Heartbreak Ridge

The film opens in a town jail where Gunnery Sergeant Tom Highway entertains fellow inmates with stories from his military career. His storytelling is interrupted when another prisoner mocks his rank, which leads to a brief skirmish where Highway swiftly disarms the attacker.

The following day, Highway faces the judge over charges of public drunkenness and disorderly conduct. Despite the officer he upset being frustrated, the judge gives Highway one last chance, acknowledging his military past amidst the officer's disparagement.

Returning to the base, Highway receives notification of his transfer to Camp Lejeune in North Carolina, where he will be in charge of a squad of unmotivated Marines. He refuses a bribe of Cuban cigars, showcasing his unwillingness to compromise his integrity.

On the bus to Camp Lejeune, Highway meets Stitch Jones, a disruptive yet charismatic young man who has just been ejected from a club. Their first encounter is marked by Jones stealing Highway's bus ticket during a stop, setting the tone for their complicated relationship.

Arriving at Camp Lejeune, Highway reconnects with Sgt Major Choozoo and meets Major Malcolm Powers, who is wary of Highway’s nonconformist ways. Highway is assigned to the recon platoon, a group filled with unruly recruits who have previously been abandoned.

Upon meeting his new platoon, Highway faces instant hostility as the recruits express their disdain. To break the ice and establish authority, he destroys their boombox, telling them to enjoy their last night of freedom before rigorous training begins.

Highway seeks solace at a local bar, where he encounters Little Mary Jackson, a widow of a Vietnam buddy. The meeting leads to conflicting emotions as he learns that his ex-wife Aggie now has a new partner, stirring memories and regrets from his past.

Highway wakes his platoon in the middle of the night to instill the value of adaptability. His methods take a dangerous turn when he fires an AK-47 during training, ensuring his recruits understand the seriousness of their responsibilities.

Tension peaks between Highway and Swede Johanson when the latter challenges his leadership. In a show of strength, Highway swiftly takes down Swede and invites him to join the team, slowly beginning to earn the respect of his platoon.

During a training exercise, Major Powers sets up Highway’s platoon as live targets for the 1st Platoon. Unsettled with this lack of preparation, Highway stages a mock ambush to better prepare his men, impressively gaining support from Lieutenant Ring.

Highway and his platoon are mobilized for the 1983 invasion of Grenada, tasked with rescuing American medical students. As they prepare for action, Highway encourages creativity in approaching their mission, leading to unanticipated success.

In the thick of battle, Highway confronts Major Powers about the importance of initiative over rigid adherence to military protocol. This confrontation underscores the evolution of both Highway and his men, marking a crucial turning point in their training.

As Highway’s mission unfolds, the subplot with Aggie deepens, reaching a climax when he learns of her potential engagement to Roy, the bar owner. This news weighs heavily on Highway, intertwining his personal and professional struggles.

After successfully completing their mission, Highway and his platoon return home, where they are celebrated for their transformation from unfit recruits to committed Marines. The reception includes a moment of reconnection with Aggie, hinting at the enduring nature of their bond.

The story culminates in a bittersweet reflection on Highway's career and personal life, as he acknowledges both his achievements and the heartaches associated with them. Through their experiences, Highway's men have gained newfound respect and unity, reflecting the themes of valor and camaraderie.