The United States Navy is guided by core values that shape the principles and standards sailors are expected to uphold. These values act as a moral compass for all decisions and actions. The navy has 3 main core values: honor, courage and commitment. These values reinforce what it means to be a sailor and guide every mission.
Honor
Honor is the first core value of the navy. Honor provides the moral basis for uniformed service. It generates the inner strength to do what is right even in the face of adversity. As the navy’s core value system states, “I will bear true faith and allegiance…” Honor is the foundation upon which the other core values rely.
Some key aspects of honor as a navy core value include:
Integrity
Integrity means navy sailors adhere to a higher standard. They do what is right legally and morally. With integrity, sailors will:
– Uphold the highest ethical standards
– Be honest and truthful in their dealings
– Maintain consistency in their actions
– Employ sound moral principles
Responsibility
Responsibility as a navy value refers to being accountable for and in charge of your duties. Sailors demonstrate responsibility when they:
– Carry out orders and instructions properly
– Complete their work on time
– Take charge of the resources and people under their supervision
– Take personal responsibility for their actions and decisions
Courage
The navy value of honor requires courage. Courage provides the strength to face adversity and do what is right. With courage, sailors can overcome challenges and accomplish the mission even when it is difficult.
Courage
Courage is the second core value of the United States Navy. Courage reflects the inner strength needed to overcome fear and adversity. As the navy’s creed states, “I will support and defend…” Courage enables sailors to carry out their duties and protect others even in the face of danger.
Some key aspects of courage as a navy core value include:
Valor
Valor means having the strength and spirit to encounter danger and difficulties. Sailors demonstrate valor when they:
– Act bravely when facing risky situations
– Persevere through challenges to accomplish the mission
– Have the fortitude to do their duty despite adversity
Dedication
Dedication refers to the spirit of determination and commitment. Sailors show dedication when they:
– Devote themselves fully to serve and protect others
– Have an unwavering commitment to their duties
– Remain loyal to their mission and their shipmates
Sacrifice
The value of courage may require sacrifice. Sacrifice means giving up personal comforts or even safety for the sake of the mission or others. Navy sailors are willing to make sacrifices such as:
– Giving up leave or liberty to fulfill a duty
– Taking on extra duties to help shipmates
– Risking personal safety to protect others
Commitment
Commitment is the final core value of the navy. Commitment refers to the spirit of determination and dedication to the navy and the nation. As the navy’s creed states, “I proudly serve my country’s Navy combat team with Honor, Courage and Commitment.”
Some key aspects of commitment as a navy value include:
Loyalty
Loyalty means faithful allegiance to the navy and to your shipmates. Sailors demonstrate loyalty when they:
– Remain faithful to the navy’s principles and standards
– Are reliable team players who support their shipmates
– Are dedicated to the navy’s mission even when facing adversity
Teamwork
Teamwork involves cooperating with your shipmates to accomplish the mission. Sailors exhibit teamwork by:
– Contributing their best to achieve team goals
– Supporting and trusting their fellow sailors
– Resolving conflicts in a positive manner
Perseverance
Perseverance refers to the drive to overcome challenges and press on towards the goal. Sailors show perseverance when they:
– Remain dedicated to their duties despite difficulties
– Maintain their motivation and work ethic under adverse conditions
– Continue striving to accomplish the mission no matter the obstacles
Conclusion
Honor, courage and commitment form the 3 core values of the United States Navy. These values establish a consistent standard for character and conduct across the entire navy. They provide guiding principles for sailors to follow as they serve their country and shipmates. The navy’s core values shape the navy into a disciplined, mission-ready force. From the newest recruit to the most senior officer, all sailors must internalize these values and demonstrate them through their actions and decisions every day. By upholding the navy’s core values, sailors strengthen the navy as a whole and solidify its role in protecting the nation.
Summary of Navy’s 3 Core Values
| Core Value | Key Aspects |
| Honor | Integrity, Responsibility, Courage |
| Courage | Valor, Dedication, Sacrifice |
| Commitment | Loyalty, Teamwork, Perseverance |
