Franklin Roosevelt quotes from Pearl Harbor (2001)

View Quote From Berlin, Rome and Tokyo, we have been described as a nation of weaklings and playboys who hire British or Russian or Chinese soldiers to do our fighting for us. Let them repeat that now. Let them tell that to General MacArthur and his men. Let them tell that to the soldiers who today are fighting hard in the far waters of the Pacific. Let them tell that to the boys in the Flying Fortresses. Let them tell that to the Marines.

View Quote [FDR meets the Cabinet and military leadership about a counterstrike on the Japanese, but the officers are hesitant about actions]
Franklin Roosevelt: Gentlemen, most of you did not know me when I had the use of my legs. I was strong, and proud, and arrogant. Now I wonder, every hour of my life, why God put me into this chair, but when I see defeat in the eyes of my countrymen, in your eyes right now, I start to think that maybe He brought me down for times like these when we all need to be reminded who we truly are, that we will not give up or give in.
Adm. Chester Nimitz: Mr. President, with all respect, sir. What you're asking can't be done.
[FDR attempts to disengage his wheelchair leg braces and stand]
George Fields: [tries to aid the president] Mr. President...
Roosevelt: Get back, George. Get back. [struggles to stand but is able to stand erect; to officers] Do not tell me it can't be done.