At the twilight of World War II, a supply ship of the United States Navy sails in the Pacific, where its crew faces the monotony and frustration of life at sea. Lieutenant Doug Roberts, an officer longing for action and recognition, is stuck on a cargo ship, far from the combat he desires so much. Roberts grapples with his duty and his wish to serve on the front lines, while trying to boost the spirits of his fellow crew members, a group of tired and demotivated men.
Despite the strict orders of an authoritarian and self-centered captain who only cares about maintaining his image, Roberts attempts to make the ship a more bearable place. His friendship with the brother of a sailor, along with his relationships with other crew members, underscores the constant struggle between camaraderie and despair. Meanwhile, his desire for glory leads him to make risky decisions that change the dynamics of the ship.
The story builds towards an unexpected climax when the opportunity to prove his worth finally arrives. Through a blend of drama and comedy, the film explores themes of sacrifice, bravery, and the search for identity in difficult times, revealing the true essence of what it means to be a hero, whether on the battlefield or aboard a ship forgotten by war.