Mr. Winkle Goes to War

On June 1, 1942, Wilbert Winkle, a 44-year-old man working in a bank for fourteen years, suddenly decides to leave his monotonous career to pursue his dream of opening a repair shop. His decision surprises everyone, especially his wife Amy, who is focused on social status and expects him to remain in his secure job.

Winkle's wife Amy demands he choose between her and his new career, creating tension in their relationship. The disagreement highlights the contrast between Wilbert’s aspirations and Amy's concerns about social standing and security.

Before resolving his personal conflicts, Winkle is drafted into the army. He is assigned to be part of the military effort in WWII, and his fellow soldiers nickname him 'Rip'. The draft marks a turning point as he transitions from civilian life to the armed forces.

In basic training, Winkle befriends Joe Tinker, an older recruit seeking revenge for his brother. Despite his age, Winkle survives basic training and gains respect from his drill instructor, Sergeant Czeidrowski, showing his resilience.

Winkle is reassigned to help the supply sergeant with bookkeeping but rebels by becoming a mechanic, which he finds personally fulfilling. His persistence transforms his role and demonstrates his dedication to learning and adaptation.

Winkle's furlough at the end of training is canceled, prompting Barry, a young orphan he befriends, to run away to see him. Barry is later found by Amy and Mr. McDavid, which leads to Amy learning more about her husband's true character.

Winkle and his unit are shipped out to fight the Japanese in the Pacific theater. They face harsh conditions and prepare for combat while maintaining their camaraderie amid the chaos of war.

During an attack, Winkle and Tinker are tasked with repairing a bulldozer as Japanese forces attack. Tinker fights bravely, shooting an enemy soldier and engaging in hand-to-hand combat before being killed, illustrating the brutal realities of war.

Winkle manages to use the bulldozer to knock out a machine-gun nest, showcasing his ingenuity and calm under pressure. His actions help his unit and mark his growth as a soldier.

Winkle is wounded and discharged from the army, returning home as a war hero. His homecoming is filled with joy and celebration from his family and friends, recognizing his bravery and sacrifice.

Back home, Winkle is welcomed warmly by Amy and Barry, who show him a new shortcut to his repair shop that they made together. This symbolizes their renewed family bonds and hopeful new start after the war.