The Marine Corps General Orders are a set of instructions that outline the responsibilities and expectations of Marines in various situations. These orders are designed to ensure that Marines conduct themselves in a professional and respectful manner, both on and off duty. The General Orders are a fundamental part of Marine Corps culture and are memorized by all Marines as part of their training.
Introduction to the General Orders

The General Orders are a set of 11 instructions that cover a range of topics, from guarding posts to reporting violations of orders. These orders are based on the principles of discipline, loyalty, and duty, and are intended to guide Marines in their daily lives. The General Orders are not just a set of rules, but a way of life for Marines, and are essential to maintaining the high standards of the Marine Corps.
The 11 General Orders
The 11 General Orders are as follows:
- To take charge of this post and all government property in view.
- To walk my post in a military manner, keeping always on the alert and observing everything that takes place within sight or hearing.
- To report all violations of orders I am instructed to enforce.
- To repeat all calls from posts more distant from the guardhouse than my own.
- To quit my post only when properly relieved.
- To receive, obey, and pass on to the sentry who relieves me, all orders from the commanding officer, officer of the day, and officers and noncommissioned officers of the guard only.
- To talk to no one except in the line of duty. <8>To give the alarm in case of fire or disorder.
- To call the corporal of the guard in any case not covered by instructions.
- To salute all officers and all colors and standards not cased.
- To be especially watchful at night, and during the time for challenging, to challenge all persons on or near my post and to allow no one to pass without proper authority.
Key Points
- The General Orders are a set of 11 instructions that outline the responsibilities and expectations of Marines.
- These orders are designed to ensure that Marines conduct themselves in a professional and respectful manner, both on and off duty.
- The General Orders are a fundamental part of Marine Corps culture and are memorized by all Marines as part of their training.
- The orders cover a range of topics, from guarding posts to reporting violations of orders.
- The General Orders are not just a set of rules, but a way of life for Marines, and are essential to maintaining the high standards of the Marine Corps.
Importance of the General Orders

The General Orders are essential to the Marine Corps because they provide a framework for Marines to follow in various situations. They help to ensure that Marines are aware of their responsibilities and are held to a high standard of conduct. The General Orders also help to promote discipline, loyalty, and duty, which are core values of the Marine Corps.
Training and Enforcement
The General Orders are an integral part of Marine Corps training, and all Marines are required to memorize them as part of their initial training. The orders are also reinforced through regular drills and inspections, to ensure that Marines are familiar with their responsibilities and are held to a high standard of conduct. The General Orders are enforced by Marine Corps leaders, who are responsible for ensuring that Marines comply with the orders and uphold the high standards of the Marine Corps.
| General Order | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | To take charge of this post and all government property in view. |
| 2 | To walk my post in a military manner, keeping always on the alert and observing everything that takes place within sight or hearing. |
| 3 | To report all violations of orders I am instructed to enforce. |

Conclusion
In conclusion, the Marine Corps General Orders are a set of instructions that outline the responsibilities and expectations of Marines in various situations. These orders are designed to ensure that Marines conduct themselves in a professional and respectful manner, both on and off duty. The General Orders are a fundamental part of Marine Corps culture and are memorized by all Marines as part of their training. By following the General Orders, Marines can ensure that they are upholding the high standards of the Marine Corps and conducting themselves in a manner that reflects the values of the organization.
What are the Marine Corps General Orders?
+The Marine Corps General Orders are a set of 11 instructions that outline the responsibilities and expectations of Marines in various situations.
Why are the General Orders important?
+The General Orders are important because they provide a framework for Marines to follow in various situations, and help to ensure that Marines are aware of their responsibilities and are held to a high standard of conduct.
How are the General Orders enforced?
+The General Orders are enforced by Marine Corps leaders, who are responsible for ensuring that Marines comply with the orders and uphold the high standards of the Marine Corps.
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