In April 2004, Marine Lieutenant Colonel Mike Strobl volunteers to escort the remains of Private First Class Chance Phelps – a 19-year old Marine – from the mortuary at Dover Air Force Base, Delaware to his home in Dubois, Wyoming. From Dover to Philadelphia by hearse, from there to Minneapolis and on to Billings, Montana by plane, and then by car to Phelps' Wyoming home – person after person pays respects. Kind words, small gifts, and gratitude are given Strobl to deliver to the family on a soul-searching journey that takes him deep into the heart of his nation, and his own heart as well. 

Based on real-life events, Taking Chance pays tribute to the fallen young Marine and his sacrifice on behalf of the nation. This somber and touching film is a rare window into the final journey of fallen service members, and to the esteem in which Americans hold those who serve.