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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…” quote by Oliver North
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“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.”

Oliver North

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.

Key Takeaway

Honor and support those who serve.

Themes

heroism service patriotism

Mood

respectful reflective

Type

commemorative inspirational

When to use this quote

  • military enlistment
  • family support
  • public recognition

Key Concepts

sacrifice volunteerism

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can society better support returning veterans?
  • What defines true heroism?
A Different Perspective

Heroic narratives may overlook the trauma experienced by veterans.

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