Buck Privates

Slicker Smith and Herbie Brown hawk neckties from a suitcase when a cop gives chase. They dash into a nearby movie theater, only to discover it is being used as an Army enlistment center. Believing they're signing up for theater prizes, they inadvertently enlist.

Randolph Parker, a spoiled playboy, and his long-suffering valet Bob Martin report to the theater, hoping that political influence can spare Randolph from service. Bob accepts his obligations and prepares to serve alongside Randolph. The chaotic enlistment scene deepens the film’s comic tension.

Judy Gray, a camp hostess and friend of Bob, is introduced amid the crowd at the theater. Her presence adds romantic tension to Randolph and Bob, and she becomes a focal point for the men’s ambitions. The moment hints at the evolving dynamics that will play out at boot camp.

During boot camp, Slicker and Herbie discover that Collins, the policeman who chased them, is now their sergeant. The irony of facing the officer who once pursued them provides a running joke for the unit. Training begins with a mix of nerves and stubborn humor.

Randolph learns that his father will not pull strings this time and that a year in the Army may do him some good. The realization shifts his attitude from entitlement to reluctant resolve. He accepts that he must prove himself on his own merits.

The Andrews Sisters appear at regular intervals to sing sentimental or patriotic tunes, including Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy. Their songs bring morale to the troops and lighten the drill-field monotony. The performances establish a warm, musical counterpoint to the boot-camp grind.

Herbie continues to foul up during training, though his mistakes rarely have serious consequences. The other men tolerate his antics with a mix of frustration and good-natured humor. The light mishaps help keep morale up despite the routine challenges.

Randolph skips an army shooting match to spend the afternoon with Judy. His choice highlights his growing attachment and rebellious streak. The decision costs the team the match and the money they had bet, feeding resentment toward him.

After the shooting match, the company loses the match and the money they'd bet because Randolph was absent. Resentment toward Randolph grows as his peers realize his absence affected the team's performance. The incident becomes a catalyst pushing him to prove himself in other ways.

During a war game exercise, Randolph saves Bob and comes up with a clever ruse to win the sham battle for the company. The action earns him respect from peers and superiors. This display of initiative marks a turning point in his standing.

Randolph learns he has been accepted to Officer Training School, though he initially refuses, thinking his father’s influence was responsible. The commanding officer assures him that his record and superior recommendations mattered as well.

Bob is offered an appointment to OTS, and Judy announces she will join them there as a hostess. The trio’s future at OTS signals a new chapter for their relationships in this military arc.

Smitty and Herbie accept Collins' invitation to shoot dice, hoping for a quick score. Their night unfolds with luck slipping away, and Herbie literally loses his pants. The mishap remains a humorous reminder of the men’s enduring camaraderie.