The 11 General Orders of the United States Navy (USN) are a set of rules that guide the behavior and decision-making of naval personnel, particularly in situations where they are acting as sentries or standing watch. These orders are designed to ensure the safety and security of naval personnel, equipment, and installations, and to maintain good order and discipline within the naval service.
Introduction to the 11 General Orders
The 11 General Orders are a fundamental part of naval training and are memorized by all naval personnel. They are applicable to all situations where a sailor is standing watch or acting as a sentry, and they provide a clear guide for decision-making and action in a variety of scenarios. The orders are straightforward and easy to understand, and they are enforced consistently throughout the naval service.
General Order 1: To Take Charge of This Post and All Government Property in View
This order emphasizes the importance of taking responsibility for the post and all government property that can be seen from that location. It requires the sentry to be aware of their surroundings and to take charge of the area, ensuring that all property is protected and secure.
| General Order | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | To take charge of this post and all government property in view |
| 2 | To walk my post in a military manner, keeping always on the alert and observing everything that takes place within sight or hearing |
| 3 | To report all violations of orders I am instructed to enforce |
| 4 | To repeat all calls from posts more distant from the guardhouse than my own |
| 5 | To quit my post only when properly relieved |
| 6 | To receive, obey, and pass on to the sentry who relieves me, all orders from the commanding officer, officer of the day, and officers and petty officers of the guard only |
| 7 | To talk to no one except in the line of duty |
| 8 | To give the alarm in case of fire or disorder |
| 9 | To call the corporal of the guard in any case not covered by instructions |
| 10 | To salute all officers and colors and standards not cased |
| 11 | To be especially watchful at night and during the time for challenging, to challenge all persons on or near my post and to allow no one to pass without proper authority |
Key Points
Key Points
- The 11 General Orders are a set of rules that guide the behavior and decision-making of naval personnel.
- The orders are designed to ensure the safety and security of naval personnel, equipment, and installations.
- The orders are applicable to all situations where a sailor is standing watch or acting as a sentry.
- The orders provide a clear guide for decision-making and action in a variety of scenarios.
- The orders are enforced consistently throughout the naval service.
Importance of the 11 General Orders
The 11 General Orders are important because they provide a clear guide for naval personnel to follow in a variety of situations. They help to ensure the safety and security of personnel, equipment, and installations, and they promote good order and discipline within the naval service. By following the orders, sailors can help to prevent accidents, protect against threats, and maintain the trust and confidence of their fellow personnel and the public.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the 11 General Orders of the United States Navy are a fundamental part of naval training and are used to guide the behavior and decision-making of naval personnel in a variety of situations. The orders are designed to ensure the safety and security of naval personnel, equipment, and installations, and to promote good order and discipline within the naval service. By following the orders, sailors can help to prevent accidents, protect against threats, and maintain the trust and confidence of their fellow personnel and the public.
What are the 11 General Orders of the United States Navy?
+The 11 General Orders are a set of rules that guide the behavior and decision-making of naval personnel, particularly in situations where they are acting as sentries or standing watch.
Why are the 11 General Orders important?
+The 11 General Orders are important because they provide a clear guide for naval personnel to follow in a variety of situations, helping to ensure the safety and security of personnel, equipment, and installations, and promoting good order and discipline within the naval service.
How are the 11 General Orders enforced?
+The 11 General Orders are enforced consistently throughout the naval service, with sailors who fail to follow the orders subject to disciplinary action.
