[1] LT. Richard Houston is an officer in the U.S. Navy who deserted during peacetime service to escape gambling debts, and took up life as a hobo.

Houston is assigned to serve aboard a minesweeper, where he carries out numerous successful efforts to defuse mines in the San Diego harbor while struggling to keep his identity secret.

Confessing to Mary that he was out gambling to get the money to buy an engagement ring, Houston is crestfallen that by being AWOL, he was responsible for the death of his friend.

Gilpin realizes that he can counter the threat of the mines by flying aircraft low over the water where they can be blown up after they rise to the surface.

[Note 1] The film was going to be directed by William Thomas, who had been unable to make his directorial debut in Alaskan Highway.

[5] The day that Williams filmed his death scene, he had received notice that his nephew, Byron Andrews, had been killed in action in the South Pacific.

[6] In the opening credits, the following acknowledgment appears: "The producers wish to thank the Navy Department for their cooperation in making possible the filming of this picture – and to express especial appreciation to Commander Louis H. Gwinn, U.S.N.R., commanding officer of the Naval Operating Base Terminal Island[7] whose technical aid and advice were of the utmost assistance".