The Wackiest Ship in the Army

In 1943, U.S. Navy Lieutenant Rip Crandall, an experienced yachtsman, is unexpectedly assigned command of the sailing ship USS Echo in the Pacific Fleet. He is surprised because the ship relies on sails, which is unusual for naval vessels. The assignment comes despite his reluctance, highlighting his naval expertise in sailing rather than combat.

Crandall tries to refuse the command of the USS Echo, citing doubts about his fitness and suitability. Lieutenant commander Vandewater, a former sailing buddy, persuades him to accept the assignment by emphasizing the importance of this opportunity for Crandall's career. Vandewater warns him that not taking the command might end his prospects in the Navy.

Hanson takes Crandall out drinking with the crew to foster camaraderie and help him feel more connected to his men. This effort is also intended to build loyalty and team spirit, crucial for their upcoming missions. Crandall begins to accept his role and the responsibilities that come with leading the diverse crew.

As the USS Echo departs from harbor, it encounters a fierce storm, testing the crew's seamanship and the ship's capabilities. Despite the challenges, the vessel manages to weather the storm, demonstrating the crew's resilience and Crandall's leadership in navigating difficult conditions.

While en route to Port Moresby, they inadvertently sail into a minefield, risking the safety of the USS Echo. The crew quickly works to navigate out of danger, emphasizing the perilous nature of wartime sea operations and the importance of vigilance.

Crandall is assigned to train a replacement crew member to deliver a coastwatcher named Patterson to a clandestine location. He finds the new crew member unsuitable, so he decides to take command himself to ensure the success of the covert mission. This underscores his leadership and adaptability under pressure.

The USS Echo, disguised as a native trading vessel, makes its crossing toward its destination. The crew successfully avoids detection initially, but they are spotted and photographed by a Japanese spotter plane, revealing their true identity and risk.

A Japanese warship’s landing party boards the USS Echo, capturing Crandall and the remaining crew after they are spotted. The crew is taken prisoner, marking a setback in their covert operation and increasing the stakes of their mission.

Crandall manages to rally his crew, leading a daring attempt to retake the USS Echo. During the mutiny, Crandall is wounded, but the crew’s determination and leadership help regain control of the ship, showcasing their bravery and resilience.

Hanson faces a critical choice: whether to radio a warning about the Japanese fleet, risking exposure, or to remain silent for the mission’s safety. He chooses to send a warning, and the USS Echo comes under heavy fire, leading to the decision to abandon ship as it is destroyed by shore guns.

The surviving crew is rescued after the sinking of the USS Echo. Their successful efforts during the battle help to win the Battle of the Bismarck Sea, earning Crandall command of a modern destroyer and Hanson command of a sub chaser, recognizing their valor and contributions.