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Eugene B. Sledge

23quotes

Eugene B. Sledge: A Soldier's Story of War and Humanity


Full Name and Common Aliases


Eugene Bondurant Sledge was born on January 3, 1915. He is commonly known as "Gene" among his peers and family.

Birth and Death Dates


Sledge was born on January 3, 1915, in Mobile, Alabama. He passed away on March 31, 2001, at the age of 86.

Nationality and Profession(s)


Eugene B. Sledge was an American Marine Corps officer and soldier who fought in World War II. After the war, he pursued a career as a marine biologist and educator.

Early Life and Background


Sledge grew up in a middle-class family in Mobile, Alabama. He developed a strong interest in the natural sciences from an early age, which would later influence his academic pursuits. Sledge attended Spring Hill College in Mobile before transferring to the University of Alabama, where he studied marine biology and chemistry.

Major Accomplishments


During World War II, Sledge enlisted in the United States Marine Corps in 1942. He was commissioned as a second lieutenant and served with the 1st Battalion, 5th Marines, 1st Marine Division. Sledge saw combat in some of the bloodiest battles of the war, including Guadalcanal, Peleliu, and Okinawa.

Notable Works or Actions


One of Sledge's most notable works is his memoir, _With the Old Breed: At Peleliu and Okinawa_. The book provides a detailed and personal account of his experiences as a Marine during World War II. It has been widely praised for its vivid descriptions of combat and its exploration of the psychological effects of war on soldiers.

Impact and Legacy


Sledge's memoir has had a significant impact on our understanding of World War II from the soldier's perspective. His work provides a poignant reminder of the human cost of war and the sacrifices made by those who fought. Sledge's experiences also shed light on the role of Marine Corps culture during this period, highlighting the camaraderie and bonds formed among soldiers.

Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered


Eugene B. Sledge is widely quoted and remembered for his bravery, leadership, and dedication to his fellow soldiers. His memoir has become a classic in American literature, providing a unique and powerful perspective on one of the most pivotal moments in modern history. Sledge's legacy extends beyond his military service, as he continues to inspire future generations through his writing and teaching.

In conclusion, Eugene B. Sledge was a remarkable individual who served his country with distinction during World War II. His experiences, both on and off the battlefield, have left an indelible mark on American literature and culture. Through his memoir and legacy, Sledge continues to remind us of the importance of compassion, courage, and humanity in the face of adversity.

Sledge's Quote: "It was a terrible experience, but it made me appreciate the value of life."

This quote captures the essence of Sledge's story – one of resilience, gratitude, and the transformative power of human experience.

Quotes by Eugene B. Sledge

Eugene B. Sledge's insights on:

We were unable to understand their attitudes until we ourselves returned home and tried to comprehend people who griped because America wasn’t perfect or their coffee wasn’t hot enough or they had to stand in line and wait for a train or bus.
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We were unable to understand their attitudes until we ourselves returned home and tried to comprehend people who griped because America wasn’t perfect or their coffee wasn’t hot enough or they had to stand in line and wait for a train or bus.
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As I looked at the stains on the coral, I recalled some of the eloquent phrases of politicians and newsmen about how “gallant” it is for a man to “shed his blood for his country,” and “to give his life’s blood as a sacrifice,” and so on. The words seemed ridiculous. Only the flies benefited.
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As I looked at the stains on the coral, I recalled some of the eloquent phrases of politicians and newsmen about how “gallant” it is for a man to “shed his blood for his country,” and “to give his life’s blood as a sacrifice,” and so on. The words seemed ridiculous. Only the flies benefited.
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I concluded that it was impossible for me to be killed, because God loved me. Then I told myself that God loved us all and that many would die or be ruined physically or mentally or both by the next morning and in the days following.
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I concluded that it was impossible for me to be killed, because God loved me. Then I told myself that God loved us all and that many would die or be ruined physically or mentally or both by the next morning and in the days following.
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Courage meant overcoming fear and doing one’s duty in the presence of danger, not being unafraid.
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Courage meant overcoming fear and doing one’s duty in the presence of danger, not being unafraid.
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Lying in a foxhole sweating out an enemy artillery or mortar barrage or waiting to dash across open ground under machine-gun or artillery fire defied any concept of time.
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Lying in a foxhole sweating out an enemy artillery or mortar barrage or waiting to dash across open ground under machine-gun or artillery fire defied any concept of time.
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Something in me died at Peleliu. Perhaps it was the childish innocence that accepted as faith the claim that Man is basically good. Possibly I lost faith that politicians in high places, who do not have to endure war’s savagery, will ever stop blundering and sending others to endure it.
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Something in me died at Peleliu. Perhaps it was the childish innocence that accepted as faith the claim that Man is basically good. Possibly I lost faith that politicians in high places, who do not have to endure war’s savagery, will ever stop blundering and sending others to endure it.
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In writing I am fulfilling an obligation I have long felt to my comrades in the 1st Marine Division, all of whom suffered so much for our country. None came out unscathed. Many gave their lives, many their health, and some their sanity. All who survived will long remember the horror they would rather forget. But they suffered and they did their duty so a sheltered homeland can enjoy the peace that was purchased at such high cost. We owe those Marines a profound debt of gratitude.
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In writing I am fulfilling an obligation I have long felt to my comrades in the 1st Marine Division, all of whom suffered so much for our country. None came out unscathed. Many gave their lives, many their health, and some their sanity. All who survived will long remember the horror they would rather forget. But they suffered and they did their duty so a sheltered homeland can enjoy the peace that was purchased at such high cost. We owe those Marines a profound debt of gratitude.
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Would the war dehumanize me so that I, too, could “field trip” enemy dead with such nonchalance?
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Would the war dehumanize me so that I, too, could “field trip” enemy dead with such nonchalance?
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A man’s ability to depend on his comrades and immediate leadership is absolutely necessary.
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A man’s ability to depend on his comrades and immediate leadership is absolutely necessary.
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As I crawled out of the abyss of combat and over the rail of the Sea Runner, I realized that compassion for the sufferings of others is a burden to those who have it. As Wilfred Owen’s poem “Insensibility” puts it so well, those who feel most of others suffer most in war.
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As I crawled out of the abyss of combat and over the rail of the Sea Runner, I realized that compassion for the sufferings of others is a burden to those who have it. As Wilfred Owen’s poem “Insensibility” puts it so well, those who feel most of others suffer most in war.
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