At the start of World War II, John Ford, then in his forties and serving in the Naval Reserve, was appointed head of the Field Photographic Unit by Bill Donavan, who would later direct the Office of Strategic Services (OSS). Throughout the war, the unit produced at least 87 documentaries, often reflecting Ford's characteristic focus on heroism and sacrifice, frequently from the perspective of those directly involved in combat. The film features discussions with experts about Ford’s life and personality, exploring how the war provided him with a sense of purpose and how his wartime films mirrored the values and conflicts explored in his Hollywood work. Films highlighted include "Battle of Midway," "Torpedo Squadron," "Sexual Hygiene," and "December 7."
