No Marine is more professional than I. I am a noncommissioned officer,
a leader of Marines. As a noncommissioned officer I realize that I am a
member of a time-honored corps, which is known as the "Backbone of
the Marine Corps."

I am proud of the corps of noncommissioned officers and will at all
times conduct myself so as to bring credit upon the corps, the military
service, and my country regardless of the situation in which I find
myself. I will not use my grade or position to attain pleasure, profit, or
personal saftey.

Competence is my watch-word. My two basic responsibilities will
always be uppermost in my mind - accomplishment of my mission and
the welfare of my Marines. I will strive to maintain tactical and
technical proficiency. I am aware of my role as a noncommissioned
officer. I will fullfill my responsibilities inherent in that role. All
Marines are entitled to outstanding leadership; I will provide that
leadership. I will communicate consistently with my Marines and never
leave them uninformed. I will be fair and impartial when recommending
both rewards and punishment.

Officers of my unit will have maximum time to accomplish their duties;
they will not have to accomplish mine. I will earn their respect and
confidence as well as that of my men. I will be loyal to those with
whom I serve, seniors, peers and subordinates alike. I will exercise
initiative by taking appropriate action in the absence of orders. I will not
compromise my integrity, nor my moral courage. I will not forget that
we are professional nomcommissioned officers - "Leaders of Marines!"