Original subtitles

- Heave up. - Heave up.

- Anchors aweigh sir. - All engines ahead one third.

- Engines ahead one third. - Anchor in sight.

Clear anchor sir.

- Secure anchors for sea. - Secure anchors for sea.

- All engines ahead, standard. - Engines ahead, standard.

- Ready Captain? - Ready Colonel.

Attention, all officers Special Force Six. Attention, all officers Special Force Six,

will proceed immediately to the war room on A deck forward.

Officers only, immediately please.

I was also told today that the Germans have thickened up the mines on the beach.

Accordingly, a small party of zappers was landed three hours ago by submarine...

to clear a path across the beach at the base of the cliff.

They've since reembarked safely,

Your men will have advert avoid unnecessary spreading out across the beaches.

Now commit yourselves boldly and quickly.

Hesitation won't save casualties, it will cost casualties.

We got some hard knocks to take but if we start bold to star with...

more of us will be alive when is all over.

My only regret is that I've not had time to get to know any of you personally...

during the few days that I've been with you.

But despite the unfortunate circumstance that deprived you of your original commander.

I feel that you've given me your confidence and cooperation, thank you.

Now, I've always found is a good idea to put the operation completely out of mind...

during the last few hours before zero.

So, shall we do that gentlemen. That's all, good luck.

If he fights as well as he talks, those Krauts are in for a bad time.

He will, don't let anybody say different.

Yeah. I guess if a guy is got it you can smell it a mile away, I'll see you.

- Sir? - Oh Brooks?

Yes Captain, I was told to report you after the briefing.

Get all your platoon sergeants together.

When we hit the beach...

there'll be no punching up or running around outside the cleared line it'll be marked.

The rest of the beach is mined.

- Yes sir. - Oh Tom...

- Sir? - How you feeling?

- Lousy. - Me too.

- Parker? - Sir.

- I thought it was you, feeling a bit edgy? - Afraid I am sir.

- I take it this is your first show? - Yes sir.

Is the best Captain Parker, the first one is always the best.

You've all your luck riding with you.

- How many of these have you been on sir? - Off the sea? About half a dozen.

Some duds, some fairly good.

Is odd, meeting like this.

- She told you? - Oh yes.

Treacherous old beast, the Channel.

At least the Germans will never expect us, not in this weather.

Try and get some sleep, even a minute or two makes a difference.

They'll have to beach us higher than these breakers Captain.

They'll need luck.

I'm not sending men waist deep into sea like this with 60 pound mortars on their backs.

Aren't you?

But if the boats don't carry up the beach, you haven't any choice, have you?

Why don't you take your own advice and stop thinking about it?

Used to be so easy for you, in the desert.

All you had to do was to think back.

Think back to that wonderful, unspoiled time before Egypt.

When she didn't owe you anything because you weren't a hero then and wounded.

You wanted to ask her a question, it was 1942.

You had so little time.

Bailey, why don't you pop into that pub? I'll meet you there in a few minutes.

Say, we oughtn't to stay long sir, not if we'd to rejoin that convoy sir.

All right. You get yourself a beer.

With lights, of course it'd be a different story.

Captain Wynter, come in quickly sir. The Brigadier will be so pleased to see you.

- Mala, is Miss Valerie about? - Yes Captain Wynter.

- Yes Mala, who is it? - It is Captain Wynter sir.

It's not very polite barging in on you sir but the fact is all the telephone lines...

The arrival of large numbers of reinforcements, including American tanks...,

is regarded in military circles in Cairo as certain to turn the tide of battle...

strongly in our favor within a matter of days, if not hours.

General Dittmar's weekly broadcast...

- John? - Hello Valerie.

What on earth are you doing here?

Some people would say a bad thing, I say a good.

As a matter of fact, I broke out our convoy.

- Broke out of a convoy? - Good for you.

Well, a sort of embarkation privilege I allowed myself.

Embarkation?

Yes, I'm off Val.

How you mean off? The division is only been training more than two months.

Well, I'm not with the division any longer sir.

It's a reinforced company, a sort of small Commando.

- I volunteered and they gave it to me. - You have to volunteer?

Oh, there's no such thing as having to volunteer girl, contradiction in terms.

Is just that I have a rather singular theory.

The quicker more of us go off, the quicker more of us will get back.

Is a rather illogical theory too I suppose.

Don't be annoyed about it please.

Suppose you can't tell me where you're going?

- Some place haunted by the lizard I imagine. - Ah, Shepherd's Hotel, Cairo.

- Father? - You're looking very fit sir.

I am fit, sit down Wynter.

Two years, two years since Dunkirk and they keep me on the sick list.

When I do go back they'll have to give me a division.

Of course, I know why they're keeping me here, they're afraid I'll fight.

Oh, when you do get your division sir, I'd be very proud if I could serve with you again.

And I'd want you Wynter, I want you, you got the makings.

You had them at St. Omer in 40.

You know, I've missed our talks this past winter.

Thank you sir, me too.

- Sir? - What?

Would you mind if Valerie and I took a quick walk onto the pub and back?

Nonsense, you won't find nothing there. I'll fix you something to keep the cold out.

Father please, I would like to.

Oh my dear fellow, please, please forgive me, I got so used to your official visits I...

That's all right sir.

That German bomber again, always tries to make the runway at the bomber station.

He never does though, can't hit a thing.

There's another boy down the road there with an AK gun British, he can't hit a thing either.

And the grown-ups sit around in Whitehall waiting for the Americans to come, more boys.

Well, goodbye sir.

Good luck then Wynter.

Get out there wherever you're going...

but for goodness' sake come to close quarters with the Hun.

A bit of cold steel now is worth 20 American bombers in a year's time.

Right, sir.

I know that sounds old fashioned but you try it, you'll find it will work wonders.

Yes.

- I'm afraid Father is terribly jealous. - Of you?

No silly, of you, going to the war without him.

I'm afraid he'll die here if they don't give him something to do.

Well, it can't be very easy for you either Val.

I've hardly been a mile beyond the common in the last two years.

I feel rather like a yearling that's very much grown up but still tethered.

You're still in the ATS, aren't you? Can't you get ordered to London?

I am, I'm going next month and ironically, I'm working for the American Red Cross.

Oh, won't your father mind? The Americans, I mean.

No, he accepts the Red Cross because is so universal.

- Val... - Yes John?

I wouldn't want anything I'd ever said to give you the feeling of been tethered.

- But I did want to say that... - Yes John?

It isn't life and death if you don't feel the same way.

While I'm gone, in a terribly strong way I'm going to need you.

John I...

Just to be able to think of you, write to you, to know that you're here.

Because everything that I'm leaving behind has become...

Well, you, suddenly.

- Bailey? - Yes sir.

- I'll be with you in a sec. - Right sir.

Does it mane any sense?

Yes John, it makes all the sense in the world.

Please, you're not just saying that?

Don't you understand that I need you just as much as you need me.

Just as we started to know each other you're going away.

And I'd have felt so, sort of safe and useless and alone without someone to be...

proud of and frightened for.

And to be waiting for when they come back and to live for when is all over.

This is going to have to last me a long time.

I'm glad there's a moon for us.

There'll be more, lots of them.

Whenever you see it, the moon I mean...

promise to imagine that I'm looking at it at the exact same moment.

In Egypt, the desert, anywhere, it'll be the same moon.

I promise.

- All clear? - All clear.

Assault craft will be lowered away at 0420 Colonel Wynter.

- Thanks. - Good luck Colonel.

Oh, Chief? How we doing?

Pretty steady sir, 10, 11 knots I'd say.

Be a couple more hours.

- You in a hurry sir? - Sure, hurry to get it over with.

Can't blame you on that.

- Been over here long Captain? - Two years, three months.

- Tough. - Yeah.

But it wasn't so tough, not at first. Not when you got to London.

You didn't know anything about Valerie then or the sixth of June...

or this feeling of being expendable for the first time in your life.

You had a well pressed uniform, a staff job in London, a pretty wife back home,

You really had it made or did you?

Stop trying to find the war Parker.

- Doesn't mean a thing, eh? - Not in daytime.

Probably just a Messerschmidt 110.

Heard a new Captain hit town, came over take his snapshot.

- He'll be 50 miles away by now. - How's the razor blade situation over here?

Get all you want at the PX. Blades, soap, and I can get you some Scotch.

Hey, pretty fancy.

- Brad and Janie, wives are devious. - No, I don't know, I kind like mine.

Did you promise to never take it off till you got home?

That's right.

Oh, I can't say that I blame you, she's a beaut.

I, I heard the Colonel say that you publish a newspaper in Connecticut.

- My father in law is a publisher, yeah. - Same difference.

It'll still make the old man happy.

That's the all clear.

We're late, when you've got an appointment with Colonel Alexander Timmer boy...

publisher or no publisher, you keep it.

Here it is Parker, Headquarters, European Theater of Operations, United States Army.

Your new home.

Now watch it now, you're going to be married to this guy for a long, long time.

- How he likes his eggs? - Hard boiled.

Behind that door, you'll find an ex-car salesman from Minneapolis.

Who's conducting a very vigorous war to make General...

and that you can thank your lucky stars you weren't at West Point.

What's wrong with West Point all of the sudden?

Nothing.

Except that Lieutenant Colonel Alexander Timmer didn't happen to go there, good luck.

Yeah.

Captain Parker sir, I was ordered to report you.

All right Parker Relax. Anyhow, this way is going to be Ed.

And remember, possession is nine points of the law.

I think the General will be the best judge of that Timmer.

Go ahead, cry on the General's shoulder if you want, it got stars on it.

And he's a West Point man, maybe he'll see it your way.

Meanwhile those new officers are assigned to my section.

Your section? Very well Timmer, we'll see what happens.

Oh, talking of new officers, Captain Parker, Colonel Cantrell.

- How do you do sir? - How do you do?

- See you Timmer. - Right.

Mr. West Point Honor Cadet.

Parker, there's just one thing I ask of the men come under me.

- Can you keep your mouth shut? - I was briefed on security sir.

- Where? - Fort Harrison sir.

Kid stuff, from now on you got to live security, breathe it, sleep it.

- You want some coffee? - No thanks.

You know why I picked you mostly? Those parachute wings.

- I was invalided out of the airborne. - Yeah, I know everything about you Parker.

I ran a full scale security check on you myself.

So, you broke your leg jumping.

Well, for my dough you're still a fighting man, so am I.

Some of this brass around here doesn't quite realize that, but they will.

So will Ed Cantrell...

he thinks he's going to get those chickens on his shoulders before I do.

Well, he's wrong, he's so wrong Parker. Where are you billeted?

- Captain Boyce, I'm sharing his apartment. - Ray Boyce, eh? He's smart, maybe too smart.

Just because you're billed with Boyce doesn't mean he's got to know everything you do.

- Understood? - Understood sir.

- And don't be a knuckle man Parker, speak up. - Yes sir.

Right now, here are some target tracings we're proposing for Operation Sledgehammer.

Familiarize yourself with them.

Then you'll run them up to 632nd Bombardment, Barkstow, Lincolnshire, Major Mills.

We'll see if the fellows at operational level have different ideas.

- Thank you sir. - Right.

Hey, easy on that Parker now. Easy.

Here we are fellas, back in the graveyard.

They ought to give this town back to the Saxs.

Ah, they were smart, they hightailed out of here a thousand years ago already.

Oh, come on.

- Look Bill, soldiers. - I say.

- Hey fellas, look, the Home Guard. - Oh, here comes the infantry.

Look at them drill.

Taxi.

Hey you know something, my grandmother could lick them all and she's two years dead.

- You guys really expect to win the war? - Hey, move over.

- Look at the little one. - Like a Boy Scout.

- What is that? - Look alive chaps.

This is rifle drill, not cricket practice.

I say chaps, it ain't cricket you know.

Cricket? It ain't even marbles. Come on, get that lead out jack, get that lead out.

Don't look now boy but we got an audience.

You men will give me your names, ranks and numbers, you...

Oh, get lost.

You fellas down at Plans sure have it easy.

An office and a mimeograph machine and bingo, you're operational.

Asking us to suggest targets for Operation Sledgehammer.

On the target date they've got here we couldn't hit a tin can.

I don't know anything about sir, I was ordered to bring back some tracings...

and with your help I intend to do that.

You'll have them in the morning.

Major Mills here.

Yeah.

Oh, why bother me with it? Do I've to handle the provost marshal's work too?

What?

Oh no, a brigadier?

A wounded brigadier?

I'll be right in.

- You come with me Parker. - Me?

Yes you, is about time you guys in London found out what we have to go through here.

- You men like three day passes? - Oh, Sure, yes sir.

Remember them fondly, you won't be seen any more of them, what's your version Gerbett?

You in the habit of hitting old men?

I didn't even see him till after I had hit him sir.

Anyhow, I don't care if I get busted back to private for this.

I don't have to take a whipping from any of them sir and nobody can make me.

So you past your time riding these men who are doing their best to win the war?

No more than they've been riding us.

They've given us the silent treatment ever since we got over here.

They act like they're doing us a favor letting us come over England or something.

We are not good enough to talk to, why can't they fight their own war?

All right, that's enough Gerbert.

- Take them back to base Captain. - Yes sir.

- Anderson, take over. - Sir, into the truck.

Hate to see morale go to pot-like this but what can I do?

- Aircrew? - Sure, aircrew.

In a couple of months they'll be flying combat missions over Germany in daylight.

We better get to see the brigadier.

I will inform the brigadier but I'm not sure he wishes to see anyone.

Brace yourself Captain, she's only the servant.

You'd think we weren't alive.

Gentlemen?

I'm Major Mills, Group Adjutant at the bomber station sir.

This is Captain Parker of ETO Headquarters.

Yes?

Brigadier, I'd like to offer my regrets for the behavior of one of our men this morning.

We'll have the man up on charges of course and I think I...

can assure you he'll be adequately dealt with.

If there are any ill-effects from the blow he struck you we'll be glad...

to entertain any claim for the discomfort you've suffered.

- Do you hear me sir? - I hear you perfectly Major Mills.

But you haven't told me why your men are permitted to loaf about the village...

shouting and using vile language.

The village is not off limits to our men sir, as to language...

Then I suggest you consider putting it off limits.

That's a pretty drastic thing to do.

I can think of rather harsher orders I have issued without the slightest difficulty.

I don't blame you sir for feeling bitter.

The fact that you were struck by one of our enlisted men is...

- It was I who struck him Major Mills. - Surely sir, you gave him some warning.

I am not in the habit of parleying with rabble disguised in uniform.

That particular member of the rabble...

happens to be an American airman who's over here to fight a war.

The war has been on for some considerable time now, I suggest he begin fighting it.

He'll fight it all right. And probably die all right too.

Until he does...

he might usefully occupy his time learning to conduct himself like a soldier.

He'll conduct himself like a soldier...

right in the gun turret of his B-17, flying over Germany in broad daylight.

All right Parker.

You're entitled to slop over your men if you like, I don't.

And may I now offer you a glass of sherry Major?

- No thank you sir, not right now. - In that case gentlemen, good afternoon.

I am sorry Brigadier, we came over here with the best intentions but...

darn it, we got to run our own business our own way.

Will you please leave, gentlemen?

- Thanks Parker, when I get mad I dry up. - Not me.

Who these characters think they are anyway?

They were licked in 40 and and they still taking a walloping.

They won't admit they're dead pigeons, that's the trouble with them.

Need us inferior Americans who got no manners...

but a lot of power and know how and is killing them.

Hold it.

Oh, let her hear, what's the difference?

My name is Valerie Russell, you just see my father.

Is just one of those things Miss Russell I...

Major, will those men have to be punished?

- You think they should be? - No, I will absolutely do not.

If your father complains to the War Office we'll get a rocket in our feet.

Well, he was wrong to do what he did.

I shan't be here after tomorrow Major but I do want to say this...

My father isn't well and changes frighten him, Americans mean changes.

- He was wrong, but please try to understand. - Believe me Miss Russell I...

Please...

you see, when he was wounded at Dunkirk he felt that the...

England he had loved had gone forever.,

Of course it hadn't but he's quite afraid now of lots of things.

He's been through two wars and quite badly really.

With all the stupidity and waste of the first and the angry pride and despair of this one.

But I do love my father and I just don't know Americans.

But you are here and fighting the war...

and most of us want to try and help you and make you feel welcome,

But is difficult, because some of us, and the older ones particularly...

are proud of what we've done.

Perhaps for that reason prouder than we've a right to be and therefore...

prouder than we've ever been.

But please don't punish those men Major and try to understand us.

We're not awfully good at being thankful because...

Well, we haven't had occasion to be thankful to anyone except possibly God...

for several hundreds of years.

But we'll try, you'll see.

Well, shut my mouth.

Parker?

- Excuse me. - Good morning Miss Russell.

In the jeep yesterday?

Oh yes, of course. How nice of you to remember me.

- In the army, eh? - Yes, in the army.

Actually, I'm working with your people, the American Red Cross.

Lucky Red Cross. ETOUSA is where I work. European Theater of Operations, U.S. Army.

- Oh, sounds like a nice big place. - There, there no seats back there.

Oh, dear, well there are none back there either so, well, luckily I've brought my own.

- Ah, mind if I share that with you love? - Well.

- Well actually, is reserved for the Captain. - Oh.

Americans, top priority I suppose.

Always get the best of everything.

Thank you.

Major Mills and I sure appreciated what you said yesterday Miss Russell...

like a breath of fresh air.

You must've absolutely dying...

for fresh air then because all I said was that I don't know Americans.

From a Britisher that's comes pretty close to a compliment these days.

- Oh, we're terrible, aren't we? - Sort of.

But you people do love to be liked, don't you all of you?

- All of us? Let's not get too impersonal. - Tell the truth.

If you're asking me if I'd like you to like me then I...

No, you know jolly well that wasn't what I was asking, couldn't care less.

- Guess that puts me in my place. - I'm sorry.

We have the foulest manners in the world.

No, let's say effective, they're designed to make strangers feel stranger, they work.

- Cigarette? - Thank you.

Are those American cigarettes sir? You mind if I try one?

You mind if I do?

- Thank you so much. - Cigarettes girls, look.

- Thank you so much sir. - Oh, I say is empty, you're so generous.

Two more whole packs here.

- Arsenal of Democracy. - What?

Tell me the truth.

Under these cold, bad manners of ours...

you love to think that we're simply green with envy for you, don't you?

While you may envy us you don't respect us, that's said pretty ugly.

Yes, that is ugly Captain Parker, you're right.

- Brad. - Eh?

I said Brad, Brad Parker, is my name, call me Brad.

Oh. Brad.

All right, my name is Valerie but please don't call me Val.

- You don't like it? - Not particularly but...

- Well, somebody else calls me that. - And you don't like him.

Yes, I like him very much.

- In London? - No, Africa.

- A lonely war. - I hate it.

Well, I have a love too, my wife Janie.

- Lucky, what she like? - Beautiful.

- Children? - No, no children yet.

You probably have a lot of friends in London?

I used to before the war.

Well, I was going to say if not...

perhaps you'd share an occasional meal with a man who seems due to be pretty lonely.

- You're very kind. - Which is British for no?

Which is British for I'd love to.

You turn left on Shaftesbury Avenue and there is facing you on Great Windmill Street.

Suppose be a pretty good show, eh?

Yes, I believe it is of it's kind, very. I hope you enjoy the show.

Know something? Was there watching you a while back,

And I said to myself, she don't look like an English girl.

As a matter of fact, you remind me a lot of a girl I knew back home.

A real peach of a girl. Boy, did we make beautiful music together.

Really? You'd better run along Lieutenant or you'll miss the show.

Brad.

- Good evening. - Good evening.

You know, I suddenly realized just been going out...

with me may be kind of a postman's holiday for you.

Oh, but I've been looking forward to it so much all day, promise.

May I ask just one professional question?

Where's a good place to take an English girl out to dinner?

- Well, there's a little Italian place on... - How about a big Italian place?

- Rather on the expensive side? - Preferably.

With wailing violins, false Chianti and black market steak?

- Sounds too good to be true. - I know just the place.

Well, now that you've been with us for a week, how do you like us?

So far, I've specialized in very young officers who are very homesick.

- The others make passes, eh? - Oh yes.

Yeah, one man came to my desk wearing a wedding ring.

He went to the other side of the room...

came back minus the ring and invited me to the theater.

- I think you'd better go back to Barkstow. - Oh, nonsense.

Oh look, some of these guys aren't such fools.

They can really catch you off balance, Air Force especially.

You know, you'd think of war and of ordinary life standing still but doesn't, moves faster.

- How your brakes? - Foolproof, how yours?

Tough as that steak we had for dinner.

Then I'm going to tell you a secret. That steak we had was horse meat.

Very nice, thank you.

Thank you sir, is always a pleasure to play for two beautiful people in love.

You know, is a terrible...

- You mind? - Thank you, I understand, I understand.

So glad about this evening.

Because, whatever happens in England or...

at the club I'll always be able to imagine Americans...

because I've met you and talked to you and liked you.

I was thinking the same thing about England.

All of a sudden, a whole country becomes the, the voice and face of a single person.

- Very wonderful person too. - It's terribly nice.

- Would you like to dance? - Love to.

- What's the matter? No good? - No, you dance very well.

So do you honey.

Brad?

Don't be cross but would you mind awfully not calling me honey?

Sorry.

How about Friday night?

- Well, if you'd really like to, I'd love to. - I'd really like to.

Till Friday, I'm so grateful for tonight.

- I'm grateful, too. - Goodbye.

Ok, suppose you stay this way, friends.

You imagine for one second your wife thinks you'll be faithful the whole of the war?

Don't know if she thinks it or not, she's got the right to expect it.

Besides, is a rule about soldiers' comforts. They're suppose to be physical, not emotional.

Yeah, I've thought about all that.

Or even admit when I first saw Valerie I thought about it, physically.

She and I were thousand miles apart then and strangers.

Let me tell you something, there's such a thing as being too darn pure.

It boomerangs.

You think I'm cheap the way I run around with dames here in London.

But when I go home boy I'll guarantee you this much, I'll go home to my wife.

Lucky little woman.

- Well, I've done the dishes. - Good girl.

- Finished your little talk, have you? - I guess so, thanks.

Ray, I think I'll hit the sack now, good night Jean.

Good night, sleep tight.

Hey, there's a big old gal, I wonder where she's off to.

Oh, India, Africa, America, you never know.

The saddest most exciting sound in the world.

Do you know that you actually looked sad just then?

- I did? That's funny. - Why? What were you thinking?

About your wife?

You like me to talk about Janie, don't you? Why?

- Oh Brad, do we have to? - No, we don't have to.

All right then, is because it makes me feel safe.

Oh, thanks.

- Oh, I didn't mean it that way. - No. Ok, Ok, I get it.

Oh, Brad darling...

Final result. Final results.

- Results of what? - Depends what you're after mate.

Thank you lady. Final results, Final results.

Commandos In Action in Desert?

Oh, that's just one of General Dittmar's radio commercials out of Berlin.

- It says The 71st Commando Unit... - John's?

Demolition raid on Tobruk Harbor.

Communique from Berlin says that the bodies of 27 men, including eight officers...

Look, he might've not even been on the raid.

Even if he was, the odds just still way against his being hurt.

I'm a coward Brad and I hate John for being so brave, he's going to make himself die.

And right now, he's in the desert writing silly, foolish, lighthearted letters about...

getting ready to singe old Rommel's beard and now this.

Look, why don't we go back to the West End and have dinner, eh?

All right, but just let's sit here quietly for a moment, may we?

Sure.

Hey, the moon is up.

- Where? - There.

Oh please God, let him be looking at.

He'll be back.

You can bet on it, in a couple of years at most the war will be over and he'll be back.

Long before probably.

Couple of years? Oh, seems like such ages.

Summer of 1944.

Brad...

this hasn't anything to do with the warning but would you mind if I just went home?

- Sure, but you'll need some dinner. - No, I'm not very hungry.

Suddenly everything is rather frightening.

Right.

- Nice, Ok if I come in? - Yes, please.

The awful thing is there isn't anything I can offer you to drink in the house.

Why don't I run down to the pub and get something?

Brad, I know this is going to sound awfully ungrateful and stupid and ungenerous...

But you'd rather call it off for tonight? Oh, I understand.

No, is more than just that Brad, is more than just tonight.

Look I, I hate saying this but you not seeing me isn't going to help that guy in the desert.

We're still two lonely people.

You think that I'm pure and angel like because I'm English and my voice is crisp...

and my father is a brigadier.

I'm not pure and angel like.

And I thought I'd be safe from you because you're a stranger and...

far removed from John and his world and everything that he stands for.

So I thought.

I wish I could see you now as I did on that first day when you were so...

gay and brash and good looking and very, very American.

Not very endearing.

Please go Brad, please say goodbye.

- Valerie honey... - I asked you not to call me that.

Look, I won't make a false move, I swear, now that I know is that way or nothing.

Please go Brad, you're not a stranger anymore.

I'm sorry.

Thanks for all the lovely outings and God bless.

Go ahead and call her, Bayswater 7546.

- Is making me nervous. - Making you nervous?

- How long you going to keep this up anyway? - For duration.

I went by that Red Cross club last night.

I didn't see anybody there look like she's supposed to look.

Maybe she's sick or went out of town on something.

Maybe she got hit in an air-raid or something, who's to know the difference?

- Got some pretty good lined up Parker? - No sir and anyway...

Anyway, you're a married man and is none of my damn business, I know.

But this office is my business. I want work out of every desk here...

not just faster than Cantrell's section, twice as fast, you understand?

Oh Parker, hope you make third base.

Now, if you don't mind a jigsaw puzzle with two pieces missing.

- Not at all. - Pardon me, miss.

- Yes Captain? - Is Miss Russell still working here?

Valerie? Sure, I'll get her for you right away.

No, no please, is all right. I...

Valerie, there's someone to see you.

Brad...

- Hi. - Hello.

I was just seeing if, if you were the same.

- I've missed you too. - You've had news?

Yes, three weeks ago, wonderful news.

You know, I kept thinking that maybe you'd come to the club one day but...

and then decided you wouldn't.

Oh, That's a very nice compliment, if only it'd been true but I'm here.

So glad.

Well, now that we can trust ourselves not to see each other, couldn't we maybe...

- See each other? - Tomorrow? If you're sure...

- Terribly sure. - 7 o'clock.

Brad, if you should change your mind, please don't telephone me or anything.

I think it'd be better that way and I'll, I'll understand.

I think you know I'll be there.

Listen, I'm taking Daphne to the French Club tonight, you want to string along?

No thanks, I've got a date.

Oh, is about time, something tangible I trust.

- Valerie. - Intangible, well, is still about time.

Parker.

- Sir? - Brad, you and I going on a little trip.

One of the best little trips we've ever made only, one of us may not come back.

Oh, don't worry Parker. It won't be you, you'll be back.

Is it today sir?

You bet your life is today and all day tomorrow too.

Only nobody is to know. Not even that bunch out there.

Well I, I have a dinner date sir. Have I permission to cancel it?

- Absolutely no. - Might look suspicious if I didn't.

Let me tell you something about security Parker.

You cancel a date and 12 other guys cancel their dates...

and next thing you know is all over London that something is up.

No sir, info like that could cost a thousand lives.

In a few minutes you and I walk out of here like we're going for a drink.

- Is that understood? - Yes sir.

Ok, call Arkinson. Tell him to gas up the car.

Yes sir.

What do you know about Operation Jubilee?

Jubilee? I've heard the code name. I don't know what it is.

You're about the only one. Worst security I ever heard of.

Wouldn't be surprised if the Germans were sitting up and waiting on the other side.

- What is it? A raid? - Bigger.

About half a division, Canadians. Tanks, and everything.

- Experimental assault. - We going as observers?

Not we Brad, me.

Officially we're going as observers, both of us, to watch the embarkation.

But strictly unofficially...

a crazy coot called Alex Timmer is going in with the Canadians.

Going on the assault without orders?

My friends always said Alex Timmer either come home a...

general or a corpse and I guess they were right.

Can you picture Ed Cantrell's face when he hears the news?

I can picture the general's face too.

Yeah, but secretly he'll be thinking that crazy coot...

Timmer is got something the other guys don't have.

Listen, they're scouting around for somebody to take over Plans up at Second Corps.

The job calls for chickens up here.

Rumor is up and down the hall is between Ed Cantrell and me. Now do you get it?

How you arrange the deal Colonel?

Buddy of mine, wonderful guy from up Toronto way, battalion commander.

- He fixed it up. - Can you tell me where the assault goes?

Yeah, Dieppe.

- Where? - Dieppe, on the French coast.

And if you ask me, is going to be murder.

Alex, you old fool.

Hiya Dunc, you didn't think I was going to miss it?

Well, you nearly did, we're about to leave, is going to be quite a party.

- We've been to parties before. - Not like this one baby.

Oh Colonel Harkness, Captain Parker.

Nice knowing you Parker, sorry we can't bring you.

- Well, perhaps some other time sir. - Sure, some other time. Come on Alex.

Be right with you.

Brad, zero is at 0430 hours in the morning.

Wait for me, I'll be back sometime tomorrow afternoon.

Brad, if I don't show...

there a couple of letters in the center drawer of my desk.

- Stick them in the mailbox, will you? - Yes sir.

I was just thinking.

Wouldn't it be just like Ed Cantrell to walk over the jackpot without gambling a dime?

- See you tomorrow sir. - Yeah.

Tomorrow.

Good hunting men, good hunting.

Remember, jolly good hunting.

Hi there.

- Hi. - Really good to see you.

- Is been a long time. - When did you get back?

- Is this all the casualty lists? - So far sir.

All we go in the line of Yanks is a couple of rangers, a captain and a warrant officer.

Thanks anyway for your trouble Sergeant.

- The surprise landing... - Are you upset about something?

- Say, your boyfriend isn't on that, is he? - The Dieppe raid? No, thank goodness.

- No, he's an American. - I didn't think it was likely.

Fellow was saying just now we have hardly more than a dozen or so guys down there.

Near the Dieppe Casino. Further bulletin...

Georgina, did you say some Americans are at Dieppe?

That's right, just a handful though.

Gee honey, I'd hope I didn't put a wrong idea into your head.

- Still no luck Captain? - Last ship arrived half an hour ago.

Hey, what do you think of this? German helmet, cost me 45 bucks.

Colonel Timmer.

Just about given you up sir, glad to see you.

Let's roll, eh?

I never got to shore.

Our LCI took a direct hit a hundred yards out.

One shot Parker, and those boys were all mashed up.

So help me, one shot and they were all mashed up.

You were lucky to get out Colonel.

- Old Dunc Harkness got hit bad. - Sorry to hear that sir.

Took his battalion in where is just murder.

Takes guts to give orders like that in the military business, but you just got to have it.

Twice. I was exploded in the water twice.

Arkinson, stop at the next pub you see, go in and bring out a bottle.

But they won't sell by the bottle less they know you...

Colonel, you have to drink bit by bit.

Artillery was deadly, deadly.

Second time I hit the water I was naked as a baby, no Mae West, no nothing.

And they were machine-gunning me out there.

All the time I kept thinking, those Kraut gunners got orders, get Timmer.

Pull up ahead there, Arkinson.

Come on Parker, you could do with a snort yourself.

- Two double Scotch. - Soda or water sir?

- Neat. - Very good sir.

I just can't wait to see that Ed Cantrell's face.

Go ahead Colonel, I'll get mine next time. Two more here please.

Sorry mate, but you've had the limit as it is, one whiskey per customer.

- That's the rule this week. - Just a minute.

- Where were you this afternoon? - This afternoon sir?

Well, I was out in the back, digging up the potato patch.

Is that right? Well, I was at Dieppe.

Oh I see, in that case sir...

Did I understand you to say that you were at Dieppe?

- That's right. - But you're an American, aren't you?

- Just who are you? - Associated Press.

Grainger is my name, I've been down at Southampton all day...

and you're the only American I've seen.

I went along as an observer. I'm from headquarters, I volunteered.

You know how it is. There's going to be a lot of this sort of thing up ahead.

You want to get the smell of it, the feel of it, sooner the better.

- And jolly creditable of you too. - Colonel Timmer sir.

- Is it Ok if I get me a quick belt too? - Yeah, go ahead.

What section of headquarters do you work in Colonel Timmer?

Why I...

Pardon me Colonel, don't you think we should be on our way?

Yeah, maybe you're right.

- Well, to the next one. - What?

Oh, yes. Quite.

Ah, I guess Mr. Lieutenant-Colonel Ed Cantrell lost his big chance, eh?

I guess so sir.

This crazy coot went to France and got back all in one piece, right Brad?

That'll shake them, eh?

Hello, is Captain Parker there please?

Yes, this is Valerie. You must be Captain Boyce.

No, I haven't either, not a word.

Are you allowed to tell me whether Brad could possibly have been on the Dieppe raid?

Oh, I see.

No, you're very kind. No, is very sweet of you now.

Yes.

If Brad should come back...

would you tell him that I said that I hope that he will let me know.

No, it doesn't matter how late.

Brad.

- Brad. - Valerie.

Brad, I'm so glad you're all right.

So glad.

I'm so glad.

♪ Wham the hew-gag, beat the drum. ♪

- What was that? - Old song.

- ♪ Hail, the conquering hero comes. ♪ - All right Ray, knock it off.

I'll be all three monkeys. Hear no, see no, speak no.

- Is the Colonel in? - In his office no, in the Daily Express, yes.

Splendid evidence of Allied cooperation was provided by a high ranking officer...

of the U.S. headquarters command. Lieutenant-Colonel Timmer...

who volunteered to cross the Channel with the Canadians...

Pay attention man, this little article here is already borne fruit.

That order came from the general's office not ten minutes ago.

Wow, just when I wanted to ask him a favor too.

Well, maybe he won't see it for a while.

- Morning. - Morning sir.

- Colonel, could I see you for a moment? - Yeah, sure, come on in Brad, come on in.

Go ahead Brad, shoot.

Sir, I've got some back leave due me. I was wondering about my chances of getting down...

the coast for a couple of days, you know, like from Saturday noon till Sunday noon?

Oh, I thought you wanted to talk about something else.

- Don't you read the newspapers? - Yes sir, I do.

- Pretty good, eh? - I don't think it'll do any harm.

Do any harm?

Oh, you read this order.

Well, it doesn't mean a thing.

Hope you're right, sir.

Colonel, what I wanted to ask was...

Yeah, I know.

You're worried about this part in the other where says...

in future nobody talks to newspapers guys.

That's right.

Well, let me tell you something Brad. I know this army, all their little tricks.

First they give you a rap over the knuckles.

See that's just for the records. Gets them off the hook.

But a story like this in the newspapers has got to do the army good Brad.

- It just has to. - Hope you're right sir.

- As a matter of fact I... - And the answer is no.

We're sweating out plans for the invasion of Africa.

Until the landing takes place nobody gets a leave.

Sorry sir.

After the boys land, maybe you can have a day or so, we'll see.

Yeah?

Well, if it isn't my old friend Ed Cantrell.

Alex.

Sit yourself Alex.

Congratulations Colonel.

Thanks, and you too.

By the way, did you want adjoining rooms? I forgot to ask.

Because we haven't any adjoining, I'm afraid.

- Is, is that all right? - Yes, perfectly all right.

If you don't mind the wind sir, you've time for a nice walk before tea.

This way madam, please.

This way, if you please sir.

- Oh Brad, is awful. I feel so guilty. - What about?

Well, I told you this would be a nice place and look at it.

Is going to come down in buckets.

I like it. I like the wind, I like the black clouds.

And I like it because you used to live here.

And not so long ago either.

200 dreary little schoolgirls in a line along the sea front.

Russell, keep in step there.

And if you didn't, you got your ears boxed.

Yeah, those people on the Mayflower knew what they were doing all right.

Sometimes I wonder about that, even now.

- You do, eh? - Yes.

- Oh. - Hey, come on.

- Oh. - Here.

Oh Brad, are we really sinners just by being in love?

Why ask me?

You're from New England and you're supposed to know.

- All right, I'll tell you. - What?

You're probably the most innocent and most beautiful sinner in the whole wide war.

Oh, and you're the most exciting.

People like to blame the war for everything, don't they?

Sure, when there's one to blame.

- Oh, I'm cold. - Yeah?

- Brad. - Eh?

- There's a fire in my room. - Yeah?

No, no, wait a minute.

A real, blazing fire or one of those English things made out of damp smoke?

A real blazing fire and we'll have tea there.

The African landings went well, didn't they?

Yeah, and am I proud, I wielded a very valiant pencil.

Oh, darling, that's childish.

You know that in this war, you just take what they give you, that's all.

Is it? John volunteered.

Well, he did, didn't he?

- Yes. - So...

So I've prayed every night that they wouldn't take you...

and that they'd leave you here, that's what's so.

You're wrong, wonderful, beautiful but wrong.

- I know. - And I'm wrong.

Right now I don't care. I love you. Come on.

Anyone who wasn't assigned to fifth division, Iceland, can thank his lucky stars.

Believe me, you're not going to like him any better than I do but...

that's, that's the way it is in this man's army.

- Sorry to be late sir. - Forget it boy.

I, I was just telling the men it doesn't pay to break your back doing a job.

Our reward just came down from on high.

Looks like a bunch of diplomas, doesn't it? But is not, there orders.

The team is busted up, how do you like it?

Crandall to Second Corps, Washington. Marcus to OPD.

Halloran to AFHQ, Algiers. Well, there they are men, pick a winner.

Hey, luck is holding Brad, Free French liaison right here in London.

Me for the solid life, what you draw?

- I haven't looked. - Go ahead, only hurts for a minute.

- What happens to you Colonel? - Me?

Operation Burial, down to Movement Control.

Looks like they're trying to get rid of me.

And you know something? I'm going to help them out.

I'm going to get into a combat outfit if I have to take a bust down to captain to do it.

How they cut your throat?

Allied Force Headquarters, Algiers, first available aircraft.

Maybe I can get me a transfer to a combat outfit too, right here in England.

Are you on limited service, aren't you? Broke your leg jumping?

Yeah, but you know as well as I do, with my combat training...

Yeah, I know Brad. Right now that'll do you as much good as a slip from the chaplain.

And I'm afraid you're stuck with it and there isn't a thing in the world I can do to help.

Still no luck, eh?

Now relax, pour yourself a Sunday drink.

After all, you could do worse than Algiers.

- Hey, the Kasbah boy. - That isn't funny.

Ok, I'll play it straight.

I do know somebody who's going to be happy.

- Who? - Mrs. Brad Parker.

Oh, that's ridiculous.

You know if she hasn't guessed from your letters?

You don't know Janie, she's not like that, makes it worse in a way.

What you mean not like that? She's a woman, ain't she?

Hello?

Yes sir.

Yes, I will.

Yes, I have it, takeoff at 1700. Thank you.

- Try the Red Cross club on your way. - Is her day off.

Well, leave her a note, it's all you can do.

Guess is all I can do.

Oh Captain Parker, Valerie left this for you.

- Where is she? - Imagine she's in Barkstow by now.

Barkstow?

Oh, she had to go down to make the arrangements.

- What arrangements? - For the services.

Oh, you haven't heard? Her father died last night.

Died? How?

Someone said the War Office turned him down.

He killed himself. Poor Valerie, I feel awful for her.

Thank you.

Ok, come and get it. Mail call. Come and get it guys.

- Here's one for Palmer. - Right here.

- Paducci. - Ho.

One for you Puchani.

- Sergeant? - Yes sir?

- Anything for me? - Well, I believe there is Captain Parker.

- Yes sir. - Oh, thank you.

My darling.

John is wounded in hospital in Italy.

I should only be thinking about him but all is in my mind tonight is that's...

been ten whole months since you left...

300 empty days.

There's an air raid going on, just a small one on the other side of London.

The daffodils are in bloom in the park and they don't mind the noise a bit.

Private Parker, front center. Get your socks and hit the docks.

Dan Boy, are you lost? This isn't Fort Henderson.

- I had a hunch you'd be in this place. - Hey, look who's a major.

And glad to be, is that gold leaf moo that's counts, how long you've been in this hellhole?

Eight months. Hey, you must be pretty good at killing Germans too.

Well, my employers are satisfied. Piccadilly, here I come.

- Piccadilly? - That's right.

- How you wangle it? - Give me a drink and I might tell you.

- That I'll do, come on. - Wait for Papa Lovell.

- There you are. - Thank you.

Don't tell me.

Oh, that's good rubbing alcohol.

How you wangle a transfer England?

Oh, I guess they're getting ready for the big show.

Yeah, I know. Go on, give me all the details, how you worked it?

Oh, you thinking about yourself? No, you don't want a combat outfit.

Not with that doll of yours and all back home.

I remember her from camp that time.

- She's too beautiful to cry. - Yeah, she liked you too. Now go on, tell me.

Are you nuts boy?

Listen...

when I got embarkation leave I figured I might...

bump into you, so I called her on the telephone, long-distance.

Reversing the charges.

- You called Janie? - Yeap.

Sounded pretty choked up.

Finally she said, if you do see him, tell him I love him.

Janie doesn't talk like that, she hardly knows you.

- She really goes for you boy. - Yeah, but it just doesn't sound like her.

- Something is changed. - Maybe you have.

Answer my question Dan.

- You still hipped on England? - More than ever.

- Dame? - Girl I love.

Dame.

Ok, is a special force of volunteers. You'll need pull to make it.,

All the boys are hand-picked.

- Incidentally, how's that leg of yours? - Is Ok, what's this force called?

Special Force Six, is a mixed bunch. Gis, Canadians, limeys.

I don't go for them limeys. They talk fast but fight slow.

Commander is Ok though, he's from my home town, Minneapolis.

- What's his name? - Timmer, he's a chicken colonel.

- Alex Timmer? - Yeah, you know him?

- Just give me his APO. - I don't know it.

Come to think of it, I don't even need it.

Brad.

- I need a shave. - I don't care.

- Scratch your face. - So let it.

- I wasn't sure you'd be here. - Oh, I'd crawled.

You won't let me look at you.

Not yet, I don't want you to get tired of looking at me.

- That's because you're ugly. - I know.

Let me, let me look at your ugly face.

I'm home darling, I'm home. Ten days before I have to report.

Breakfast.

Oh, the times I've dreamed of being here, just like this.

- Yes, every night and every day. - With you looking just the way you do.

- And no war, no going back and no ending. - None of it, not here, not where we are.

When she writes to you, she know?

She knows, she never says it in her letters but she knows.

- What about John? - No.

No, all we ever had together was, was trust, that's all.

- Don't think that way. - You mean I've lost the right to?

Now stop.

But I do, not often but I do think that way.

And. Oh, kiss me.

Oh, wretched, isn't it sir?

We can't land for a few minutes. There's an air alert in London.

Well, after 20 months another few minutes won't matter.

I will get past the medical officer on the field, won't I?

You shouldn't but if it's that important to you, I'll give you a pill to carry you through.

Thank you.

Who's he?

Hey, at last, the guest of honor, where's Valerie?

Meeting me here. What goes on?

Well, your fierce looking friend here dropped in on you.

What are you doing here?

I'm taking a 10 minutes break...

all of a sudden, this crazy captain whistles up his whole flock of dames.

When you report to Timmer?

When my leave is up, four days from now, not a minute before.

- Here yours Dan. - Thanks baby.

This kid is a good gin drinker just like me, we got a lot more common than gin, eh baby?

I hate to have Valerie barge in on a rat race like this.

Listen, this is London in war, Valerie knows what is all about, don't kid yourself.

- Hello Ray. - Baby.

- Is that it? - That is it.

- Overboard, eh? - Both of them, without life jackets.

- Valerie, this is Dan. - Hi, Valerie.

Suzette, my name is Suzette, hello.

Ray you know and Miss...

- Why, Mrs. Hamilton. - How do you do?

Ray, you'll have to excuse us a little while, we got to run out on you.

- Oh, no. - Is a shame.

- It's a shame but I'm afraid we do have to. - Well.

I just love these parties that erupt out of nowhere, don't you?

Oh, so do I, come on darling.

What all we going to do when suddenly the whistle blows, the war is all over...

we all have to scurry home to our own husbands and wives?

Simple, go back to them.

A drink please darling, stiff one.

I've been feeling I'm going to need it tonight.

Say when.

Good evening Colonel.

- Bit weak on the pins, eh Colonel? - I'll be all right.

I'm sorry.

- Looking for anyone Colonel? - I'm looking for Miss Russell.

Go ahead, stretch out.

Go ahead, it's been stretched out on many times before.

There you are.

- Miss Russell, you mean Val? - Yes.

Colonel, I thought you were celebrating, you're a sick man.

Georgina, you know where Val was going?

She went out with her boyfriend, Captain Brad something, Parker.

- Where is he billeted? - Sloane 8347.

Sloane 8347. Now, you just hold still a minute and I'll try to get her on the phone.

Please don't bother her now. I, I just came by on the chance.

Nonsense, I'll get her on the phone right away sir, you just sit there and take it easy.

Boyce's apartment, who? Hold it, I'll see.

- Is there a party here named Russell? - Yes.

For you.

- Hello? - Valerie?

Just a minute honey, there's someone here would like to speak with you, if you...

Oh, the party is left, he was here just a minute ago. Maybe he's gone up to the cafe.

But who is it?

Oh, an English colonel with a green beret. He was so weak he could hardly stand.

Oh no, I'll be right over.

- Is John. - Where?

He's looking for me and the girl in the Red Cross club said that he was waiting.

- I'll take you. - No darling, please I don't want that.

- I'll try and telephone you later. - Why?

Yes, I'll try.

- What you're going to tell him? - I don't know, what difference does it make?

After years of waiting and hoping he's here, he's sick and...

he expects me to be with him whatever happened while he was away.

That's what I meant by trust, his kind of trust.

You know I love you.

- Right around the next corner, ain't it Miss? - Yes, I think so.

Stop here driver.

Wait here, please.

John.

John.

John, why didn't you wait?

They shouldn't have let you go my darling, they shouldn't have let you go.

- I have a taxi, I'll take you home. - I love you so much Val.

I'm going to take care of you my darling, I'll take you home..

Someday this army is going to do something the hard way.

Yeah, with a built-in cheering section.

All right men, up and over. On the double, get it done.

That's nice work Parker, darn nice work.

- Thank you sir. - Come on down here.

I always thought you had real stuff on the ball.

And you reporting for duty a week early proved it.

The only problem was could you stand the physical part, McEwan thinks that you can.

I think I can sir.

If I ain't think you could you wouldn't be here.

I like you Brad, but not that much. Well, I guess that buttons it up.

Dog Company is your baby from now on, take good care of it.

- Yes sir. - There'll be an officers call at 0900.

You, Waller, Stenick, Parker and your subordinates, see you.

Between where the British land and the Americans land is a five mile gap.

A gap of high ground.

Atop this high ground sits a 14 inch gun, deeply embedded in the hillside.

Which in turn is defended by machine guns set in concrete pillboxes.

Now, this thing can't be assaulted like regular beaches, is on a 90-foot cliff.

Is got to be taken by a small force...

just before the main landings hit the beaches on either side in darkness and by surprise.

Without surprise, there isn't a chance in a million of reaching that high ground.

And gentlemen, no ifs and buts, is got to be taken.

I needn't tell you that the force taking it is us.

So we go in before the naval bombardment and a little ahead of the main body of ships.

Before H-hour, D-day.

How do you like it?

- Swig? - I don't believe so Colonel, thanks.

Come on, keep you warm. Is not all coffee, you know.

No, thanks.

Between you and me Brad, this Angel Point isn't going to be too tough a nut to crack.

Ah, there'll be a lot of fireworks sure and you're going to hear a lot of noise.

That's what gets you down Brad, that lousy noise.

Ah well, nobody ever got killed by noise, did they son, eh?

I don't guess they did Colonel.

You can cut out that Colonel stuff with me Brad.

You know the name. Alex.

Well, noise or no noise you still going to have to give out with those orders.

Takes guts boy, believe me.

Ah sure...

there'll be a lot of light stuff I imagine, mostly machine guns and mortars.

What the heck?

We'll find out what those intelligence johnnies have to say at noon, eh?

Good of you to bring me along sir.

Well, I figured you could use an hour or so in London afterward.

I know I can.

Come on, have some, calm you down.

Thanks.

Not too happy news, I'm afraid sir.

Our people in the area suspect that old Jerry is thickened it up a bit.

Moved some extra LMG platoons into the signals thingamajig...

that's your able company objective.

I must say it makes a sticky wicket, really.

Why can't the Air Force knock the whole darn thing with flying forts?

Really, Colonel?

A series of heavy bomber raids of sufficient concentration would be a dead giveaway...

even if they did knock out your gun.

I confess that the mere fact that you should ask such a question at this stage...

I find it highly disquieting, highly sir.

Forget it. What about mines?

We'll get the word about mines probably a day or so before you go in.

- Well, that's it, good luck sir. - Thank you Major.

- Good luck Captain Parker. - Thanks sir.

Meet me back here after, no, I'll tell you what, see...

meet me here at 2100 sharp.

I think I'll run up to that club of mine for a while, maybe find old Dunc Harkness.

- You remember him? Dieppe? - Yes sir.

See you.

This guy comes into the Colonel's office, it doesn't look 20 years old.

Well, when the Colonel starts bawling him out he unzip his flight...

jacket he's a one-star general.

Boy, you should've seen the Colonel's face.

- Excuse me, gentlemen. - Right.

- Brad. - Valerie.

Oh, you look wonderful darling, look beautiful.

Brad, I'm so glad you're here. I was hoping to, I've been wanting to...

Look, I haven't got so very long. Couldn't we go somewhere else?

The only one here right now but...

Oh, maybe just for a few minutes, we can go to that awful tea shop around the corner.

- At least is quiet and we can talk. - Let's go.

Oh, thank you very much sir, thank you.

Ought to be stronger than that.

- Who taught you? - You did.

Well, when you're away from someone you start to see their face so many different ways.

- Just all kinds of different ways. - Oh, I know, I know so well.

Down at the camp sometimes I used to...

sort of try to kid myself. You know, just see how I felt.

I'd say, maybe five years from now I won't even remember the color of her eyes.

Won't you Brad?

As soon as I'd say that I'd know that I could never forget, not as long as I live.

Well, Valerie pretty soon, with any luck, war will be over...

and we've got to be thinking about that.

I never can give you up, I never will.

I'm going to be with John, Brad.

Oh, sure and I know he's sick, he needs you.

He's quite well now Brad.

I mean for always. Is just as simple as that.

You see, he's been waiting for me. That's all he's been waiting for for two years.

I never lied to him about us.

I remember when you used to tell me about your wife, before we...

You go home Brad and you'll be glad, I know you will.

Valerie I, I've come to admire so much.

- Things you people stand for. - Is not it...

But if, if I could only believe this is really the way you want it.

You my darling, not him.

It is difficult to believe? He's a wonderful man.

You're beautiful Valerie.

I, I listen to you and I watch your face and I know what you're saying but...

your eyes keep me from believing it, I never could.

You will.

We're closing now sir, sorry. That'll be two and ninepence please.

I love you, I'll come back.

- No. - But I will, I swear it.

I'm never going to give you up.

Thank you sir.

Ah, here you are Captain Parker, been looking for you all over.

- Come with me, will you please? - What's up?

You'll find out.

Ok what is it?

Sorry to get you down here Bolthouse but is been just plain murder, Special Force Six.

What about it?

Its commanding officer, Timmer...

was picked up by British police tonight in a doorway in the Strand...

he was talking, talking to a large street audience about the operation.

- What did he say? - I was told was all pretty incoherent.

It seems the guy is been under heavy mental stress and tonight he lost control.

Is a shocker Bolthouse, he's got British under his command too, you know.

But what did he say?

This is the report of the constable who picked him up.

He spoke in my presence the following remarks...

See the gap? Sticks out like a sore thumb. Smack between Gold Beach and Omaha.

The Krauts have thickened it up a bit. Angel Point, where we go in, that's a good one.

Angel Point, Angel is right. And all this before a crowd.

- Is that right? - Yes sir.

What did you do with him?

Put him in a psycho ward for close observation.

Is all you can do.

But the devil with Timmer, is the Special Force I'm worried about.

They move into the marshaling area tomorrow night.

Suppose we go by the book? Second in command takes over?

This fellow Stenick and everybody else move up a notch?

Won't watch us have can possibly take...

Stenick out of Able Company at the heart of the whole operation.

Well, let's get a new guy, a new guy that's had one or two landings...

he can run the show from the beach.

Our...

personnel people should be just about comfortably asleep by now.

- Let's get them up, get them over here. - By the way sir.

Captain Parker came down with Colonel Timmer.

Captain, how you divided up?

- Third Canadian, third US, third British? - Exactly sir.

Well then, is a tossup. One of your boys or one of ours, doesn't make any difference.

Captain, go on back and tell them that Col. Timmer was stricken with appendicitis.

- Acute appendicitis. - Yes sir.

Gentlemen.

Sit down gentlemen.

Tighten your seat belts, fellows around hear about the Charge of the Light Brigade.

Well, my name is Wynter...

I've been ordered to take command of this operation.

I should've thought that Maj. Stenick or Maj. McEwan would be appointed to the command.

I feel is quite wrong that one of them wasn't.

But of course, I'll do my best as I'm sure you will.

As for myself, I'm delighted to be going into action again...

especially with so fine a force.

We got a nice, clear-cut operation ahead, plenty of fighting but nothing complex.

Ah, you won't be seeing much of me till we board the ships...

because I've got a bit of catching up to do.

But please feel free to barge in on me at any time.

- Now, why don't you introduce me? - Certainly.

Major Stenick sir.

- Major Stenick. - Colonel.

Captain Parker sir.

- Captain Brad Parker? - Yes sir.

And Major McEwan sir.

- How you do? - How you do sir?

Attention all personnel of Special Force Six. Attention all personnel of Special Force Six.

Landing crafts will be lowered away in seven minutes.

Brooks.

- Sir? - Locate Colonel Wynter.

Tell him we're pinned down can't move without heavy losses, what orders?

Yes, sir.

Sir, Sr Captain Parker is pinned down, what are your orders?

Sergeant, keep cover, I'll be back.

I'm going to try moving up on the ridge on the left flank there.

With any luck I might get a crack at the gun before they see me.

But you'll be under direct mortars machine gun fire sir.

Keep up the pressure on that pillbox.

Then is up to you to get those mortars on the right flank, at all costs.

Hennessy. Clark.

All right Hennessy, roll right down the middle.

All right, let's go.

Corporal, your section follow me. Sergeant, covering fire, come on.

You four, right flanking, grenades.

Lob them in the gun embrasures, we'll cover you.

Fire on my command.

Now.

- Ok Captain, you've had your war. - Is all over up here?

Yeap, they just sent up some PFCs to police up the grounds.

- How is Major Stenick? - He's dead.

Dan dead?

Major McEwan and Captain Waller never got touched, though.

Now, I'm going to give you a nice little shot...

before you know it you'll be back across the Channel.

And then bingo, home.

- Home, eh? - That's it Captain, the good old USA.

Colonel Wynter, how's Colonel Wynter?

He was hit in the arm, not too bad though.

Think he was up here walking around a few minutes ago.

- But he's had his war too. - Thank God for that.

Ok boys, Vorwärts marsch.

Good work Parker, darn good work.

- Thank you sir. - You feeling any better?

Yeah, thanks Colonel Wynter.

Feel a lot...

better now.

No use saying too much now Brad.

Let it wait, you'll have all the time in the world.

Well, they'll have you back in England for lunchtime.

They'll probably clear me out of here in a bit too.

- Good luck. - Good luck to you sir.

Do what you can for him.

Watch it Colonel. We haven't checked that area yet.

Cigarette, Captain?

- Here you go. - Thanks.

- Hey, could you do me a favor? - Sure.

Could you telephone Miss Russell at the Red Cross in Mayfair.

Sorry Captain, we're sealed off from London completely.

- How long? - Goodness knows, days anyway.

One of our girls is going into London tomorrow. I could risk my neck and ask her.

Risk it.

What's the message Captain?

Tell her I got roughed up a little but I'm Ok.

Same thing goes for Colonel Wynter.

As soon as I know what hospital I'm in I'll get in touch with her.

Is there absolutely nothing I can do?

Are you sure?

I hated having to be the one to come and tell you this.

General Frye wanted me to break the news about John...

before you heard about it accidentally.

I'm terribly, terribly sorry.

Are you sure there's nothing?

Then I think I'll say good night.

Thank you David.

Bless you darling.

Hello? Yes, this is Miss Russell.

Yes, go ahead.

- In here Miss Russell, right down there. - Thank you.

Brad, Brad...

- You got my message? - They're shipping you home.

You know, that last day I saw you...

is such a little while ago and so much has happened.

You said you'll go back, you'll be happy to.

Just seemed like the last thing in the world I'd ever want.

And then the other morning, on the beach there, Normandy...

when the medic told me I'd be shipping back...

I suddenly thought Valerie was right, she knew.

And after a bit, John was standing there...

you know, just standing there talking, nothing much.

And all seemed so simple, just like you said it was and clear...

and the future seemed very real.

I'll always love you Brad.

Always be grateful to you for whatever happens in my life.

You'll be happy too, you and John, I know you will.

Yes.

Incidentally, he's a, he's a pretty terrific guy that John.

Pretty wonderful guy.

How is he?

Oh, he's still pretty wonderful.

- You haven't seen him the way we did. - Shut up Brad, shut up.

Don't cry.

I was right about one thing though.

I always will remember the color of your eyes.

Afraid I have to break up this little gathering folks, is time to change bandages.

Please Doc, let her stay.

Now look, we've already given you a break by letting this young lady in here to start with.

- Goodbye Brad, my only, only... - Goodbye my darling.

Thank you doc.