"The Long Gray Line" featured a very impressive cast, most of whom were Ford favorites and had worked together before -  Donald Crisp, Sean McClory, Harry Carey, Jr., Ward Bond, and Patrick Wayne.  Martin Maher (Tyrone Power), an Irish immigrant began is career at West Point as a waiter.  Not being terribly adept at this job, Marty reportedly broke so many dishes that he was forced to join the Army to repay his debts.  However his patriotism to his new country and sense of humor carried him through a career that spanned over 50 years and 2 world wars.  He was a motivating individual and in his own way a hero to those who knew him.

Like any great man, there is usually an equally great woman beside him.  Mary O'Donnel, (Maureen O'Hara) was also an immigrant from the Emerald Isle and hired as  cook and housekeeper to chief instructor Ward Bond and his wife.  Of course the couple were inevitably to meet and Marty was immediately smitten.  The courting of Mary O'Donnell is quite amusing.  This marvelous Irish couple share their values and their love with all who surround them.  It's a beautiful story, told as only John Ford could tell it.

Note:  John Wayne was originally to have the part of Marty Maher, but he was involved in another film project at the time.  Knowing that if you "suggested" anything to John Ford, he would do just the opposite, Maureen cleverly guided Ford toward consideration of her friend Tyrone Power and Power was cast in the title role.

Back To Features Page