In 1943 at
Camp Shelby,
Mississippi, newly commissioned Lt. Michael Grayson reports for duty to train the 442nd Infantry Regiment, a unit established on the mainland and composed of
Nisei. His expectation was to return to the
U.S. 36th Infantry Division, a
Texas National Guard unit, in which he had served as an enlisted soldier. He must command a group of people whom he sees as Japanese enemies rather than as Americans. Grayson runs his platoon in strict observance of
military regulations. Arriving in Italy, the unit is joined by the
100th Battalion, a
Nisei unit assembled in Hawaii before the formation of 442nd. The troops of the 100th are seasoned veterans, and the new arrivals tap them for advice. On the march to the front lines, Grayson is left behind when fraternizing with a woman, but the colonel does not notice because his platoon has covered for Grayson during an inspection of their positions. By the actions of the 442nd in Italy and France, Grayson finds reason to replace his bigotry with respect. Despite his objections, he is transferred to the 36th as a liaison when the 442nd is attached to the 36th. The
Nisei learn that he has defended them against bigotry, even brawling with an old friend from the 36th who had insulted them. The 36th is surrounded by the German army and the 442nd
rescues them. On their return home, the members of the 442nd are awarded the distinction of the eighth
Presidential Unit Citation. ==Cast==