"It is madness to attempt to hold. In the first place the troops cannot do it and in the second place if they do not retreat they will be destroyed. I repeat that this order be rescinded or that you find someone else"
- Gerd von Rundstedt
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This quote by Gerd von Rundstedt is an alerting to his superiors that attempting to hold their present position is an error. He is suggesting that the soldiers are not efficient in holding the position and that if they do not retreat, they will be destroyed. He is urging his superiors to either rescind the order to hold or to discover someone else to take command. This quote reveals that von Rundstedt was a tactical thinker who wanted to speak out and challenge the status quo. He was not afraid to voice his opinion and wanted to take responsibility for his choices. He was a leader who was willing to take risks and make tough decisions in order to safeguard his soldiers and ensure their safety. His quote is a tip that sometimes it is required to take a step back and reassess a situation in order to make the best choice.
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