It's unusual but not unprecedented that this series pilot episode was NOT aired first when the show was broadcast on TV. For various reasons, network folks might choose to change the order in which the shows were aired. For example, the first ever episode aired of "Star Trek" was "The Man Trap" even though it was actually filmed later than several episodes. Why? Because the network big wigs wanted to start off the series with a monster...and the salt monster in this episode fit the bill. As for "Follow the Leader", as assume the network chose to show "Golden Boy Had Nine Black Sheep" because the plot was taken from the original movie...a safe decision and a safe way to start the series since it was already tested and shown to be effective.
When the story begins, the navigator of General Savage's air crew is hit and is dying. Despite this being the bombardier's best friend, in the heat of battle he remained calm and hit his target...which is impressive. Because of his consistent performance, the General chooses to try something radical during their next mission....instead of letting each plane's bombardier decide when to drop the loads, he'd have EVERYONE follow this bombardier's lead and bomb on his order. Unfortunately, for once, this reliable man is way off...and they end up bombing a school instead! What's next? See the show.
After seeing this pilot and the episode aired in its place, I think "Follow the Leader" is a slightly better episode simply because it's more original. All I know is that I've just started watching the series and the first two episodes have been terrific...well acted and well written.
