David M. Shoup Quotes

United States, Military Officer
December 30, 1904 – January, 13, 1983.

David Monroe Shoup was a decorated general of the United States Marine Corps who was awarded the Medal of Honor in World War II, became the 22nd Commandant of the Marine Corps, and, after retiring, became one of the most prominent critics of the Vietnam War.

The galleries are full of critics. They play no ball, they fight no fights. They make no mistakes because they attempt nothing. Down in the arena are the doers. They make mistakes because they try many things. The man who makes no mistakes lacks boldness and the spirit of adventure. He is the one who never tries anything. His is the brake on the wheel of progress. And yet it cannot be truly said he makes no mistakes, because his biggest mistake is the very fact that he tries nothing, does nothing, except criticize those who do things.

David M. Shoup
- Men
- Fighting
- Mistake
Casualties many; Percentage of dead not known; Combat efficiency; we are winning.

David M. Shoup