The Horse Soldiers is a 1959 American Civil War film directed by John Ford and starring John Wayne, William Holden, and Constance Towers. The film tells the story of a Union Cavalry outfit led by Colonel John Marlowe (Holden), who are sent on a dangerous mission to destroy a rail supply center behind Confederate lines during the Battle of Vicksburg.
As the mission begins, Marlowe is immediately at odds with the regiment's doctor, Major Henry Kendall (Wayne), who Marlowe sees as a cowardly and useless addition to the team. However, Kendall proves his worth during an attack on a Confederate outpost, and Marlowe begins to respect him.
Meanwhile, the group must contend with the presence of Hannah Hunter (Towers), a southern belle who overhears their plans and must be taken along to ensure her silence. As Hannah travels with the group, she develops a relationship with Marlowe, and begins to question her loyalties to the Confederate cause.
As the mission progresses, the group faces a series of challenges, including a river crossing, an ambush by Confederate soldiers, and a confrontation with a group of southern civilians. The film culminates in a thrilling battle at the rail supply center, where the Union forces are vastly outnumbered.
Despite their initial differences, Marlowe and Kendall come to respect and rely on each other, and the mission is ultimately successful. The Horse Soldiers is a thrilling and action-packed tribute to the bravery and sacrifice of the soldiers who fought in the Civil War.