Honor, courage and commitment are the core values of the Marines. They define how every Marine in the Corps thinks, acts, and fights. Furthermore, they represent to a Marine their dedication, trust and dependability. They also are the foundation for why Marines act responsibly, fulfill their obligations, are willing to be held accountable for their actions, and are willing hold others accountable for their actions.
With all of the current and emerging challenges before leaders at this time period, it is time that more and more people in leadership and management positions embrace and role model these three core values. We need more honor, courage and commitment.
The bed rock of great leadership starts with character, namely uncompromising personal integrity, a respect for human dignity, and selfless sacrifice plus a deep concern for others. These ethical and moral choices are woven into each and every choice a person makes on a daily basis.
I remember one time years ago meeting with a senior manager who was seriously considering a job change. Over lunch, we talked about strategy, culture, systems and emerging trends in their business. We also talked about the impact of this possible choice on his marriage, his children and his career.
As we got up to leave the restaurant, he paused and said, “Hold on a minute. I need to do something.”
Then he walked to a nearby table, kneeled down so he was at eye level with the individual who was seated, stuck out his hand, and said, “Thank-you for your service to our country.”
The older gentleman straightened up, looked him straight in the eye and shook this out stretched hand, saying “It was my honor and privilege to do so.” They visited for a moment, and then the man I had visited with stood up, and we walked outside.
We paused once outside the restaurant and I said “How did you know he was a veteran?”
“I didn’t at first,” he replied. “But when we both stood up, I noticed his ball cap beside him at the table. On it, was the name of the unit he served with in Vietnam. Those men and women went through hell before coming home. And their return was not positive either. So, every time I see or meet a veteran, no matter what branch of service or what time period they served, I always make sure to stop and thank them for their commitment, courage and service to our country. This is my way to honor their sacrifice.”
I paused for a long moment and thought of my own father who served in WWII and all the other men and women that I have met who have served. And I realized again the importance of honor, courage and commitment.
Then, I thanked him for our visit over lunch and told him he would do just fine if he stayed in his current job or moved to a new job. “You have the right moral and ethical foundation for your life, and you conduct yourself with true integrity. This will give you the ability to do your best no matter where you move next in you career.”
It is time for more of us to be people of honor, courage and commitment. This also is our time to role model these three principals for those who will be following in our footsteps.
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