Code of Military Conduct
The Code of Conduct is a six-article code that provides general guidelines for the daily conduct of all United States military personnel. It is especially applicable at times of war or imprisonment.
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Article 1
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The first article reads, "I am an American, fighting in the forces which guard my country and our way of life. I am prepared to give my life in their defense." It is a statement of purpose that acknowledges that the member is in the uniformed service and is prepared to die in the defense of his country.
Article 2
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Article 2 reads, "I will never surrender of my own free will. If in command, I will never surrender the members of my command while they still have the means to resist." This article states that the member will not surrender without a fight, nor will she surrender her subordinates.
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Article 3
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Article 3 reads, "If I am captured I will continue to resist by all means available. I will make every effort to escape and to aid others to escape. I will accept neither parole nor special favors from the enemy." American military members will not stop resisting or accept bribes or favors in return for special treatment, according to this article.
Article 4
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Article 4 reads, "If I become a prisoner of war, I will keep faith with my fellow prisoners. I will give no information or take part in any action which might be harmful to my comrades. If I am senior, I will take command. If not, I will obey the lawful orders of those appointed over me and will back them up in every way." This article states that military discipline and organization is retained even if imprisoned.
Article 5
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Article 5 states, "When questioned, should I become a prisoner of war, I am required to give name, rank, service number, and date of birth. I will evade answering further questions to the utmost of my ability. I will make no oral or written statements disloyal to my country and its allies or harmful to their cause." This article gives servicemen a list of information they are required by law to give and the ability to refuse to offer other information. It also allows members to retain honor if they are forced to give further information, since they are required to resist to the "utmost of their abilities."
Article 6
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The final article reads, "I will never forget that I am an American, fighting for freedom, responsible for my actions, and dedicated to the principles which made my country free. I will trust in my God and in the United States of America." This article reminds the members of the American values they swore to defend and holds them accountable for their actions.
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- Photo Credit military helicopter image by Tom Oliveira from Fotolia.com
