Merrill's Marauders

The film begins with off-screen narration over black-and-white historical footage of the World War II Burma campaign, including mention of all nationalities of Allied forces who participated. The film then segues into color as Lt. Stockton's platoon moves through the jungle toward their first objective, the Japanese-held town of Walawbum. After Stockton (Ty Hardin) radios Gen. Merrill (Jeff Chandler) they are nearing their goal, the brigade carries out a successful raid. Afterwards, General Joseph Stilwell (John Hoyt) arrives in Walawbum. He orders Merrill to take the railroad center of Shaduzup, and ultimately the strategic airstrip at Myitkyina. With reluctance, Merrill summons Stockton to brief him on their next mission, and the unit continues their march through hellish swamps before taking Shaduzup from the enemy. Stockton complains that his men need rest, that Merrill does not care, and he wants to be relieved of his command. Merrill refuses. The brigade continues the mission up steep mountains for several days and nights before digging in just outside the now-besieged Myitkyina. As night falls, the unit endures a massive artillery barrage. The next morning brings a Japanese banzai attack, which Merrill's men successfully repel. Then, while desperately rallying what is left of his unit to move on to the base at Myitkyina, the general suddenly collapses from a stroke. The men, led by Stockton, slowly rise up and trudge toward Myitkyina as an incredulous "Doc" cradles Merrill in his arms. In fact, Doc's off-screen narration is heard next as he relates that the "impossible" was done and Myitkyina was indeed taken.