Friday, April 5, 2013

E is for Ethos


The definition of Ethos is: Greek word meaning character, that is used to describe the guiding beliefs or ideas that characterize a community. Here is the Navy SEAL Ethos Creed:


In times of war or uncertainty there is a special breed of warrior ready to answer our Nation’s call. A common man with uncommon desire to succeed. Forged by adversity, he stands alongside America’s finest special operations forces to serve his country, the American people, and protect their way of life. I am that man.
My Trident is a symbol of honor and heritage. Bestowed upon me by the heroes that have gone before, it embodies the trust of those I have sworn to protect. By wearing the Trident I accept the responsibility of my chosen profession and way of life. It is a privilege that I must earn every day.
My loyalty to Country and Team is beyond reproach. I humbly serve as a guardian to my fellow Americans always ready to defend those who are unable to defend themselves. I do not advertise the nature of my work, nor seek recognition for my actions. I voluntarily accept the inherent hazards of my profession, placing the welfare and security of others before my own.
I serve with honor on and off the battlefield. The ability to control my emotions and my actions, regardless of circumstance, sets me apart from other men. Uncompromising integrity is my standard. My character and honor are steadfast. My word is my bond.
We expect to lead and be led. In the absence of orders I will take charge, lead my teammates and accomplish the mission. I lead by example in all situations.

I will never quit. I persevere and thrive on adversity. My Nation expects me to be physically harder and mentally stronger than my enemies. If knocked down, I will get back up, every time. I will draw on every remaining ounce of strength to protect my teammates and to accomplish our mission. I am never out of the fight.
We demand discipline. We expect innovation. The lives of my teammates and the success of our mission depend on me - my technical skill, tactical proficiency, and attention to detail. My training is never complete.

We train for war and fight to win. I stand ready to bring the full spectrum of combat power to bear in order to achieve my mission and the goals established by my country. The execution of my duties will be swift and violent when required yet guided by the very principles that I serve to defend.
Brave men have fought and died building the proud tradition and feared reputation that I am bound to uphold. In the worst of conditions, the legacy of my teammates steadies my resolve and silently guides my every deed. I will not fail. 



Above picture is of red lifeboat where Somali pirates held Captain Phillips hostage for 5 days, until they were returned to the source on Easter Sunday by SEAL snipers, rescuing Captain Phillips in April of 2009.

This special tribute motorcycle was built by a Navy SEAL and dedicated to the men who gave the ultimate sacrifice in Operation REDWING, June 2005.

Don't forget to catch the other A-Z Blog participants by clicking here.



14 comments:

  1. This is why i enjoy reading about SEALs so much, they remind be of the Knights of old. Warriors, valour and in born integrity. Thanks Sharon this ws very imformative

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    1. You are so welcome, Julie. There's so much to say, and so little space to do it, but I try.

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  2. What Julie said! God bless our SEALs.

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  3. Fantastic post Sharon. I really enjoyed reading it. If you ever get the chance to visit it, you may enjoy the UDT-SEAL Museum in Fort Pierce, Florida. We took our oldest son there when he was younger and he really enjoyed spending the day hanging out with the SEALS.

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    1. Yup, that's where all these pictures came from, Cheryl! I joined the Museum as a member, and we got to meet the director, a former SEAL. Fascinating!! The bike, the red lifeboat and all the pictures came from the SEAL/UDT Museum at Fort Pierce. Leaving today for home.

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  4. Fascinating, I've never read the creed before. Great E day post!

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  5. Thank you for recognizing the strength of character of these brave and dedicated members of our armed forces special forces. Coming from a family of military and law enforcement personnel, I know that too often their dedication, loyalty, perseverance, and sense of honor are often overlooked.

    Here's to all of these brave service men who protect America each and every day with their lives.

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  6. That's quite the mouthful, that creed! It's very stirring though.

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