I do agree with him to some extend, but, what's the point of defending your courage and dignity if there is no one left to see it. Even if you encourage your friends and family to be courageous and not to give up in times of crisis and threat, but you do not defend them, you never know what may happen to them, and they may not be around to applaud your courage.
Personally, i would protect my family and friends, because, no matter what happens during periods of crisis and threats, they are the ones whom you can depend on for encouragement and support, they are the ones who pack our parachutes and push our swings.