The Profession of Arms 1

Overview The Nature of the Military Profession Officership Commitment 23

SOBs Cognitive Samples of Behavior: Explain what constitutes a profession. Describe the three overarching characteristics necessary for the development of the military profession according to Samuel P. Huntington. Differentiate between an institution and an occupation. Explain why the United States has its officers take an oath to support and defend the Constitution. Explain the country’s expectations of its officers.

Nature of the Military Profession Profession: A vocation or occupation characterized by special knowledge and skills applied and dedicated to the improvement of society. Some basic requirements are: Ethical Behavior Preparation through training & education Continued development Dedication to public service above personal achievement 5

Nature of the Military Profession Preserve the Peace Support National Policy Implement National Objectives Overcome any nation responsible for aggressive acts that imperil the peace and security of the United States According to Samuel P. Huntington: Expertise, Responsibility, Corporateness 5

Nature of the Military Profession Expertise Technical Knowledge Theoretical Knowledge Broad Liberal Knowledge 5

Nature of the Military Profession Responsibility to The US Constitution Maintain High Standards Serve the American People 5

Nature of the Military Profession Corporateness Autonomous social unit Education and training Internal promotions and discipline Promoting the growth of professional knowledge 5

Is the Military a Profession? Two-Fold Responsibility to the State Expertise Execute the will of the State Defending the Nation 5

Officership Country’s Expectations of Officers Patriotism Honor Integrity Loyalty to service above all else Competence Self-sacrifice 5

US Oath of Office I, (state your full name), having been appointed a second lieutenant, in the United States Air Force, do solemnly swear that I will support and defend the constitution of the United States, against all enemies, foreign and domestic, that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same, that I take this obligation freely, without any mental reservation or purpose of evasion, and that I will well and faithfully discharge the duties of the office upon which I am about to enter, so help me God. 5

Nazi Germany Oath of Office I swear by God this sacred oath, that I will render unconditional obedience to Adolf Hitler, the Fuehrer of the German Reich and people, Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, and will be ready as a brave soldier to risk my life at any time for this oath. 5

Former U.S.S.R. Oath of Office I, citizen of the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics, joining the ranks of the Armed Forces, take the oath and solemnly pledge to observe military and state secrets, to observe the Constitution of the USSR and Soviet laws, unquestioningly to carry out the requirements of all military regulations and orders of commanders and superiors. I pledge conscientiously to study military science, to preserve in every way military and public property and to remain devoted till my last breath to my people, my Soviet homeland, and the Soviet government. 5

Former U.S.S.R. Oath of Office I am prepared at all times, on orders from the government, to come out in defense of my homeland, the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics. I pledge to defend it courageously, skillfully, with dignity and honor, without sparing my blood and life in securing complete victory over the enemies. If I break this solemn vow, may I be severely punished by the Soviet people, universally hated, and despised by the working people. 5

Summary The Nature of the Military Profession Officership Commitment 23

The Profession of Arms 1