Which document serves as the foundation of Marine Corps professional ethics?

The Code of Conduct serves as the foundation of Marine Corps professional ethics by providing a clear and concise guideline for the behavior and decisions of Marines. It outlines the fundamental principles that ensure Marines act with honor, integrity, and respect for the values of the Marine Corps, especially in challenging situations. This document emphasizes the importance of loyalty to the nation, adherence to orders, and accountability for one's actions, which are crucial in maintaining the ethical standards expected of all Marines.

While Marine Corps Orders, General Orders, and the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ) are also important in governing conduct and ensuring compliance within the military, they do not specifically embody the ethical framework that the Code of Conduct establishes. Orders and the UCMJ provide rules and regulations for behavior and legal obligations but do not comprehensively address the moral imperatives that define professional ethics in the Marine Corps.