I give it as my fixed opinion, that but for our graduated cadets, the war between the United States and Mexico might, and probably would have lasted some four or five years, with, in its first half, more defeats than victories falling to our share; whereas, in less than two campaigns, we conquered a great country and a peace without the loss of a single battle or skirmish.
Interpretation
Winfield Scott emphasizes the crucial role of military training in achieving swift victory in the Mexican-American War.
This quote by Winfield Scott highlights the importance of well-trained military forces in achieving strategic success. Scott believes that without the involvement of the graduated cadets, the conflict between the United States and Mexico could have dragged on for many years, resulting in a series of defeats for the U.S. He underscores the effectiveness of military preparedness and command in securing a swift and decisive victory with minimal loss.
In practice
During a military graduation speech, this quote can inspire cadets about the significance of their training.
Remember, remember, the Fifth of November, the Gunpowder Treason and Plot. I know of no reason why the Gunpowder Treason should ever be forgot... But what of the man? I know his name was Guy Fawkes and I know, in 1605, he attempted to blow up the Houses of Parliament.
David Ben-Gurion was a mythic figure, the founding father of Israel and a modern-day prophet, but he was also a real man who stormed through history on human legs. It was my great privilege to know him and work with him for many years.
The Second World War is the largest single event in human history, fought across six of the world's seven continents and all it oceans. It killed 50 million human beings, left hundreds of millions of others wounded in mind or body and materially devastated much of the heartland of civilization.
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I went out to Charing Cross to see Major General Harrison hanged, drawn, and quartered; which was done there, he looking as cheerful as any man could in that condition.
The whole period of the '60s changed a lot of us; there was never a decade like that in American history... to have the decade capture one of the great accomplishments of this century: man landing on the moon.
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