They Were Expendable is a 1945 American war film directed by John Ford and starring Robert Montgomery and John Wayne. The movie is based on the book by William Lindsay White and tells the story of PT-boat crews in the Philippines during the early days of World War II.
The film begins with the attack on Pearl Harbor and the subsequent Japanese invasion of the Philippine Islands. The PT-boat crews, led by Lieutenant John Brickley (Montgomery) and Lieutenant "Rusty" Ryan (Wayne), are initially given the task of providing transport for General Douglas MacArthur and his staff to safety. However, as the situation in the Philippines worsens, they are forced to take on more active roles in the fight against the Japanese.
Despite the heroic efforts of the PT-boat crews, they are met with resistance from the Navy brass and are often considered a nuisance rather than a valuable asset to the war effort. This attitude is exemplified by the film's title which refers to the expendability of the PT-boats and their crews.
Throughout the film, the crews face numerous obstacles including a lack of supplies and equipment, as well as the loss of their boats and fellow crew members. They struggle to maintain their morale and sense of purpose in the face of constant danger and uncertainty.
Despite the challenges they face, the crews continue to fight bravely, knowing that their sacrifices may ultimately prove decisive in the war effort. The film's final scenes depict a sense of hope and determination, as the crew members look towards the future with the knowledge that they have played a vital role in the defense of their country.