Devotion

Lieutenant Tom Hudner joins Fighter Squadron 32 in Rhode Island during the Korean War and meets Jesse Brown, the squadron's Black pilot. The team is briefed on new threats, including Stalin's testing of a new bomb, setting the stage for the upcoming conflict.

Brown pilots aggressively, taking risks such as nose-diving in residential neighborhoods, showcasing his fearless flying style. Hudner witnesses his boldness and they briefly discuss their flying philosophies.

The pilots prepare to ship out aboard the carrier, practicing flights with the new 'widow maker' planes. Daisy, Brown’s wife, offers encouragement, boosting his confidence before departure.

Brown privately struggles with feelings of inadequacy, staring at himself in a mirror and making degrading comments, revealing his internal battle with self-esteem and racial discrimination.

Hudner successfully lands his plane, followed by Brown, who initially misses but finally makes a safe landing. Both pilots pass their carrier qualification, marking an important milestone.

Brown is asked to participate in a magazine interview to soften public perception about Black pilots, but he insists on being treated like any other pilot, resisting racial stereotypes.

During a training drill, pilot Carol Mohring crashes his plane into the ocean after failing to land properly. The squad mourns his death, and Brown discusses the prejudice he faced during training.

The squadron visits Caan, where Brown meets Elizabeth Taylor at a casino. They share a dance and drinks, but a fight ensues when jealous soldiers confront Brown, highlighting racial tensions.

The squadron is tasked with attacking bridges in Korea to hinder Chinese troop movements. Despite orders, Brown disobeys to finish the job, risking his life in intense enemy fire.

Brown's aircraft begins leaking fuel amidst battle, prompting him to attempt an emergency landing. Hudner crashes his own plane to try and rescue Brown after his plane crashes and becomes stuck.

Hudner endeavors to free Brown from his wrecked plane in freezing conditions. Despite his efforts, Brown succumbs, and Hudner is left devastated, promising to return for his fallen friend.

The squadron conducts a funeral flight for Brown. The war department awards Brown and Hudner the Medal of Honor, recognizing Brown’s heroism and Hudner’s sacrifice.

Brown writes a heartfelt letter to Daisy, expressing his love and leaving her tokens of memory. The film ends with images of Brown reading his last letters, highlighting his devotion to her.