After living there as long as I have I'd say there's a good reason why that phrase is used. They may not all be fighters but they've pulled through when we needed them to.

I've said it once and I'll say it again; if there's anything I've learned it's not to underestimate the human race. Though sometimes they do act like children who need to be spoon fed. [He says that last sentence with a little grouch in his tone.]