L'honneur d'un capitaine

The Algerian War is the subject of a televised debate. During the program, Professor Paulet, a sociology teacher and former member of the Resistance, denounces the methods of Captain Caron, who was killed in action in 1957. His widow, Patricia, shocked by the accusation against a husband she barely knew, decides to take Paulet to court. Her uncle, the head of the bar association, initially refuses to plead her case, but eventually agrees. Paulet is defended by Maitre Gillard. The nineteen days of Captain Caron's command are thoroughly examined. His former subordinates testify one after another. It is revealed that the captain only took command of the battalion the day after the execution of an Algerian traitor, in order to restore order. Eighteen days, therefore, not nineteen. Caron is thus not responsible. Following a first offensive, three fellaghas were taken prisoner. One of them was executed-but this turned out to be the result of a misunderstanding over an order: "Take him down." Once again, doubt hovers over Caron's case. Paulet then denounces the disappearance of a villager known to be close to the fellaghas. Yet again, Caron's guilt is not proven. The professor is ultimately convicted of defamation. Patricia will have saved the captain's honor.