An experienced South Pacific Sea Dog by the name of Quinton McHale, was commissioned as a Lieutenant Commander into the U.S. Navy Reserve at the start of World War II. McHale was made the Skipper of the Torpedo Patrol (PT) Boat #73 stationed at the U.S. Naval Installation on the island of Taratupa in the Southwest Pacific. The 73 'Family' included, among others, a con man and amateur Magician, a womanizing hunk, a dedicated Family man, a guitar-playing, moonshine-making Tennessee good ol' boy, and even a deserter from the Japanese Navy, who was an excellent cook.

Ernest Borgnineas Quinton McHale
Joe Flynnas Captain Wallace B. Binghamton
Tim Conwayas Ensign Charles Parker
Carl Ballantineas Lester Gruber
Gary Vinsonas George Christopher
Billy Sandsas 'Tinker' Bell
Gavin MacLeodas Happy