This passionate, dramatic blockbuster was a breakout film for Richard Gere and Debra Winger. the sparks fly between Gere, a rebellious Naval officer candidate, and Winger, a small-town factory worker looking for true love. Louis Gossett, Jr. won an Oscar for his portrayal as Foley the tough drill sergeant. Loner Zack Mayo (Richard Gere) enters Officers Candidate School to become a Navy pilot and in 13 torturous weeks he learns the importance of discipline, love and friendship. Louis Gossett, Jr. won an Academy Award for his brilliant portrayal of the tough drill instructor who teaches Zack that no man can make it alone. And while Gossett tries to warn the young officers about the local girls who will do anything to catch themselves pilot husbands, Zack eventually learns to love one (Debra Winger) while his fellow candidate, a memorable character portrayed by David Keith, struggles with a very different fate.