We have lost a battle, but I assure to you that we will not lose the war! I cannot say more at the present moment although I know the losses are crowded in your minds. That this happened does not hold importance. What counts is not to lose confidence in the future of Germany. At the same time everyone must understand the gravity of the situation. This moment will be enough to distinguish the true men from the inept ones. Every soldier has the same responsibilities: if the advancing one falls, another must be ready to take his place in order to go on.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Model urges his troops to maintain confidence and prepare for continued fighting despite a loss.
- In plain terms
- Even after losing a fight, stay confident and ready for the long war.
- What can you take from it?
- Endure setbacks by focusing on the larger goal.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- When is resilience better than surrender?
Another view
Encouraging continued fight after defeat can lead to unnecessary suffering.
More from Walter Model
He who leads troops has no right to think about himself.
Permalink to quote #7 Did you see that eye? I trust that man to do it, but I wouldn't want to serve under him.
Permalink to quote #9 Has everything been done to justify our actions in the light of history? What can there be left for a commander in defeat? In antiquity they took poison.
Permalink to quote #6
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