Army Wives Moves On After a Big Loss

The shocking death of soldier Jeremy Sherwood (Richard Bryant), fatally wounded in the line of duty in Afghanistan on the March 27 episode of Army Wives, left not only the show's characters and fans shaken, but also the close-knit cast and crew. "Some were angry," admits executive producer Jeff Melvoin. "I explained, 'It's good that you feel that way, because that's what death means.'"

While the decision to kill Jeremy off wasn't an easy one, Melvoin says, "We felt the time had come to do this — the show has been on for five seasons and never has there been a casualty of a close cast member. In addition to our obligation to entertain, it's great to bring attention to the sacrifice and commitment of military families."

Tonight, those Jeremy left behind are still struggling to move on, which is especially tough for Jeremy's parents, Lieutenant Colonel Frank and Denise Sherwood (Terry Serpico and Catherine Bell). Adds Melvoin, "In trying to deal with their son's death, they have difficulty as a couple, which they overcome, but it's not an easy task."

The loss also reopens old wounds for Denise's closest friend, Claudia Joy (Kim Delaney), who sees visions of her oldest daughter, Amanda (Kim Allen, reprising her role), who died en route to college at the end of Season 1.

There's happy news to balance out the sad as a newly reunited Pamela and Chase (Brigid Brannagh and Jeremy Davidson) make a big announcement that may cause tears — but thankfully the joyful kind.

Army Wives airs Sundays at 9/8c on Lifetime.

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