James Forrestal quotes

James Forrestal was an American public servant who served as the first United States Secretary of Defense. His leadership helped shape post-World War II military and defense policies. He became a key figure in the early years of the Cold War. Here are 9 of his quotes:

This country cannot afford the deceptive luxury of waging defensive warfare.

James Forrestal

By providing outstanding economic leadership, this country can wage its attack successfully - and can thereby build the foundations of a peaceful world.

James Forrestal

If these assets were set up as a revolving fund with which Japan could import raw materials for its industries, Japanese exports could again enter the channels of world trade-and Japanese workers would have employment and something to eat.

James Forrestal

If all Europe lies flat while the Russian mob tramps over it, we will then be faced with a war under difficult circumstances, and with a very good chance of losing it.

James Forrestal

As in the war of 1941-45, our victory and our survival depend on how and where we attack.

James Forrestal

It is inconceivable that even the gang who runs Russia would be willing to take on war, but one always has to remember that there seemed to be no reason in 1939 for Hitler to start war, and yet he did, and he started it with a world practically unprepared.

James Forrestal

There is a serious, immediate and extraordinarily grave threat to the continued existence of this country.

James Forrestal

Moreover, the accomplishment of Russia's aims has been greatly simplified by the fact that we have heretofore offered the world no practical antidote for the Russian poison.

James Forrestal