They Rode West (1954)

In the sprawling landscapes of the American West, Dr. Allen Seward (Robert Francis), a principled and dedicated individual, is assigned to a cavalry post, notorious for its lackadaisical and inebriated predecessors. His arrival is met with resistance and hostility from the post, particularly when he dares to tread the path less trodden, ignoring the rigid regulations to tend to the ailing Native Americans languishing in a malaria-ridden reservation. A rebellion stirs within the reservation as the Native Americans, desperate for better living conditions, abandon their designated territory for a healthier, elevated region. This defiance escalates when they align with the formidable Comanches, laying siege to the fort and causing Dr. Seward to be stigmatized as a "woodhawk", an ominous symbol of betrayal. Caught in the crossfire of loyalties and prejudice are Donna Reed, the endearing niece of the post commander, and Phil Carey, a cavalry captain whose ruthless belief is that the only good Indian is a deceased one. Further entangling the intricate web of relationships is May Wynn, a white girl raised among the Native Americans and wedded to the chief's son, who had previously shared the screen with Francis in "The Caine Mutiny". The narrative unfolds as Dr. Seward navigates this treacherous terrain, struggling against the tide of suspicion and hatred. "They Rode West" is a riveting tale of courage, defiance and the relentless pursuit of justice, set against the backdrop of a turbulent era in American history. Sadly, Robert Francis would grace the silver screen in only two more films before his life was tragically cut short in a 1955 plane crash.

They Rode West is a western movie featuring Donna Reed.

They Rode West is currently streaming on fuboTV.