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About this quote

What does it mean?
A brave soldier recognizes the true horror of war but fights to protect his country and peace.
In plain terms
True soldiers know war is hell but fight to save others.
What can you take from it?
Patriotism can mean fighting to end suffering, not causing it.

Where it applies

  • military service
  • patriotic speech
  • memorial

Putting it to work

  • political debate
  • history education
  • veteran support

Questions to consider

  • When is violence necessary?
  • What does true patriotism look like?

Another view

It simplifies the complex motivations behind military conflict.

More from Henry van Dyke

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