Steve McQueen fights his own private battle as a volatile 'war lover' in this gripping story based on a novel by John Hersey. Stationed in England during World War II, Buzz Rickson is the bravest Air Force pilot in his squadron-and the most reckless. His maniacal quest for thrills takes him to the brink of destruction during the B-17 bombing raids on Germany. But while Buzz's daredevil heroics win the grudging respect of his crew, his rebellious attitude alienates everyone, except his co-pilot, Ed Bolland. Ultimately, Buzz destroys even this relationship by pursuing Ed's girlfriend, Daphne.