4 quotes
Defending Against Tyranny and Invoking Confidence
Winston Churchill
We are told that Herr Hitler has a plan for invading the British Isles. This has often been thought of before. I have, myself, full confidence that if all do their duty, if nothing is neglected, and the best arrangements are made, as they are being made, we shall prove ourselves once more able to defend our island home to outlive the menace of tyranny if necessary for years, if necessary alone.
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Leadership Transition During a National Crisis
Neville Chamberlain
Now, I had hoped to remain as Prime Minister for the current crisis... but I've just been told that the Labour Party will not serve under me. Therefore, I shall resign immediately. One of you will lead the new government. Winston, would it be possible for you to discharge the duties of Minister of Defence under the direction of Edward Halifax as Prime Minister? What is your opinion?
[Churchill remains silent]
Lord Halifax
I think... Winston would be the better choice.
Winston Churchill
Yes. I think so, too.
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Debating Coastal Defense Strategy and Mobility
Winston Churchill
I gather you're making a fuss about our Southern Area defences, is that so?
Major General Bernard Montgomery
I wouldn't call it a fuss, Prime Minister.
Winston Churchill
That's what I was told. "Major General Montgomery has been making a fuss," they said. I want to know why.
Major General Bernard Montgomery
See for yourself, sir. Static guns. What's the point of that? It's absurd to try and defend the coastline of England with guns in static positions. The Germans would bypass the whole lot of them as they did in France. What we need is mobility.
Winston Churchill
Might I remind you, that our Army vehicles are lying in heaps of charred wreckage on the beaches of Dunkirk.
Major General Bernard Montgomery
Buses. Plenty of buses in this country after all. My division should be given buses and transported rapidly to wherever they're needed. What we have here is worse than useless.
Winston Churchill
Your commanding officer seems perfectly satisfied with things as they are.
Major General Bernard Montgomery
Well, he's wrong.
Winston Churchill
He's wrong and you're right?
Major General Bernard Montgomery
Precisely so. And if he were here, I would tell him so to his face.
Winston Churchill
Very well. Buses you shall have. Now that matter's settled, we'll have lunch. And a drink. I'm sure you could do with a drink, Major-General.
Major General Bernard Montgomery
I neither drink nor smoke, and am 100% fit.
[sternly]
Winston Churchill
Well, I both drink and smoke, and I'm 200% fit.
[smiles]
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Recognition of Valor in Conversation
Winston Churchill
Wing Commander Maddox.
Wing Commander Maddox
Yes, sir.
Winston Churchill
Victoria Cross.
Wing Commander Maddox
Yes, sir.
Winston Churchill
It is ordained that the Victoria Cross shall only be awarded for most conspicuous bravery, or some preeminent act of valour or self-sacrifice or extreme devotion to duty in the presence of the enemy. Isn't that what it says on the royal warrant?
Wing Commander Maddox
Yes, sir.
Winston Churchill
The Battle of Britain was won by men like you. This country owes you its life and liberty. You feel very humble and awkward in my presence, don't you?
[Maddox hesitates to speak]
Wing Commander Maddox
Yes, sir.
Winston Churchill
Then you can imagine how humble and awkward... I feel in yours.
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