In 1940, the testimony of Chief petty officer (United States) Mike Mallory (Pat O'Brien) at a United States Navy Board of Inquiry regarding a fatal gun turret accident helps end the career of Lieutenant (naval) Tom Sands (George Murphy). The situation is complicated by the fact that Sands and Mallory's sister Myra (Jane Wyatt) are in love. Afterward, Sands resigns his commission and breaks up with Myra, telling her there is no future for them.