The Pacific

In the aftermath of the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor, Marine Sgt. John Basilone prepares to ship out, while budding journalist Robert Leckie enlists as a Marine. Eugene Sledge, unable to enlist due to a heart murmur, says farewell to his best friend.

Basilone and the 7th Marines arrive on Guadalcanal to reinforce Leckie and the rest of the 1st Marine Division as they defend the crucial airstrip. Basilone plays a key role in repelling a nighttime Japanese attack, but suffers a frightful loss.

Debilitated after Guadalcanal, Leckie, Basilone and their comrades land in Melbourne, where they are greeted by adoring crowds. Meanwhile, Basilone is awarded the Medal of Honor and is asked to return home to help sell U.S. war bonds.

After leaving Melbourne, the weather works against the leathernecks as Lechie falls seriously ill and Sledge gets assigned to New Britain.

Basilone's fame keeps him in the U.S. selling war bonds, Leckie rejoins his company, and Sledge is reunited with Phillips in Pavuvu.