What is considered the bedrock of a Marine's character?

The bedrock of a Marine's character is considered to be honor. Honor in the Marine Corps encompasses a strong ethical foundation, emphasizing the importance of being honest and maintaining strong moral principles. This aspect of character is crucial for building trust and respect among fellow Marines, as well as with the communities they serve. It includes being accountable for one's actions, upholding the values of the Corps, and making decisions that reflect the highest standards of conduct.

While courage, commitment, and integrity are all vital traits that contribute to a Marine's character, honor is distinct in its foundational role, serving as a guiding principle for these other attributes. Honor encourages Marines to be true to their word and to live according to the core values of the Marine Corps, ensuring that they act in ways that reflect positively on themselves and the organization as a whole.