™Lead by example.
Take the helm.
U.S. ARMY
Corporal
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Six branches. One place to study.
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Military service ranks are shown here. JROTC cadet ranks and uniform rules are separate; follow your program’s handbook and instructor guidance.
11 leadership principles
Know yourself and seek self-improvement
Ask for honest feedback. Choose a strength to build and a weakness to work on.
Be technically and tactically proficient
Learn your job well and prepare for the responsibilities of the next role.
Know your people and look out for their welfare
Be approachable, understand your teammates, and pay attention to their needs.
Keep your personnel informed
Explain the task and its purpose. Replace rumors with accurate information.
Set the example
Demonstrate the standards you ask others to meet.
Ensure that the task is understood, supervised, and accomplished
Give clear instructions, invite questions, and check progress without micromanaging.
Train your Marines and Sailors as a team
Practice together so everyone understands their role and how it supports the group.
Make sound and timely decisions
Use an orderly process, consider advice, and act when a decision is needed.
Develop a sense of responsibility among your subordinates
Delegate meaningful tasks, give support, and recognize initiative.
Employ your command within its capabilities
Match tasks to your team’s preparation and abilities while building new skills.
Seek responsibilities and take responsibility
Volunteer for opportunities to grow and own the results of your decisions.
14 leadership traits
Remember them with JJ-DIDTIEBUCKLE.
01Justice
Be fair and consistent when assigning tasks and recognizing effort.
02Judgment
Weigh the facts and likely consequences before choosing a course of action.
03Dependability
Follow through so your team can count on you.
04Initiative
Notice what needs doing and take appropriate action.
05Decisiveness
Make a timely decision and communicate it clearly.
06Tact
Correct mistakes and share feedback with respect.
07Integrity
Be honest and do the right thing even when no one is watching.
08Enthusiasm
Bring sincere interest and a constructive attitude to the task.
09Bearing
Show professionalism in your conduct, appearance, and communication.
10Unselfishness
Consider your teammates’ needs alongside your own.
11Courage
Stand for what is right, even when it is difficult.
12Knowledge
Learn your responsibilities and understand the people you lead.
13Loyalty
Support your team and fulfill your responsibilities to others.
14Endurance
Build the mental and physical stamina to remain effective through challenges.
These brief summaries are adapted for cadet study. The linked PDF preserves the original wording and examples; it is a historical training reference, not a statement of current policy.