M*A*S*H è una tragicommedia incentrata sulle vicissitudini del 4077th Mobile Army Surgical Hospital (Ospedale Chirurgico da Campo dell'Esercito) statunitense in Uijeongbu, Corea, durante la Guerra di Corea (1950-1953).
Molte delle situazioni raccontate, anche le più assurde, sono realmente accadute, come testimoniano molti dei veterani del conflitto.
Members of the 4077th share their impressions of war in response to letters from fourth graders in Hawkeye's hometown. Margaret writes about how there are some patients she will never forget, whilst the Colonel tells of his days as 'Hoops' Potter. Hawkeye: "Dear Ronnie, it's a shame to let the love you have for your brother turn to hate for others. Hate makes war, and war is what killed Keith. I understand how you feel. Sometimes I hate myself for being here. But sometimes in the midst of all this insanity, the smallest thing can make my being here seems worthwhile. Maybe the best answer I have for you is that you look for good wherever you can find it."