Danger Close

Australia and New Zealand deployed their troops to Vietnam to support the United States' efforts against communism. The force primarily included young conscripts and volunteers, many of whom were only 20 years old and lacked combat experience.

The film begins with a dramatic mortar strike targeting the 1st Australian Task Force (1 ATF) base at Nui Dat. Amidst the chaos, Major Harry Smith takes charge, directing his unit, Delta Company, to seek cover while others remain unfazed, continuing to play cards and drink beer.

The base is manned by key personnel including Captain Morrie Stanley, Warrant Officer Class Two Jack Kirby, and Bombardier Ray Ngatai. New recruits Private Frank Topp and Private Colin Whiston join Delta Company, adding to the dynamic of the unit amidst the tension.

Second Lieutenant Gordon Sharp, who is supposed to locate the source of the mortar fire, chooses to play cards with his men instead of following Major Smith's orders. This decision highlights the carefree attitude some soldiers hold in the face of danger, but Sergeant Bob Buick intervenes to help Harry track the mortar's origin.

The Australians manage to repel the initial mortar attack through effective counter-battery fire, successfully neutralizing the enemy mortar crew. Major Smith’s leadership is tested as he reprimands Private Large for drinking during a critical patrol duty.

Feeling unappreciated among the conscripts, Major Harry Smith requests a transfer to a commando unit. However, Brigadier Jackson denies his request, insisting that he follow the command structure under Lieutenant Colonel Colin Townsend.

After the initial attack, Major Smith offers Delta Company to scout a nearby rubber plantation. Instead, the task is assigned to Bravo Company, who finds no enemy presence, showcasing the chaotic nature of the operations.

Delta Company is later tasked to replace Bravo Company and soon encounters fresh enemy footprints. They engage in combat with a Viet Cong patrol, marking the beginning of intense skirmishes as 11 Platoon makes first contact with the enemy.

As the battle escalates, 11 Platoon finds themselves in a dire situation and calls for artillery support. The artillery fire, albeit risky and dangerously close to their position, effectively stalls the advancing Viet Cong forces.

Determined they face overwhelming numbers, Major Smith requests reinforcements, including Armored Personnel Carriers and air support. The urgency of the request reflects the dire circumstances faced by Australian troops.

As tensions rise, with a threat of encirclement, Major Smith comes to a harrowing decision suggested by Sergeant Buick. They decide to target their own men with artillery fire to stop the advancing VC, a choice laden with moral weight.

Amidst dwindling ammunition and fierce monsoon rains, Major Smith orchestrates a strategic withdrawal to save his troops. Each moment is critical as they navigate their way through low supplies and encroaching enemy forces.

In a desperate bid, Major Smith requests helicopter resupplies, and two brave RAAF pilots deliver essential supplies amidst enemy fire. This act of courage is pivotal in rearming the beleaguered soldiers.

With renewed supplies, Harry devises a rescue operation for the trapped 11 Platoon. Against all odds, they locate survivors, which breathes hope and inspiration into the beleaguered ranks of Delta Company.

The battle culminates with Major Smith bravely fighting off the VC forces as reinforcements finally arrive. Despite the victory, the film tragically highlights the loss of beloved soldiers, exemplifying the brutal cost of war and the sacrifices they made.