" The De Bernieres were very military. I broke the military tradition but I was terribly proud of my father being a soldier. "
- Louis de Bernieres

In the given statement, the speaker reflects on their family's strong connection to military traditions. They mention that they did not follow this established path but still felt a deep sense of pride for their father's role as a soldier. The underlying sentiment conveys respect and admiration for a parent’s legacy despite diverging from it personally.

On a deeper level, the quote touches on themes of family heritage, personal identity, and the tension between tradition and individual choice. The speaker acknowledges the importance and significance of their family's military background while also expressing that they chose to carve out their own path distinct from this tradition. Despite moving away from their familial legacy, there remains an acknowledgment and appreciation for the sacrifices made by previous generations. This duality highlights the complexity of personal identity formation within a context rich with historical influence.

Louis de Bernières is the author of this quote, known as a British novelist celebrated for works such as "Corelli's Mandolin" and "Birds Without Wings." His reflections often delve into themes of history, culture, and human experience, drawing from his own life experiences and observations.