Ardant du Picq Quotes

The instruments of battle are valuable only if one knows how to use them.

Frederick liked to say that three men behind the enemy were worth fifty in front of him.

If one does not wish bonds broken, one should make them elastic and thereby strengthen them.

He, general or mere captain, who employs every one in the storming of a position can be sure of seeing it retaken by an organized counterattack of four men and a corporal.

A force engaged is out of the hand of its commander.

The man is the first weapon of battle. Let us study the soldier, for it is he who brings reality to it.