It's important to note that there is no definitive source or origination date for this phrase. However, its origins are most likely rooted in the practical realities of wartime:
* Improvise: Soldiers often had to make do with whatever resources were available, whether it was equipment, supplies, or even makeshift tools.
* Adapt: Changing circumstances and unpredictable situations demanded flexibility and the ability to adjust strategies.
* Overcome: The ultimate goal was to succeed in the face of adversity, even when facing seemingly insurmountable challenges.
While the exact origin may remain a mystery, "improvise, adapt, and overcome" has become a widely recognized and respected motto in the military and beyond. It embodies the spirit of resilience, resourcefulness, and determination in the face of hardship.