The Honorable Path > The Core Values
Honor, Courage, and Commitment
The Marine Corps strives to produce not only the best warriors, but also the best people—men and women who live by the Core Values of Honor, Courage, and Commitment.
Honor
Marines act responsibly in a mature and dependable manner. They are held to the highest standard of ethical and moral behavior. In the Marines, honesty, honor, and respect for oneself and others is built into our very foundation.
Courage
Courage is not the absence of fear. It is the ability to face fear and overcome it. It is the mental, moral, and physical strength that is ingrained in Marines. It carries them through every challenge, and aids them in facing the unknown.
Commitment
Commitment is what compels Marines to serve our country and the Corps. It is what drives them to face every mission head-on, and win our nation's battles.

Frequently Asked Questions
- Question:
- What makes the Marines different from other military branches?
- Answer:
- The Marines have been "First to Fight" for over 230 years. We are always ready for service and are often the first to arrive in a crisis. We may be called upon at any time to go anywhere. The Marine Corps is the only branch of the armed services specifically organized with air, land, and sea-based expeditionary fighting capabilities.

