It is about the life of a real person who spent 50 years of his life at West Point. Began as a dishwasher and ended up an NCO and involved with teaching the cadets to swim (though in the film he couldn't).
I don't know if everything depicted therein actually really happened. Some historical movies take license. But I do know enough is true to make it a well-worthy movie in which one can invest time and end up being glad for having done so.
These days what else is there to be "glad for having done so"? Just my opinion of course. If you want to FEEL GOOD for a few hours I recommend it. If you already feel good about the way things are don't waste your time. You won't understand it or comprehend it or find any value or worth in it.
