The 7 Army Values

Overview

The seven Army Values form the acronym LDRSHIP: Loyalty, Duty, Respect, Selfless Service, Honor, Integrity, and Personal Courage. Every Soldier is expected to live by these values in everything they do, whether in combat or in garrison. They are the foundation of trust within the force.

Loyalty

Bear true faith and allegiance to the U.S. Constitution, the Army, your unit, and other Soldiers. Loyalty is a two-way street — you owe it to your leaders and your Soldiers owe it to you. It means supporting the chain of command and standing by those around you even when things get difficult.

Duty

Fulfill your obligations. Doing your duty means more than carrying out your assigned tasks. It means being able to accomplish tasks as part of a team. It also means following orders and regulations and carrying out the intent of your superiors. You do your duty because you believe in what you're doing, not just because you have to.

Respect

Treat people as they should be treated. Respect means recognizing the inherent dignity and worth of every person. It also means recognizing the contributions of others. In the Army, respect means treating others with dignity and respect while expecting the same in return. The Army has no tolerance for discrimination of any kind.

Selfless Service

Put the welfare of the Nation, the Army, and your subordinates before your own. Selfless service is larger than just one person. It means doing what is right for the Nation, the Army, your organization, and your people — and putting these above your personal interests. Leaders who demonstrate selfless service earn the trust and respect of those they lead.

Honor

Live up to Army values. Honor holds the Army Values and ethical principles together while at the same time serving as a guide for the individual. A person of honor adheres to a set of values that represents a higher standard of behavior. When you make a personal commitment to act honorably, you make a commitment to live by Army Values.

Integrity

Do what's right — legally and morally. Integrity means doing what is right, legally and morally. People of integrity consistently act according to principles — not just what might work at the moment. Integrity requires that you do and say nothing that deceives others. As your integrity grows, so does the trust others place in you.

Personal Courage

Face fear, danger, or adversity (physical or moral). Personal courage has long been associated with the Army. Physical courage means overcoming fears of bodily harm and doing your duty. Moral courage is the willingness to stand firm on your values, principles, and convictions — even when threatened. It enables leaders to stand up for what they believe is right, regardless of the consequences.

Board Tips

You will almost certainly be asked about Army Values. Be able to define each one IN YOUR OWN WORDS. Don't just recite the definition — give an example of how you live that value daily. Board members want to see you UNDERSTAND the values, not just memorize them.