What effect does witnessing deviations from Marine Corps standards have on Marines?

Witnessing deviations from Marine Corps standards can significantly impact Marines, often leading them to develop a negative opinion of command and leadership. When Marines observe behaviors or actions that contradict the established standards, it can erode their trust in leadership. This dissonance creates a perception that leaders may not uphold the values and expectations set forth by the Corps, which can consequently undermine respect for their authority and influence morale.

Additionally, when members of a unit see peers or leaders acting outside of expected norms, they may feel demotivated or confused about the standards they are supposed to uphold. It can foster an environment where adherence to the established standards is called into question, leading to a decrease in accountability and cohesion within the unit. Therefore, the observations of deviations from official standards have profound implications on how Marines perceive their leaders and the overall effectiveness of their unit.