In the first of a potential series of films inspired by the real-life experiences of Los Angeles police officer turned bestselling author Joseph Wambaugh, an on-the-skids detective, with memories of having accidentally shot and killed his partner while they were pursuing a pair of bank robbers, tries to put his life back in order.

Just as Mary is about to take a romantic vacation with her boyfriend, a terrible accident leaves her paralyzed. Bitter and devastated by her condition, she shuns her friends, but with the help of Joe, a fellow paraplegic, she learns to embrace life and love again.

A retired fighter pilot becomes the head of his alma matter military high school for two weeks with hilarious consequences. He shapes up the school and raises morale so that they are able to win the "brass-axe" competition versus another local military academy.