John Ford took the inspiration for this film from the actual life story of Frank 'spig' Wead, (John Wayne) who was a naval aviator and Hollywood writer. The film follows him through his early days after Annapolis and his life time competition with the U.S. Army. Despite it being a comical look at the silly escapades with his life-time friends in the army and navy, it also illuminates the guilt laden sorrow between his wife (Maureen O'Hara) and the unfortunate tragedy like the loss of his first son which the couple had to endure. Among them was the accidental fall he took at home which left him paralyzed. Through it, he was blessed with friends like 'Jughead' Carson who nursed him back through his mishap and onto the deck of a Naval ship. John Dale Price (Ken Curtis) and Herbert Allen Hazard (Kenneth Tobey) life times friends who saw their friend into the sunset of his life. All in all, this is a fun film for all and a definite inspiration to all who think of losing hope. A Great film for Wayne and a movie which became a Classic for his fans. Easily recommended to all. ****