In 1943, the first major U.S. offensive of World War II is drawing to a close on the South Pacific island of Guadalcanal. To put an end to this campaign, the United States Army arrives with a full division of troops and equipment, deployed to break the last resistence of the Japanese. The exploits of this Division are seen from a number of perspectives amongst the soldiers; to include a war weary Sergeant, a power hungry Colonel, a Private who has known only desertion and AWOL, and a Company Commander is struggling with his abilities as a leader.

The original cut of the film was just under 6 hours in length. Over a million feet of film was shot.

Lt. Col. Gordon Tall:
It's never necessary to tell me that you think I'm right. We'll just... assume it.

Revealing mistakes: Right after the battle at the machine-gun bunker, an American soldier shoots one of the Japanese prisoners with a shotgun. The smoke from the barrel indicates that he missed.

Composed by Charles Ives
Performed by The Orchestra of St. Luke's
Conducted by John Adams