham (obviously not the 'guy') and the homeless brother, but who's the 4th, who's standing in the final scene. Another brother? The father? A fellow marine? I don't think they ever said.

[@flyboy152]

Another comment said he was the actual superintendent of Arlington at the time. I can’t find anything to verify that, so take it with a grain of salt.

[@jimpad5608]

Actually TRUE. Plus the soldiers are all part of the Old Guard. The ceremony was filmed completely several times to get all the film they needed.

[@skillcoiler]

@@jimpad5608 No there were no soldiers in this clip. Those were real Marines though and the rest of your comment is correct. The Marines demanded to finish the ceremony each time once they started it.

[@laurathompson4458]

I surely miss this show! Gosh if could the west wing back again

[@brianmcfan]

Perfection! (No other word applies)

[@TheNaFun]

Mrs Landingham!

[@normanolsen]

how many of these have there been???

[@Mark-n3e]

Respect and honor. Words that can never be applied to trump.

[@billymciver3101]

Got to hand it to American they do make a good job of taking care of their veterans

[@Acnoth]

In addition to the sheer beauty of these scenes, we also see exactly why Maddie was dropped from the show.

[@ytkel8880]

Could not agree more!

[@flyboy152]

Yeah, she had to go, but the problem with letting her go right after season 1 made the campaign flashbacks in season 2 a bit strange, since her and Josh were supposed to be together then.

[@CameraBoyVideoNov]

Read to the end: Unclaimed Veteran Funeral Service In partnership with the Fayetteville National Cemetery, Washington County Coroner's Office and Bo's Blessings You are cordially invited to the funeral services for Navy veteran Paul Edward Cline* on Wednesday, March 6th, 2024 at 10:30 a.m. at Fayetteville National Cemetery. * Veteran Cline has no family.