"Like the old soldier of the ballad, I now close my military career and just fade away, an old soldier who tried to do his duty as God gave him the light to see that duty. Goodbye"

This quote by Douglas MacArthur is a reflection on his military profession and his retirement. He compares himself to an old soldier in a ballad, suggesting that he is now at the end of his profession and is ready to proceed. He acknowledges that he has done his best to fulfill his duty as he saw it, and that he is now prepared to "vanish". The quote is a modest and reflective farewell to his military profession, and a recognition of the importance of task and service. It is a reminder that even in retirement, the legacy of a soldier's service will remain. MacArthur's words are a testimony to the devotion and dedication of those who serve in the military, and a pointer of the importance of responsibility and service.