Through their leaders programs, soldiers and DA civilians develop character through education, experience, and reflection. By educating their subordinates and setting the example, Army leaders enable their subordinates to make ethical decisions that in turn contribute to excellence. Subordinates gain deeper understanding from experiencing, observing, and reflecting on the aspects of Army leadership under the guidance of their leaders. Inculcating Army values doesn t end with basic training. Army leaders can also improve their own understanding through study, reflection, and discussions with peers and superiors.
Leaders reinforce and discipline behavior to guide subordinates development.
To help subordinates live according to Army values, leaders enforce rules, policies, and regulations. Still, soldiers and DA civilians of character do more than merely comply with established institutional rules. Acting correctly but without complete understanding or sound motivation is not good enough in America s values-based Army. People of character behave correctly through correct understanding and personal desire. Understanding comes from training and self-development.