The NCO Creed
No one is more professional than I. I am a Non-Commissioned Officer, a leader
of subordinates. As a Non-Commissioned Officer, I realize that I am a member of
a time honored corps, which is known as "The Backbone". I am proud of the
Corps of Non-Commissioned Officers and will at all times conduct myself so as to
bring credit upon the Corps, the Movement and the Corps regardless of the
situation in which I find myself. I will not use my grade or position to attain
pleasure, profit, or personal safety.
Competence is my watchword. My two basic responsibilities will always be
uppermost in my mind -- accomplishment of my mission and the welfare of my
subordinates. I will strive to remain tactically and technically proficient. I am
aware of my role as a Non-Commissioned Officer. I will fulfill my responsibilities
inherent in that role. All subordinates are entitled to outstanding leadership; I will
provide that leadership. I know my subordinates and I will always place their
needs above my own. I will communicate consistently with my subordinates and
never leave them uninformed. I will be fair and impartial when recommending
both rewards and reprimands.
Commissioned Officers of my unit will have maximum time to accomplish their
duties; they will not have to accomplish mine. I will earn their respect and
confidence as well as that of my subordinates. I will be loyal to those with whom I
serve; superiors, peers, and subordinates alike. I will exercise initiative by taking
appropriate common-sense action in the absence of orders. I will not
compromise my integrity, nor my moral courage. I will not forget, nor will I allow
my comrades to forget that we are professionals, Non-Commissioned Officers,
leaders!
