It is these shared values that separate the professionals from the armed thugs. Simple words, but they define what we believe about ourselves and what we expect from others. As I go through them, picture how they fit into your life, your expectations of your superiors and your subordinates. See how they relate to the values taught to you by your parents and your instructors at this school. You will find that our values are just about the same.
Integrity is the first core value and for good reason.
It is absolutely essential. It is the basis for the trust that is vital in today's military. The military is the only profession where you might be called upon to die for your country or lead men and women into situations where they might have to die for their country. When our second lieutenants receive their commissions, I tell them that by an act of Congress they out rank more than 70 percent of the Air Force on their first day of duty. They still have to earn the trust and respect of their subordinates.