Toward the Unknown

Bond is captured during the Korean War and subjected to torture. After 14 months, he breaks under pressure and signs a confession used for propaganda. He is released and spends about a year recovering before attempting to return to flight testing.

A year after his release, Bond arrives at Edwards Air Force Base Flight Test Center hoping to resume work as a test pilot. He must prove himself again after his long absence and the trauma of captivity. The air base atmosphere remains demanding and competitive.

A plane crash lands nearby on the dry lake bed as Bond arrives. He braves flames and an explosion to attempt to pry the canopy free and save the pilot. The incident immediately tests his resolve and places him in the thick of Edwards' dangerous world.

Colonel McKee recognizes Bond as the man who tried to save his life, while Brigadier General Banner distrusts him and blocks his return. Connie Mitchell, Banner's secretary and Bond's old flame, has conflicted feelings toward him. The personal dynamics complicate Bond's rehabilitation.

Bond pushes for any available role and accepts Banner's offer of routine flying in support. He begins to prove his worth through steady, disciplined work. Banner, a hands-on leader, continues to take the most dangerous assignments himself.

While flying the Gilbert XF-120, Bond uncovers dangerous structural problems that threaten its acceptance. He insists he did not push the aircraft beyond its design, but others, especially H. G. Gilbert, doubt him. The trust gap deepens around the project.

After Bond's concerns, Banner nearly collapses in the locker room, underscoring the pressure he faces. Bond notices the strain, but Banner tries to deflect the moment rather than reveal weakness. The incident foreshadows how personal pressure will affect decisions.

During a test flight, Bond calmly and expertly comes to Banner's rescue when danger arises. The life-saving action helps build a tentative bond of trust between the two men. The rescue also demonstrates Bond's capability under extreme pressure.

Bond confronts Major 'Bromo' Lee, a drunken rival pilot who inflames the situation. Bond's reaction triggers memories of his imprisonment, and he punches Bromo twice. The altercation exposes the fragility of bonds among the test pilots.

Major Joe Craven, Bond's close friend, is killed when a wing of the XF-120 tears away during testing. Craven's death validates Bond's concerns about the aircraft's safety. The tragedy cements the gravity of the project and its risks.

Bond receives the assignment to fly the rocket-powered X-2, designed to reach the edge of outer space. Banner, meanwhile, remains deeply involved in the decisions surrounding the program. The assignment signals Bond's continued central role in Edwards' most dangerous work.

Bond is set to fly the last half-power test before the main flight, but he ignores the line and pushes to full power. He barely survives a high-altitude bailout when the aircraft goes out of control. The base flight surgeon notes that only a young, fit person could have survived such a maneuver.

The base accepts Banner's promotion and transfer, and he covers Bond's trail by claiming he gave verbal authorization for full power if needed. Banner also recommends Colonel McKee as his successor. Bond's survival and the cover-up help ensure his continued presence at Edwards.

Although Banner offers to take Connie with him to his new assignment, she decides to stay with Bond. Their relationship endures the turmoil and remains a constant through the return-to-flight saga. The couple's choice reinforces Bond's stability and resolve.