A Common Set of Core Values - The Foundation for a More Effective Joint Force
Abstract
Today, there is near absolute agreement that the future operating environment will require a force that is more joint, flexible, and integrated than our current military. Despite progress in jointness since Goldwater-Nichols, the U.S. military is not as joint and effective as the future-operating environment requires because it lacks a common foundation. A single set of core values would provide a common foundation and increase the military s effectiveness through a common identity, encouraging consistent moral behavior, and developing trust. Far from diluting the cultures and uniqueness of the individual services, a common set of core values would increase synergy amongst the services making the Joint Force more effective. The author describes the critical importance core values play in an organization s identity and the necessity of values to the U.S. military. He then discusses the history of core values in the military and the struggles the individual services have had in articulating their true core values. Finally, the author makes the case that because ultimately the mission of the U.S. military is the same, and because the military will be employed as a joint force in the future, the U.S. military needs a common foundation in a single set of core values.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 18, 2015
- Accession Number
- ADA621062
Entities
People
- Richard P. Neikirk
Organizations
- Naval War College