Uncommon Valor

Uncommon Valor

Year: 1983

Runtime: 105 min

Language: English

Director: Ted Kotcheff

ActionDramaThrillerWar

A retired Marine officer, Col. Cal Rhodes, embarks on a perilous quest to rescue his captive son in war-torn Laos, defying government indifference and assembling a team of battle-hardened veterans, including Wilkes and Sailor. Backed by wealthy executive MacGregor, who's searching for his own son, Rhodes confronts the brutal realities of war in a heart-pumping, adrenaline-fueled rescue mission.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline – Uncommon Valor (1983)
Trace every key event in Uncommon Valor (1983) with our detailed, chronological timeline. Perfect for unpacking nonlinear stories, spotting hidden connections, and understanding how each scene builds toward the film’s climax. Whether you're revisiting or decoding for the first time, this timeline gives you the full picture.
1

Chaos in South Vietnam

In 1972, amid the chaos of the Vietnam War, a group of American soldiers faced a desperate situation as they attempted to evacuate their wounded comrade. A helicopter arrived to rescue [Blaster], [Sailor], and Wilkes, but in the frantic rush, the soldiers realized they had been left behind.

1972 South Vietnam
2

The Quest Begins

A decade later, retired Marine Colonel Jason Rhodes embarks on an unyielding quest to uncover the fate of his son, Frank, an Army Lieutenant missing since the events of 1972. The emotional toll of uncertainty weighs heavily on him, as he is determined to find answers despite the indifference from the U.S. government.

1980s
3

Finding Brotherhood

As Rhodes scours Southeast Asia, he connects with fellow Vietnam War veterans who share his mission to bring missing soldiers home. The group includes [Blaster], Wilkes, [Sailor], and others who have also felt the heartache of loss.

Southeast Asia
4

Rallying Forces

Rhodes organizes a daring rescue mission, rallying the veterans together to venture into the heart of Laotian territory where he believes his son may still be alive. They recruit Kevin Scott, a former Force Recon Marine, further strengthening their resolve.

5

Training for the Mission

With financial support from McGregor, a wealthy oil entrepreneur with a personal connection to the mission, the team undergoes intense training in Galveston, Texas. They prepare rigorously, honing their skills for the challenging mission ahead.

Galveston, Texas
6

CIA Intervention

Upon arriving in Southeast Asia, the team's plans quickly go awry as the CIA intervenes, seizing their gear and weapons. Fears of an international incident loom large, presenting significant obstacles to their mission.

Southeast Asia
7

Acquiring New Supplies

Unwilling to be thwarted, Rhodes and the team pool their resources to purchase new supplies for their covert operation. They also connect with Jiang, a former drug lord who lost a son in Vietnam, who provides them with World War II weapons.

8

A Bond Forms

As they embark on their perilous journey, Charts and Jiang’s daughter, Lai Fun, begin to develop a fragile bond. However, the mission remains fraught with danger and uncertainty as they navigate hostile territory.

Southeast Asia
9

Confronting Demons

The mission becomes not just a physical struggle but also an emotional one, as the team confronts their past traumas while joyfully striving for a reunion with their lost brothers. Dangers abound as they edge closer to the Laotian border.

10

Tragedy Strikes

As they approach their goal, tragedy befalls the group in a violent confrontation with a border patrol squad, resulting in the death of Mai Lin. This event shatters the team's morale and causes fractures within their ranks.

Laotian border
11

Divided Teams

The mission splits into two groups: the 'air team' led by Rhodes focuses on securing an escape chopper, while the 'ground team' scouts a nearby prison camp. Tensions rise as they work independently with the hope of rescuing American prisoners.

12

A Key Discovery

Both teams experience a moment of relief when they discover four American prisoners at the camp. However, the mystery of Frank's fate continues to plague Rhodes, overshadowing their temporary triumph.

Prison Camp
13

The Assault

As night falls, both teams prepare for a coordinated attack. [Blaster] sets explosives while Rhodes leads the air team through the jungle, unleashing chaos as they aim to secure the prisoners and execute their rescue plan.

14

Heroism and Sacrifice

During the final chaotic moments, [Blaster] sacrifices himself to protect the prisoners as the getaway chopper faces delays. Amidst the turmoil, the surviving team members manage to escape despite further casualties.

15

Return and Revelation

Back home, Rhodes learns from McGregor's son that Frank died shortly after his capture due to illness, despite the comrades’ attempts to save him. This bittersweet revelation closes a painful chapter for Rhodes, allowing him to finally find peace.

Last Updated: November 21, 2024 at 09:20

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