11 Usmc General Orders To Follow

The 11 General Orders are a set of principles that guide the behavior and decision-making of Marines in the United States Marine Corps (USMC). These orders are fundamental to the Corps' values and are expected to be followed by all Marines, regardless of rank or position. The General Orders are a cornerstone of Marine Corps discipline and are essential for maintaining good order and discipline within the ranks.
Introduction to the 11 General Orders

The 11 General Orders are a direct reflection of the Marine Corps’ core values of honor, courage, and commitment. They provide a framework for Marines to conduct themselves in a professional and respectful manner, both on and off duty. The orders are designed to promote unity, cohesion, and esprit de corps among Marines, while also ensuring that they adhere to the highest standards of behavior and performance.
Overview of the 11 General Orders
The 11 General Orders can be summarized as follows:
- To take charge of this post and all government property in view.
- To walk my post in a military manner, keeping always on the alert and observing everything that takes place within sight or hearing.
- To report all violations of orders I am instructed to enforce.
- To repeat all calls from posts more distant from the guardhouse than my own.
- To quit my post only when properly relieved.
- To receive, obey, and pass on to the sentry who relieves me, all orders from the commanding officer, officer of the day, and officers and noncommissioned officers of the guard only.
- To talk to no one except in the line of duty.
- To give the alarm in case of fire or disorder.
- To call the corporal of the guard in any case not covered by instructions.
- To salute all officers and colors and standards not cased.
- To be especially watchful at night, and during the time for challenging, to challenge all persons on or near my post and to allow no one to pass without proper authority.
These orders are not just a set of rules to be followed; they are a way of life for Marines. They promote a sense of responsibility, accountability, and professionalism that is essential for the successful completion of the Marine Corps' mission.
Importance of the 11 General Orders

The 11 General Orders are essential for maintaining good order and discipline within the Marine Corps. They provide a framework for Marines to conduct themselves in a professional and respectful manner, both on and off duty. The orders promote unity, cohesion, and esprit de corps among Marines, while also ensuring that they adhere to the highest standards of behavior and performance.
The 11 General Orders also play a critical role in ensuring the safety and security of Marine Corps personnel, equipment, and facilities. By following these orders, Marines can help to prevent accidents, protect against threats, and maintain a secure environment for all personnel.
Real-World Applications of the 11 General Orders
The 11 General Orders have a wide range of real-world applications, from sentry duty to everyday life as a Marine. For example, the orders to “walk my post in a military manner” and “to be especially watchful at night” are critical for maintaining security and preventing accidents during sentry duty. Similarly, the order to “salute all officers and colors and standards not cased” promotes respect and discipline among Marines, both on and off duty.
In addition to their practical applications, the 11 General Orders also have a profound impact on the culture and traditions of the Marine Corps. They promote a sense of pride, loyalty, and commitment among Marines, and help to foster a sense of community and camaraderie that is essential for the successful completion of the Marine Corps' mission.
General Order | Purpose |
---|---|
1. To take charge of this post and all government property in view. | To ensure the security and safety of Marine Corps personnel, equipment, and facilities. |
2. To walk my post in a military manner, keeping always on the alert and observing everything that takes place within sight or hearing. | To maintain a high level of situational awareness and to prevent accidents or security breaches. |
3. To report all violations of orders I am instructed to enforce. | To promote accountability and discipline among Marines, and to ensure that all personnel are adhering to the highest standards of behavior and performance. |
4. To repeat all calls from posts more distant from the guardhouse than my own. | To ensure that all personnel are aware of any potential threats or security breaches, and to promote communication and coordination among Marines. |
5. To quit my post only when properly relieved. | To ensure that all personnel are accounted for and that the post is secure at all times. |
6. To receive, obey, and pass on to the sentry who relieves me, all orders from the commanding officer, officer of the day, and officers and noncommissioned officers of the guard only. | To promote discipline and accountability among Marines, and to ensure that all personnel are following the proper chain of command. |
7. To talk to no one except in the line of duty. | To maintain a high level of professionalism and to prevent distractions or security breaches. |
8. To give the alarm in case of fire or disorder. | To promote safety and security, and to ensure that all personnel are aware of any potential threats or hazards. |
9. To call the corporal of the guard in any case not covered by instructions. | To promote discipline and accountability among Marines, and to ensure that all personnel are following the proper procedures and protocols. |
10. To salute all officers and colors and standards not cased. | To promote respect and discipline among Marines, and to foster a sense of pride and loyalty to the Marine Corps. |
11. To be especially watchful at night, and during the time for challenging, to challenge all persons on or near my post and to allow no one to pass without proper authority. | To promote safety and security, and to ensure that all personnel are aware of any potential threats or hazards. |

Challenges and Opportunities

The 11 General Orders present both challenges and opportunities for Marines. On the one hand, they provide a framework for promoting discipline, accountability, and professionalism, which are essential for the successful completion of the Marine Corps’ mission. On the other hand, they can be challenging to follow, particularly in situations where Marines are faced with uncertain or dynamic environments.
Despite these challenges, the 11 General Orders offer a range of opportunities for Marines to develop their skills, knowledge, and character. By following these orders, Marines can promote a sense of pride, loyalty, and commitment, while also fostering a sense of community and camaraderie that is essential for the successful completion of the Marine Corps' mission.
Future Implications
The 11 General Orders will continue to play a critical role in shaping the culture and traditions of the Marine Corps in the years to come. As the Marine Corps evolves to meet the changing needs of the 21st century, the 11 General Orders will remain a constant source of guidance and inspiration for Marines, promoting a sense of discipline, accountability, and professionalism that is essential for success.
In addition to their role in promoting discipline and accountability, the 11 General Orders will also continue to play a critical role in shaping the Marine Corps' approach to leadership, teamwork, and innovation. By fostering a sense of pride, loyalty, and commitment among Marines, the 11 General Orders will help to promote a culture of excellence and continuous improvement, which is essential for the successful completion of the Marine Corps' mission.
What is the purpose of the 11 General Orders?
+The 11 General Orders are a set of principles that guide the behavior and decision-making of Marines in the United States Marine Corps. They provide a framework for promoting discipline, accountability, and professionalism, and are essential for maintaining good order and discipline within the ranks.