In the pilot episode of "Going Dutch," viewers are introduced to the tumultuous world of Colonel Patrick Quinn (Denis Leary), a seasoned military officer who finds himself in an unexpected and seemingly insignificant role. The episode begins with Quinn preparing for a press release to announce his emergency command of USAG Baumholder, a prestigious military base. However, his plans are abruptly derailed when he meets with General Davidson (Joe Morton), who informs him that he will instead be taking command of USAG Stroopsdorf, a remote and inconspicuous base located in the Netherlands.
Upon arriving at Stroopsdorf, Quinn and his Executive Officer, Major Abraham Shah (Danny Pudi), are met with a surreal sight. The base appears to be nestled within a bowling alley, a far cry from the typical military installation. Despite the odd surroundings, Quinn is initially undeterred and is even momentarily amused when he encounters a soldier with shoulder-length hair. This encounter sparks Quinn's determination to transform the base into a legitimate combat facility and secure a promotion back to Baumholder.
However, his ambitions are quickly challenged when he meets Sergeant Dana Conway (Laci Mosley), who reveals the true nature of Stroopsdorf. The base is not only open to the Dutch public but is also known for its mundane services, such as providing cheese, laundry, and bowling to neighboring bases in Germany and Belgium. This revelation forces Quinn to reassess his approach and the feasibility of his grand plans.
Quinn's surprise deepens when he orders Private Anthony 'BA' Chapman (Dempsey Bryk) to take him to the base commander, only to discover that it is his own daughter, Captain Maggie Quinn (Taylor Misiak). Their reunion is tense, as Maggie reminds Quinn of the reasons they severed ties two years prior. The conversation between father and daughter quickly escalates, prompting Shah to intervene. Quinn, who had hoped to keep his personal issues separate from his military duties, is now forced to confront the reality that his relationship with Maggie is inextricably linked to his command of Stroopsdorf.
Maggie's concerns about her father's leadership are further highlighted when she reveals her plans for a crucial mission that could destabilize the base if it fails. To Quinn's disbelief, the mission is to participate in the Tulip Festival parade. Despite his initial skepticism, Quinn is eventually convinced of the importance of the event and begins to prepare for it, albeit reluctantly.
In an attempt to assert his authority and instill discipline, Quinn orders an immediate round of physical training for the soldiers. However, the training session proves to be a challenge, particularly for Corporal Elias Papadakis (Hal Cumpston), who struggles to complete the tire cross. The group is forced to wait until Papadakis finishes, leading to a late night for everyone. Maggie eventually steps in, taking responsibility for the soldiers' lack of physical fitness and explaining that her focus has been elsewhere.
The following morning, Quinn visits Supply Sergeant Conway, who is responsible for the lavish lifestyle enjoyed by the soldiers at Stroopsdorf. He quickly uncovers her misappropriation of army funds but, instead of reprimanding her, offers her a spot on his newly formed "Team Shiny." This decision marks a shift in Quinn's approach, as he begins to recognize the potential in the people around him and the unique aspects of the base.
The Tulip Festival parade serves as a pivotal moment in the episode. Maggie provides Quinn with index cards to help him with his speech, but his pride leads him to discard them. Despite this, his speech goes well until the bowling portion of the parade, where he embarrasses himself and the unit. Shah saves the day by unplugging the microphone, preventing further damage to Quinn's reputation.
Later that night, Quinn tracks down Maggie in town, apologizes for his earlier behavior, and offers her a spot on Team Shiny. To his surprise, she declines and dismisses him. However, a subsequent phone call between the two leads to a heartfelt conversation. Maggie reveals her aspirations to serve in the Senate and possibly become President one day, which helps Quinn understand her motivations. Overwhelmed with emotion, Quinn nearly breaks down, prompting Maggie to see him in a new light. After some teasing, she agrees to co-run the base with him, marking a significant turning point in their relationship and the future of Stroopsdorf.
The pilot episode of "Going Dutch" sets the stage for a compelling exploration of leadership, family dynamics, and the unexpected challenges of adapting to new environments. Through Colonel Quinn's journey, viewers are introduced to a diverse cast of characters and a unique military setting that promises to deliver both humor and heart in the episodes to come.