Afghanistan Quote by Oliver North
“The 2.4 million bright, brave, incredibly fit and remarkably talented young Americans who have served in our armed forces since we were attacked on 9-11-01 are all volunteers. As General Petraeus put it during a conversation we had in Afghanistan, 'They all came or stayed, knowing they were going to war.' For more than a decade, these patriots and their loved ones have made extraordinary sacrifices for this country. They embody the classical definition of heroes: those who put themselves at risk for the benefit of others.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: PBS NewsHour, 2005
Volunteer soldiers embody heroism by willingly facing danger for others’ safety.
In simple terms: Heroes sacrifice for others.
Honor and support those who serve.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- military enlistment
- family support
- public recognition
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How can society better support returning veterans?
- What defines true heroism?
Heroic narratives may overlook the trauma experienced by veterans.