(the) Dunkirk spirit

An attitude of strength, determination, and camaraderie, especially by the British people as a whole, during a difficult and adverse time or situation. Refers to the evacuation of allied troops from Dunkirk, France, carried out by several civilian boats during World War II. Primarily heard in UK. Our country faces the worst economic crises in decades, but I remain confident that, with a bit of the Dunkirk spirit, we can come out of this stronger than ever. The townspeople's Dunkirk spirit certainly helped them to cope and rebuild in the aftermath of that tragic apartment fire. My grandmother's Dunkirk spirit is why she became such a successful businesswoman, in spite of the poverty and trauma she experienced as a child.