I tend to think of them as cliff hangers. It comes from my wasted years as a youth sitting in front of the TV too much! But at least I learned how to keep an audience. Although I did play a lot of cowboys and Indians with my "Matel shoot'n shell winchester. Plus I thought I was Sgt Saunders many times with my realistic Tommy gun!
I agree with the "cliffhanger" statement - absolutely. I also like the "Combat" reference - it was one of my favorite shows. One of my favorite episodes was "Head Count" - don't mess with the Sarge! Now THAT was television!! (sigh)
You DO have a fantastic writing style! Addictive!
Thanks