John Howard is determined to brighten up his old age by taking a fishing trip to France. However, during his stay the Second World War breaks out and he is forced to try to escape back to England. He takes with him the two small children of some friends who stay behind in order to help the Allies. As the conflict grows closer, the roads become impassable and Howard comes across five more children who need his help. He ends up leading this motley group of youngsters through the French countryside, constantly beset by danger, yet heroically protecting his charges.
