The Words You Have to Know
Every creed, code, and general order the military hands you and expects you to memorize — the Soldier's Creed, the Rifleman's Creed, the Code of Conduct, the General Orders, and the rest. 17 of them, reproduced word-for-word from official sources — 11 you'll actually be tested on — with a plain-English breakdown of what each one really means and where it came from.
Creeds
Recited identity statements — the ones you learn by heart.7
The Soldier's Creed
Memorize“I am an American Soldier. I am a Warrior and a member of a team. I serve the people of the United States, and …”
The NCO Creed
Memorize“No one is more professional than I. I am a noncommissioned officer, a leader of Soldiers. As a noncommissioned…”
The Ranger Creed
“Recognizing that I volunteered as a Ranger, fully knowing the hazards of my chosen profession, I will always e…”
The Rifleman's Creed
Memorize“This is my rifle. There are many like it, but this one is mine. My rifle is my best friend. It is my life. I m…”
The Sailor's Creed
Memorize“I am a United States Sailor. I will support and defend the Constitution of the United States of America and I …”
The Airman's Creed
Memorize“I am an American Airman. I am a Warrior. I have answered my Nation's call. I am an American Airman. My mission…”
The Creed of the United States Coast Guardsman
“I am proud to be a United States Coast Guardsman. I revere that long line of expert seamen who by their devoti…”
Ethos
The short, load-bearing lines pulled out and used on their own.1
Core Values
The two-to-seven words each branch measures you against.6
The Seven Army Values (LDRSHIP)
Memorize“Loyalty — Bear true faith and allegiance to the U.S. Constitution, the Army, your unit and other Soldiers. Dut…”
Marine Corps Core Values
“Honor — Integrity, responsibility, and accountability. The quality of maturity, dedication, trust, and dependa…”
Navy Core Values
“Honor — "I will bear true faith and allegiance..." Conduct yourself with the highest ethical and moral standar…”
Air Force Core Values
Memorize“Integrity First Service Before Self Excellence In All We Do…”
Coast Guard Core Values
“Honor — Integrity is our standard. We demonstrate uncompromising ethical conduct and moral behavior in all of …”
Space Force Core Values & the Guardian Ideal
“Character — Guardians live honorably. Connection — Guardians take care of each other and their families. Commi…”
General Orders
The rules for standing a watch — memorized by number.2
The 11 General Orders of a Sentry
Memorize“1. To take charge of this post and all government property in view. 2. To walk my post in a military manner, k…”
The 3 General Orders
Memorize“1. I will guard everything within the limits of my post and quit my post only when properly relieved. 2. I wil…”
Code of Conduct
How every American service member is expected to act if captured.1