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About this quote

What does it mean?
Even critics should acknowledge the significant service of brave military leaders.
In plain terms
Respect great soldiers even if you disagree with them.
What can you take from it?
Acknowledge service regardless of political opposition.

Where it applies

  • political debate
  • military evaluation
  • historical review

Putting it to work

  • evaluate leaders fairly
  • separate service from politics

Questions to consider

  • Can you respect an enemy's skill?

Another view

It may excuse misconduct by labeling someone a legend.

More from Charles de Gaulle

  1. Let us be firm, pure and faithful; at the end of our sorrow, there is the greatest glory of the world, that of the men who did not give in.

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  2. I am a man who belongs to no-one and who belongs to everyone.

    Permalink to quote #10
  3. At the root of our civilization, there is the freedom of each person of thought, of belief, of opinion, of work, of leisure.

    Permalink to quote #7

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