"Maybe it's the saltwater in my veins, or the nitrogen bubbles in my brain, but I've taken a real shine to you."

Simpsons Top 100 Countdown
#45 Simpson Tide
Season 9, Episode 19 (Guide from the Simpsons Archive)

Fired from the plant for, well, being himself, Homer is in need of new employment when a commercial for the naval reserve catches his attention. Upon hearing his plans, Barney, Moe, and Apu join up as well. Following the expected boot camp gags, Homer ships out for war games on a nuclear submarine. He manages to get on the good side of his commanding officer, who decides to briefly leave him in command of the sub. When the CO is jettisoned, Homer assumes control on a more permanent basis. Unfortunately, some of the navigation equipment is damaged in a scuffle with another sub and when Homer’s sub doesn’t return to port, the worst is presumed about his intentions. After surrendering the sub, he’s given a dishonorable discharge (which was the best they could hope for) and seems to have mysteriously regained his job at the power plant by the next episode. Memorable moments include Homer’s dream, Homer’s excuse to Burns, the naval reserve commercial, continuing writers’ confusion over the nature of Lisa’s character (she goes from being “sorta” proud of him to morally opposed to everything his new job stands for), boot camp antics (“I like you”), graduation, conformist rebellion, war game speech, the sea chantey, Homer dining with the officers, firing officers, Mr. Moe, Admiral Stupid, trapped by aircraft carriers, and court martial.