"Damn the Torpedoes, Full Speed Ahead"

Of many memorable and inspirational lines to come out of the Civil War, this is perhaps the most famous, and most quoted.  It serves as an inspirational line today, just as it did when it was first made.  The quote is attributed to Admiral David Farragut during the Civil War at the Battle of Mobile Bay.  As his fleet was entering the Bay, he was warned that the waters had been salted with deadly rebel torpedoes, or infernal machines.  As those around him encouraged him to slow down, Farragut remained steadfastly focused on his duty, and he ordered what has now become the famous line . . . "Damn the Torpedoes, Full Speed Ahead."

Admiral David G. Farragut