John assumes responsibility for his family and the farm after the death of his father in a farm accident. Later, his mentor grandfather died, making his future college education uncertain. Even so, through a tragedy with a nearby family and the girl he cares for, he realizes that he can become a policeman and still meet the work demands of the farm and family.

He talks his two younger brothers and a friend into becoming policemen also, saying, "One bad cop can be replaced with four good ones."