In multiple previous episodes, especially in the first three seasons, Margaret speaks of her father in the past tense, implying that he is deceased; on a few occasions, events that happened "before Dad died" are openly discussed between Margaret and Maj. Frank Burns. Col. Houlihan's death would be conveniently reversed as the series progressed, making room for more character development, and leading ultimately to this episode.
When Potter is talking to Alvin about being retired, He says (about his potential patients) "I wouldn't care if they pay me off in chickens." In M*A*S*H "Back Pay", the Korean doctors tell Hawkeye they sometimes accept payment in chickens.
Andrew Duggan, who portrayed Alvin Houlihan in this episode, was in reality only 14 years older than Loretta Swit.
Margaret's father, Alvin Houlihan, was a retired colonel whose nickname was "Howitzer Al". He served under General MacArthur, and kept a signed photo as a memento. He also gave his wife an engraved pistol for a wedding present that Margaret kept with her.