NCIS: Origins Episode 12 Delves Deep into Kowalski’s Backstory and Unfolds Complex Investigations
In the twelfth episode of NCIS: Origins, titled "Touchstone," viewers witness another emotional journey as the focus shifts to Dick Kowalski, portrayed by Michael Harney. This installment continues to weave together the narratives of various characters while illustrating the intricate dynamics within the Navy Intelligence Service (NIS). The episode showcases how the actions and backgrounds of each character intertwine, leading to significant consequences in their professional environment.
Gibbs and Kowalski Investigate a Break-In
The episode opens with narration from Mark Harmon, in the role of an older Leroy Jethro Gibbs, sharing a childhood story from his mother about a little field mouse. As the NIS begins its day, Kowalski, responsible for managing evidence, discovers that someone has broken into the evidence room, setting off a chain of events that will challenge the staff’s capabilities and interactions. As Kowalski starts to assess the chaos, the disturbing revelation surfaces: $41,000 has been stolen from the agency.
Kowalski’s distress over the invasion of his workspace highlights his commitment to his role and the emotional turmoil that comes with it. The narrative simultaneously presents how the disruption affects all agents, showcasing their various reactions, including frustration and determination to restore order.
Exploring Kowalski’s Military History
The plot thickens as Kowalski experiences flashbacks to his time as a prisoner of war in Korea. These poignant moments illustrate his psychological struggles and significant past. In one flashback, he reflects on the solitary existence within the prison, holding onto a stone that symbolizes his lost freedom and the hope inherent in survival. Kowalski’s character development steals the spotlight, prompting a deeper understanding of his motivations and resilience.
Kowalski’s emotional state escalates as chaos amplifies in the office. The intruder’s actions unravel not only the evidence room but also Kowalski’s sense of security. Frustrated, he contemplates resigning from his role, leading to a tense conclusion where he ultimately delivers a resignation letter filled with detailed accounts of his 25-year history at the agency.
New Revelations and Tensions Among Team Members
Meanwhile, Gibbs and Lala (Mariel Molino) delve into the investigation surrounding the stolen money. Their inquiries lead them to a suspect, Flaco (Scotty Tovar), who complicates matters by introducing personal tensions between Lala and her past relationships. Gibbs’ interactions with Lala uncover vulnerabilities within the team, intertwining personal drama with professional duties. Tension builds when she admits to her complicated emotions regarding both her past and their current investigations, receiving encouragement from Gibbs to reach out to an ex, Eddie.
As the investigation progresses, Lala stumbles upon evidence indicating that the thief may have accessed the room from within rather than breaking in from the outside, redirecting their search and heightening the urgency of the case.
Franks Takes Action Against Corrupt Agents
Mike Franks (Kyle Schmid) employs a unique strategy, utilizing the agency’s police dog, Gary Callahan, to sniff out the stolen money in what turns into a heartfelt and affirming moment for the team. The tension reaches a boiling point when Franks confronts Roger (Eric Normington), revealing that he is the corrupt agent behind the theft, driven by financial desperation due to a gambling habit. Roger’s confession and subsequent actions underline the moral dilemmas faced by characters within the NIS, complicating each agent’s perceived integrity.
A Deeper Connection with Characters
As the episode draws to a close, Kowalski revisits NIS and decides not to go through with his resignation. Symbolically, he gifts his Korean rock to Herm (Daniel Bellomy), an act representing both a release from his traumatic past and an acknowledgment of the relationships he has built. Mark Harmon’s narrative reflects on the themes of change, relationships, and the struggle for personal redemption.
The episode is a strong testament to NCIS: Origins‘ ability to blend intense personal backstories with larger societal themes, paving the way for viewers to engage with each character’s complexity.
NCIS: Origins airs on Paramount+, where audiences can stream all episodes from its first season, further deepening their connection with this evolving narrative filled with heart, intrigue, and the relentless pursuit of justice.
