When a carefree playboy (John Payne) joins the Marine Corps, he tests the skill and patience of the tough veteran sergeant (Randolph Scott) who tries to whip him into a real Marine. But, as his training proceeds, the recruit's cocky selfishness is replaced by selfless valor, and he eventually earns the love of a beautiful Navy nurse (Maureen O'Hara). Nominated for the Academy Award for Best Cinematography To The Shores Of Tripoli was shot with the cooperation of the USMC and contains authentic scenes of Marine combat training and ground drills.