The inclusion of four kids as little heroes may be an indication of the producer's intention to give priority consideration to children's interests. All newcomers, the child actors can be credited for trying to act out their roles well enough. However, with the exception of Fernando Poe Jr. and Ina Raymundo, most of the cast are amateurish.
Bagama't may mabuting hangarin, isang nakababagot na pelikula ang Operation: Balikatan. Hindi maliwanag ang kabuuan ng kuwento dahil sa kakulangan nito ng sentro. Halos pandekorasyon lamang ang mga pangunahing tauhang tulad nina Patricia Javier at Eddie Garcia. Mas binigyang pansin pa ang ilang Amerikanong tauhan. Kakatwa ang daloy ng istorya at pawang pilit ang paglalagay nito ng elementong emosyonal mabigyang buhay lamang ang bidang sundalo.