[ Roaring ]
[ Man Narrating ] War began between Germany and France on August 3, 1 91 4.
Five weeks later, the German army had smashed its way...
to within 1 8 miles of Paris.
There, the battered French miraculously rallied their forces at the Marne River...
- and in a series of uneXpected counterattacks — - [ Officer ] Detail, halt!
- drove the Germans back. - [ Shouting Commands ]
The front was stabilized...
then shortly afterwards developed into a continuous line...
of heavily fortified trenches...
zigzagging their way 500 miles...
from the English Channel to the Swiss frontier.
By 1 91 6, after two grislyyears oftrench warfare...
the battle lines had changed very little.
Successful attacks were measured in hundreds ofyards...
and paid for in lives by hundreds ofthousands.
General Broulard, sir.
- [ Laughing ] - Hello, George. How are you?
Paul, wonderful seeing you again. Really wonderful.
Well, this is splendid. It's superb.
It's grand, very grand.
Well, I've tried to create a pleasant atmosphere in which to work.
Well, you've succeeded marvelously. I wish I had your taste in carpets —
- Oh! [ Laughing ] - and pictures.
You're much too kind, George. Much too kind.
- Sit down, George. - Thankyou.
I really haven't done very much. The place is much the same as it was when I moved in.
Paul, I've come to see you about something big.
It's top secret and must go no further than your chiefofstaff...
and not to him unless you can trust his discretion.
Ofcourse.
A group ofarmies is forming on this front for an offensive very soon.
Headquarters is determined to make a complete breakthrough.
- Why are you smiling? - I'm really sorry.
I thought forjust a moment I knew what you were going to say. Please go on.
I never knew you were a mind reader. What did you think I was about to say?
- Something about the ‘‘Anthill." - You are a mind reader.
Well, it is a key position. It's in my sector.
To be perfectly honest, I've heard some talk.
You know, there's nothing really secret around headquarters.
- Well, what do you think? - It's the key to the whole German position in this sector.
They've held on to it for a year now...
and it looks as though they'll hold on to it for anotheryear ifthey want to.
Paul, I have formal orders to take the Anthill no later than the 1 0th.
- That's the day after tomorrow. - That comes pretty close to being ridiculous, don't you think?
I don't imagine I'd be here if I really thought that.
[ Chuckles ] Paul, ifthere's one man in this army who can do this for me, it's you.
It's out ofthe question, George. Absolutely out ofthe question.
My division was cut to pieces.
What's left of it is in no position to even hold the Anthill, let alone take it.
I'm sorry, but that's the truth.
Well, Paul, there was something else I wanted to tell you.
However, I'm sure that you'll misunderstand my motives in mentioning it.
- What was it? - Oh.
You'd be bound to misunderstand.
However, as your friend, maybe I should tell you.
What are you trying to say, George?
Paul, talk around headquarters is that you are being considered for the 1 2th Corps.
- The 1 2th Corps? - Yes, and with that, another star.
Now, I've pushed it all I can.
The 1 2th Corps needs a fighting general, and you're overdue on that star.
Now, we both know that your record is good enough...
foryou to refuse this assignment on the grounds you've stated.
No one would question your opinion.
They'd simply get someone else to do thejob.
So you shouldn't let this influence your opinion, Paul.
- Oh, I'm sorry. Have a cognac? - No, thanks, Paul, not before dinner.
George, I'm responsible for the lives of8,000 men.
What is my ambition against that?
What is my reputation in comparison to that?
My men come first ofall, George, and those men know it too.
I know that they do.
You see, George, those men know that I would never let them down.
That goes without saying.
The life ofone ofthose soldiers means more to me...
than all the stars and decorations and honors in France.
So...
you think this attack is absolutely beyond the ability ofyour men at this time?
I didn't say that, George.
Nothing is beyond those men, once their fighting spirit is aroused.
Paul, I don't want to push you into it ifyou think it's ill-advised.
Don't worry, George. You couldn't do that ifyou tried.
Ofcourse, artillery would make an enormous difference.
- What artillery support can you give me? - Well, I'll see.
What about replacements?
We'll see what we can do, but I feel sure that you can get along with what you have.
- Mightjust do it. - [ Chuckling ] Oh, Paul.
I knew that I was right to come to you. You are the man to take the Anthill.
- Now, as far as that star is concerned — - That had nothing to do with my decision.
- Ifanything, it would sway me the other way. - I realize that perfectly, Paul.
Now, when do you say you see this coming off?
No later than the day after tomorrow.
Wejust might do it.
Hello there, soldier. Ready to kill more Germans?
- Yes, sir. - What's your name, soldier?
Sir, Private Ferol, Company ‘‘A."
- Uh-huh. Are you married, Private? - No, sir.
- Well, I'll bet your mother's proud ofyou. - Yes, sir.
- Well, carry on, Private, and good luck to you. - [ Gunshot Echoes ]
Yes, sir. Thankyou, sir.
- Good morning, General. - Good morning.
Hello there, soldier. Ready to kill more Germans?
- Yes, sir. - Aha! Working overyour rifle, I see.
Well, that's the way. It's a soldier's best friend.
You be good to it, and it'll always be good to you.
Yes, sir.
[ Chuckles ] Well, uh, good luck to you, soldier.
- Carry on. - Thankyou, sir.
[ EXplosion ]
Hello there, soldier.
Ready to kill more Germans?
Well, is everything all right, soldier?
All right? Yes, sir, I'm all right.
Aha. Good fellow. Are you married, soldier?
- Married? Me, married? - [ Machine Gun Fire ]
- Yes. Have you got a wife? - A wife? Have I got a wife?
Sir, he's a bit shell-shocked.
I beg your pardon, Sergeant. There is no such thing as shell shock.
- Have you got a wife, soldier? - My wife?
My wife. Yes, I have a wife.
I'm never gonna see her again. I'm gonna be killed.
Get a grip on yourself! You're acting like a coward!
- I am a coward, sir. - Snap out of it, soldier!
Sergeant, I want you to arrange for the immediate transfer ofthis baby out of my regiment!
I won't have other brave men contaminated by him!
- Yes, sir. - Carry on, Sergeant.
You were right, sir. This sort ofthing can spread if it isn't checked.
You know, General, I'm convinced that these tours ofyours...
have an incalculable effect upon the morale ofthese men.
In fact, I think the fighting spirit ofthe 701 st derives from it.
No, no, Major. That spirit wasjust born in them.
[ Both Chuckling ]
[ Machine Gun Fire In Distance ]
The general is coming, sir.
[ Machine Gun Fire Continues ]
- Always a pleasure to see you, Colonel. - I'm honored, General.
It's our privilege entirely.
- Well, quite a neat little spot you have here. - Colonel.
I reserve comment on the neatness, sir, but it is little.
- [ Laughs ] - Pretty shy on seating accommodations though.
More than enough for me. I never got the habit ofsitting.
Like to be on my feet. [ Laughs ] Keep on the move.
I can vouch for that, Colonel.
I can hardly get the general behind a desk long enough to sign an order.
Well, that's the way I am, you know, Dax.
I can't understand these armchair officers...
fellows trying to fight a war from behind a desk...
waving papers at the enemy...
worrying about whether a mouse is going to run up their pants leg.
I don't know, General. If I had the choice between mice and Mausers...
I think I'd take the mice every time.
You'll never make me believe that, Colonel.
Seriously though, ifa man's a ninny...
let him put on a dress and hide under the bed.
But if he wants to be a soldier, then, by heavens, he's got to be one.
He's got to fight, and he can't do that unless he's where the fighting is.
That's my credo.
I think I have to agree with you, presenting your case so convincingly, sir.
[ Major ] And you've never failed to live up to it, sir.
- I imagine you'd like a look around, wouldn't you? - Yes, Colonel.
- [ Machine Gun Fire ] - Well, here's something to see.
The Anthill. About as good a view as you can get without actually being there.
[ Laughs ] Well, that won't be long now, will it?
[ Laughing ]
- [ Machine Gun Fire In Distance ] - Ah.
Ah. Yeah.
Well, I've seen much more formidable objectives.
Much, much worse.
Well, not something we can grab and run away with...
but certainly pregnable.
- Sounds kind ofodd, though, doesn't it? - Why?
Well, like something to do with giving birth.
[ Chuckling ] Oh, yes. Quite. You're right on your toes this morning, Colonel.
Even sharper than usual.
But we mustn't forget, the colonel was perhaps the foremost criminal lawyer in all France.
- Ofcourse, General. - Gentlemen, you're both much too kind.
Tell me, Colonel, how did your relief come off last night?
We drew some artillery. Twenty-nine casualties, sir.
Yes, I noticed it on the road in.
Utterly inexcusable. Stupid.
All swarmed together like a bunch offlies, just waiting for someone to swat 'em.
[ Chuckles ] Well, they never learn, it seems.
They get in a tight spot under heavy fire, gang up every time.
Herd instinct, I suppose. Kind ofa lower-animal sort ofthing.
Kind ofa human sort ofthing, it seems to me...
or don't you make a distinction between the two, Major?
Oh, yes, uh, very regrettable, ofcourse. Very. Yes, indeed.
Uh, Major, would you be kind enough to excuse us for a few minutes?
Yes, sir. Ofcourse.
Colonel.
- [ Bullets Whistling ] - [ Machine Gun Fire Continues ]
Well, Colonel, what do you think of it?
- What do I think ofwhat, sir? - The Anthill.
Colonel, your regiment is going to take the Anthill tomorrow.
You know the condition of my men, sir.
Oh, naturally, men are going to have to be killed. Possibly a lot ofthem.
They absorb bullets and shrapnel...
and by doing so make it possible for others to get through.
- What support will we have? - I have none to give you.
What sort ofcasualties do you anticipate, sir?
Hmm, say, five percent killed by our own barrage.
That's a very generous allowance.
Ten percent more in getting through no-man's-land...
and 20% more getting through the wire.
That leaves 65% with the worst part ofthejob over.
Let's say another 25% in actually taking the Anthill.
We're still left with a force more than adequate to hold it.
General, you're saying that more than halfof my men will be killed.
Yes, it's a terrible price to pay, Colonel...
but we will have the Anthill.
- But will we, sir? - I'm depending on you, Colonel.
All France is depending on you.
Am I amusing you, Colonel?
I'm not a bull, General. I don't need a flag waved in front of me to get me to charge.
I don't think I like your comparison ofthe flag of France to a bullfighter's cape.
I meant nothing disrespectful to the flag of France, sir.
Patriotism may be old-fashioned, but show me a patriot, and I'll show you an honest man.
Not everyone has always thought so.
SamuelJohnson had something else to say about patriotism.
And what was that, may I ask?
- Nothing really. - What you do mean, ‘'Nothing really"?
Well, sir, nothing really important.
Colonel, when I ask a question, it's always important.
- Now, who was this man? - Samuel Johnson, sir.
All right. Now, what did he have to say about patriotism?
He said it was the last refuge ofa scoundrel, sir.
I'm sorry. I meant nothing personal.
You're tired, Dax. You're very tired.
It's you who are exhausted, not your men.
And it's my fault. I've given you one impossible task after another.
- You need rest. You need it badly. - I haven't said anything about needing rest, sir.
And you never would either. Therefore, you're not going to have any say-so about it, Colonel.
As from right now, I'm ordering you on indefinite furlough.
General, you can't take me away from my men. You can't do that to me, sir.
Not to you, Dax. Foryou. Foryour good and for the good ofyour men.
The good of my men, sir?
Ifa commanding officer lacks confidence, what can we expect of his men?
Naturally, I don't want to relieve you, but I must have your enthusiastic support.
Not once have you said that your men can take the Anthill.
We'll take the Anthill.
Ifany soldiers in the world can take it...
we'll take the Anthill.
And when you do, your men will be relieved and get a long rest.
Corporal Paris and Private Lejeune reporting, sir.
- You tookyour time about it. - We prepared as quick as we could, sir.
We had to alert the sentries.
All right. You men, at ease.
This is a reconnaissance patrol — German wire, machine gun posts...
identification of bodies.
There will only be the three of us, and we're to avoid a fight ifwe can.
[ Clears Throat ]
We go out to the left, and we come back through Post 6 on the right.
- Is everything all clear at Post 6? - All the sentries have been warned up to here.
Number 6 will send up flares at 1 0-minute intervals starting at 0400.
- I wanted them every five minutes. - I told them that, sir.
The sergeant says every five minutes is too much. He says it's certain to draw artillery.
Quite a strategist, this sergeant. What's his name?
I don't know, sir.
All right. You men wait outside. I'll join you in a minute.
Would you mind telling us the password, sir?
- Calais. - Yes, sir.
- He's fortifying himself. - It smelled like heaven.
I can always tell when he's had a few. He gets sarcastic.
Well, at least he could have passed it around, the pig.
Hey, what's he got against you anyway?
We went to school together before the war.
He thinks I don't have enough respect for him. He's right.
Ifyou gentlemen are ready.
- Colonel. - Everything clear and understood?
Yes, sir.
The lane through our wire is right out in front here.
Machine guns are pointing at the opening.
- Good luck, men. - Thankyou, sir.
All right, men. Let's go.
- What's that? - [ Paris ] I don't know.
Lejeune, move out and look that over. We'll coveryou.
Split up a night patrol?
Move out, Lejeune.
[ Flares Explode ]
[ Machine Gun Fire ]
- I don't like this. Let's get out of here. - We haven't given him enough time.
- Ifwe wait any longer, they'll get us too. - We've got to wait for him.
[ Gasping ] He must be dead. Where is he?
[ Gunshots ]
Roget!
[ Clatter ]
- Well. - Surprised, Lieutenant?
Yes, I am. Happily surprised. I thought you'd been killed.
You didn't wait around to find out, did you, Lieutenant?
Now, look here. What do you mean?
I mean, you ran like a rabbit afteryou killed Lejeune.
Killed Lejeune? What are you talking about?
I don't think I like your tone.
You're speaking to an officer. Remember that.
[ Chuckling ] Oh, well, I must be mistaken then, sir.
An officer wouldn't do that.
A man wouldn't do it.
Only a thing would.
- A sneaky, booze-guzzling, yellow-bellied rat — - Now —
with a bottle for a brain and a streak ofspit where his spine ought to be.
- That's enough, Corporal! - You've got yourself into a mess, Lieutenant.
Oh, I have, have I? Well, you've got yourself in a worse one.
First, general insubordination. Second, threatening your superior officer.
Third, refusing to obey an order and inciting others to do the same.
Now, how do you think those charges are gonna look on paper?
Not halfas bad as these.
Endangering the lives ofyour men through recklessness.
Drunk on duty.
Wanton murder ofone ofyour own men...
and cowardice in the face ofthe enemy.
Philippe, have you ever tried to bring charges against an officer?
It's my word against yours, you know.
And whose word do you think they're gonna believe?
Or l-let me put it another way.
Whose word do you think they're going to accept?
Now, I'll tell you what I'm willing to do.
So far, all I have written in this report...
is that you and Lejeune were killed while out on patrol.
I'll fix this to read that you made your way back...
after becoming separated during the skirmish.
- That'll end the matter once and for all. - You killed Lejeune. You know that, don't you?
- I'm sorry. It was an accident. - You threw that grenade and killed him.
I'd give anything in the world if it hadn't have happened, and that's the truth.
Honestly, I know you don't like me, but what kind ofa man do you think I am?
- Oh, good morning, Colonel. - At ease, men.
I've been waiting foryour report, Lieutenant.
Well, I think we found out a thing or two.
- Everything go well? - No, sir. Private Lejeune was killed.
- How'd it happen? - It's all right here in the report, sir.
- Well, let's have it. - Oh, it isn't quite finished yet, sir.
That's all, Corporal. You did a good night's work.
Should feel very proud ofyourself. Go get some sleep.
Yes, sir.
- How'd you lose Lejeune? - Machine gun fire, sir.
He coughed. Almost got us all killed.
Finish that report and get it to my dugout immediately.
Yes, sir.
The artillery starts at 051 5.
First Battalion will move out at 0530.
When the leading elements have cleared the German wires...
the second wave, consisting of the Second and Third Battalions —
minus two companies in reserve — will move out...
in no case later than 0540.
Well, that's it, gentlemen. Are there any questions?
Sir, is 1 5 minutes ofartillery preparation all that we can expect?
The feeling is that any more than that will give them too much time to get organized.
What's weather supposed to be like tomorrow, sir?
Too good.
No chance of rain or fog?
The forecast is for sun all day.
[ Officer ] If, uh — Perhaps I should say when we take the Anthill...
how long do we have to hold it before we can expect any support?
Well, General Mireau, who, by the way, will be personally observing the attack...
has promised us support from the 72nd by sundown tomorrow...
which means, ofcourse, that we'll have to hold all day.
Are there any more questions?
Well, gentlemen, good luck, and I'm sure you'll come through as you always do.
Let's get some sleep.
[ Man Whispering ] I'm not afraid ofdying tomorrow, only ofgetting killed.
That's as clear as mud.
Which would you rather be done in by, a bayonet or a machine gun?
- Oh, a machine gun, naturally. - Naturally. That'sjust my point.
They're both pieces ofsteel ripping into your guts.
Only the machine gun is quicker, cleaner and less painful, isn't it?
What does that prove?
That proves that most of us are more afraid of getting hurt than of getting killed.
Look at Bernard.
He panics when it comes to gas, but gas doesn't bother me a bit.
He's seen photos of gas cases. Doesn't mean anything to me.
But I'll tell you something though — I'd hate like the devil to be without my tin hat.
But on the other hand, I don't mind not having a tin hat for my tail.
- Why's that? - You ought to. That's where your brains are.
Because I know a wound to the head will hurt much more than one in the tail.
The tail isjust meat, but the head — ah, the head is all bone.
- Ah, speak foryourself. - Tell me this.
Aside from the bayonet, what are you most afraid of?
- High explosives. - Exactly! And it's the same with me.
Because — Because I know that it can chew you up worse than anything else.
Look, it'sjust like I'm trying to tell you.
Ifyou're really afraid ofdying, you'd be living in a funk all the rest ofyour life...
because you know you've got to go someday, any day.
And besides, if it's death that you're really afraid of...
why should you care about what it is that kills you?
Ah, you're too smart for me, Professor. All I know is nobody wants to die.
[ Man ] Through to Division, sir. Through to Polygon.
Everything quiet. All units report themselves ready.
Zero-minus two.
May I offeryou gentlemen some cognac?
-Thank you, General. - Thank you, sir.
- Afteryou, sir. - [ Laughing ]
To France.
[ Artillery Fire ]
[ Shells Whistling ]
[ EXplosions In Distance ]
[ Artillery Fire Continues ]
[ Shells Whistling ]
Minus 1 5, 1 4...
1 3, 1 2...
1 1 , 1 0...
nine, eight, seven...
six, five, four...
three, two, one...
- zero! - [ Whistle Blowing ]
[ Whistle Continues ]
[ Men Shouting ]
[ Machine Gun Fire ]
[ Whistle Blows ]
[ Machine Gun Fire Continues ]
[ Whistle Blows ]
- Sergeant, where's '‘B" Company? - I don't know, sir.
[ EXplosions In Distance ]
- Where in heaven's name are they? - On the left, sir.
[ Shouts ] Where are the rest?
Zero-plus one, and they're still in the trenches. They're not advancing.
- Yes, sir. - Miserable cowards. They're not advancing!
The barrage is getting away from them! They're still in the trenches!
Yes, sir.
- Captain Nichols. - Yes, sir?
Order the 75s to commence firing on our own positions.
Captain, do you fail to comprehend the meaning of my order?
No, sir, but I respectfully ask to —
Captain, do you fail to comprehend the meaning of my order?
- No, sir. - Then carry it out, Captain.
Yes, sir.
Hello, Polygon. This is Division.
Batteries 1 and 2 commence firing...
on coordinates 32-58-78.
Batteries 1 and 2 to commence firing...
on coordinates 32-58-78. Over.
General, the battery commander reports those are our own positions.
- He says it must be a mistake. - Confirm the order, Captain.
Yes, sir. There is no mistake. The order is confirmed.
Battery commander respectfully reports he cannot execute such an order...
unless it is in writing and signed by the general. Over.
General, battery commander respectfully reports he cannot execute such an order...
unless it is in writing and signed by the general.
- Give me that phone! - Yes, sir.
- General Mireau speaking! - Battery commander speaking, sir.
The troops are mutinying, refusing to advance.
Fire as ordered until further notice!
With all respect, sir, you have no right to order me to shoot down my own men...
unless you are willing to take full and undivided responsibility for it.
Captain Rousseau, are you going to obey my order?
I must have a written order before I can execute such a command, sir.
Supposing you're killed. Then where will I be?
You'll be in front ofa firing squad tomorrow morning! That's where you'll be!
Hand overyour command and report yourself under arrest to my headquarters!
Roget!
Lieutenant Roget! Why are your men still in here?
It was impossible, sir. Major Vignon is dead.
Get these men out ofthe trenches! Come on!
Let's get ready for another try! Get these men out of here!
I've tried three times. Look at all the casualties.
All right! Let's give it another try!
Come on! Let's give it another try!
[ Whistle Blows ]
[ Machine Gun Fire ]
It's impossible, sir. All the men are falling back.
Sir, I respectfully submit to the colonel —
Pardon, your remarks to me were very unfair, sir.
It'sjust impossible! It'sjust impossible.
General, according to first reports, the attack has failed all along the line.
The men are falling back to our own trenches.
Major Saint-Auban, arrange for the immediate reliefofthe 701 st Regiment.
Have them sent to the Chateau d'Aigle. Have Colonel Dax report to my headquarters.
- Yes, sir. - Major Couderc, assemble a general court-martial.
Have it ready to meet at 3:00 tomorrow afternoon.
Ifthose little sweethearts won't face German bullets, they'll face French ones!
I ordered an attack.
Your troops refused to attack.
Our troops did attack, sir, but they could make no headway.
Because they didn't try, Colonel. I saw it myself.
Halfofyour men never left the trenches.
A third of my men were pinned down because the fire was so intense.
Don't quibble over fractions, Colonel.
The fact remains that a good part ofyour men never left their own trenches.
Colonel Dax, I'm going to have 1 0 men from each company in your regiment...
tried under penalty ofdeath for cowardice.
- Penalty ofdeath? - For cowardice!
They have skimmed milk in their veins instead of blood.
Then it's the reddest milk I've ever seen. My trenches are soaked with that red skimmed milk.
-That'sjust about enough out ofyou, Colonel! -I'm not gonna mince words and stand on protocol —
Colonel DaX, ifyou continue in this manner, I shall have to place you under arrest.
I believe the colonel has a point, even though he makes it rather bluntly.
This is not a trial, but it does bear certain aspects ofone.
And Colonel DaX, technically, is cast in the role ofthe defense.
In view ofthe gravity ofthe charges...
a court of law would grant him all possible latitude in presenting his case.
Latitude is one thing. Insubordination another.
I am merely offering an opinion, General. Please do not feel constrained to accept it.
I am perfectly willing to accept it, General Broulard.
I'm sorry, sir. I certainly didn't intend to be insubordinate.
My only aim is to remind you ofthe heroism these men have shown...
on every occasion in the past.
We're not talking about the past. We're talking about the present.
But don't you see, sir? They're not cowards.
So ifsome ofthem didn't leave the trenches, it must have been because it was impossible.
They were ordered to attack. It was their duty to obey that order.
We can't leave it up to the men to decide when an order is possible or not.
If it was impossible, the only proofofthat...
would be their dead bodies lying at the bottom ofthe trenches.
They're scum, Colonel.
The whole rotten regiment —
a pack ofsneaking, whining, tail-dragging curs.
- Do you really believe that, sir? - Yes, I do. That's exactly what I believe.
And what's more, it's an incontestable fact.
- Then why not shoot the entire regiment? - [ Laughing ]
- I'm perfectly serious. - Now, Colonel, you're missing the point entirely.
We don't want to slaughter the French army. All we want to do is to set an example.
Oh, well, if it's an example you want, then take me.
- Take you? - Yes, sir, if it's an eXample you want...
one man will do as well as a hundred.
The logical choice is the officer most responsible for the attack.
[ Broulard ] Come now, Colonel. I thinkyou're overwrought.
This is not a question ofofficers.
Paul, we don't want to overdo this thing.
Suppose wejust make it a dozen.
[ Exhales ] I was talking ofa hundred men, and now we're down to 1 2.
Paul, let's not haggle over this thing anymore!
Let's get it settled once and for all so that we can all live with it.
Well, perhaps I was a bit too anxious to see properjustice meted out.
I've spent my entire life in the army.
I've always tried to be true to my principles.
That's the only mistake I can ever be accused of.
I'll settle for this —
have the company commanders select one man from each company in the first wave...
three in all.
Well, that's very reasonable ofyou, Paul.
The court-martial will meet at the chateau at 3:00 this afternoon.
- Will that be convenient foryou, General? - I won't be there, Paul.
You won't be there?
No, I think it best that you handle this matter on your own.
- Probably so. - General Mireau.
If it's at all possible, I'd like to be appointed counsel for the accused.
I'll take the matter into consideration.
I think we can permit that, can't we, Paul? Ofcourse we can.
- Consider it settled, Colonel. - Thankyou, sir.
Well, noon straight up, Paul.
I hope that you can stay for lunch, Colonel.
George, I'm afraid the colonel won't have time.
Don't deny it, Paul. You've been hiding this man, keeping him foryour own.
I think that was very selfish ofyou.
Thankyou foryour courtesy, General, but I'm afraid there isn't much time between now and 3:00.
Ofcourse, Colonel. I shall look forward to the pleasure ofseeing you again.
[ Clicks Heels ]
- Yes, Captain? What is it? - You ordered me to report to you here, sir.
- Captain Rousseau, battery commander, sir. - Yes, yes, ofcourse.
I wanted to speak to you about some ofyour shells falling short.
I haven't time to go into it now.
Report back to your command until further orders.
- Yes, sir. - [ Heels Click ]
- Bad stuff. Demoralizes the men. - I quite agree with you.
And the best solution is to shelve him to another outfit.
A court of inquiry ought to roast him a bit first.
Well, in cases like this — shells falling short —
I — I always try to avoid an inquiry.
It gets around among the men and makes a bad impression.
No, shelving will be the best discipline for him, in my opinion.
- Well, perhaps you're right. - Oh, uh, would you excuse me for a moment?
A regimental matter I want to mention to the colonel.
- I'll join you in the dining room. - Splendid. In a moment.
That will be Captain Sancy, Captain Renouart and Lieutenant Roget.
- Yes, sir. - Have them meet me at regimental headquarters in halfan hour.
- Yes, sir. - Colonel Dax.
- Yes, sir. - I'd like a word with you.
Certainly, sir.
Let's be sensible about this.
Sensible, sir?
Listen to me, Dax.
Drop this fancy talk with me, understand?
General Broulard seems to think you're funny. I don't.
- Now, I want you to drop this affair. - I beg your pardon, sir. Is that an order?
Colonel Dax, when this mess is cleaned up, I'll break you.
I'll find an excuse and I'll breakyou to the ranks. I'll ruin you.
And it'll bejust what you deserve...
showing such little loyalty to your commanding officer.
That's all, Colonel.
[ Officer ] Detail, halt!
General Mireau feels that the attack on the Anthill yesterday morning failed...
because ofan inadequate effort on the part ofthe First Battalion.
Each ofyou is to select one man from your company...
place him under arrest and have him ready to appear before a general court-martial...
no later than 1 500 hours this afternoon.
The charge is cowardice in the face ofthe enemy.
You have your orders, gentlemen. Let's carry them out.
But Lieutenant Roget killed Lejeune on that patrol...
and then blackmailed me into keeping quiet about the whole thing!
- That's why he picked me. - Corporal, I understand your feelings.
But that story has nothing to do with the charges you're being tried for.
- Don't you believe me, sir? - Yes, I do, but who else will?
You've got no witnesses.
Besides, such charges against an officer would only antagonize the court.
When we get clear ofthis, I'm going into the story ofthat patrol again.
Sir, in my case, Captain Renouart had the sergeant draw lots.
I was picked purely by chance.
You're lucky. Look at me.
I wasjust picked because Captain Sancy said I was a social undesirable.
Me, a social undesirable, Colonel.
- I didn't act like a coward. Picking by lots — is that fair? - Neither did I! Major Vignon —
Gentlemen! You've all got to understand that the reason you were picked is immaterial.
Whatever the reason, you're on trial foryour lives.
Stick to the stories you've told me...
and don't let the prosecutor shake you out ofthem.
Now remember, you'll be soldiers in the presence ofsuperior officers.
So act like what you are — soldiers.
And brave ones at that.
Now, I've been in the room you'll be sitting in.
The afternoon sun will be in your faces...
so don't let it seem as ifyou're dropping your eyes in a hangdog manner.
When you answer questions, look thejudges in the eye.
Don't whine, plead or make speeches. That's myjob.
Simple statements — short...
but make them so they can be heard all over the room.
And try not to repeat yourselves.
I'll do that foryou when I sum up.
Now, we haven't much time.
The court-martial begins in about an hour, and I've got notes to look at.
Good luck.
- Thankyou, sir. - Colonel, sir.
On the left, ho!
Detail, halt!
Prisoners, right heel!
On the left, ho!
Left face!
The court-martial is open. The prisoners may be seated.
[ Coughs ] This is a general court-martial.
We shall therefore dispense with unnecessary formalities.
These men are charged with cowardice in the face ofthe enemy...
and will be tried for that offense.
- Mr. Prosecutor. - Call the accused — Private Ferol.
Mr. President.
Will the prosecutor question the witnesses without even reading the indictment?
Please don't take up the court's time with technicalities.
The indictment is lengthy, and there's no point in reading it.
The defense has a right to know the exact accusations —
The indictment is that the accused showed cowardice in the face ofthe enemy...
during the attack on the Anthill.
Proceed, Mr. Prosecutor.
Call the accused — Private Ferol.
- Private Ferol. - Yes, sir?
Were you in the first wave during the attack on the Anthill?
Yes, sir.
- Did you refuse to advance? - No, sir.
- Did you advance? - Yes, sir.
How far did you advance?
To about the middle of no-man's-land, sir.
Then what did you do?
There were machine-gun bullets landing all around.
Answer the question. What did you do?
Well, I saw that me and Meyer, sir —
I didn't ask you what you saw.
The court has no concern with your... visual experiences.
- My what, sir? - Prisoner will reply to the question.
Yes, sir. What question was it?
You advanced to the middle of no-man's-land. What did you do then?
- Then, sir? - Did you go back or forward?
I went back, sir.
In other words, Private Ferol, you retreated.
Yes, sir.
That's all. The accused may return to his seat.
Just a minute.
Mr. President, I'd like to question the witness if I may.
- Proceed, Colonel. - Thank you.
Now, Private Ferol, when you reached the middle of no-man's-land...
- were you alone with Private Meyer? - Yes, sir.
Well, what happened to the rest ofyour company?
Well, I don't know, sir.
I guess the rest ofthem had been killed or wounded.
And you found yourself in the middle of no-man's-land alone with Private Meyer.
Yes, sir.
Why didn't you attack the Anthill single-handed?
[ Exhales ]
Why didn't you storm the Anthill alone?
Just me and Meyer? You're kidding, sir.
Yes, I'm kidding, Private Ferol.
Thankyou. That's all.
I don't see the point ofthis line ofquestioning.
Well, I'm attempting to indicate, sir...
the utter absurdity ofthe line ofquestioning used by the prosecutor.
Mr. Prosecutor.
So you freely admit, Private Ferol, that you retreated.
Yes, sir. Me and Meyer both.
I knew we should've took Anthill, but we came on back.
[ Dax ] That's all.
The accused may return to his seat.
Private Arnaud, did you advance?
Yes, sir, until I was ordered back to the trenches by Captain Renouart.
How far did you advance?
Into the wire, sir.
The, uh, enemy wire, I suppose.
No, sir. It was our wire.
You mean to tell me that you didn't advance any further than our wire?
No, sir, I didn't.
How far would you say that was? How many meters?
Well, I advanced as far as I could.
How many meters?
Not many.
‘‘Not many."
Now, Private Arnaud, before you were ordered back...
did you urge your fellow soldiers forward?
Most ofthem were dead or wounded before they got three steps beyond the trenches.
Reply to the question.
I didn't urge them on. No, sir.
Thankyou.
Private Arnaud —
At ease, please.
Aside from your sad failure to give throat to spirited battle cries...
was your behavior different in any respect from that ofthe other men in your company?
Objection. That's a matter ofconjecture.
Sustained.
Did any men in your company get beyond our wire?
No, sir.
Is it true that you've been designated a coward...
simply and purely because you drew a slip of paper marked ‘‘X"?
- Yes, sir. - I don't see that that's significant.
It's accepted practice in the French army to pick examples by lot.
And since this entire company advanced only a few meters...
picking by lot was eminently fair in this case.
Well, I'd like to point out that this soldier has distinguished himself...
in some ofthe bloodiest battles ofthe war.
With the court's permission...
I'll read citations for bravery that he's already earned on two occasions.
First, citations in the Orders in the Army for bravery —
That's immaterial, Colonel.
The accused is not being tried for his former bravery...
but for his recent cowardice.
Medals are no defense.
May I call witnesses to his character?
You may not.
But you may call witnesses to the effect that he reached the German wire.
Mr. President, no one in the entire regiment...
got anywhere near the German wire, including myself.
Call the next accused...
ifyou're through, Colonel.
Thankyou.
Prisoner may return to his seat.
[ Prosecutor ] So you never even left the trenches.
- No, sir. - That's all.
Corporal Paris, why didn't you leave the trenches?
Major Vignon was shot, and he fell back on top of me, sir, and knocked me cold.
And were you lying unconscious in the trenches during the entire attack?
Yes, sir.
That's all.
Have you any witnesses to that?
No, sir. I guess everybody was too busy to notice me.
And there were so many others lying dead anyway.
- But you have no witnesses. - No, sir.
I only have a rather large cut on my head, sir.
That could have been self-inflicted later.
- Thank you. You may stand down. - [ Clicks Heels ]
Mr. Prosecutor, you can make your plea now.
Gentlemen ofthe court...
this case speaks for itself.
All of us witnessed the regrettable attackyesterday morning.
And I submit that that attack...
was a stain on the flag of France...
a blot on the honor...
ofevery man, woman and child in the French nation.
It is to us that the sad, distressing...
repellant duty falls, gentlemen.
I ask this court to find the accused guilty...
and impose the penalties prescribed by the Code of MilitaryJustice.
Thankyou, Mr. Prosecutor.
Colonel, would you like to make your plea?
Gentlemen ofthe court, there are times when I'm ashamed...
to be a member ofthe human race...
and this is one such occasion.
It's impossible for me to summarize the case for the defense...
since the court never allowed me a reasonable opportunity to present my case.
Are you protesting the authenticity ofthis court?
Yes, sir.
I protest against being prevented from introducing evidence...
that I consider vital to the defense.
The prosecution presented no witnesses.
There has never been a written indictment ofcharges made against the defendants.
And lastly, I protest against the fact...
that no stenographic records ofthis trial have been kept.
The attackyesterday morning was no stain on the honor of France...
and certainly no disgrace to the fighting men ofthis nation.
But this court-martial is such a stain and such a disgrace.
The case made against these men is a mockery ofall human justice.
Gentlemen ofthe court...
to find these men guilty...
would be a crime to haunt each ofyou...
till the dayyou die.
I can't believe that the noblest impulse of man —
his compassion for another— can be completely dead here.
Therefore, I humbly beg you...
show mercy to these men.
The accused will be escorted back to the guardroom.
The hearing is closed.
The court will now retire to deliberate.
There will be a guard ofsix men under arms —
rifles loaded, bayonets fixed — two men to each prisoner.
Any sign oftrouble, the prisoners will be instantly covered.
And ifthe trouble doesn't subside at once, the prisoner will be shot on the spot.
Everything must go offwithout a hitch with the least possible delay...
but it shouldn't be hurried.
There must be no fumbling around.
I've been put in charge and made personally responsible...
for any lack oforder or for any mistakes.
But you can take it from me that I shall pass on any blame — and with interest —
to any one ofyou who fails in his duties.
Execution will take place at 7:00 according to the verdict ofthe court-martial.
Detail, attention! Dismissed!
This is compliments of General Mireau.
- Duck. - Well, tell him thanks.
Oh, don't blame me, soldier.
Hey, ugly, what are we supposed to eat this with — our fingers?
The guard says you can't have any knives or forks.
[ Paris ] Is this supposed to be our last meal or something?
It isn't ’"supposed to be" our last meal. It is our last meal.
Hey, this duck is terrific.
You suppose they put anything in the food?
First they poison us, then they shoot us?
[ Spits ] I think they put something in it.
Like what?
Like, uh — Like something or make us groggy or something.
What would be wrong with that ifthey did?
Maybe nothing foryou, but I'm gonna get out ofthis somehow...
and I don't wanna be drugged.
[ Arnaud ] How are you gonna get out — chew your way through that stone wall?
Arnaud.
Colonel Dax, he'll-he'll — he'll see us through.
Listen, we gotta get out of here. They're gonna kill us in a few hours ifwe don't.
- Have you got an idea? - No, but there's gotta be a way.
How many guards you think they've got out there?
They may have a couple ofsquads. That's what it sounded like this morning.
- Maybe they're some ofour friends. - That's the Third Battalion.
Anyway, right now, we have no friends.
Why kid yourself? We're not gonna get out ofthis.
Maybe you're not, but I am. I'll guarantee you ofthat.
You see that cockroach?
Tomorrow morning, we'll be dead and it'll be alive.
It'll have more contact with my wife and child than I will.
- I'll be nothing, and it'll be alive. - [ Slams Table ]
Now you got the edge on 'im.
Good evening, my sons. I'm Father Dupree.
Is there any news?
Yes. I'm afraid I bring you very bad news.
You must prepare yourselves for the worst. Colonel Dax asked me to tell you so.
Oh, mercy! No!
He's been in telephone contact with army headquarters...
but unable to speak to General Broulard or, for that matter, to anyone in authority.
- [ Ferol Sobbing ] - Same way at Division. No one wants to be found.
- How much time do we have? - You have plenty oftime yet.
Certainly more than enough to prepare yourselves.
- In nomine Patris... - In the name ofthe Father —
et Filii, et Spiritus Sancti.
Amen.
[ Ferol Murmuring Prayer ]
[ Ferol Continues, Indistinct ]
Father, will you take this letter for me, please?
- Ofcourse, my son. - It's to my wife.
She won't understand this, and I tried to explain it to her.
I'll see that she gets it.
Do you want me to hearyour confession?
Well, Father, to tell you the truth, I'm not very religious.
I know you're trying to help, and I appreciate it...
but if I started praying now, I'd feel like a hypocrite.
Oh, that's an error, my son.
God is always ready to listen to your prayers.
All right, Father.
- Will you please hear my confession now? - Yes.
Have faith in your Creator, my son.
Death comes to us all.
In the name ofthe Father and ofthe Son and ofthe Holy Ghost.
That's really deep. ‘‘Death comes to us all."
That really is deep.
Say, Ferol, what's the matter— afraid your luck isn't going to hold out?
Well, look. This is — This is my religion.
O Great Bottle, forgive me my sins, for now I lay me down to sleep, Bo peep.
May I drink ofyou first? Thankyou. Amen.
I understand your anguish, my son...
but you must not let it harden your heart.
May I tell you something, Father?
Back in my hometown, there was a certain little cafe...
with an amusing sign over the bar.
It read, ‘’'Do not be afraid to ask for credit...
for our way of refusing is very polite."
- Come on, Arnaud, sit down. You're drunk. - Oh, Paris, leave me alone.
Come on. Come on, sit down.
And you, get out of here with your sanctimonious pat answers.
What are you hanging around for — to torture us?
- No. To help you with all my power. - Your power? You have no power!
- Come on, Arnaud, take it easy. - No, but God has power.
- Does he? What a laugh! - You can be saved.
Saved? I'll be saved!
Cut it out, Arnaud!
Arnaud!
Arnaud.
Father, get a doctor. Quick.
[ Doctor ] That should keep him quiet long enough.
That's a nasty skull fracture though. He may not live out the night.
What are we supposed to do with him?
My advice is to tie him to a stretcher so that he won't slip when you tilt it vertically.
Surely they won't execute a man in that condition.
I'm sorry, Father. The sentence will be carried out.
I've already checked with the general on it.
If he's still alive in the morning...
pinch his cheeks a couple oftimes before you take him out on the field.
It may make him open his eyes. The general wants him to be conscious.
- [ Knocking ] - [ DaX ] Yes?
- Lieutenant Roget reporting, sir. - Come in, come in.
Sergeant Boulanger said that you wanted to see me, sir.
Yes, Lieutenant.
Looks as ifwe have a pretty unpleasant thing on our hands in a few hours, doesn't it?
- You mean the execution, sir. - Yes, I mean the execution.
Yes, sir. It's very unfortunate.
Oh, very unfortunate. That'sjust how I feel about it.
None of us are happy about it, sir.
How'd you happen to pick Corporal Paris?
- Well, I — I had to pick somebody, sir. - That's right. You did.
Ofcourse, you had no personal motive in picking Paris, did you?
Oh, no, sir.
You picked him because he was a coward, didn't you?
- Well, did you or didn't you? - Oh, yes, sir, I did.
[ Exhales ] Well —
Like you say, somebody had to be picked.
- Oh, it was quite a problem, sir. - Yes, I have the same kind of problem.
I have to pick someone to be in charge ofthe firing squad tomorrow.
Do you have any objections to taking thejob?
- Me, sir? - Yes, you.
- Well — - What's the matter? Don't you feel well?
[ Stammering ] Well, no — Yeah, I-I feel all right, sir.
- It'sjust that I — - Is it too hot in here?
- Would you like me to open a window? - No, sir. No, sir.
Well, it's — It'sjust that I've never been in charge ofa firing squad before, sir.
Oh, there's nothing to it.
First, you help the sergeant tie the men to the posts.
Ofcourse, you offer the men blindfolds.
And, well, ifthey want them, you tie them on, see?
Now, you —you take your position with the firing squad...
you raise your sword — ‘’'Ready, aim, fire."
Then you draw your revolver out, you walk forward...
and put a bullet through each man's head.
Sir, I request that I be excused from this duty.
Request denied.
- Colonel, I — - You've got thejob.
It's all yours. That's all, Lieutenant.
- Colonel, ifyou could just — - That's all, Lieutenant!
- [ Knocking ] - Yes?
- Excuse me, sir. Colonel Dax? - Yes
My name is Rousseau, sir, Captain ofArtillery.
What is it, Captain?
I have something to tell you, sir, that may have a great bearing on the court-martial.
Come in, Captain.
[ Orchestra: ’'‘Blue Danube" ]
[ No Audible Dialogue ]
[ Continues, Muffled ]
- Well, Colonel, good evening. - Good evening, sir.
- Good evening. Come and sit down. - Thank you, sir. I —
I am really sorry to intrude on you in this way.
Not at all. Always delighted to see you, Colonel Dax.
- Will you have a cigar? - No, thankyou, sir, but —
- Well, I — - [ Chuckling ] I thinkyou'll find it delicious.
I must apologize for not inviting you tojoin the party downstairs tonight...
but I'm afraid that it's, uh, a dress affair.
Well, thankyou, sir, but I must confess that, uh, this is not entirely a social visit.
Oh, come, Dax, let's not go over all that ground again.
Though, uh, I must admit that, judging from the casualties...
the efforts ofyour regiment must have been considerable.
Now, how can you understand that and allow these men to be shot tomorrow?
Oh, come, Colonel. You're choosing to take a rather simple view ofthis thing.
The attack was impossible from the start. The General Staff must have known that.
Colonel Dax, we think we're doing a good job running the war.
You must be aware ofthe fact that the General Staff...
is subject to all kinds of unfair pressures from newspapers and politicians.
Maybe the attack against the Anthill was impossible.
Perhaps it was an error ofjudgment on our part.
On the other hand, ifyour men had been a little more daring, they might have taken it.
Who knows? In any case...
why should we have to bear any more criticism for failure than we have to.
Aside from the inescapable fact that a good many ofyour men never left the trenches...
there's the question ofthe troops' morale. Don't forget that.
- The troops' morale? - Certainly.
These eXecutions will be a perfect tonic for the entire division.
There are few things more fundamentally encouraging and stimulating...
than seeing someone else die.
- I never thought ofthat, sir. - You see, Colonel, troops are like children.
Just as a child wants his father to be firm, troops crave discipline.
I see.
And one way to maintain discipline is to shoot a man now and then.
May I ask...
do you sincerely believe all the things you'vejust said?
It's been a pleasure discussing this with you, Colonel...
but I'm afraid that I'd better be getting back to my guests.
Forgive me for having kept you from your party.
Oh, by the way, sir, have you heard that General Mireau...
ordered his own battery commander, Captain Rousseau...
to open fire on his own positions during the attack?
[ Waltz Continues ]
Well, ofcourse the captain refused without a written order...
but General Mireau demanded that he commence firing on our own trenches.
Again Rousseau refused without an order in writing...
but again he was ordered, and again he refused —
all in front ofwitnesses.
Do you actually believe this fantastic story?
Here are copies ofthe sworn statements from all the principals involved —
Battery Commander Rousseau, Captain Nichols, the artillery spotter...
the telephone clerk and, uh, my own deposition.
What has all this got to do with the charge against the condemned prisoners?
A general in a tantrum over the failure ofan impossible attack...
orders his artillery to fire on his own men.
Now, this same officer on the same day...
orders a court-martial in which three of his men are sentenced to be shot.
General, what would your, uh, newspapers and your politicians do with that?
Colonel Dax, are you trying to blackmail me?
Sir, that's an ugly word, but you are in a difficult position.
Too much has happened. Someone's got to be hurt.
The only question is who.
General Mireau's assault on the Anthill failed...
and his order to fire on this own troops was refused.
But his attempt to murder three innocent men...
to protect his own reputation will be prevented by the General Staff.
Will you pardon me, Colonel Dax?
I've been rude to my guests too long.
- [ Continues ] - [ Door Closes ]
[ Rooster Crowing ]
[ Boulanger ] Detail, halt!
Order arms!
Fall out!
[ Ferol Murmuring, Whimpering ]
Courage, my son. The worst is over.
[ Ferol Praying, Indistinct ]
Good morning, Paris.
Good morning, Sergeant.
- How are you today? - Not too bad.
How are you?
You missed some good chow in here last night.
What'd you have?
Have you got a drink for us?
Take a swig ofthis.
[ Laughs ]
Itjust occurred to me — A funny thing.
I haven't had one seXual thought since the court-martial.
[ Laughing ] It's pretty extraordinary, isn't it?
- [ Sobbing ] - Pull yourselftogether. Act like a man.
- [ Crying ] - Listen, Paris.
- Are you listening to me? - Yes.
There will be a lot ofdignitaries, newspapermen out there.
You've got a wife and family. How do you want to be remembered?
I don't wanna die.
Many of us will bejoining you before this war's over.
I don't care. I don't wanna die.
[ Gasping ] Please save me, Sergeant.
I can't save you. No one can now.
This is the last decision you'll have a chance to make on earth.
You can pull yourselftogether, act like a man, or we'll have to drag you out of here.
In the end, it'll all be the same. It's up to you.
[ Ferol Praying, Murmuring ]
Well, let's get busy. You and Ferol take your coats off.
It's no use hanging around here.
- [ Rolling Tattoo ] - [ Steady Drum Beat ]
[ Drumming Continues ]
[ No Audible Dialogue ]
...with the help ofthy grace to do penance and to amend my life.
- [ Dupree Murmuring Prayer ] - [ Sobbing ]
Amen.
Why do I have to die? For what?
[ Sobbing ]
Why do I have to die? Why? I didn't do anything.
We do not question the will ofGod, my son.
But I fought. I fought.
I fought on the battlefield.
Why don't they die? Why not put them to death?
You showed courage in the face ofthe enemy, my son.
Show it now before your own troops.
But I'm scared. I'm scared.
Oh, Father, I'm scared. Oh, my God.
Courage. Brace yourself, man. Brace yourself.
[ Ferol Crying, Whimpering ]
[ Dupree ] He said, '‘This day, thou shalt be with me in paradise."
- [ Ferol ] Really, Father? - Yes
[ Sobbing ] Really, Father?
I don't understand why— [ Sobbing ]
I'll never see nobody again, Father. Please.
Courage, man. Brace yourself.
- I can't help it. - Brace yourself.
I can't help it, Father.
O God, O Almighty God —
Oh, Christ! Christ!
Grant courage to this man who is about to die.
Strengthen me, God! Please strengthen me!
[ Sobbing Continues ]
Why do I have to die, Father?
[ Boulanger ] About face!
[ Drumming Continues ]
Secure prisoners!
[ Roget ] Detail, attention!
Forward march!
[ Footsteps ]
Detail, halt!
Left face!
[ Sobbing, Murmuring ]
Please don't. Please choose me to — [ Sobs ]
[ Drumming Continues ]
‘‘In the name ofthe French People...
‘‘Corporal Philippe Paris...
‘‘Private Maurice Ferol...
‘‘and Private Pierre Arnaud...
‘‘ofthe 701 st Regiment...
‘‘having been found guilty ofcowardice in the face ofthe enemy...
‘‘are to be executed by rifle fire immediately...
in accordance with thejudgment ofthe military court-martial."
[ Boulanger ] Right face!
Forward hut!
...and blessed are thou amongst women.
- Do you want a blindfold? - Blessed art thou —
Yes, Lieutenant. Please.
[ Sobbing ]
I don't wanna die. I don't wanna die.
[ Sobbing ]
Do — Do you want a blindfold?
No.
[ Quietly ] I'm sorry.
[ Drumming Stops ]
Ready!
Aim!
- Fire! - [ Groaning ]
I'm awfully glad you could be there, George.
This sort ofthing is always rather grim.
But this one had a kind ofsplendor to it, don't you think?
I have never seen an affair ofthis sort handled any better.
The men died wonderfully.
There's always that chance that one ofthem will do something that will leave everyone with a bad taste.
This time, you couldn't ask for better.
[ Knocking ]
Yes?
[ Broulard ] Yes, Colonel?
You wanted to see me, sir.
[ Chuckling ] Oh, yes, yes. Come in, Colonel. Come in and sit down.
Oh, Colonel Dax, your men died very well.
- Would you like some coffee, Colonel? - No, thank you, sir.
Oh, by the way, Paul, it's been brought to my attention...
that you ordered your artillery to fire on your own men during the attack on the Anthill.
- I did what? - [ Cup Clatters ]
- Who told you that? - Colonel Dax came to me last night with the story.
Colonel Dax, I've always known that you were a disloyal officer...
but I never dreamed that you would stoop to anything so low as this.
General, I have sworn statements from Captain Nichols, your artillery spotter...
Captain Rousseau, the battery commander who refused your order.
I think it's infamous, absolutely infamous.
Then there's no truth at all to the charge made by Colonel Dax?
I don't see how you could even ask me that.
You cannot imagine how glad I am to hear that, Paul.
I'm certain that you'll come through it all right.
- I'll come through what? - There will have to be an inquiry.
- An inquiry? - But it won't amount to much.
- Those things never do. The public forgets. - ’'‘Public"?
You've got to have the right to clearyour name.
You cannot allow such vile insinuations against your character to go undenied.
So that's it.
You're making me the goat —
the only completely innocent man in this whole affair.
I have only one last thing to say to you, George.
The man you stabbed in the back is a soldier.
[ Door Slams ]
Well...
had to be done.
France cannot afford to have fools guiding her military destiny.
I'm grateful to you, Dax, for having brought this matter to my attention.
Colonel Dax, how would you like General Mireau'sjob?
- His what, sir? - Hisjob.
Let me get this straight, sir.
You're offering me General Mireau's command?
Come, come, Colonel Dax. Don't overdo the surprise.
You've been after thejob from the start. We all know that, my boy.
I may be many things, sir, but I'm not your boy.
Well, I certainly didn't mean to imply any biological relationship.
- I'm not your boy in any sense. - You trying to provoke me, Colonel?
- Why should I want to do that, sir? - Exactly.
It would be a pity to lose your promotion before you get it...
a promotion you have so very carefully planned for.
Sir, would you like me to suggest what you can do with that promotion?
Colonel Dax! You will apologize at once, or I shall have you placed under arrest!
I apologize for not being entirely honest with you.
I apologize for not revealing my true feelings.
I apologize, sir, for not telling you sooner...
that you're a degenerate, sadistic old man...
and you can go to hell before I apologize to you now or ever again!
Colonel Dax, you're a disappointment to me.
You've spoiled the keenness ofyour mind by wallowing in sentimentality.
You really did want to save those men...
and you were not angling for Mireau's command.
You're an idealist, and I pity you as I would the village idiot.
We're fighting a war, Dax, a war that we've got to win.
Those men didn't fight, so they were shot.
You bring charges against General Mireau, so I insist that he answer them.
Wherein have I done wrong?
Because you don't know the answer to that question...
I pityyou.
[ Crowd Whistling, Cheering ]
[ Loud Cheering, Laughing ]
[ Pounding On Tables, Clamoring ]
[ Whistling, Booing ]
Thankyou. Thankyou, thankyou.
Now, gentlemen, we have a little special entertainment foryou.
[ Cheering, Clamoring ]
[ Pounding On Tables ]
Sort ofa — sort ofa little diversion as it were.
And as my wife always says, '‘What is life without a little diversion?"
[ Laughing, Whistling ]
Now, gentlemen, I give you our latest acquisition from the enemy.
[ Booing, Whistling ]
- From Germany. - [ Booing ]
The land ofthe Hun.
[ Cheering, Whistling ]
[ Whistling, Clamoring ]
[ Shouting, Laughing ]
Gentlemen, a little pearl washed ashore by the tide ofwar.
[ Laughing ]
Sag den Herrschaften guten Tag.
- Guten Tag. - [ Soldiers Laughing ]
Hey! Talk in a civilized language.
- [ Whistling, Laughing ] - It's true the little lady has her limitations.
As a matter offact, she has absolutely no talent at all —
except, that is, well, maybe a little natural talent?
[ Laughing, Whistling ]
The little lady can't dance, she can't tell anyjokes...
and she can't balance rubber balls on her little nose.
- [ Booing ] - Ah, but she can sing like a bird.
She has a throat of gold.
- Come on, baby! - Come on, honey! Sing us a song!
- Come on, honey! How about a song? - [ Clamoring, Whistling ]
[ Clamoring Continues ]
[ No Audible Dialogue ]
Come on, baby! Sing us a song!
[ Singing Inaudible Over Clamor ]
Louder! Louder!
- [ Singing, Indistinct ] - [ Clamoring, Whistling Continue ]
- [ Singing ‘'The Faithful Hussar" in German ] - [ Clamoring Subsides, Stops ]
- [ Singing Continues ] - [ Soldiers Humming Softly ]
- [ Singing Continues ] - [ Soldiers Humming, Vocalizing ]
[ Soldiers Continue Humming ]
- Sir. - Yes, Sergeant?
We have orders to move back to the front immediately.
- Give the men a few minutes more, Sergeant. - Yes, sir.
[ Humming Continues ]
[ Military Orchestra: ‘'The Faithful Hussar" ]
[ Roars ]