We have met the enemy, and they are us

1. Evil or upsetting forces exist within, not without.

This is a twist on Oliver Hazard Perry's words after a naval battle: “We have met the enemy, and they are ours.” The updated version was first used in the comic strip “Pogo,” by Walt Kelly, in the 1960s and referred to the turmoil caused by the Vietnam War.

Example Sentences

“We have met the enemy, and they are us,” said Dr. Robert Levin, the health officer in Ventura County.

From Los Angeles Times

“We have met the enemy, and they are us,” said Dr. Robert Levin, the health officer in Ventura County, where hospitalizations are up.

From Los Angeles Times

“We have met the enemy, and they are us,” he said.

From Los Angeles Times

The President's last memo will read: "We have met the enemy and they are us."

From Time Magazine Archive