The Last Detail

Signalman William 'Badass' Buddusky and Gunner's Mate First Class 'Mule' Mulhall receive a task to escort seaman Lawrence M. Meadows to Portsmouth Military Prison. The officers are warned that failing this mission could jeopardize their careers, setting a serious tone for the week ahead.

Upon meeting Meadows, the officers are struck by his youth and timidity; he is not the hardened criminal they expected. Instead, they find a scared eighteen-year-old who joined the Navy to escape a difficult life, prompting a shift in their perception of him.

During the bus ride, Badass and Mule choose to remove Meadows' handcuffs, a small yet significant act that fosters a sense of trust. This moment of goodwill allows them to bond and reconsider their approach to the mission as they empathize with Meadows’ situation.

A seemingly innocent candy bar turns into a revelation for Meadows, exposing his compulsive tendencies. As Badass and Mule grapple with their frustrations, they do their best to reassure him, marking the beginning of an unexpected camaraderie.

At a diner, Badass's sense of justice compels him to confront the bartender about serving the underage Meadows. This reckless display of loyalty means the officers stray further from their original mission, leading to a series of comedic and chaotic events.

As a result of their antics, the officers miss their train and spend the night in a hotel together with Meadows. This unplanned downtime deepens their bond, as they share stories and experiences that reveal more about each other’s lives.

Throughout their journey, Badass and Mule introduce Meadows to a variety of new experiences, including tasting Italian sausages and sampling beers. These light moments serve to distract Meadows from the harsh reality of his impending imprisonment.

The trio attends a gathering of American Nichiren Shoshu Buddhists, where Meadows is moved by the chanting and expresses a desire for change. This encounter inspires him to think beyond his current predicament and consider a new direction in life.

Realizing they want to give Meadows a taste of freedom, the officers take him to a brothel as a final adventure. This moment encapsulates their desire to ensure he experiences life to the fullest before his confinement.

After their ventures, the day concludes with a picnic in the snow where Meadows finds joy in simple pleasures like chanting and roasting hot dogs. This poignant moment symbolizes the innocence of youth in the face of impending adversity.

As the time runs out, Meadows faces the emotional weight of his impending sentence. This reflection is captured in a desperate moment where he attempts to escape, signaling a profound acknowledgment of his fate.

In a frantic attempt to escape, Meadows uses semaphore to bid farewell to Badass and Mule. This heartfelt gesture compels the officers to embark on a frantic chase, highlighting the depth of their bond and the sincerity of their mission.

Ultimately, Badass and Mule deliver Meadows to the prison, despite the disapproval of the Marines. This moment serves as a sobering conclusion to their journey, underscoring the complexities of duty and compassion.

Following Meadows' departure, Badass and Mule alone confront the reality of their actions and decisions. They are left to ponder whether their military service can truly absolve them of the emotional scars from their encounter with Meadows.