The Army Values is the bedrock of good Soldiering. Soldiers and leaders of the Army live by seven core values which are Loyalty, Duty, Respect, Selfless Service, Honor, Integrity and Personal Courage (LDRSHIP). We are all taught these 7 Army Values from day one in the United States Army. First we memorize these values. Then we are trained to live by them. All of these Army Values play an important role in our Army lives.
These 7 Army Values also play well into life outside the Army in our personal life. People sometimes do not realize the importance of these values. Many people know what the words Loyalty, Duty, Respect, Selfless Service, Honor, Integrity and Personal Courage means. Unfortunately, sometimes you see other Soldiers and leaders not living up to these values.
Loyalty is to “Bear true faith and allegiance to the U.S. Constitution, the Army, and other Soldiers”. To be a loyal Soldier is to support the leadership and trust the actions that take as leaders. Just by wearing the uniform it shows your loyalty and commitment towards the United States Army.
Duty is to simply fulfill your obligations. Duty means to complete your task and missions. Every Soldier and leader has duties and responsibilities. We need to know what these are so that we are able to apply it. One of the responsibilities and duties is to be able to apply and uphold the standards. Respect is to “Treat people as they should be treated.” Every Soldier should treat other people with dignity and respect. If a unit or company has no respect for one another they cannot have teamwork and sympathy for the well being of others.
Respect goes both ways, If you want to be treated with respect, you will have to treat them with respect also. Selfless Service is to “Put the welfare of the nation, the Army and your subordinates above your own.” As mentioned on wikipedia.org “Selfless Service is a service which is performed without any expectation of result or award for performing it.” You as a Soldier should sacrifice self-interest for the good of everyone.
