The true story of two elite US fighter pilots during the Korean War. Their heroic sacrifices would ultimately make them the Navy's most celebrated wingmen.

The film starts with the introduction of Brown and Hudner, who became close friends during their training and were sent to fight in the Korean War. They were part of the VF-32 squadron, flying F4U Corsair planes. During a mission in December 1950, Brown's plane was hit by enemy fire, and he was forced to crash land. Hudner attempted to rescue his friend, but he crashed his own plane in the process.

The film portrays the friendship between Brown and Hudner and their devotion to each other as they faced the challenges of war. It also explores the racial tensions of the time, as Brown was the Navy's first African American pilot.