Understanding the Midshipman Honor Concept

One of the main tenets of the Naval Academy’s mission is “to develop midshipmen morally ... and imbue them with the highest ideals of duty, honor and loyalty”. To educate, shape and inspire thoughts and actions to best prepare the Brigade to become leaders of character – ready to lead Sailors and Marines in the Fleet – honor, integrity, and character are at the core of effective leadership.

The Honor Concept of the Brigade of Midshipmen directly supports USNA’s mission and permeates every pillar and every member of USNA.

The Honor Concept, the ethical baseline that reaffirms the Brigade’s commitment to doing that which is right, explicitly states:

“Midshipmen are persons of integrity:
WE STAND FOR THAT WHICH IS RIGHT.

We tell the truth and ensure that the full truth is known.
WE DO NOT LIE.

We embrace fairness in all actions.  We ensure that work submitted as our own is our own, and that assistance received from any source is authorized and properly documented.
WE DO NOT CHEAT.

We respect the property of others and ensure that others are able to benefit from the use of their own property.
WE DO NOT STEAL.”

The Honor Concept, owned by the Brigade, provides the ethical and moral guidelines for officers in training, and promotes trust and confidence across the entire institution. The focus should be on what you should do (positives), and not a codified list of what not to do (negatives). It inspires an innate sense of responsibility to do the right thing in enforcing high standards of honor.

We'll be sharing a series of inspirational posts throughout the academic year that support the notion of honor and developing officers of character. Stay tuned!