CAMP COURTNEY, Japan - Service members assigned to III Marine Expeditionary Force and Marine Corps Installations Pacific are being issued a wallet-sized card as a reminder of the Marine Corps’ values and the significance of being ambassadors in Japan and throughout the Asia-Pacific region.
The cards reinforce positive behavior by serving as a reminder to every Marine and sailor to align their decisions and actions with the principles etched on the card.
“The card will be a tool every III MEF and MCIPAC Marine, from private to general, will keep with them as a constant reminder of our core values,” said Lt. Gen. Kenneth J. Glueck, commanding general, III MEF. “It serves as a constant reminder of our heritage, our traditions and the ideals that have made the Corps what it is today.”
The front of the card shows three Marines in different uniforms, including civilian attire, combat utilities and the dress blue uniform, along with the words, “We keep our honor clean.”
“This reminds each Marine or sailor that they are always ambassadors and are constantly under the spotlight whether on base, on liberty or defending our nation or allies,” said Sgt. Maj. Steven D. Morefield, sergeant major, III MEF.
The back of the card contains language emphasizing honor, courage and commitment, as well as respect and dignity.
The border of the card lists significant operations and campaigns from the Corps’ history, and a compass rose emphasizes the commandant of the Marine Corps’ vision of maintaining the alignment of our core values to "True North."
“From day one in the Marine Corps, our core values of honor, courage and commitment are essential to the Marine Corps’ heritage and are an integral part of each Marine’s daily life, guiding his or her decisions,” said Sgt. Maj. Patrick L. Kimble, sergeant major, MCIPAC.
“Marines and sailors in the Asia-Pacific region embody the principle of being a Marine 24/7,” said Maj. Gen. Peter J. Talleri, the commanding general of MCIPAC. “Our core values are what continue to strengthen relationships in this region and guide our decisions wherever we are forward-deployed.”
The card reminds Marines they are not only warriors, but ambassadors for their country.
“We are forward-deployed in the region, and we call this place home,” said Glueck. “We are part of the community, and we reinforce and encourage continued exemplary standards of professional conduct, on and off duty, in any place we live or work.”