Secretary Of Defense James Mattis was asked "What keeps you awake at night?" in an interview on "Face the Nation" Sunday night. In his calm, collected manner, and without hesitation, the Marine General answered: "Nothing, I keep other people awake at night."
This is not the first time the Washington native's quotes have made headlines. #Mattis is one of the most quotable leaders in recent history. In a world where headline-making quotes are often derived from scandal, the Marine General is a welcome relief.
In his most recent interview the #Secretary of Defense gave what may very well be the #political quote of the year as well as one of his most talked about quotes to date.
His lack of hesitation and absolute conviction makes his followers not just willing, but eager to take his orders.
More famous words from the 'Mad Dog'
James #Mattis had a long and successful career as a commander of Marines and US forces. His fame began in 2003 when he led the 1st Marine Division into Iraq in 2003. He was later made the commander of United States Central Command until President #Obama forced the General out for allegedly "rubbing civilian officials the wrong way."
General "Mad Dog" Mattis has become one of the most quoted Marines in history. In a speech to his Marines on the eve of the Invasion of Iraq, General Mattis encouraged his Marines and set the tone for what the Marines in Iraq should be: "Demonstrate to the world there is ‘No Better Friend, No Worse Enemy' than a U.S.
Marine."
Words to live by
During his time as a commander in Iraq, Mattis often took time to give his Marines words to live by while they were in combat. One of his most famous quotes to date: "Be polite, be professional, but have a plan to kill everybody you meet" served as not just advice to the Marines but a rule that would keep them alive during a war where the enemy was not easy to identify.
When the invasion of Iraq ended and President Bush declared an end to major combat operations, many of the major instruments of war were sent away. After General Mattis sent away his tanks and artillery he wrote a message to Iraqi leaders in areas that his men still occupied. "I come in peace. I didn’t bring artillery. But I’m pleading with you, with tears in my eyes: If you f*** with me, I’ll kill you all."
Despite mixed feelings regarding Mattis' warrior spirit, there is not doubt that the General was an inspirational battlefield commander, and as the Secretary of Defense, he will continue to make sure America's enemies lose sleep at night.
