Origins of Army Values: Historical Development
September 4, 2023 by JoyAnswer.org, Category : Military
When did the Army values become a thing? Learn about the historical development and origins of the Army values, which form the foundation of ethical conduct and leadership within the U.S. Army.
When did the Army values become a thing?
The U.S. Army values, also known as the "Seven Army Values," are a set of ethical and moral principles that guide the behavior and actions of soldiers in the United States Army. These values were officially established and codified in the early 1980s as part of an effort to reinforce and emphasize the importance of ethical conduct and leadership within the Army.
The Seven Army Values are:
- Loyalty
- Duty
- Respect
- Selfless Service
- Honor
- Integrity
- Personal Courage
The development and formal adoption of these values were influenced by several factors:
Vietnam War Era: The United States was undergoing significant societal and cultural changes during the Vietnam War era. The Army recognized the need to reinforce values and ethics among its soldiers during a challenging period of American history.
Army Leadership: Senior Army leaders, including General Creighton Abrams, played a significant role in the development of these values. They understood the importance of values in building a cohesive and effective fighting force.
Training and Education: The Army integrated these values into its training programs, including Basic Combat Training (BCT) and Officer Candidate School (OCS), to instill them in every soldier from the beginning of their military careers.
Regulations and Manuals: The Army codified the values in Army Regulation 600-100 and incorporated them into various field manuals and training materials.
Crisis of Leadership: Some high-profile incidents and scandals in the late 1970s and early 1980s highlighted the need for a stronger emphasis on ethical leadership and conduct within the military.
As a result of these factors, the Seven Army Values became an integral part of Army culture and continue to be a fundamental aspect of military training and leadership development. They guide soldiers in their daily actions and decision-making, fostering a sense of duty, honor, and responsibility in serving the nation. The official codification and emphasis on these values have had a positive impact on the U.S. Army's commitment to ethical leadership and professional conduct.
