"A military man can scarcely pride himself on having smitten a sleeping enemy; it is more a matter of shame, simply, for the one smitten"
- Isoroku Yamamoto
About this Quote
This quote by Isoroku Yamamoto speaks to the idea that a military triumph is not something to be pleased with if it is attained by attacking an unsuspecting opponent. Yamamoto is recommending that it is shameful to take advantage of an opponent who is not prepared to protect themselves. He is suggesting that a real victory is one that is earned through effort and dedication, not through taking advantage of a weaker challenger. This quote talks to the idea of honor and regard in warfare, and the importance of not benefiting from an opponent who is not prepared to combat. Yamamoto is suggesting that a true success is one that is made through skill and guts, not through assaulting a sleeping enemy. This quote is a reminder that a military victory must be something to be proud of, not something to be ashamed of.
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