Should I become President...I will not risk American lives...by permitting any other nation to drag us into the wrong war at the wrong place at the wrong time through an unwise commitment that is unwise militarily, unnecessary to our security and unsupported by our allies.
Interpretation
This quote emphasizes the importance of careful decision-making in leadership, particularly regarding military involvement.
In this quote, John F. Kennedy expresses his commitment to protecting American lives and ensuring that military actions are justified, necessary, and supported by allies. He cautions against becoming entangled in conflicts that do not serve national interests, highlighting the responsibility of leaders to evaluate the appropriateness of war before engagement.
In practice
During a speech about foreign policy, a leader might use this quote to highlight their cautious approach to military intervention.
The great battleground for the defense and expansion of freedom today is the whole southern half of the globe... the lands of the rising peoples. Their revolution is the greatest in human history. They seek an end to injustice, tyranny and exploitation. More than an end, they seek a beginning.
I had always enjoyed the title of Commander-in-Chief until I was informed ... that the only forces that cannot be transferred from Washington without my express permission are the members of the Marine Corps Band. Those are the only forces I have. I want it announced that we propose to hold the White House against all odds at least for some time to come.
I am talking about genuine peace, the kind of peace that makes life on earth worth living, the kind that enables men and nations to grow and to hope and to build a better life for their children - not merely peace for Americans but peace for all men and women - not merely peace in our time but peace for all time.
I just received the following wire from my generous Daddy; Dear Jack, Don't buy a single vote more than is necessary. I'll be damned if I'm going to pay for a landslide.
Tolerance implies no lack of commitment to one's own beliefs. Rather it condemns the oppression or persecution of others.
Mankind must put an end to war before war puts an end to mankind.
If your leadership isn't all about you, it will live beyond you.
If there are only three guys at the top of the organization handling things, it's the definition of a bankrupt company. In creating leaders without titles, we are going to have organizations with people at the helm putting forth their best.
Mountaintops inspire leaders but valleys mature them.
In the discharge of the duties of this office, there is one rule of action more important than all others. It consists in never doing anything that someone else can do for you.
Teamwork does not come naturally. Let's face it. We are born with certain inclinations, but sharing isn't one of them.
To win the people, always cook them some savoury that pleases them.
Subscribe for the occasional hand-picked quote. No noise.