John Rambo, a Vietnam War veteran, arrives in a small town but is mistreated and arrested by Sheriff Teasle. Abused by the police, he relives his traumatic past and violently escapes into the forest.
Using his survival skills, Rambo outmatches the police and National Guard sent to capture him. He injures but does not kill his pursuers, proving his superior combat training.
Colonel Trautman arrives, warning Teasle that Rambo is too dangerous to hunt. Ignoring the advice, Teasle continues the chase, forcing Rambo to retaliate by attacking the town.
Rambo confronts Teasle but stops short of killing him. Trautman persuades him to surrender, and in an emotional breakdown, Rambo expresses his pain and alienation before being taken into custody.