Flying Leathernecks

(1951)Directed by Nicholas Ray102 minWar, Action, Drama
From Guadalcanal to Okinawa...the Marine air-devils blazed a trail of glory...while the women they left behind fought battles of their own!

Major Daniel Kirby takes command of a squadron of Marine fliers just before they are about to go into combat. While the men are well meaning, he finds them undisciplined and prone to always finding excuses to do what is easy rather than what is necessary. The root of the problem is the second in command, Capt. Carl 'Griff' Griffin. Griff is the best flier in the group but Kirby finds him a poor commander who is not prepared to make the difficult decision that all commanders have to make - to put men in harm's way knowing that they may be killed.

John Wayneas Maj. Daniel Xavier Kirby
Robert Ryanas Capt. Carl 'Griff' Griffin
Don Tayloras Lt. Vern 'Cowboy' Blithe
Janis Carteras Joan Kirby
Jay C. Flippenas MSgt. Clancy, Line Chief
William Harriganas Dr. Lt.Cdr. Joe Curran
James Bellas Colonel
Barry Kelleyas Brigadier General
Maurice Jaraas Shorty Vegay
Adam Williamsas Lt. Bert Malotke
JDJames Dobsonas Lt. Pudge McCabe
Carleton Youngas Col. Riley
Michael St. Angelas Capt. Harold Jorgensen, Ops. Officer
Brett Kingas 1st Lt. Ernie Stark
GGGordon Gebertas Tommy Kirby
Charles Brunner
Richard Condon
Gail Davisas Virginia Blithe (uncredited)
Fred Grahamas MP Sergeant (uncredited)