Profession of Arms

Overview

• Nature of the Profession• Officership • Commitment

• Profession: A vocation or occupation characterized by special knowledge and skills applied and dedicated to the improvement of society. • Some basic requirements are:– Ethical Behavior– Preparation through training & education– Continued development– Dedication to public service above personal

achievement

Nature of the Profession

• Military Profession– Preserve the Peace– Support National Policy– Implement National Objectives– Overcoming any nation responsible for

aggressive acts that imperil the peace and security of the United States.

• Development of the Military Professional– Expertise, Responsibility, Corporateness

Nature of the Profession

• Developing the military professional–Expertise• Technical Knowledge• Theoretical Knowledge• Broad Liberal Knowledge

Nature of the Profession

• Developing the military professional – Responsibility to:• The US Constitution• Maintain high standards• Serve the American people

Nature of the Profession

• Developing the military professional–Corporateness• Autonomous social unit• Education and training• Internal promotions and discipline• Promoting the growth of professional

knowledge

Nature of the Profession

Is the Military a Profession?

• 2-Fold Responsibility to the State– Expertise– Execute the will of the State

• Defending the Nation

Officership

• Country’s Expectations of Officers– Patriotism– Honor– Integrity– Loyalty to service above all else– Competence– Self-sacrifice

USA Oath of Office

I, (state your full name), having been appointed a second lieutenant, in the United States Air Force, do solemnly swear that I will support and defend the constitution of the United States, against all enemies, foreign and domestic, that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same, that I take this obligation freely, without any mental reservation or purpose of evasion, and that I will well and faithfully discharge the duties of the office upon which I am about to enter, so help me God.

Nazi Germany Oath of Office

I swear by God this sacred oath, that I will render unconditional obedience to Adolf Hitler, the Fuehrer of the German Reich and people, Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, and will be ready as a brave soldier to risk my life at any time for this oath.

Former U.S.S.R. Oath of Office

I, citizen of the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics, joining the ranks of the Armed Forces, take the oath and solemnly pledge to observe military and state secrets, to observe the Constitution of the USSR and Soviet laws, unquestioningly to carry out the requirements of all military regulations and orders of commanders and superiors.

I pledge conscientiously to study military science, to preserve in every way military and public property and to remain devoted till my last breath to my people, my Soviet homeland, and the Soviet government.

Former U.S.S.R. Oath of Office

I am prepared at all times, on orders from the government, to come out in defense of my homeland, the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics. I pledge to defend it courageously, skillfully, with dignity and honor, without sparing my blood and life in securing complete victory over the enemies.

If I break this solemn vow, may I be severely punished by the Soviet people, universally hated, and despised by the working people.

Commitment

Summary

• Nature of the Profession• Officership • Commitment

Profession of Arms