She Wore a Yellow Ribbon

 "She Wore a Yellow Ribbon" is a 1949 Western film directed by John Ford and starring John Wayne, Joanne Dru, and John Agar. It is the second film in Ford's "Cavalry Trilogy," following "Fort Apache" (1948) and preceding "Rio Grande" (1950).

Set in the post-Civil War era, the film follows aging Cavalry officer Captain Nathan Brittles (John Wayne) on his final mission before retirement. As tensions rise with the Native American tribes, Brittles is tasked with escorting a wagon train and protecting settlers from potential attacks. Along the way, he faces challenges both from within the ranks and from the surrounding environment.

The title, "She Wore a Yellow Ribbon," refers to an old cavalry tradition in which a soldier's romantic interest would wear a yellow ribbon as a sign of her affection and commitment. In the film, this tradition plays a significant role in the storyline as Captain Brittles reminisces about lost love and the passage of time.

Considered one of the greatest Westerns ever made, "She Wore a Yellow Ribbon" has left a lasting impact on the genre and has been praised for its visual beauty, thematic depth, and emotional resonance. It remains a classic of American cinema and a testament to John Ford's mastery as a filmmaker.