Although he lacks any kind of skill, competence, or authority as an officer, his upper-class status and educational background meant he went straight into the commissioned ranks upon enlisting. George is shown to have a special friendship with General Melchett (Fry), an old family friend. Melchett even offers George a way out of the trenches for the "final push", which he refuses, much to Blackadder's incredulity.
Despite lacking any skills or qualifications as an officer, his privileged background and education led him straight into commissioned ranks upon enlistment. He has a close bond with General Melchett (Fry), an old family friend who offers George an escape from the trenches for the final push, which he declines, much to Blackadder's astonishment.