Two cadets at the United States Naval Academy - Bill Martin (James Ellison), the earnest son of a Navy lifer (Harry Carey), and Clay Parker (Van Heflin), the cynical scion of a wealthy Chicago meatpacking clan - butt heads from day one of their martial training. Martin has been single-mindedly set upon obtaining the commission that was out of the reach of his seaman father, while Parker thinks the Navy's noble traditions are "bunk." After Martin settles Parker's hash inside the squared circle, Parker dedicates himself to the Academy, for at least the amount of time it will take to get Martin tossed out. Their bitter rivalry makes each man better until they both meet, and fall for, Julia Clemens (Marsha Hunt), the sister of their somewhat-challenged classmate, Tex (Arthur Lake). This heartfelt tribute to the Navy was artfully shot on location at the Naval Academy under the assured direction of Naval Academy alum Christy Cabanne.