God grant me the courage not to give up what I think is right even though I think it is hopeless.
By their victory, the 3rd, 4th and 5th Marine Divisions and other units of the Fifth Amphibious Corps have made an accounting to their country which only history will be able to value fully. Among the Americans who served on Iwo Island, uncommon valor was a common virtue.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote highlights the extraordinary bravery displayed by American troops during the Battle of Iwo Jima, emphasizing that their valor will be recognized by history.
Chester W. Nimitz reflects on the remarkable courage shown by Marines during the Battle of Iwo Jima, noting that their collective bravery, described as 'uncommon valor', became a defining characteristic of those who fought there. The victory was not only a military achievement but also an emblem of heroic sacrifice that would be appreciated by future generations. Through this statement, Nimitz honors the soldiers' commitment and highlights the importance of remembering their contributions to history.
Themes
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used during a Memorial Day speech to honor veterans.
More from Chester W. Nimitz
All quotes →Some of the best advice I've had comes from junior officers and enlisted men.
Hindsight is notably cleverer than foresight.
The battle of Iwo Island has been won. The United States Marines by their individual and collective courage have conquered a base which is as necessary to us in our continuing forward movement toward final victory as it was vital to the enemy in staving off ultimate defeat.
The U.S.'s major strength factor and weapon is its economy. If you cripple it, you cripple the military.
That is not to say that we can relax our readiness to defend ourselves. Our armament must be adequate to the needs, but our faith is not primarily in these machines of defense but in ourselves.
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