ENDING EXPLAINED ACCORDING TO SCRIPT, Script link provided
Hi, I just obtained a copy of the script, you can download it here (UPDATED LINK): http://www.uploadable.ch/file/u9jX5xEHyXSv/Southern Comfort.pdf
In the scripts original ending, which plays out a little differently, he actually makes it back to where the rest of the National Guardsmen are. It's clearer that Spencer (this draft called Atwater) definitely has a bad feeling, and doesn't trust the other National Guardsman. Also, in a way makes the movie's ending more mysterious.
FROM SCRIPT'S END:
OUTSIDE THE BAR
He stops and gathers himself, wiping away the dirt and sweat and blood...Lifts the rifle, bursts through the door ready to fire...
INT. BAR
Atwater's momentum carries him into the center of the room... A sign on the wall, "World's Greates Jambalya, World's Friendlies People". In one corner a group of Cajuns singing along to the Juke Box. The rest of the bar filled with...
NATIONAL GUARDSMEN in their clean fatigues. They play pool, cards, pinball, darts... Some dance with Cajun Women. One of the Guardsmen looks up as Atwater Enters.
Guardsman - Atwater. Hey! It's Atwater!
The rest of the Guardsmen look up from their tables.
ANOTHER GUARDSMEN - Jesus, Atwater, what the hell kind of show you been putting on?
ANOTHER GUARDSMAN - We been lookin' all over for you guys.
ATWATER looks over at him. The Guardsman is at a table with Atwater's four smiling Cajun girls... Their smiles more than a touch confused by his disheveled appearance.
ANOTHER GUARDSMAN - Come on, Atwater. Have a beer.
Atwater just keeps standing there and looking at them.
FADE OUT