John J. Pershing Quotes

#1. No commander was ever privileged to lead a finer force; no commander ever derived greater inspiration from the performance of his troops.

John J. Pershing

#2. Your Marines having been under my command for nearly six months, I feel that I can give you a discriminating report as to their excellent standing with their brothers of the army and their general good conduct.

John J. Pershing

#3. Why in hell can't the Army do it if the Marines can. They are the same kind of men; why can't they be like Marines.

John J. Pershing

#4. To get the best out of your men, they must feel that you are their real leader and must know that they can depend upon you.

John J. Pershing

#5. The World War demonstrated the importance of Field Artillery. The majority of casualties were inflicted by the arm.

John J. Pershing

#6. Infantry, Artillery, Aviation
all that we have
are yours to dispose of as you will ... I have come to say to you that the American people would be proud to be engaged in the greatest battle in history.

John J. Pershing

#7. A competent leader can get efficient service from poor troops, while on the contrary an incapable leader can demoralize the best of troops.

John J. Pershing

#8. The deadliest weapon in the world is a MARINE and his rifle!

John J. Pershing