They Were Expendable

In December 1941, Lieutenant John 'Brick' Brickley commands a squadron of nimble U.S. Navy PT boats stationed at Cavite in the Philippines. He attempts to demonstrate their agility to Admiral Blackwell, but the senior commander remains unimpressed by their small size and light construction.

The announcement of the Japanese assault on Pearl Harbor arrives via a radio bulletin, causing significant agitation among the crew, particularly Lieutenant Junior Grade 'Rusty' Ryan. He is frustrated by their current sidelined duties, yearning for a chance to engage in combat.

As Japanese forces wreak havoc across the Philippines, Brick's squadron finds itself occupied with mundane tasks like mail and messenger duties, leading to tension among the crew. Rusty's frustration accelerates as he feels their potential is wasted during such dire times.

After a brutal attack on their base, Admiral Blackwell commands Brick's squadron to attack a Japanese cruiser bombarding U.S. troop positions onshore. This marks a turning point, giving the crew a chance to engage directly with the enemy.

Initially tasked with leading the second boat in the mission, Rusty is pulled back due to his executive officer's blood poisoning. Feeling betrayed, he accuses Brick of 'glory hogging' and resists evacuation to a military hospital, creating a rift between them.

During his recovery at the military hospital, Rusty blossoms into a romance with Army nurse Sandy Davyss. Their connection grows stronger as Sandy's determined personality impresses even other patients, including Ohio, who shares a ward with Rusty.

In a triumphant moment, Brick successfully sinks the Japanese cruiser, boosting morale within the squadron. However, this victory comes at a cost, as boats and crew members continually face mounting sacrifices in their fight.

As the situation in the Philippines deteriorates, Sandy participates in a dinner honoring her service, rekindling the affection between her and Rusty. This moment becomes significant as it brings warmth amid the looming battle and uncertainty.

With American defenses crumbling at Bataan, the PT Squadron finds themselves trapped on Corregidor, the last stronghold in Manila Bay. Under General Douglas MacArthur's orders, they must evacuate key leaders to Mindanao amidst the chaos.

Before embarking on their evacuation, Rusty makes a heart-wrenching phone call to Sandy in Bataan. Their conversation is abruptly cut off, highlighting the growing danger and uncertainty as the Japanese advance.

Navigating perilous waters, Rusty and the PT flotilla successfully transport the commanding general and Admiral Blackwell to safety, continuing to engage Japanese forces despite dwindling numbers. This mission showcases their bravery in the face of adversity.

As the squadron's numbers dwindle, members without boats are repurposed to fight as infantry alongside the Army. This new reality emphasizes the urgency of their situation, as resources tighten amid the relentless Japanese assault.

Rusty's vessel suffers extensive damage during a confrontation, leading him to seek repairs at a local shipyard. 'Dad' Knowland, the shipyard manager, refuses to evacuate and bids an emotional farewell to Rusty as hostilities escalate.

In a final act of defiance, Rusty's boat launches one last daring assault against a Japanese cruiser. This self-sacrificing move encapsulates the squadron's spirit, as they strive against overwhelming odds even as their own numbers diminish.

After the chaos of battle, Rusty, Brick, and two ensigns receive orders for an airlift to safety and training roles stateside. They are left uncertain about Sandy's fate and share their fears, clinging to the hope that she will escape the perilous situation in Bataan.