[1][2] James Randall (Novarro), a second year upperclassman at the Naval Academy, befriends plebe Ted Lawrence (Barry).

She is engaged to Basil Courtney (Kent), a wealthy reprobate who arranges with Rita (Key) to discredit James.

On the night of the big dance, Rita goes to the guardhouse where James is scheduled to be on duty and arranges to be found with him.

James discovers Rita's complicity in Courtney's schemes and decides to stay at the Academy, marrying Patricia upon his graduation.

[3][4] Much of The Midshipman was filmed on location at the United States Naval Academy with the cooperation of the Department of the Navy, allowing the use of the Brigade of Midshipmen as extras.