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They Were Expendable

In the wake of Pearl Harbor's surprise attack, World War II hero, Lt. John Brickley's experimental squadron of agile fast-attack Patrol Torpedo boats is sent to warm and humid Manila to avert a potentially imminent Japanese invasion. As he and his second-in-command, Lieutenant "Rusty" Ryan, desperately try to prove the newly-founded naval unit's worth, the enemy launches a devastating all-out attack--and despite the PT boat flotilla's undeniable success--the considerably outnumbered and outgunned American soldiers are fighting a losing battle. Little by little, the Philippine campaign is doomed to cave in, as comrades-in-arms perish in the sea. Is there glory in defeat?

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Cast & Crew See All

Robert Montgomery
Lt. John Brickley
John Wayne
Lt. (J.G.) 'Rusty' Ryan
Donna Reed
Lt. Sandy Davyss

Featured Video

They Were Expendable
They Were Expendable
1:36

1:36 They Were Expendable

Awards

  • 1946 - Oscar - Best Sound, Recording - nominated
  • 1946 - Oscar - Best Effects, Special Effects - nominated
  • 1946 - Photoplay Award - Best Performances of the Month (February) - winner

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