An ensign dies while with the wife of a chief petty officer; the chief faces a charge of murder. Harm prosecutes, and Mac and Bud defend. Evidence comes from an unexpected source, and justice prevails. Bud and Harriet spend time together.

Bud Sr. and Mike (Bud's father and younger brother) travel to Washington for Bud and Harriet's wedding. Bud Sr. leaves insults, injuries, and hurt feelings in his wake; Harriet's mother also causes much discomfort and embarrassment. Bud passes a big career milestone with grace and empathy. A dry cleaner loses Harm's dress whites, but Harm finds them in an unusual place. The girls go to Harriet's party, then Mac bails Harm, Bud, and the admiral out of a DC jail after Bud's party. Bud Sr. skips the beautiful wedding, and Mike arrives late. Harm takes charge of a detail of eight officers who form an arch of swords for the new couple; he also shows up with an unusual and unexpected date.