Seven Values Of The Army

The Seven Core Values, often referred to as the "Army Values," are the fundamental principles that guide the actions and behaviors of individuals serving in the United States Army. These values are deeply ingrained in the military culture and serve as a moral compass for soldiers, officers, and all members of the Army community. The Seven Core Values are:

Loyalty

Loyalty is the bedrock of military service. It entails a deep commitment and devotion to one’s country, the Constitution, and fellow soldiers. Loyal soldiers uphold the trust placed in them by their leaders and comrades, fostering a sense of unity and cohesion within the military ranks. This value is exemplified in the famous Army motto, “This We’ll Defend,” which reflects the unwavering dedication of soldiers to protect their nation and its ideals.

Importance of Loyalty in Military Operations

Loyalty is crucial in military operations as it ensures that soldiers are willing to put the mission and the well-being of their teammates above their personal interests. This value fosters a spirit of teamwork and mutual support, enabling soldiers to rely on each other in the most challenging and dangerous situations. Loyalty also extends to the civilian population, as soldiers are trusted to protect and serve the interests of the nation and its citizens.

Real-World Examples of Loyalty in Action

One notable example of loyalty in the Army is the story of Sergeant First Class Alwyn Cashe, who, in 2005, selflessly rescued several injured soldiers from a burning vehicle in Iraq. Despite suffering severe burns himself, SFC Cashe demonstrated extraordinary bravery and loyalty to his comrades, ensuring their safety before tending to his own injuries. His actions not only saved lives but also exemplified the essence of loyalty and camaraderie within the Army.

Duty

Duty refers to the obligation and responsibility that soldiers have to their country, the Army, and their fellow soldiers. It involves fulfilling one’s assigned tasks and missions with integrity and professionalism. Soldiers understand that their duties may require personal sacrifice and dedication, as they are entrusted with critical roles in maintaining national security and protecting the freedoms of American citizens.

The Role of Duty in Military Service

Duty plays a pivotal role in military service as it shapes the mindset and actions of soldiers. It encourages them to approach their tasks with a sense of purpose and pride, understanding that their contributions are vital to the overall mission. Soldiers take pride in their duties, knowing that their efforts directly impact the success and safety of their unit and the nation as a whole.

Illustrating Duty Through Notable Achievements

An outstanding illustration of duty in action is the story of Captain Florent Groberg, who, in 2012, selflessly threw himself in front of a suicide bomber to protect then-General John Campbell in Afghanistan. This act of bravery not only saved the lives of several high-ranking officials but also showcased the unwavering commitment of soldiers to their duty. Captain Groberg’s actions embodied the spirit of duty, as he willingly put himself in harm’s way to fulfill his responsibility to protect those under his care.

Respect

Respect is a fundamental value that underpins all interactions within the Army. It involves treating others with dignity, regardless of rank, background, or personal beliefs. Soldiers are expected to demonstrate respect for their superiors, peers, and subordinates, fostering a culture of mutual trust and collaboration. Respect also extends to the traditions, heritage, and values of the Army, as well as to the rights and freedoms of all individuals.

The Impact of Respect on Military Culture

Respect is a cornerstone of military culture, as it creates an environment where diversity is celebrated and differences are acknowledged. By valuing respect, the Army promotes a sense of equality and fairness, ensuring that every soldier is treated with dignity and consideration. This value also strengthens the bond between soldiers, as they recognize and appreciate the unique contributions and strengths of their teammates.

Promoting Respect Through Inclusive Initiatives

The Army actively promotes respect through various initiatives aimed at fostering an inclusive and diverse workforce. One such initiative is the Army’s Equal Opportunity Program, which aims to prevent and eliminate unlawful discrimination based on race, color, gender, religion, or national origin. By implementing policies and training programs that emphasize respect and equality, the Army ensures that its soldiers come from diverse backgrounds and perspectives, enriching the organization as a whole.

Selfless Service

Selfless service is a core value that emphasizes putting the needs of others before one’s own. It involves a commitment to serving the greater good and advancing the mission of the Army, often at personal sacrifice. Soldiers who embody selfless service understand that their actions and decisions should prioritize the well-being of their unit and the success of the mission over personal gain or recognition.

The Spirit of Selfless Service in Action

Selfless service is vividly illustrated in the story of Sergeant First Class Paul R. Smith, who, in 2003, led a valiant defense against enemy forces in Iraq. Despite being severely wounded, SFC Smith continued to coordinate the defense of his unit, ultimately sacrificing his life to protect his fellow soldiers. His actions not only saved the lives of many but also exemplified the ultimate expression of selfless service, as he willingly gave his life to ensure the safety and success of his teammates.

Recognizing Selfless Service in the Army

The Army recognizes and honors acts of selfless service through various awards and decorations. One notable award is the Medal of Honor, the highest military decoration in the United States. This award is presented to soldiers who have demonstrated conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of their own life above and beyond the call of duty. By bestowing such honors, the Army not only acknowledges the extraordinary bravery and sacrifice of its soldiers but also inspires others to uphold the value of selfless service.

Honor

Honor is a core value that encompasses integrity, accountability, and personal responsibility. Soldiers who embody honor are committed to upholding the highest standards of moral and ethical conduct. They live by their word, fulfill their promises, and hold themselves and their peers accountable for their actions. Honor is deeply intertwined with the Army’s reputation and is essential for maintaining trust and respect within the military community.

The Significance of Honor in Military Leadership

Honor plays a crucial role in military leadership, as it sets the tone for the entire organization. Leaders who embody honor inspire their subordinates to follow their example, fostering a culture of integrity and accountability. By leading with honor, commanders earn the trust and respect of their soldiers, creating a cohesive and disciplined unit. Honor also extends to the Army’s code of conduct, which outlines the ethical and moral guidelines that soldiers must adhere to in their professional and personal lives.

Upholding Honor Through Ethical Decision-Making

The Army emphasizes the importance of ethical decision-making as a key aspect of upholding honor. Soldiers are trained to make decisions that align with their values and the values of the Army. This includes considering the impact of their actions on their unit, the mission, and the wider community. By making ethical choices, soldiers demonstrate their commitment to honor and ensure that their actions reflect the principles and ideals of the Army.

Integrity

Integrity is a fundamental value that requires soldiers to act with honesty, moral courage, and a strong sense of personal ethics. It involves doing what is right, even when no one is watching, and standing up for one’s beliefs and values. Soldiers with integrity are consistent in their actions and words, maintaining a high level of trustworthiness and reliability.

The Role of Integrity in Building Trust

Integrity is a key factor in building trust within the Army. When soldiers demonstrate integrity, their peers and leaders know that they can rely on them to make ethical decisions and uphold the values of the organization. This trust is essential for effective teamwork and mission success, as it allows soldiers to work together with confidence and mutual respect. Integrity also extends to the Army’s reputation, as soldiers with integrity help to maintain the high standards and professionalism expected of the military.

Promoting Integrity Through Ethical Training

The Army recognizes the importance of integrity and actively promotes it through comprehensive ethical training programs. These programs aim to educate soldiers on the importance of ethical decision-making, moral courage, and personal responsibility. By providing soldiers with the tools and knowledge to navigate complex ethical situations, the Army ensures that integrity remains a core value that guides the actions and behaviors of its members.

Personal Courage

Personal courage is the final core value of the Army, and it encompasses the willingness to face fear, danger, and adversity with resilience and determination. It involves overcoming personal challenges and obstacles to fulfill one’s duties and responsibilities. Soldiers who embody personal courage demonstrate bravery, not only in physical combat but also in standing up for what is right and just.

The Power of Personal Courage in Overcoming Adversity

Personal courage is a powerful force that enables soldiers to persevere in the face of adversity. Whether it’s facing enemy fire on the battlefield or overcoming personal fears and insecurities, soldiers draw on their courage to push through difficult situations. This value is not limited to physical bravery; it also encompasses the courage to speak out against injustice, stand up for one’s beliefs, and make difficult decisions in the face of uncertainty.

Honoring Personal Courage Through Recognition and Awards

The Army recognizes and honors acts of personal courage through various awards and decorations. One notable award is the Silver Star, which is presented to soldiers who display gallantry in action against an enemy of the United States. This award acknowledges the exceptional bravery and selflessness of soldiers who, despite facing immense danger, demonstrate the courage to protect their teammates and advance the mission. By bestowing such honors, the Army not only recognizes the extraordinary valor of its soldiers but also inspires others to embody the spirit of personal courage.