When a group of eager young men enlist in the Marines in 1942, they don't expect to spend all their time kicking their heels engaged in training assignments and carrying out non-combatant roles.

Frustrated, the only benefit appears to be having extra time to devote to their wartime romances, particularly that between Private Andy Hookens (Aldo Rey) and Pat, a New Zealand widow. But just as they decide to commit to one another, the Marines finally see some action.

Raoul Walsh directs this adaptation of the Leon Uris novel.