Although loudmouthed braggart Jerry Plunkett alienates his comrades and officers, Father Duffy, the regimental chaplain, has faith that he'll prove himself in the end.
"The Fighting 69th" is a First World War regiment of mostly New York-Irish soldiers. Amongst a cocky crew, perhaps the cockiest is Jerry Plunkett, a scrappy fellow who looks out only for himself. The officers and non-coms of the regiment do their best to instill discipline in Plunkett, and the chaplain, Father Duffy, tries to make Plunkett see the greater good, all to no avail. Behind the lines or in the trenches, Plunkett acts selfishly and cowardly, eventually costing the lives of many of his fellow soldiers. A final act of cowardice leads to terrible consequences, but Plunkett sees in them a chance to redeem himself...if only he can.—Jim Beaver <[email protected]>
Jerry Plunkett joins the 69th as World war I is raging. His ego during basic training evaporates and turns to cowardice in the face of trenchwarfare. Despite the attempts of Father Flanagan, his actions result inthe deaths of troops and he is condemmed to be shot. He is able to redemm himself in battle, but loses his life in the process.
