The X-files 11x6 -

In the X-Files episode (Season 11, Episode 6), Walter Skinner's mysterious past in the Vietnam War finally takes center stage. The episode explores themes of guilt and accountability, revealing how a secret military project called MK-NAOMI —a gas designed to induce extreme fear and hallucinations—shattered Skinner's faith in the government. Plot Summary

: He admits his stalled career is a result of his "blind loyalty" to Mulder and Scully's search for the truth. The X-Files 11x6

According to reviewers from IndieWire , this episode provides a "sweet and touching" moment for Skinner that feels earned after 20 years of backstory. In the X-Files episode (Season 11, Episode 6),

: Flashbacks reveal a young Skinner (played by Cory Rempel) and his friend John "Kitten" James (Haley Joel Osment) being exposed to the experimental gas. The gas turned James into a "monster" who collected trophies from victims, and Skinner’s forced silence during James's trial has haunted him for decades. According to reviewers from IndieWire , this episode

: They encounter Kitten’s son, Davey (also Haley Joel Osment), who is using the gas and a "monster" costume to avenge his father. After being rescued from a trap, Skinner reaffirms his loyalty to Mulder and Scully, stating they restored his faith in people. Key Takeaways

: Skinner goes AWOL after receiving a package containing a human ear and a note that says "Kitten". Mulder and Scully are ordered by Alvin Kersh to track him down.

: The investigation leads Mulder and Scully to Mud Lick, Kentucky, where people are being murdered in booby traps resembling Vietnam War punji pits.