In the movie They Came to Cordura, the Army major in question is Thomas Thorn (played by Gary Cooper), who is tasked with selecting five soldiers to receive the Congressional Medal of Honor for their bravery during the Mexican Border Incursion. However, Thorn himself is haunted by his own act of cowardice during the Battle of San Juan Hill in the Spanish-American War.
As Thorn accompanies the soldiers on their journey back to Cordura, he begins to assess their individual levels of courage. One of the soldiers, a former outlaw named Trubee (played by Van Heflin), initially appears to be the bravest of the group. However, as the journey progresses, Thorn exposes Trubee's darker side, including his abusive treatment of Mexican civilians.
Meanwhile, Thorn's mentor Colonel Rogers (played by Philip Carey) urges him to select Lt. Fowler (played by Tab Hunter), a young officer who has already been recommended for the Medal of Honor. Thorn initially resists this due to his own jealousy and insecurity, but ultimately recognizes Fowler's leadership and bravery.
As the group reaches Cordura, they face a final test of their courage as they are ambushed by Mexican rebels. In the end, Trubee sacrifices himself to save his comrades, while Fowler and the other soldiers bravely hold off the attackers. Thorn is forced to confront his own cowardice once again, but ultimately chooses to honor Fowler and the soldiers for their bravery, even as he acknowledges his own flaws.
The movie explores themes of courage, honor, and the complex nature of heroism. It received mixed reviews upon its release in 1959, but has since gained a reputation as an underrated Western with a strong cast and thought-provoking story.