First in war, first in peace, and first in the hearts of his countrymen. what does this quote by henry lee illustrate by the phrase "first in war"? george washington always led his troops into battle. george washington avoided military solutions whenever possible. george washington favored military solutions over diplomacy. george washington was a great commander in chief.

George Washington was a great commander in chief.

The quote comes from a eulogy for George Washington by Henry Lee and it is meant to compliment Washington as a leader. It is saying that he was the best in war and peace and that in the eyes of his people he was the best as well. So it's saying he was a great commander in chief because he was great in battle and diplomacy and he was loved a lot.