In 2003, Larry "Doc" Shepherd, portrayed by Steve Carell, makes his way to the bar owned by his old comrade from the Vietnam War, Sal Nealon, played by Bryan Cranston. Their reunion takes an unexpected turn as Doc reveals his intent to track down another friend from their past, Reverend Richard Mueller, played by Laurence Fishburne. After a heartfelt dinner invitation from the Muellers, Doc shares the devastating news of the loss of his only son, Larry Jr., in Iraq, as well as his recent widowhood.
Doc expresses his hope for Sal and Mueller to accompany him in retrieving Larry Jr.'s body for burial. Although Sal quickly agrees, Mueller hesitates, grappling with memories he associates with his previous life choices. Ultimately, with encouragement from his wife, he decides to join the journey.
On their trip, the trio grapples with their complicated histories and uncomfortable truths. Sal and Mueller's contrasting outlooks spark friction, especially regarding their past reckless behaviors and the guilt that continues to haunt them—particularly concerning a fellow Marine's tragic death linked to their indiscretions. At Dover Air Force Base, Doc insists on viewing his son’s body, despite the protests from Mueller and Colonel Wilits. During this moment of grieving, a revelation from LCpl Charlie Washington, Larry Jr.'s close friend, unveils that he died in a mundane shopping mishap, shattering the heroic narrative surrounding his passing. This truth deeply unsettles Doc, prompting him to refuse a burial at Arlington National Cemetery in favor of a civilian ceremony.
As the three men embark on a lengthy road trip back home, they encounter bureaucratic hurdles and missed opportunities, leading to unexpected moments of connection amid their deliberate personalities. Initially tense interactions gradually soften. Sal proposes that Doc join him in managing the bar, and together they embrace modernity by purchasing their first cell phones to stay in touch. During a detour to Boston, they decide to visit Mrs. Hightower, played by Cicely Tyson, mother of a fellow Marine who tragically suffered without morphine. Upon arriving, they discover she has been similarly misled about her son’s bravery, prompting them to fabricate a narrative to spare her further heartache.
Upon returning to Portsmouth for Larry Jr.'s funeral, Washington convinces Doc to reconsider the burial attire, leading to a poignant moment where the past and present intertwine. Sal and Mueller don their uniforms, paying tribute during the solemn flag-folding ceremony. In a touching twist, Washington later hands Doc a letter from Larry Jr. that reveals his heartfelt wishes to be buried beside his mother. Overcome with emotion, Doc smiles as he reflects on his son’s gratitude for his unwavering support throughout his life.
