word  the same speech Foster (Hackman) gave recruits near the beginning of the  film. (To potential deserters: "If the Legion doesnt get you, the Arabs  will. If the Arabs dont get you, the desert will. And if the desert doesnt  get you... I will.) A caravan is leaving the fort behind Marco as he gives  his speech. The original release ends on this note, implying that Marco has  stepped into Fosters shoes as loyal Legion commander. In the network  showing, after Marco delivers his speech, we see Marco deserting. He has  slipped into Arab garb and joined the caravan leaving the fort. The  Sergeant