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Army Quote by Ralph E. Reed, Jr

“It's like guerrilla warfare. If you reveal your location, all it does is allow your opponent to improve his artillery bearings. It's better to move quietly, with stealth, under cover of night. You've got two choices: You can wear cammies and shimmy along on your belly, or you can put on a red coat…” quote by Ralph E. Reed, Jr
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“It's like guerrilla warfare. If you reveal your location, all it does is allow your opponent to improve his artillery bearings. It's better to move quietly, with stealth, under cover of night. You've got two choices: You can wear cammies and shimmy along on your belly, or you can put on a red coat and stand up for everyone to see. It comes down to whether you want to be the British army in the Revolutionary War or the Viet Cong. History tells us which tactic was more effective.”

Ralph E. Reed, Jr

About This Quote

Stealth and low visibility tactics often outperform overt, conspicuous actions in conflict.

In simple terms: Quiet, hidden moves beat loud, obvious ones.

Key Takeaway

Choose subtlety over flashiness.

Themes

tactics stealth strategy

Mood

strategic analytical

Type

advice philosophical

When to use this quote

  • business competition
  • political campaigns
  • personal negotiations
  • sports

Key Concepts

military history psychology risk management

Questions to Reflect On

  • When is overt action necessary?
  • How does audience perception affect tactic choice?
A Different Perspective

Stealth can be perceived as cowardice.

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