Season 8, Episodes 4 & 5 (October 8 & 15, 1979). Written by Ken Levine & David Isaacs; Directed by Charles S. Dubin.
The two-part departure of Gary Burghoff's character was a bittersweet farewell to the beloved company clerk. When Radar learns his uncle has died, he becomes eligible for a hardship discharge [1].
The 4077th plans a huge going-away party, but wounded soldiers arrive just as the celebration begins, forcing everyone to rush to the operating room. The heart-wrenching final scene shows Radar wandering through the empty mess tent, reading a "We love you Radar" banner, saying goodbye to his animals, and leaving his teddy bear for Hawkeye.
The episode earned Writers Guild and Directors Guild Award nominations, and Charles S. Dubin won the Directors Guild Award for his direction.