Victory Lap Quotes
The proverb dates from the Samurai era of Japan where the Samurai in battle wore metal and leather protective helmets. These were secured to their heads by a tight helmet chord. Many societies, after a war and desiring peace would reduce the spending for the military, eliminate conscription, and weapons production. The result often was a more attractive target for enemies wanting land or revenge. Thus, the proverb warns that immediately after a victory, prepare for the next battle and do not let your guard down.
This quotation is one of the classic examples of a political leader prematurely claiming success. The formal Iraq military troops had easily been defeated on the field and just disappeared. However many formed into an insurgency which after this victory celebration, they accounted for many more years of brutal fighting and tens of thousands of additional American casualties.