A Jewish American colonel retires from the army after the end of the Second World War, but in 1948, is persuaded to go to Israel and train the inexperienced recruits in the newly formed nation's army to defend the country from the threat of invasion. Fact-based adventure, starring Kirk Douglas and Senta Berger, with cameo appearances by John Wayne, Yul Brynner and Frank Sinatra.

An American Army officer is recruited by the yet to exist Israel to help them form an army. He is disturbed by this sudden appeal to his Jewish heritage. Each of Israel's Arab neighbors has vowed to invade the poorly prepared country as soon as partition is granted. He is made commander of the Israeli forces just before the war begins.