Joe Smith, American

A buck-a-hour crew chief promoted to lead a top-secret Norden bombsight project. He remains calm under pressure, balancing pride in his work with a fierce commitment to his family. When faced with torture and coercion, he uses memory and resolve to resist revealing the blueprint.

Joe's wife, a steady, supportive presence who bears the strain of his secrecy. She embodies resilience and loyalty, showing concern for the family while trusting Joe's judgment. Her quiet strength helps anchor the home front amid danger.

Joe and Mary's young son whose interest in Nathan Hale foreshadows themes of sacrifice and patriotism. His curiosity and sense of justice underscore the stakes of keeping dangerous information secret. He embodies the innocence of the home front during a time of national peril.

Plant supervisor and central antagonist who orchestrates the espionage scheme, representing corporate pressure and the lure of secrets for personal or organizational gain. His true motives remain ambiguous until the climax when loyalty and power are tested.

One of the Washington-based men pressuring Joe to divulge the bombsight designs, embodying the constant external threat of espionage during wartime. He uses coercion to try to extract valuable information.

A key member of the group attempting to steal technology, illustrating the organized, covert effort behind espionage. His involvement deepens the sense of danger surrounding the Norden bombsight.

Plant president and top-level executive pushing for secrecy and project success. His role highlights the tension between leadership and covert manipulation in wartime production.

A military figure connected to the plant and security, involved in the pursuit and investigation after the kidnapping. His presence underscores the military authority behind defense projects.