I’m truly blessed and privileged to add some words of wisdom to what has already been shared by this impressive group of senators from the U.S. Navy, U.S. Coast Guard, and U.S. Marine Corps.
I believe the development of ethical leaders firmly rooted in the Marine Corps’ heritage of selfless service, core values, and warfighting excellence is the life blood of the Marine Corps. With that, a call to action to dedicate ourselves to our leadership principles that have stood the test of time.
Leadership Principles
- Know yourself and seek self-improvement – You are never done growing as a leader.
- Be technically and tactically proficient – Know your business.
- Seek responsibility and take responsibility for your actions – Be accountable.
- Make sound and timely decisions – Be wise and decisive.
- Set the example – More is caught than taught.
- Know your Marines and Sailors and look out for their well-being – Marines and Sailors don’t care how much you know, until they know how much you care.
- Keep your unit informed – No team ever failed because of too much honest and effective communication.
- Develop a sense of responsibility in subordinates – You are responsible for the development of the physical, mental, and moral welfare of the Marines and Sailors in your organization.
- Ensure the task is understood, supervised and accomplished – Set clear expectations and goals, then teach, coach, evaluate, and hold Marines and Sailors accountable.
- Train your Marines and Sailors as a team – Organizational Culture is your job.
- Employ your team in accordance with its strengths and capabilities – Create an environment in which your Marines and Sailors will succeed.