During the First World War, Sergeant Michael Dunne, is brutally wounded in France, returns to Calgary emotionally and physically scarred. While in the military hospital, he meets Sarah, a mysterious and attractive nurse. When Sarah's younger brother David signs up to fight in Europe, Michael feels compelled to protect him. Michael and David, like thousands of Canadians, are sent to fight in the third battle of Ypres, a battle against impossible odds, commonly known as PASSCHENDAELE.