Army’s 3 General Orders: What Every Soldier Must Know!
The United States Army, a globally recognized defense organization, operates under a rigorous code of conduct. Central to this code are the army three general orders, foundational principles every soldier commits to memory. These orders provide a framework for responsible action in any situation, complementing the guidance provided by Non-Commissioned Officers (NCOs). Proper adherence to the army three general orders ensures mission success and upholds the standards expected within the military justice system.
Image taken from the YouTube channel Spencer Wilson , from the video titled The 3 US Army General Orders (1 hr. Loop) .
Army’s 3 General Orders: A Comprehensive Guide
Understanding the "army three general orders" is fundamental for every soldier. These orders are not just rules; they are principles that guide conduct and ensure the safety and security of personnel and property. This guide breaks down each order, explaining its meaning and application in practical terms.
Introduction to the Army Three General Orders
The army three general orders provide a simple, yet crucial, framework for soldiers on duty, particularly when acting as a guard. They emphasize responsibility, vigilance, and adherence to established protocols. Knowing these orders demonstrates a commitment to duty and a clear understanding of a soldier’s role in maintaining order and security.
The Three General Orders Explained
Let’s examine each of the three general orders in detail:
First General Order:
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Text: "I will guard everything within the limits of my post and quit my post only when properly relieved."
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Explanation: This order stresses the importance of staying at your assigned post and maintaining vigilance over everything within its boundaries.
- "Guard Everything": This means paying close attention to everything within your assigned area. This includes people, equipment, and the physical environment itself. You are responsible for noticing anything out of the ordinary.
- "Limits of My Post": This refers to the clearly defined boundaries of your assigned area of responsibility. Know these boundaries and ensure that you are focused on what falls within them.
- "Quit My Post Only When Properly Relieved": This is crucial for maintaining continuous security. Do not leave your post unattended. You are responsible until someone authorized to take over your duties officially relieves you. This relief must be a clear and recognized transfer of responsibility.
Second General Order:
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Text: "I will obey my special orders and perform all my duties in a military manner."
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Explanation: This order emphasizes adherence to specific instructions and the importance of conducting oneself professionally and according to military standards.
- "Obey My Special Orders": Special orders are specific instructions tailored to the unique requirements of your post or duty. They supplement the general orders and provide clarity on what is expected of you in your particular situation.
- "Perform All My Duties in a Military Manner": This requires acting with discipline, respect, and attention to detail. Follow established procedures, maintain a professional appearance, and demonstrate competence in your assigned tasks. It implies a high level of alertness and a commitment to fulfilling your responsibilities to the best of your ability.
Third General Order:
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Text: "I will report all violations of orders I am instructed to enforce."
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Explanation: This order emphasizes the importance of upholding standards and ensuring that all rules and regulations are followed.
- "Report All Violations": This means taking action when you observe someone breaking a rule or regulation that you are responsible for enforcing. This might include unauthorized personnel entering a restricted area, improper use of equipment, or any other breach of protocol.
- "Orders I am Instructed to Enforce": This clarifies that your responsibility is to report violations of the specific orders that you have been tasked with upholding. This could include the general orders themselves, as well as any special orders or regulations specific to your post or duty.
Practical Application of the Army Three General Orders
The table below illustrates some examples of how the army three general orders apply in specific scenarios:
| General Order | Scenario | Application |
|---|---|---|
| First | Guarding the entrance to a secure facility. | Remaining at the post until properly relieved by another guard. Continuously monitoring the entrance for any unauthorized personnel or suspicious activity. |
| Second | Assigned to patrol a specific area on a military base. | Following the route and schedule outlined in the special orders. Interacting with personnel in a professional manner, according to military standards. |
| Third | Observing a soldier violating curfew regulations. | Reporting the violation to the appropriate authority, following the established chain of command. |
Key Takeaways
The army three general orders are not simply memorized lines. They are principles that guide a soldier’s actions and ensure the safety and security of the unit and its resources. Understanding the meaning behind each order and applying them diligently is essential for every soldier.
Understanding the Army’s 3 General Orders: FAQs
This section provides quick answers to common questions about the Army’s three general orders, ensuring every soldier understands their importance.
What exactly are the Army’s three general orders?
The army three general orders are a set of fundamental rules that all sentinels must follow to maintain security and discipline. They are non-negotiable and ensure the safety of personnel and equipment. They dictate conduct while on duty as a sentinel.
Why are the army three general orders important?
They’re vital because they prevent complacency and ensure vigilance. Following the army three general orders keeps soldiers focused, reduces the risk of accidents, and helps maintain a safe environment, especially in potentially hostile situations. They act as a constant reminder of responsibility.
What are the specific consequences of violating the army three general orders?
The consequences can vary depending on the severity of the violation. They can range from counseling and corrective training to more serious disciplinary actions under the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ), including fines, demotion, or even imprisonment.
Where can I find the full text of the army three general orders?
The complete text of the army three general orders is readily available in the Soldier’s Blue Book, Field Manual (FM) 3-21.75 "The Warrior Ethos and Soldier Combat Skills", and through your chain of command. Knowing them is a fundamental requirement for all soldiers.
Alright, that wraps up our look at the army three general orders! Hopefully, you’ve got a better understanding of what they are and why they matter. Keep them in mind, and you’ll be good to go!