The Marine Corps General Orders are a set of eleven directives that outline the responsibilities and expectations of Marines while on duty. These orders are fundamental to the Corps' values and traditions, and are intended to guide the behavior and decision-making of Marines in a variety of situations. The General Orders are as follows:
Understanding the General Orders
The General Orders are designed to be memorized and understood by all Marines, from recruits to senior officers. They are a cornerstone of Marine Corps training and are reinforced throughout a Marine’s career. The orders are numbered from 1 to 11, and each one addresses a specific aspect of a Marine’s duties and responsibilities. By following these orders, Marines can ensure that they are upholding the highest standards of conduct and performing their duties to the best of their ability.
The Eleven General Orders
The eleven General Orders are:
- 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 noncommissioned 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
- The General Orders are a set of eleven directives that guide the behavior and decision-making of Marines.
- These orders are fundamental to the Corps' values and traditions.
- Marines are expected to memorize and understand the General Orders.
- The orders address specific aspects of a Marine's duties and responsibilities.
- Following the General Orders ensures that Marines are upholding the highest standards of conduct.
Importance of the General Orders
The General Orders are essential to the Marine Corps’ mission and values. By following these orders, Marines can ensure that they are performing their duties to the best of their ability and upholding the highest standards of conduct. The General Orders also provide a framework for decision-making and help Marines to stay focused and alert while on duty.
Application of the General Orders
The General Orders are applied in a variety of situations, from guard duty to combat operations. Marines are expected to understand and follow the General Orders at all times, and to use their judgment and initiative to apply the orders in different contexts. By doing so, Marines can ensure that they are fulfilling their responsibilities and contributing to the success of their unit.
| 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. |
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Marine Corps General Orders are a set of eleven directives that outline the responsibilities and expectations of Marines while on duty. These orders are fundamental to the Corps’ values and traditions, and are intended to guide the behavior and decision-making of Marines in a variety of situations. By following the General Orders, Marines can ensure that they are upholding the highest standards of conduct and performing their duties to the best of their ability.
What are the Marine Corps General Orders?
+The Marine Corps General Orders are a set of eleven directives that outline the responsibilities and expectations of Marines while on duty.
Why are the General Orders important?
+The General Orders are essential to the Marine Corps’ mission and values, and provide a framework for decision-making and behavior.
How are the General Orders applied?
+The General Orders are applied in a variety of situations, from guard duty to combat operations, and Marines are expected to use their judgment and initiative to apply the orders in different contexts.
