Test of Courage

The issues and concerns facing youth in the 1960s were never as simple as a choice between patriotism and protests, despite what some believe. Instead, the era was a time of enormous cultural upheaval as a young generation came face-to-face with critical social issues while forming their own beliefs and values.

Scot Barton and his good friend, John, like many of their peers, struggle to make sense of their rapidly changing world. Both young men find themselves conflicted over the value of a formal college education.

As their paths lead Scot and John further away from their families' traditional expectations, they find their way to the San Francisco Federal Building and a set of military recruiters. With war in Vietnam on the horizon, enlisting is one of the hottest topics of the day.

Their decisions lead them to careers in the Submarine Service, an exciting assignment that exposes two young, impressionable men to the regional culture of every area of the United States. As they serve their country, they wrestle with the era's issues and their own values, finding the courage to develop and stand up for their convictions.