Carl Brashear Quotes in Men of Honor (2000)

Carl Brashear: Forgive me sir, but to me, the Navy isn't a business. It's an organization of people who represent the finest aspects of our nation. We have many traditions. In my career, I have encountered most of them. Some are good, some not so good. I would, however not be here today were it not for our greatest tradition of all.

Captain Hanks: And what would that be, Chief Brashear?"

Carl Brashear: " Honor, sir"

Jo: Why do you want this so bad?

Carl Brashear: Because they said I couldn't have it.

[Sunday regards a picture of Carl's late father]

Billy Sunday: What the hell did he ever say to make you try so hard?

Carl Brashear: Be the best.

Billy Sunday: Well, you are.

Jo: Don't you see? I'm not like you. The things I want...

[Jo sighs and takes Carl's hand]

Jo: The things I want are smaller. If I just work hard and keep my head down...

Carl Brashear: Your whole life will pass you by.

Carl Brashear: Why are you doing all this?

Billy Sunday: To piss people off.

Billy Sunday: Think you deserve to be here, don't ya? Fraternizing among navy men? Think you're as good as they are? How 'bout me, cookie? You better than me?

Carl Brashear: You're damn right I am!

Carl Brashear: Captain Hanks, I have spent most of my life in the Navy trying only to succeed. However, my quest has come at a great personal loss to those who love me. They too have made sacrifices. They too have endured great pains to support me. If I walk these twelve steps today, reinstate me to active duty. Give me my career back, let me finish it and go home in peace.

Carl Brashear: Sir, you may not remember me but we served together in the South Pacific.

Billy Sunday: Oh Yeah, I remember you now... So What's for Chow Cookie?

Carl Brashear: Sir I am reporting here for diving school!

Billy Sunday: I sure hope your food is better than the last cook's. Last cook's food could kill a man's dog.