So as through a glass and darkly_x000D_ The age long strife I see_x000D_ Where I fought in many guises,_x000D_ Many names - but always me.
George S. PattonRead
The duties of an officer are the safety, honor, and welfare of your country first; the honor, welfare, and comfort of the men in your command second; and the officer s own ease, comfort, and safety last.
Interpretation
What this quote means
An officer's primary responsibility is to prioritize the nation's needs and the welfare of their subordinates over their own comfort.
This quote by George S. Patton emphasizes the essential values of leadership in the military context, where the safety and honor of the country should always come first. It articulates the hierarchical duty of an officer to care for their men after the nation, highlighting selflessness and commitment to those they lead, suggesting that personal interests should take the lowest priority.
Themes
LeadershipDutySelflessnessServiceMilitary
In practice
Example use cases
In a military training session, a commander might use this quote to inspire young officers about the importance of prioritizing their duties.
More from George S. Patton
All quotes →A man must know his destiny… if he does not recognize it, then he is lost. By this I mean, once, twice, or at the very most, three times, fate will reach out and tap a man on the shoulder… if he has the imagination, he will turn around and fate will point out to him what fork in the road he should take, if he has the guts, he will take it.
George S. PattonRead
There is only one tactical principle which is not subject to change. It is to use the means at hand to inflict the maximum amount of wound, death, and destruction on the enemy in the minimum amount of time.
George S. PattonRead
The fixed determination to have acquired the warrior soul, to either conquer or perish with honor, is the secret of victory.
George S. PattonRead
I am the best damn ass-kicker in the whole U.S. Army!
George S. PattonRead
Do not try to make circumstances fit your plans. Make plans that fit the circumstances.
George S. PattonRead
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