The film starts with American soldiers bored as there is no action for them while they are in the Persian Gulf. But it ends with a a lot of action as the soldiers have found a map that leads them to gold that was hidden away, which they attempted to steal. And while this seems like a simple plot for greed, it turns into a story of men that realize that there's more at stake than just getting rich. There are actual lives, generationally at stake here as rebel fighters rescue the Americans and eventually need their help in order to cross over into Iran.
Archie, Troy and Chief all are men who serve in their own unique ways. And when presented with the opportunity to get rich stealing gold they take it. But what we discover in the midst of a crime caper tale is men who are willing to do what is necessary for the betterment of people who desperately need them to survive.
This story connects to the reality of why many believed the U.S. to be in the Middle East - oil, gold, money. What creates a compelling narrative is that this greed that is easily embedded in humanity turns to compassion it leads to sacrifice in order that others might live. The gold is given as a bribe to their fellow soldiers who allow the rebels to cross into Iran, and rather than this trio making a handsome reward for stealing gold, they've given it away. They are trading their riches for one more day for the rebels.
