Tom, a young British soldier in World War II, is conscripted into the army just before the D-Day invasion. His experience begins with basic training, where he undergoes physical conditioning and drills alongside other new recruits. As they forge bonds amidst the harsh and regimented environment, the reality of impending combat looms over them. Tom's reflections deepen his sense of dread and inevitability as he imagines what war holds in store for him. The scenes oscillate between the brutal training regimen and Tom's moments of introspection, using archival footage to blend historic events with his personal journey.

As Tom progresses through his training, he grapples with the hopes and fears common among his peers. He finds brief solace in personal moments and letters exchanged with his family back home. However, with each passing day, Tom is drawn further into the machinery of war, culminating in his deployment. The narrative follows Tom’s thoughts and observations as he prepares for the ultimate test of courage and survival, offering a poignant look at the human side of warfare. The film captures Tom's inner turmoil and growth against the backdrop of one of the most significant moments in military history.