Freshman Orientation Packet
5 June 2015
Table of Contents
NROTC Mission ..................................................................................................... page 1
NROTC Goals, Honor Code, and Core Values ................................................... page 2
Commanding Officer Guidance............................................................................ page 3
NROTC History at The Ohio State University ................................................... page 4
National Chain of Command ................................................................................ page 5
National Chain of Command Photographs ......................................................... page 6-7
Unit and Company Staff Defined and Unit Staff Chain of Command ............. page 8
Unit Staff Photographs .......................................................................................... page 9
Company Structure ............................................................................................... page 10
NROTC PFA and PFT Standards ....................................................................... page 11-13
Grooming Standards ............................................................................................. pages 14-15
US Officer Ranks and Insignias ........................................................................... page 16
Warrant Officer, USN/ USMC Enlisted Ranks and Insignias........................... page 17
Midshipmen Ranks and Insignias/Uniform ........................................................ page 18-23
Oath of Office/Midshipmen Honor Code ............................................................ page 24
Sailors’ Creed/Military Code of Conduct ........................................................... page 25
Eleven General Orders of a Sentry ...................................................................... page 26
Navy Knowledge/US National Ensign .................................................................. page 27
USMC Knowledge/Leadership Traits .................................................................. page 28
Service Songs .......................................................................................................... page 29
General Navy Terminology ................................................................................... page 30-31
Notes ........................................................................................................................ pages 32
Campus Map .......................................................................................................... pages 33-34
NROTC Mission
To develop future officers mentally, morally,
and physically, and to instill in them the
highest ideals of duty, loyalty, and the core
values of Honor, Courage, and Commitment in
order to commission college graduates as
Naval officers who possess a basic professional
background, are motivated toward careers in
the Naval Service, and have a potential for
future development in mind and character so
as to assume the highest responsibilities of
command, citizenship, and government.
1
NROTC Goals, Honor Code, and Core Values
Goals. The primary objectives are to provide students with:
a. An understanding of the fundamental concepts and principles of Naval Science.
b. A basic understanding of associated professional knowledge.
c. An appreciation of the requirements for national security.
d. A strong sense of personal integrity, honor, and individual responsibility.
e. An educational background which will allow students to perform successfully in their
careers, pursue continuing education in a field of application, and further their interest in the
Naval Service.
f. A high state of physical readiness.
Honor Code. Military systems, which often operate under extreme duress, are built on a
foundation of absolute trust and fidelity. NROTC must instill honor upon future officers
during accession training and ensure that honor is carried into fleet service. A future officer
does not lie, cheat or steal.
Core Values. Throughout its history, the Naval Service has successfully operated through
reliance on certain values held by its personnel. Naval leaders have attributed these values to
be among the most important factors that contributed to the success of our organization and to
their own personal success. Core values are Honor, Courage and Commitment. A Naval
officer must exhibit these values in the everyday practice of his or her profession.
Honor
Honor is a keen sense of ethical conduct, honesty, integrity, and responsibility. Honor
includes honesty, at all times no matter the outcome. It is respect to both juniors and seniors.
Finally, it includes upholding one’s self at all times to the highest personal standards in
responsibility and accountability.
Courage
Future officers must meet the demands of the Naval Service and the mission when it is
hazardous, demanding or otherwise difficult, make decisions in the best interest of the Naval
Service and the nation, without regard to personal consequences, meet all challenges while
adhering to a higher standard of personal conduct and decency, be loyal to our nation,
ensuring the resources entrusted to us are used in an honest, careful and efficient way, and
have the moral and mental strength to do what is right, even in the face of personal or
professional adversity.
Commitment
Every officer is responsible for the safety, professional, personal, and spiritual well-being of
their personnel. Future officers must show respect toward all people without regard to race,
religion or gender and treat each individual with human dignity. They must be committed to
positive change and constant improvement, exhibit the highest degree of moral character,
technical excellence, quality, and competence in what we have been trained to do, and work
together as a team to improve the quality of our work, our people, and ourselves.
2
Naval Reserve Officers Training Corps History at The Ohio State University
A Brief Progression from the Past to the Future
In March of 1945, The Ohio State University submitted an application for the establishment of a
unit of the Naval Reserve Officers Training Corps. On 06 September 1945, Howard L. Bevis,
President of The Ohio State University, announced the late September arrival of 200 active duty,
wartime, enlisted sailors, all of whom had completed high school, and were selected by the Navy
to attend the program for four years, taking both Naval Science and other university courses.
The Commanding Officer was Captain John D. Shaw, a 1923 graduate of the United States
Naval Academy. CAPT Shaw had recently served as Commander of LST’s with the Twelfth
Fleet in Europe and had previously served as the Executive Officer of the cruiser Omaha.
Assisting him was the Executive Officer, Commander W.H. Stewart, also a Naval Academy
graduate, and a staff of 13 officers and 11 enlisted sailors.
The OSU NROTC Unit began teaching students on 02 October 1945 and was one of ten schools
that would receive a reserve unit for classes only until one year after World War II had ended.
The unit’s existence was not foreseen past that time. Obviously, The Ohio State University
NROTC Unit not only remained active but grew to become a vibrant and well-respected
organization. Welcome to this legacy of patriotic service and the opportunity to forge the future!
4
National Chain of Command
President, Commander in Chief
The Honorable Barack Obama
Vice President
The Honorable Joseph Biden
Secretary of Defense
The Honorable Ashton Carter
Secretary of the Navy
The Honorable Raymond Mabus
Chief of Naval Operations (CNO)
Admiral Greenert
Commandant of the Marine Corps
General Dunford
Commander, Naval Education and
Training (NETC)
Rear Admiral White
Commander, Naval Service Training
Command (NSTC)
Rear Admiral Evans
Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy
Master Chief Stevens
Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps
Sergeant Major Green
5
President
The Honorable Barack Obama
Vice President
The Honorable Joseph Biden
Secretary of Defense
The Honorable Ashton Carter
Secretary of The Navy
The Honorable Raymond Mabus
Chief of Naval Operations
Admiral Greenert
Commandant of the Marine Corps
Joseph Dunford
6
Commander, NETC
RADM White
Commander, NSTC
RDML Evans
Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy
Master Chief Stevens
Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps
Sergeant Major Green
7
Unit Staff
The staff is comprised of active duty officers and noncommissioned officers from the Navy
and Marine Corps as well as DoD Civilians and a University employee. They are here to
develop midshipmen, MECEP’s and officer candidates into naval officers. These individuals
have a variety of roles which include Naval Science instructors, academic advisors and
administrative staff. Their years of fleet experience are crucial to developing future naval
officers both physically and mentally.
Company Staff
This Company of Midshipmen is organized just as you will see in the Navy and Marine
Corps. The Company is divided into three platoons: 1st (Aviation), 2nd (Surface/Submarine), and
3rd (Marines). Each level of organization is designated leadership positions called “billets,”
which are filled by Midshipmen to develop leadership skills. Billet holders are responsible for
running the Company on a day to day basis. All positions offer a unique opportunity for
professional development including leading fellow midshipmen, MECEP’s and officer
candidates as well as completing Company administrative work.
Unit Chain of Command
Commanding Officer
Captain Cuddington
Executive Officer
Commander Bradshaw
Marine Officer Instructor
Major Anderson
Aviation Officer
Lieutenant Montgomery
Submarine Officer
Lieutenant Kriesch
Surface Warfare Officer
Lieutenant Ahrens
Assistant Marine Officer Instructor
Gunnery Sergeant Rodriguez
Note: Instructors are assigned as advisors and will be the first officer in the Chain of Command
Administration
CO’s Secretary/University
Admin
Mrs. Susan Lush
Administrative Assistant
Ms. Michelle Armstead (Sgt, USA, Ret.)
Supply Officer
Mr. Gregory Gibbins (Senior Chief, USN, Ret.)
Administration/Human
Resource
Mr. Tom Rasico (Chief, USN, Ret.)
*Although the administrators are not in the direct chain of command they are still
members of the unit staff and are due the respect of a superior.
8
Captain Cuddington
Major Anderson
Commander Bradshaw
Lieutenant Montgomery
Lieutenant Ahrens
Ms. Armstead
Lieutenant Kriesch
Gunnery Sergeant Rodriquez
Mr. Rasico
9
Mr. Gibbins
COMPANY STRUCTURE
National
Command
Unit
Command
CO CDR
LONDON
CO XO
CO 1st SGT
STANISLAV
SKIRATKO
1st LT
FLOYD
Operations
Supply
ARCHER
BRYMER
ADMIN/ACADO
PAO/COMMO
STURGEON
LASWELL
Asst. Supply
SSgt LISBON
Athletics
A-Atho
Armorer
DITZLER
PETERSEN
MECEPs
1st Platoon
1/C Daprato
2nd Platoon
1/C Daprato
3rd Platoon
4th Platoon
PLT CO
PLT CO
PLT CO
PLT CO
WILCOX
WITKOP
CHAU
CASPERS
PLT SGT
JENSEN
PLT SGT
ROWE
SQD LDR
SQD LDR
SQD LDR
PLT SGT
BECKER
SQD LDR
SQD LDR
10
SQD LDR
PLT SGT
ROBERTS
SQD LDR
SQD LDR
NROTC PHYSICAL FITNESS ASSESSMENT
(PFA) STANDARDS (NAVY)
MALES: AGE 17 TO 19 YEARS
Performance Level
Maximum
Outstanding
Excellent
Good
Satisfactory
Points
Curl-ups
Push-ups
1.5 mile run
100
90
75
60
45
109
102
90
62
50
92
86
76
51
42
8:15
9:00
9:45
11:00
12:30
FEMALES: AGE 17 TO 19 YEARS
Performance Level
Maximum
Outstanding
Excellent
Good
Satisfactory
Points
100
90
75
60
45
Curl-ups
109
102
90
62
50
Push-ups
51
47
42
24
19
1.5 mile run
9:29
11:30
12:30
13:30
15:00
MALES: AGE 20 TO 24 YEARS
Performance Level
Maximum
Outstanding
Excellent
Good
Satisfactory
Points
100
90
75
60
45
Curl-ups
105
98
87
58
46
Push-ups
87
81
71
47
37
1.5 mile run
8:30
9:15
10:30
12:00
13:30
FEMALES: AGE 20 TO 24 YEARS
Performance Level
Maximum
Outstanding
Excellent
Good
Satisfactory
Points
100
90
75
60
45
Curl-ups
105
98
87
58
46
11
Push-ups
48
44
39
21
16
1.5 mile run
9:47
11:30
13:15
14:15
15:30
PHYSICAL FITNESS TEST (PFT) STANDARDS (MALE MARINE)
Male SCORE
PULL-UPS
SIT-UPS
3-MILE RUN
100
20
100
18:00
95
19
95
18:50
90
18
90
19:40
85
17
85
20:30
80
16
80
21:20
75
15
75
22:10
70
14
70
23:00
65
13
65
23:50
60
12
60
24:40
55
11
55
25:30
50
10
50
26:20
45
9
45
27:10
40
8
40
28:00
35
7
X
28:50
30
6
X
29:40
25
5
X
30:30
20
4
X
31:20
15
3
X
32:10
10
X
X
33:00
5
X
X
X
*According to NROTCUOSUINST 6110.1E, male Marine Option Midshipmen will be placed on
Remedial Fitness if they ―receive below a 250 overall score on an inventory or official PFT. In
addition males must be able to achieve at a minimum 12 pull-ups, 75 crunches and a 23:30 run.
12
PHYSICAL FITNESS TEST (PFT) STANDARDS (FEMALE MARINE)
FEMALE SCORE
FLEXED ARM
HANG
SITUPS
3-MILE RUN
100
70 SEC
100
21:00
95
90
67 SEC
65 SEC
95
90
21:50
22:40
85
62 SEC
85
23:30
80
60 SEC
80
24:20
75
57 SEC
75
25:10
70
55 SEC
70
26:00
65
52 SEC
65
26:50
60
50 SEC
60
27:40
55
47 SEC
55
28:30
50
45 SEC
50
29:20
45
42 SEC
45
30:10
40
40 SEC
40
31:00
35
35 SEC
X
31:50
30
30 SEC
X
32:40
25
25 SEC
X
33:30
20
20 SEC
X
34:20
15
15 SEC
X
35:10
10
X
X
36:00
5
X
X
X
*According to NROTCUOSUINST 6110.1E, female Marine Option Midshipmen will be placed on
Remedial Fitness if they ―receive below a 250 overall score on an inventory or official PFT. In
addition females must be able to achieve a minimum of :50 seconds for the flexed arm hang, 75
crunches and a 26:30 run.
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GROOMING STANDARDS FOR MEN
{------ INDICATES SCALP LINE}

Sideburns shall not extend below the mid-point of the ear as indicated by line "A".

When a mustache is worn it shall not:

Go below a horizontal line extending across the corner of the mouth as indicated by
line "B".

Extend more than 1/4 inch beyond a vertical line drawn upward from the corners of
the mouth as indicated by line "C".

Protrude below the lip line of the upper lip as indicated by line "D".

Hairstyle properly groomed shall not be greater than approximately 2 inches in bulk.
Bulk is the distance that the mass of hair protrudes from the scalp. No individual hair
will measure more than 4 inches in length.

The face shall be clean shaven unless a shaving waiver is authorized by the
Commanding Officer

Earrings are not authorized while in uniform

Midshipmen will not chew gum, chewing tobacco or snuff while in uniform.
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GROOMING STANDARDS FOR WOMEN

Haircuts and styles shall present a balanced appearance. Lopsided and extremely
asymmetrical styles are not authorized. Ponytails, pigtails, widely spaced individual hanging
locks, and braids which protrude from the head are not authorized. Multiple braids are
authorized.

No portion of the bulk of the hair as measured from the scalp will exceed approximately 2
inches.

Hair shall not fall below a horizontal line level with the lower edge of the back of the collar
as indicated by line A. When wearing jumper uniforms, hair can extend a maximum of 1-1/2
inches below the top of the collar.

Cosmetics may be applied in good taste so that colors blend with natural skin tone and
enhance natural features.

Fingernails shall not exceed 1/4 inch measured from the fingertip. They shall be kept clean.
Nail polish may be worn, but colors shall be conservative and complement the skin tone.

Rings. While in uniform, only one ring per hand is authorized, plus a wedding/engagement
ring set.

One earring per ear (centered on earlobe) may be worn while in uniform. Earrings shall be
6mm gold ball (approximately 1/4 inch), plain with brushed matte finish, screw-on or with
posts.

No articles, other than earrings for women specified above, shall be attached to or through
the ear, nose, or any other body part

Midshipmen will not chew gum, chewing tobacco or snuff while in uniform.
15
(RDML)
16
(RADM)
Rank
Army
Navy
Marine Corps
Midshipmen Rank and Insignia
ENLISTED INSIGNIA OF THE
UNITED STATES NAVY AND MARINE CORPS
17
18
Uniforms and Insignia
The United States Navy and Marine Corps are uniformed military services. The uniform is a
highly visible and important element in the morale, pride, discipline, and effectiveness of the
organization. The uniform shall be worn on such occasions as prescribed by the Professor of
Naval Science. Usually, this will be on drill days, ceremonies, and during periods of summer
training. The uniform of the day will be stated in the Plan of the Week.
Upon entering the NROTC Program, all midshipmen are issued items of uniform clothing during
Freshmen Orientation or prior to summer training as needed. These items remain the property of
the U.S. Government until commissioning, when they become the property of the individual.
Midshipman insignia and organizational clothing (raincoat, windbreakers, relaxed fit jacket,
gloves, reefers) remain the property of the U.S. Government, and must be returned prior to
commissioning. Midshipmen who disenroll from the NROTC program are required to return all
issued uniform items to the unit Supply Officer.
Midshipmen must insure that uniform articles fit properly and conform to prescribed standards.
Minor alterations and adjustments to the uniform are often necessary to ensure a proper fit upon
initial issue. Only the initial alterations are available to the student at no cost. Any alterations,
cleaning, or laundering thereafter are the responsibility of the midshipman. Replacement of
uniforms due to wear or change in size is the responsibility of the individual.
Simply wearing the uniform is not enough. How you wear the uniform reflects on you as well
as your fellow midshipmen. No part of the prescribed uniform articles or equipment shall be
worn at the same time that civilian attire is worn, except articles which do not present a
distinctive Naval appearance, such as raincoats without insignia, shoes, and socks.
Belts: For Navy options, the belt is worn with the polished end of the belt tip flush with the
buckle. The open side of the buckle will be aligned with the gig line, so that the open end of the
shirt, the open end of the buckle, and the overlap of the fly of the trousers all make a continuous
straight line. For Marine options, the belt is worn with the belt tip extending 2 to 4 inches
beyond the buckle. The buckle edge is also aligned with the gig line. For both options, all
plastic coatings must be removed from the buckle and tip, and they must always be shined and
free of dirt and excess polish.
Covers: The combination cap is worn squarely on the head, the bottom edge horizontal
approximately 1-1/2” above the eyebrows. The garrison cap is worn squarely on the head, with
fore and aft creases centered vertically between the eyebrows with the lowest point
approximately one inch above the eyebrows.
When outdoors, personnel shall remain covered at all times except when ordered to uncover, or
during religious services associated with a military ceremony. Thus, unless ordered to uncover,
personnel should remain covered during invocation or other religious portions of ceremonies
which are military in nature, such as change of command, ship commissioning and launching,
military burial, etc. Chaplains conducting religious portions of ceremonies will be guided by the
customs of his/her church with respect to wearing a head covering.
19
Covers are normally removed indoors. Midshipmen in a duty status and wearing a duty belt, or
under arms, shall not remove headgear indoors except when entering a space where a meal is
being served or divine services are being conducted.
Personnel are permitted to remove covers when traveling inside a private automobile off base.
Covers are mandatory when entering, or within a military reservation, except where wearing of a
cover is impractical or hazardous.
Jackets: Relaxed-fit jackets will be worn with the zipper closed at least three-quarters of the
way.
Male Neckties: Neckties will be tied with a double Windsor knot. Tie clasps are worn one inch
down from the center of the tie, parallel to the deck. The bottom of the tie will be within one
inch above the buckle and not extend below the buckle so as to cover it.
Female Neckties: The necktie’s outer edges should be parallel to the outer edges of the collar.
An equal amount of necktie should show on each side of the collar. Wear parallel to and slightly
above the top of the shirt collar closure hiding the top button. Let the ends of the tie hang free.
Skirts: When prescribed, skirts are worn within a range in length of 1-1/2” above or 1-1/2”
below the crease in the back of the knee.
Shoes: All parts of the shoes will be shined to a high gloss and the edges of the soles will be
cleaned and edge-dressed. Laces will be bridged at the bottom and laced left over right. Leather
shoes should be polished and edge-dressed, but corframs (synthetic leather) should only be
cleaned.
Trousers: The hem of the trousers will fall 1/4” above the heel welt and shall cover the upper
part of the shoe by approximately one inch.
Undergarments: Undershirts are worn with all male uniforms. Appropriate undergarments,
including support garments for women, will be worn to preserve the dignity and appearance of
the uniform.
Earrings: Earrings may be worn at women’s discretion with all uniforms. Small, gold, matte
balls are authorized for normal wear. Only one earring is to be worn per ear. Males are not
authorized to wear earrings in uniform. Earrings are not authorized in civilian clothes while on
board ship, in any military vehicle, on or in any military installation, or while participating in
command functions. Males may not wear earrings on The Ohio State University campus.
Rings: For both males and females, one ring is allowed per hand. The only exception is the
wear of an engagement ring with a wedding band on the same finger for females.
Wristwatches/Bracelets: When in uniform, only one of each may be worn. Ankle bracelets are
not permitted.
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Necklaces: Only one necklace may be worn in uniform but shall not be visible.
Other Articles: No articles, such as pencils, pens, watch chains, fobs, pins, jewelry,
handkerchiefs, combs, cigarettes, or similar small items shall be worn or carried exposed upon
the uniform. Necklaces, crosses, pendants, etc. shall not be worn exposed while in uniform. Tie
clasps, cuff links, shirt studs, and earrings shall be worn as prescribed. Wearing of wristwatches,
identification bracelets, and rings are permitted with all uniforms; however, these items shall be
in good taste and appropriate to the occasion, working or social, for which the prescribed
uniform is worn. Conservative sunglasses are permitted, except when in military formation.
Ribbons and Breast Insignia: Ribbons shall be worn in the order of descending precedence
inboard to outboard, top to bottom (see Company Regulations). Ribbon bars are worn in rows of
three. The bottom bar will be worn 1/4” (1/8” for Marine Options) and centered above the left
breast pocket, parallel to the deck. All rows shall have the same number of ribbons except for
the top row, which will be centered on the other rows as necessary.
Figure 1: Ribbon Placement
Midshipmen with prior enlisted service who have received awards during their active duty period
may wear either these awards or midshipman awards, but not both sets; nor may they mix sets.
Aviation, submarine, surface warfare, special warfare, parachutists, underwater, or EOD
qualification pins/insignia shall be worn centered 1/4” above the top rows of ribbons or medals.
When worn alone, the insignia shall be worn centered 1/4” above the left breast pocket, so that
the horizontal axis is parallel to the deck.
When two qualification pins are worn, the one which takes precedence will be worn as
prescribed above, with the other centered immediately below the ribbons or medal, in accordance
with Navy uniform regulations.
Medals may be worn only when designated, and in that case would be worn in lieu of their
corresponding ribbons. For example, do not wear the American Legion ribbon when wearing the
American Legion medal.
Nametags will be worn 1/4” and centered above the right breast pocket for Navy Options, and
1/8” and centered above the right breast pocket for Marine Options.
Other Insignia: In general, insignia worn by NROTC midshipmen conforms to that prescribed
for U.S. Naval Academy midshipmen. NROTC Marine Option midshipmen will wear the gold
enlisted Marine Corps Eagle, Globe, and Anchor emblem (EGA) in place of the anchor device.
21
Combination cover insignia shall consist of a cap device, chin strap, and retaining buttons.
Garrison cap insignia shall be a gold metal fouled anchor. The unfouled arm of the stock shall
be to the front. It shall be pinned to the left side of the cap with the center 2” from the front seam
of the cap and 1 1/2” above the bottom edge.
Figure 2: Male/Female Garrison Cap Insignia
Figure 3: Female Garrison Cap Insignia
Sleeve Class Insignia: Sleeve class insignia shall consist of the horizontal stripes worn on the
left sleeve of the service dress blue (SDB) uniform, centered between the shoulder and the
elbow.
1/c - 3 stripes
2/c - 2 stripes
3/c - 1 stripe
4/c - no stripes
Service Dress Blue (SDB) Blouse Collar Insignia: Blouse collar insignia shall consist of plain
gold anchors indicating midshipman status. It shall be pinned to the blouse collar so that the
crown of the anchor is 1/2” above the notch of the lapels, 1” from the bottom line of the shank,
parallel to the 3/4” from the outer edge of the collar (see illustration). The lower end of the stock
shall be outboard and the stock should be approximately horizontal.
Figure 4: The SDB Blouse (male shown)
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Shoulder Boards: Class shoulder boards shall consist of a metal fouled anchor alone or in
combination with stripes to indicate the wearer’s class as sown in figure 7. These boards should
be kept clean and lint free. Rank shoulder boards shall consist of a star in combination with
appropriate stripe(s) to indicate the wearer’s rank.
Hard shoulder boards are worn with the Summer White uniform or the Service Dress White
(choker) uniform. Soft shoulder boards are to be worn on the SDB white shirt under the SDB
blue blouse.
Shirt Collar insignia: Shirt collar insignia shall consist of a gold fouled anchor, eagle-globeanchor (EGA - worn by Marine options), or bar insignia as appropriate, to be worn on the collar
tips of the khaki shirts. Midshipmen will wear one of these types of insignia, but not more than
one. Navy options will wear the fouled anchor and Marine options will wear the EGA.
Midshipman officers will wear the bars, regardless of option. Fourth Class midshipmen wear no
insignia, Third Class midshipmen only wear an insignia on the right collar, Second Class
midshipmen wear an insignia on both collars, and First Class midshipmen wear the appropriate
First Class insignia or the appropriate midshipman officer insignia on both collars. The device
should be positioned as indicated below, whether it be a bar, fouled anchor, or EGA:
Figure 5: Placement of collar insignia on khaki uniform
Coat Shoulder Insignia: The insignia for the raincoat, windbreakers, and the relaxed fit jacket
shall only be worn by MECEPs, Officer Candidates, and Midshipmen who are assigned
Company officer billets. The device should be positioned as indicated in Figure 6 below:
Figure 6: Coat collar insignia placement
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Oath of Office
I (state your name) do solemnly swear (or affirm) 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 on which
I am about to enter, so help me God.
The Midshipman Honor Code
A Midshipman does not lie, cheat, or steal.
THE HONOR CODE. The Honor Code was developed by midshipmen in 1951 at the United
States Naval Academy. The code provides guidance to midshipmen on how to live by and
"maintain their own highest ethical standards." It works only if midshipmen commit to the
principles it contains.
a. Lying: To state an oral or written untruth with the intent to deceive. It is a lie to
knowingly misrepresent the true situation or to deceive by withholding, omitting or subtly
wording information in such a way as to leave an erroneous or false impression of the known
true situation. The misrepresentation may be either by word or by deed.
b. Cheating: To knowingly use unauthorized assistance in submitted work as one's own
efforts or to knowingly submit another's work or ideas, claiming them as one's own by not giving
proper reference to that work. It is also cheating to derive an unfair advantage by one's actions.
(1) Assistance: Giving or receiving assistance is allowed and encouraged on homework
assignments unless prohibited by the instructor. Giving or receiving assistance on individual
assignments other than homework is permitted only when an instructor specifically allows it.
(2) Proper documentation is required for all source material used in the assignments.
Each instructor will specify the guidelines for referencing the material.
c. Stealing: Wrongfully taking, obtaining or withholding property or anything of value from
the possession of the true owner with the intention of depriving the owner of its use or
possession for any period of time. This includes fraudulently obtaining services.
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The Sailors' Creed
I am a United States Sailor.
I will support and defend the Constitution of the United States of America and I will obey
the orders of those appointed over me.
I represent the fighting spirit of the Navy and those who have gone before me to defend
freedom and democracy around the world.
I proudly serve my country's Navy combat team with Honor, Courage and Commitment.
I am committed to excellence and the fair treatment of all.
Military Code of Conduct
1. I am an American, fighting in the forces which guard my country and our way of life.
I am prepared to give my life in their defense.
2. I will never surrender of my own free will. If in command, I will never surrender the
members of my command while they still have the means to resist.
3. If I am captured, I will continue to resist by all means available. I will make every
effort to escape and aid others to escape. I will accept neither parole nor special favors
from the enemy.
4. If I become a prisoner of war, I will keep faith with my fellow prisoners. I will give
no information or take part in any action, which might be harmful to my comrades. If
I am senior, I will take command. If not, I will obey the lawful orders of those
appointed over me, and will back them up in every way.
5. When questioned, should I become a prisoner of war, I am required to give only
name, rank, service number, and date of birth. I will evade answering further
questions to the utmost of my ability. I will make no oral or written statements
disloyal to my country and its allies or harmful to their cause.
6. I will never forget that I am an American, fighting for freedom, responsible for my
actions, and dedicated to the principles which made my country free. I will trust in my
God and in the United States of America.
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The Eleven General Orders of a Sentry
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.
4. To repeat all calls from posts more distant from the guardhouse than my own.
5. To quit my post only when properly relieved.
6. 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.
7. To talk to no one except in the line of duty.
8. To give the alarm in case of fire or disorder.
9. To call the corporal of the guard in any case not covered by instructions.
10. To salute all officers, colors, and standards not cased.
11. 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.
Acceptable Answers to a Senior: “No, sir/ma’am.” “Yes, sir/ma’am.” “I will find out,
sir/ma’am.” “No excuse, sir/ma’am.” “Aye aye, sir/ma’am.”
Note: As a freshman candidate you will not address yourself as “I” but as “this freshman”.
Until successful completion of freshman orientation “This freshman” will be used in the place of
“I”.
Explanation of Answers: These traditional answers exemplify the frame of mind required of a
naval officer; positive, concise and recognition of an acceptance of responsibility. “Aye aye, sir”
is to be used to demonstrate understanding of instruction and your ability to complete them. If
you don’t know the answer to a question, the proper response is “I’ll find out, sir/ma’am” Your
senior asking a question of you expects you to know the answer or to find out. Your answer
acknowledges this point concisely and firmly. It obligates you to find the answer and be
prepared to provide it and report back. “No excuse, sir/ma’am” is the proper response when
queried as to your responsibility for an error. Your senior may want to pursue the matter further.
In such cases the response should factually answer the question without establishing alibis, lame
excuses, etc. For example: “I forgot, sir,” “I was distracted, sir” are answers which accept
responsibility. Whereas, “the press show closed before I got there,” “The professor forgot to tell
me” are unacceptable answers to which tend to place fault elsewhere.
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Navy Knowledge
Oldest Commissioned Ship in the Navy
USS Constitution (1798)
Nickname of USS Constitution
"Old Ironsides"
Depth of a fathom
Six feet
Who names ships today
The Secretary of the Navy
Birthday of the Navy
13 OCT 1775
Founding of the Department of the Navy
1798
Navy Colors
Blue and Gold
Birthday of Naval Aviation
08 MAY 1911
Current Navy Seal adopted in
1962
Father of UDT/SEALs
Draper Kauffman
Father of the Navy
John Paul Jones
Father of the Nuclear Navy
Admiral Rickover
First Chief of Naval Operations
Admiral William S. Benson
Most Highly Decorated Naval Officer
Admiral James Stockdale
Navy Fight Song
"Anchors Aweigh"
United States National Ensign
National Colors (Ensign)
Red--blood shed in defense of our nation
White--purity of our nation
Blue--pride in our nation
50 Stars
Each star represents a State
13 stripes
7 red, 6 white – represent the original 13 states
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USMC Knowledge
Birthday of the Marine Corps
10 NOV 1775
Birthplace of the Marine Corps
Tunn Tavern Philadelphia, PA
First Commandant of the Marine Corps
Captain Samuel Nichols
Grand Old Man of the Marine Corps
Meaning of the Blood Stripe
Archibald Henderson
In memory of those who died at
Chapultapec
Meaning of the Eagle, Globe, and Anchor
1. Eagle-National Defense
2. Globe-Worldwide Service
3. Anchor-Maritime Tradition
MARSOC Commander
Major General Clark
Mascot of the Marine Corps
English Bulldog
Marine Corps Motto
Semper Fidelis
Meaning of Semper Fidelis
Only two Marines to receive two Medals of
Honor
"Always Faithful"
Dan Daly and Smedley Butler
Only Marine to receive five Navy Crosses
Lewis B. "Chesty" Puller
Origin of the nickname Devil Dog
Given by Germans in WWI
Origin of the nickname Leatherneck
Derived from the fact that Marines used
to wear high leather collars to defend
against sword slashes
Leadership Traits
Justice
Endurance
Judgment
Bearing
Dependability
Unselfishness
Integrity
Courage
Decisiveness
Knowledge
Tact
Loyalty
Initiative
Enthusiasm
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Service Songs
ANCHORS AWEIGH
[Verse 1]
Stand, Navy, out to sea, Fight our battle cry;
We'll never change our course, So vicious foe steer shy-y-y-y.
Roll out the TNT, Anchors Aweigh. Sail on to victory
And sink their bones to Davy Jones, hooray!
[Verse 2]
Anchors Aweigh, my boys, Anchors Aweigh.
Farewell to college joys, we sail at break of day-ay-ay-ay.
Through our last night on shore, drink to the foam,
Until we meet once more. Here's wishing you a happy voyage home.
THE MARINES HYMN
From the halls of Montezuma
To the shores of Tripoli,
We fight our country’s battles
In the air, on land, and sea.
First to fight for right and freedom,
And to keep our honor clean,
We are proud to claim the title
Of United States Marines.
Our flag’s unfurl'd to every breeze
From dawn to setting sun;
We have fought in every clime and place
Where we could take a gun.
In the snow of far-off northern lands
And in sunny tropic scenes,
You will find us always on the jobThe United States Marines.
Here's health to you and to our Corps
Which we are proud to serve;
In many a strife we've fought for life
And never lost our nerve.
If the Army and the Navy
Ever gaze on Heaven's scenes,
They will find the streets are guarded
By United States Marines.
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GENERAL NAVAL TERMINOLOGY
Above: Upward, higher, as to go above; above the flight deck.
Aft: Toward the stern.
Amidships: in or toward the part of a ship midway between bow and stern.
Athwart ship: At a right angle to the centerline, as a passageway which runs from port to starboard as
opposed to fore and aft.
Belay: 1. Order to disregard a previous order or to stop an action.
2. To firmly secure a line.
Below: Downward, beneath, as to lay below; below the flight deck.
Bow: The forward end of a ship or boat.
Bridge: Area in the superstructure from which the ship is operated.
Bulkhead: A vertical partition, never called a wall.
Chow: Food
Deck: 1. Shipboard floor, horizontal plating which divides a ship into layers.
2. Shipboard floors from Main deck and below numbered 1, 2, 3.
Duty: Vigilant occupation/observation of an assigned space.
Fantail: The after end of the main deck.
Fore: Forward
Forecastle, Foc'sle: Forward section of the deck on which the anchor handling equipment is located.
Frame: An athwart ship beam which provides structural strength to a ship.
Galley: Space where food is prepared. Never called a kitchen.
Hatch: A square or rectangular access in a deck.
Island: Superstructure on the starboard side of the flight deck on an aircraft carrier.
Knot: A unit of speed measured in nautical miles per hour.
Ladder: A shipboard flight of steps. Never called stairs.
Level: Shipboard floors above the main deck. Numbered 01, 02, 03.
Main Deck: Highest watertight (complete) deck aboard ship. On aircraft carriers, the hangar deck is the main deck.
Mess: 1. Place where meals are eaten, such as Mess Decks, Captain's Mess, etc.
2. A group who takes meals together, such as officer's mess or chief's mess.
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GENERAL NAVAL TERMINOLOGY (Continued)
Mid Watch: (The Mid) The watch which begins at 0000 and ends at 0400.
Muster: To assemble at a given time and place.
Mid Rats: (Midnight Rations) Meal served around midnight for those crewmembers going on or off watch.
OOD: Officer of the Deck.
Overhead: The underside of a deck from the overhead of the compartment next below. Never called a ceiling.
Passageway: A corridor used for interior horizontal movement aboard ship.
Port: To the left of the centerline when facing forward.
Scuttle: Round, watertight opening in a hatch.
Scuttlebutt: 1. Drinking fountain.
2. A rumor.
Second Deck: First deck below the main deck.
Secure: 1. To make fast, as to secure a line to a cleat.
2. To cease, as to secure from a fire drill.
3. To turn off power to a component.
Sickbay: Shipboard space used as a hospital or medical center.
Square away: To put in proper place, to make things shipshape.
Starboard: Right of centerline when facing forward.
Stateroom: A living compartment for an officer.
Stern: The aftermost part of a vessel.
Superstructure: Part of ship’s structure above the main deck.
Topside: General term referring to a weather deck.
UCMJ: Uniform Code of Military Justice.
Wake: Trail left by a vessel moving through the water.
Wardroom: Officer's messing compartment.
Watch: Period of duty.
Weather Deck: Any deck exposed to the elements; a deck outside the skin of the ship.
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Notes
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