The United States Marine Corps 14 leadership traits are qualities of thought and action which,
if demonstrated in daily activities, help Marines earn the respect,
confidence, and loyal cooperation of other Marines. It is extremely
important that Marines understand the meaning of each leadership trait and
how to develop it, so each Marine knows what goals to set as he/she works to become a
good leader and a good follower.
Take a few minutes to learn about
these leadership traits in the words and actions of
Marines, Marine veterans, and loved ones. It
is a proud reflection of what a Marine is all about . .
. and underscores... “Once a Marine, Always a Marine”
and “Semper Fidelis”. (The
leadership traits are listed and defined
below the video.)
Leadership Traits
video segments produced by U.S. Marine Corps
Introduction voice over by David Bancroft, USA
Patriotism! founder and father of a Marine veteran Video
compilation by USA Patriotism! (December 2011)
JUSTICE The practice of being fair and
consistent . . . A just person gives consideration to each side of a
situation and bases rewards or punishments on merit.
JUDGMENT The ability to think about things clearly,
calmly, and in an orderly fashion so that you can make good decisions.
DEPENDABILITY Being relied upon to perform
your duties properly . . . It means that you can be trusted to complete a
job. It is the willing and voluntary support of the policies and orders
of the chain of command. Dependability also means consistently putting
forth your best effort in an attempt to achieve the highest standards of
performance.
INITIATIVE Taking action even though you haven't been
given orders . . . It means meeting new and unexpected situations with prompt
action. It includes using resourcefulness to get something done without
the normal material or methods being available to you.
DECISIVENESS Able to make good decisions
without delay . . . Get all the facts and weight them against each other
. . . By
acting calmly and quickly, you should arrive at a sound decision. You
announce your decisions in a clear, firm, professional manner.
TACT Dealing with people in a manner that
will maintain good relations and avoid problems . . . It means that you are
polite, calm, and firm.
INTEGRITY
Being honest and truthful in what you
say or do . . . You put honesty, sense of duty, and sound moral principles
above all else.
ENTHUSIASM A sincere interest and exuberance
in the performance of your duties . . . If you are enthusiastic, you are
optimistic, cheerful, and willing to accept the challenges.
BEARING
The way you conduct and carry yourself . . . Your
manner should reflect alertness, competence, confidence, and control.
UNSELFISHNESS Avoiding to make yourself
comfortable at the expense of others . . . Be considerate of others. Give
credit to those who deserve it.
COURAGE
Remaining calm while recognizing
fear . . . Moral courage means having the inner strength to stand up for what
is right and to accept blame when something is your fault . . . Physical
courage means that you can continue to function effectively when there
is physical danger present.
KNOWLEDGE Understanding of a science or art . . .
Knowledge means that you have acquired information and that you
understand people. Your knowledge should be broad, and in addition to
knowing your job, you should know your unit's policies and keep up with
current events.
LOYALTY
Devoted to your country, the
Corps, and to your seniors, peers, and subordinates . . . The motto of our
Corps is Semper Fidelis!, (Always Faithful) . . . You owe unwavering loyalty
up and down the chain of command, to seniors, subordinates, and peers.
ENDURANCE The mental and physical stamina that is
measured by your ability to withstand pain, fatigue, stress, and
hardship... For example, enduring pain during a conditioning march in
order to improve stamina is crucial in the development of leadership.
Note: The acronym J.J. DID TIE BUCKLE is used by Marines to help remember these 14 leadership traits.
U.S. Marine Corps Leadership Traits
