Taps

On the eve of the graduation parade, Cadet Brian Moreland meets privately with Brigadier General Harlan Bache. This pivotal meeting results in Moreland being promoted to Cadet Major, the highest rank at Bunker Hill military academy.

The day after Moreland’s promotion, General Bache reveals troubling news that the academy will be sold to real estate developers. Although the school will remain open for one more year, this decision leaves cadets balancing hope and despair about the future.

An evening dance follows the commencement ceremony, providing a momentary escape for the cadets. However, the festivities are interrupted when local teenagers provoke a fight, leading to a chaotic brawl outside the academy's gates.

Amidst the chaos, General Bache attempts to intervene but is disarmed by a local boy. In the struggle that ensues, a gun accidentally discharges, tragically resulting in the death of another boy, causing immediate legal and emotional repercussions.

Following the accidental shooting, General Bache is arrested, becoming the focus of the incident. While in custody, he suffers a heart attack and is hospitalized, devastating the cadets who anxiously await updates.

Dean Ferris and civilian officials inspect the academy's armory, revealing a vast collection of weapons. Cadet Moreland seeks information about training for the summer term, only to discover the program has been canceled and the school is closing immediately.

In defiance, Cadet Major Moreland and his fellow cadets resolve to seize control of the campus to protect their school. When Ferris and the Sheriff arrive to enforce the closure, they are met by the armed cadets determined to negotiate.

A group of cadets is dispatched to gather supplies but runs into trouble when their truck breaks down. Tensions rise when Cadet Captain Dwyer attempts repairs, leading to further confrontations with the locals.

As tensions escalate, parents and civilians attempt to negotiate peace for the cadets occupying the academy. Despite their efforts, the cadets remain resolute and united in their cause, choosing to stand firm.

The following day brings disheartening news as several cadets, including Lieutenant West, decide to abandon the cause. This defection deepens the divide and instills uncertainty among those who wish to continue the fight.

As the situation deteriorates, the loss of power and water leads to a tragic accident during an attempt to restart a generator. The severity of the situation becomes clearer when the news of General Bache's death breaks, causing widespread grief.

With military forces preparing to breach the campus, a panicked young cadet accidentally discharges his weapon, resulting in the death of another cadet. This incident heightens tensions and the standoff spirals further into chaos.

In the chaos, Cadet Shawn reacts violently, shooting at the guards amidst the mounting pressure. As authorities overwhelm the cadets, the conflict erupts into chaos, culminating in multiple casualties and heartbreak.

In the aftermath of the violent siege, a haunting montage depicting the proud history of Bunker Hill academy plays. This serves as a somber reminder of the sacrifices made and the strong bond shared among those who trained within its walls.