“Although each of our armed services is unique and different, the U. S. Army holds a special position of significance and trust. Its ranks come from the people, the country's roots, and it is closest to the people. In foreign confrontations the United States is not committed until its land forces- its Army- is committed. And in the event of hostilities, the Army historically has borne the brunt of war, the human cost, taking the great bulk of the casualties. The Army as an institution knows this and has been traditionally reluctant to go to war, its leaders seeking to insure that war is truly necessary and that our civilian leaders exploit all other avenues before taking that final step.”

— Bruce Palmer Jr.

Source: The 25-Year War: America's Military Role in Vietnam (1984), p. 209

Adopted from Wikiquote. Last update June 3, 2021. History

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Bruce Palmer Jr. 12

United States Army Chief of Staff 1913–2000

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