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Nothing is more contagious in the zone of danger than the example of fear or cowardice.[1] Appeals, threats, and intimidation are of little avail. The most effective remedy lies in developing the individual soldier's initiative, in training him to act with common sense even when his officers are absent. We should send our soldiers into battle with a reserve of moral courage great enough to prevent the premature moral and mental depreciation of the individual.
- ↑ Some interesting proofs in support of this statement are: The attack made by Captain Bechtoldsheim at Custozza against Italian infantry. Oesterreichs Kämpfe, II, p. 74. The combats at the Mance ravine on Aug. 18th, 1870. Hönig, Vierundzwanzig Stunden Moltkescher Strategie, pp. 170, 184, 193 and 215. Sedan, Gen. St. W., II, p. 1243. Wald and Ortsgefecht, p. 179. (Aymard's Division after the capture of Servigny). Lehaucourt, Campagne de la Loire, II, p. 272. (The French Gardes Mobiles after the taking of Le Tuilerie at Le Mans).
