Generation after generation of American men and women have given special meaning to the term United States Marine. They have done so by their performance on and off the battlefield. Feared by enemies, respected by allies, and loved by American people, Marines are a "special breed." This reputation was gained and is maintained by a set of enduring core values. These values form the cornerstone, the bedrock, and the heart of our character. They are guiding beliefs and principles that give us strength, influence our attitudes, and regulate our behavior. They bond our Marine Family into a total force that can meet any challenge.
HONOR: The bedrock of our character. The quality that guides Marines to exemplify the ultimate in ethical and moral behavior; never to lie, cheat, or steal; to abide by an uncompromising code of integrity; to respect human dignity; to have respect and concern for each other. The quality of maturity, dedication, trust, and dependability that commits Marines to act responsibly; to be accountable for actions; to fulfill obligations; and to hold others accountable for their actions.
COURAGE: The heart of our core values, courage is the mental, moral and physical strength ingrained in Marines to carry them through the challenges of combat and the mastery of fear, to do what is right; to adhere to a higher standard of personal conduct; to lead by example, and to make tough decisions under stress and pressure. It is the inner strength that enables a Marine to take that extra step.
COMMITMENT: The spirit of determination and dedication within members of a force of arms that leads to professionalism and mastery of the art of war. It leads to the higher order of discipline for unit and self; it is the ingredient that enables 24-hour a day dedication to Corps and Country; pride; concern for others; and an unrelenting determination to achieve a standard of excellence in every endeavor. Commitment is the value that establishes the Marines as the warrior and citizen others strive to emulate.
