Hector Becomes a Casualty of the Unit

Why did Hector Williams have to die? Because people die during military operations. Because the show is about war. And military games. And political games. And how all three are part of the machinery that keeps soldiers facing battles here and abroad. Economists will tell you that war is good for the economy. Producers will tell you that death can be good for ratings.

The Unit had no need to sacrifice a character in order to save the show or revive lagging ratings. I do believe the producers are obligated to keep the show realistic. While it's disappointing to see Hector die, he and the other members of The Unit must face the same hazards their real-life counterparts face. Death is one of those hazards. When members of our military leave on missions, a safe return is not guaranteed. Sugarcoat The Unit story lines and you no longer have The Unit. You have some fairy-tale-soap-opera mutation.

Smart television producers will make the most of death - raising as many questions as possible in order to keep viewers glued to the screen. Speculation (especially when it results in blog posts and fan site activity) is also good for ratings. I must admit that I prefer a clean, quick demise (like Hector's) over a slow, annoying exit (the endless Sara Sidle Saga).

I'll continue to watch The Unit. While each and every episode will find me hoping the Unit remains intact, a part of me will know that nothing lasts forever and forever is a foreign phrase in war.