The effects of the war are now also being felt in Jokehnen. From Corporal Dr. Hunters are brought to the village of Russian prisoners of war. They celebrate the victory of Stalingrad. In the teacher Klose's school, the residents gather to collect old clothes for the front. Hermann and Peter Aschmoneit are even successful as collectors with the conservative major. Farmer Fritz Behrend recovers from his wound on his home leave. Even the older Jokehners have to report to the military. Steputat, Uncle Franz and Schubgila are not usable, in contrast to Blonski, who, however, can prevent his deployment at the front thanks to good connections. Teacher Klose is also assigned to the troops. The young Erika Wenk takes over his school. Women and children evacuated from the city are quartered in Jokehnen. The Major dies of a heart attack.