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Kill all the Germans you can, but do not kill them when they are up against a wall ready to surrender. Do your killing in the fields. We are to honor the Rules of Land Warfare at all times. If a German surrenders, he is to be treated with respect as a prisoner of war, the same treatment you would hope to get as a prisoner if you are unlucky enough to be captured by the enemy. Americans are not savages. Americans do not kick people in the face if they have been knocked down.

George S. Patton#43

WarWarfareEthicsHonorConductDignity

About this quote

What does it mean?
Fight fiercely but always respect the rules of war and treat prisoners humanely.
In plain terms
Be ruthless in battle but honor the rules of war when enemies surrender.
What can you take from it?
Honor codes matter even in war.

Where it applies

  • military conduct
  • law enforcement
  • competitive business

Putting it to work

  • enforce rules of engagement
  • treat opponents with respect

Questions to consider

  • Where is the line between fighting hard and being cruel?

Another view

Strict adherence to rules can sometimes limit tactical advantage.

More from George S. Patton

  1. Just drive down that road until you get blown up.

    Permalink to quote #42
  2. March toward the sound of gunfire, an easily recognizable sound that they could usually find in front of them.

    Permalink to quote #44
  3. It is foolish and wrong to mourn the men who died. Rather we should thank God that such men lived.

    Permalink to quote #41

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