“ The first step—in the direction of preparation to avert war if possible, and to be fit for war if it should come—is to teach our men to shoot. ”
 Theodore Roosevelt, State of the Union Address (8 December 1908). copy citation

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“Fit to hold our own against the strong nations of the earth, our voice for peace will carry to the ends of the earth. Unprepared, and therefore unfit, we must sit dumb and helpless to defend ourselves, protect others, or preserve peace. The first step—in the direction of preparation to avert war if possible, and to be fit for war if it should come—is to teach our men to shoot.
THE NAVY.
I approve the recommendations of the General Board for the increase of the Navy, calling especial attention to the need of additional destroyers and colliers, and above all, of the four battleships.” source

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