Chapter 13

Marine Corps Core Values

Honor: Integrity, responsibility, and accountability

Courage: Do the right thing in the right way for the right reason

Commitment: Devotion to the Corps and to my fellow Marines

Marine Corps Leadership Principles

Know yourself and seek self-improvement.

Be technically and tactically proficient.

Develop a sense of responsibility among your subordinates .

Make sound and timely decisions.

Set the example.

Know your Marines and look out for their welfare.

Keep your Marines informed.

Seek responsibility and accept responsibility for your actions.

Ensure tasks are understood , supervised, and accomplished.

Train your Marines as a team.

Employ your command in accordance with its capabilities.

Marine Corps Leadership Traits

Justice: Giving reward and punishment according to the merits of the case in question. The ability to administer a system of rewards and punishments impartially and consistently

Judgment: The ability to weigh facts and possible solutions on which to base sound decisions

Dependability: The certainty of proper performance of duty

Initiative: Taking action in the absence of orders

Decisiveness: Being able to make decisions promptly and to announce them in a clear, forceful manner

Tact: The ability to deal with others without creating offense

Integrity: Uprightness of character and soundness of moral principles; includes the qualities of truthfulness and honesty

Enthusiasm: The display of sincere interest and exuberance in the performance of duty

Bearing: Creating a favorable impression in carriage , appearance, and personal conduct at all times

Unselfishness: Avoidance of providing for one s own comfort and personal advancement at the expense of others

Courage: The mental quality that recognizes fear of danger or criticism but enables a man to proceed in the face of it with calmness and firmness

Knowledge: Understanding of a science or an art. The range of one s information, including professional knowledge and an understanding of your Marines

Loyalty: The quality of faithfulness to country, the Corps, the unit, one s seniors, subordinates, and peers

Endurance: The mental and physical stamina measured by the ability to withstand pain, fatigue, stress, and hardship