Too Young the Hero

Too Young the Hero is a 1988 television movie starring Rick Schroder. It premiered on CBS on March 27, 1988. The film tells the true story of a 12yearold boy who forges his mothers signature to join the United States Navy during World War II. It is based on the real life of Calvin Graham, who was the youngest American serviceman of the war. The film was produced by Trucon Productions in Virginia Beach, Virginia for CBS. It was the last film of director Buzz Kulik.

Graham unsuccessfully tries to get himself released from prison by saying he is underage, but nobody believes him. He then learns that hes in prison for desertion and, as a result, is unable to get any messages out.When Graham is asked about a wound in the back of his head, he remembers the USS South Dakota fighting in the Naval Battle of Guadalcanal. One of Grahams shipmates is killed, and several others, including Graham, are wounded. Lauding Grahams bravery, the ships captain recommends him for two Purple Hearts. Grahams ship enters port in New York City for repairs, but when Graham learns that his grandmother has died, he asks to go to Texas to attend her funeral. The ships executive officer, who has assumed command, gives Graham a fourday pass, knowing he cannot make it back in time. He tells Graham to go to the recruiting office in Texas and turn himself in when the pass expires. Graham reports as directed, expecting his story about being underage to be verified so he can be released. However, as depicted in the opening scenes, he is arrested instead. ........

Source: Wikipedia