Marine Corps Values

VALUES BORN FROM OUR NATION'S IDEALS

Marines live by a set of enduring core values that form the bedrock of our character. These values guide our actions and bolster our resolve. Honor, courage and commitment lead us to victory over the physical, mental and moral battles faced during combat, or while serving in our communities on behalf of our Nation. These are the values that ensure every fight in current and future battles supports our common moral cause.

OUR VALUES

Our Core Values are Honor, Courage and Commitment, and if you are to become one of us, they will be the values you live by and fight with as well. They are the building blocks that will aid you in making the right decisions at the right time, both on the battlefield and in our Nation’s communities.

VALUES DEFINED BY THE WAY THEY ARE LIVED

HONOR

Honor guides Marines to exemplify the ultimate in ethical and moral behavior. Never lie, never cheat or steal; abide by an uncompromising code of integrity; respect human dignity and respect others. Honor compels Marines to act responsibly, to fulfill our obligations and to hold ourselves and others accountable for every action.

HONOR

Honor guides Marines to exemplify the ultimate in ethical and moral behavior. Never lie, never cheat or steal; abide by an uncompromising code of integrity; respect human dignity and respect others. Honor compels Marines to act responsibly, to fulfill our obligations and to hold ourselves and others accountable for every action.

 

COURAGE

Courage is the mental, moral and physical strength ingrained in Marines. It carries us through the challenges of combat and aids in overcoming fear. It is the inner strength that enables us to do what is right, to adhere to a higher standard of personal conduct and to make tough decisions under stress and pressure.

 

COURAGE

Courage is the mental, moral and physical strength ingrained in Marines. It carries us through the challenges of combat and aids in overcoming fear. It is the inner strength that enables us to do what is right, to adhere to a higher standard of personal conduct and to make tough decisions under stress and pressure.

COMMITMENT

Commitment is the spirit of determination and dedication found in Marines. It leads to the highest order of discipline for individuals and units. It is the ingredient that enables constant dedication to Corps and country. It inspires the unrelenting determination to achieve victory in every endeavor.

Marine Corps Mottos

• Semper Fidelis: Latin for “always faithful,” Semper Fidelis symbolizes the lifelong commitment held by every Marine for the Corps and America, a promise reciprocated by the Corps to all Marines. 

• Ooh-rah: A battle cry among Marines, ‘Ooh-rah’ can be used as a greeting, a term of affirmation, or as a way of expressing enthusiasm. 

• Ductus Exemplo: A Latin term that means “lead by example,” Ductus Exemplo is the official motto of Officer Candidates School (OCS). It means that being a Marine isn’t about giving or receiving orders; it’s about behaving in a manner that inspires others. 

EVERY MARINE. ALWAYS FAITHFUL.

To protect our Nation’s ideals, America turns to its Always Faithful. Those who share an uncommon bond for a common cause. Who fight until they win in the battles not everyone can fight. For the promises that America has made. For the promise that America is. Marines remain true to our motto of Semper Fidelis – “Always Faithful.”

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