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The gratitude of every home in our Island, in our Empire, and indeed throughout the world, except in the abodes of the guilty, goes out to the British airmen who, undaunted by odds, unwearied in their constant challenge and mortal danger, are turning the tide of the World War by their prowess and by their devotion. Never in the field of human conflict have so many owed so much to so few. All hearts go out to the fighter pilots, whose brilliant actions we see with our own eyes day after day; but we must never forget that all the time, night after night, month after month, our bomber squadrons travel far into Germany, find their targets in the darkness by the highest navigational skill, aim their attacks, often under the heaviest fire, often with serious loss, with deliberate careful discrimination, and inflict shattering blows upon the whole of the technical and war-making structure of the Nazi power.

Winston Churchill#47

WarLeadershipBritainGratitudeSacrifice

About this quote

What does it mean?
Churchill honors British airmen for turning the tide of World War through bravery and sacrifice, noting the many owe much to the few who fought.
In plain terms
Many people are grateful to the small group of pilots who risked their lives to win the war.
What can you take from it?
Recognize and thank those who make great sacrifices for the greater good.

Where it applies

  • war memorials
  • speeches
  • remembrance events

Putting it to work

  • public thank you
  • historical record
  • awards

Questions to consider

  • Who are the modern few we owe much to?
  • How do we remember those who fight?

Another view

The quote excludes enemies and may oversimplify complex military contributions.

More from Winston Churchill

  1. Upon this battle depends the survival of Christian civilisation. Upon it depends our own British life and the long continuity of our institutions and our Empir…

    Permalink to quote #46
  2. We are waiting for the long-promised invasion. So are the fishes.

    Permalink to quote #48
  3. Plans are of little importance, but planning is essential

    Permalink to quote #45

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