Days of Glory

In 1943, local Algerians are encouraged to enlist to defend France from the Germans. Said Otmari, one of the main characters, is eager to join, despite his mother's warning about the dangers he might face, as her own father never returned from war.

The recruits arrive in Morocco for initial training, where a French colonel inspires them with fervent speeches about fighting for France's honor. Among them, Yassir and his brother Larbi express regret over their decision to join the army primarily for financial gain.

By 1944, the recruits, known as the 2nd Company of the 7th Algerian Infantry Regiment, are deployed to Italy. Here, they meet their new commanding officer, Sgt Martinez, whose unpredictable nature complicates their daily lives.

Sgt Martinez spends time assessing his soldiers and recognizes Messaoud as a skilled marksman. However, tensions arise when he puts Said in a dangerous position, leading to conflict between Martinez and the other corporals.

The company faces a harsh battle as they attempt to take a hill against both German forces and friendly fire. During the combat, Said bravely eliminates a German soldier after a moment of hesitation, marking a significant moment of courage.

After a hard-fought victory, the Colonel commends the troops for their success, which he claims is a crucial turning point for France. The men feel proud, but the celebration is tainted by the subsequent discrimination they face in the army.

The North African soldiers experience discrimination during meal times, sparking outrage. Led by Corporal Abdelkader, they confront their commander over the unjust treatment, ultimately leading to a small victory when they secure proper rations.

In August 1944, the soldiers are greeted as liberators in Provence. Messaoud falls in love with a local woman named Irene, experiencing the joy of companionship amidst the ravages of war.

By October 1944, Messaoud expresses his longing to live peacefully in Marseille with Irene. Meanwhile, tensions rise as the soldiers note that they seem to receive less respect and opportunity than their French counterparts, despite their sacrifices.

In November 1944, the company embarks on another dangerous mission, suffering heavy casualties. Abdulkar declares a need for equality in the ranks, as frustration grows regarding the perceived neglect of the North African soldiers.

When the North Africans are finally granted leave in January 1945, tension remains as they suspect ulterior motives behind their treatment. Corporal Abdelkader is chosen for a perilous mission which may lead to recognition for their valor.

During their new mission, tragedy ensues when a series of German traps lead to the deaths of key leaders, leaving only a few soldiers behind. Grief and morale plummet as they are forced to determine their next steps in a hostile environment.

As they fortify their position against an advancing German troop, the North African soldiers show remarkable bravery. However, the team suffers further losses until they are eventually rescued by French reinforcements, highlighting their valiant but overlooked efforts.

Following their success, Corporal Abdelkader seeks acknowledgment but is ignored by higher-ups. His anger grows as he realizes the sacrifices of his comrades will not be honored, encapsulating the disillusionment of North African soldiers.

Decades later, an elderly Abdelkader reflects on his experiences as he visits the graves of his fallen comrades. The somber ending reveals a shocking truth about the government's neglect towards soldiers from former colonies, prompting a sense of unresolved injustice.