When two street peddlers, Slicker Smith and Herbie Brown, accidentally enlist in the army while trying to dodge a cop, they find themselves navigating the rigorous and often hilarious world of military training. Slicker and Herbie’s clumsy antics quickly earn them the ire of their drill sergeant, and they struggle to adapt to the disciplined environment. In the meantime, they befriend their fellow recruits, including a wealthy slack-jawed playboy, Randolph Parker III, who is at odds with his girlfriend Judy Gray as she is romantically involved with a more earnest soldier, Bob Martin. The characters each deal with personal battles while coping with the demands of boot camp.

As they bumble through training exercises, Slicker and Herbie inadvertently create chaos but gradually start to make sense of their roles and responsibilities. Their comedic missteps and resilience highlight the camaraderie formed among the soldiers. Throughout their time in camp, friendships are tested and blossoming relationships become complicated. The film cleverly blends comedy with moments of genuine sentiment and explores themes of duty, honor, and personal growth amidst the backdrop of an impending global conflict.