The greatest of all post-WW2, pre-Cold War soldiers on film.Major Calloway is the weary but competent guy who is clearing up, setting things to rights and you can tell he is completely sick of it. Intolerant of time-wasters who slow him down, the remorseless nemesis of criminals who, after the worst conflict in history, want to inflict yet more misery on its victims, he is nevertheless willing to turn a compassionate eye on genuine distress.Howard is utterly brilliant in the role, understated like his beret and duffel coat, yet catching every nuance and delivering one of the greatest performances in 50's movies, rivalling the best of Brando, Dean, Harvey and Burton.Though people often don't realise it, diverted by the Orson Welles fireworks, an extravagance of unforgettable dialogue, a unique musical score and jaw-dropping cinematography, Howard's performance is what makes this movie truly great.