Had we to do it over again, we would look at the consequences of catastrophic success, being so successful so fast that an enemy that should have surrendered or been done in escaped and lived to fight another day.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Rapid military success can lead to unintended long-term problems if enemies are not fully neutralized.
- In plain terms
- Winning too fast can let enemies escape to fight again.
- What can you take from it?
- Consider long-term consequences before acting quickly.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Did speed cause the problem?
- How do you define victory?
Another view
This view might justify prolonged conflict in the name of thoroughness.
More from George W. Bush
Our enemies are resourceful and innovative, and so are we. They never stop thinking about new ways to harm our country and our people, and neither do we.
Permalink to quote #413 Free societies are hopeful societies. And free societies will be allies against these hateful few who have no conscience, who kill at the whim of a hat.
Permalink to quote #415 We may still find weapons. We haven't found them yet.
Permalink to quote #412
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