It is often possible to decide the issue of a battle merely by making an unexpected shift of one's main weight.
Erwin RommelRead
The best form of welfare for the troops is first-rate training.
Interpretation
Proper training is essential for the success and well-being of military personnel.
Erwin Rommel emphasizes the importance of high-quality training for military troops as the most effective support they can receive. He suggests that investing in their skills and preparation not only prepares them for combat but also contributes to their overall welfare, indicating that competence can lead to confidence and better outcomes in challenging situations.
In practice
During a military conference, this quote can be used to underline the need for thorough training programs.
It is often possible to decide the issue of a battle merely by making an unexpected shift of one's main weight.
One must not judge everyone in the world by his qualities as a soldier: otherwise we should have no civilization.
The commander must be at constant pains to keep his troops abreast of all the latest tactical experience and developments, and must insist on their practical application. He must see to it that his subordinates are trained in accordance with the latest requirements. The best form of welfare for the troops is first-class training, for this saves unnecessary casualties.
War makes extremely heavy demands on the soldier's strength and nerves. For this reason, make heavy demands on your men in peacetime exercises.
Sweat saves blood, blood saves lives, but brains saves both.
Be an example to your men, in your duty and in private life. Never spare yourself, and let the troops see that you don't in your endurance of fatigue and privation. Always be tactful and well-mannered and teach your subordinates to do the same. Avoid excessive sharpness or harshness of voice, which usually indicates the man who has shortcomings of his own to hide.
You manage things, you lead people. We went overboard on management and forgot about leadership.
If someone had told me I would be Pope one day, I would have studied harder.
History has repeatedly been changed by people who had the desire and the ability to transfer their convictions and emotions to their listeners.
Trust is maintained when values and beliefs are actively managed. If companies do not actively work to keep clarity, discipline and consistency in balance, then trust starts to break down.
A good objective of leadership is to help those who are doing poorly to do well and to help those who are doing well to do even better.
If I made a commitment, I stood by that commitment - and try to make it real. Because when you become leaders, the most important thing you have is your word, your trust. That's where respect comes from.
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