Quotes Library

May 3, 2025

You don’t mind dying for Queen and country, but you certainly don’t want to die for politicians.

Julian Thompson (1934- ), British soldier, second in command of land forces in the Falklands campaign, in ‘The Falklands War—The Untold Story’ (Yorkshire Television), 1 April 1987, Jay p.364

How do you feel about those choices? And what is the pecking order? Queen, country, then politicians? Country first, then queen and politicians?

More evidence of the contempt in which all politicians are held, whether deserved or not. Is it no wonder that so few “good people” are attracted to the job? Then again, maybe Thompson just didn’t like the prime minister of the day: Margaret Thatcher.


More Quotes

November 26, 2025
The power of accurate observation is commonly called cynicism by those who have not got it.
September 27, 2025
When the lay public rallies round to an idea that is denounced by distinguished but elderly scientists
September 25, 2025
…that is the great fallacy; the wisdom of old men. They do not grow wise. They grow careful.
Page 108 of 122