Why the Army Values Personal Accountability as a Fundamental Trait

Personal Accountability as a Fundamental Trait in the Army

Accountability is critical to the mission of the Army, and leadership expects that every member of the organization takes it seriously. Contrary to popular belief, accountability is more than just taking responsibility for one’s actions. It involves being proactive in identifying potential problems, taking necessary measures to prevent them, and addressing them promptly if they do occur. Personal accountability is a core value that is instilled in every soldier during basic training and remains essential throughout their career.

Why is personal accountability so important in the Army?

The answer is simple – accountability drives trust, teamwork, and success. Soldiers who are accountable for their actions are seen as reliable and trustworthy by their peers and superiors. They are viewed as individuals who take their responsibilities seriously and can be depended upon to complete tasks. This, in turn, builds trust and camaraderie within the unit, leading to a more cohesive, efficient team.

Moreover, in the Army, a team’s success is closely tied to the individual accountability of each member. Soldiers must be aware of their role in the broader mission and understand how their actions impact the team’s success. If a soldier fails to take personal accountability seriously, they risk jeopardizing the mission’s success, impacting the safety of their colleagues and themselves.

The lack of personal accountability can result in severe consequences, sometimes tragic. Consider a situation where a soldier neglects to secure their weapon properly, leading to an accidental discharge that injures or kills a fellow soldier. In such circumstances, the soldier would be held accountable for their negligent actions, with disciplinary and legal repercussions to follow. The soldier could potentially lose their job, their freedom, and the trust of their unit. The cost of not taking personal accountability cannot be overstated.

Examples of personal accountability in action in the Army

One of the most notable examples of personal accountability in the Army is the story of Desmond Doss. Doss was a conscientious objector who served in World War II as a medic. He refused to bear arms and instead served as a stretcher-bearer, evacuating wounded soldiers from the battlefield. During the battle of Okinawa, Doss remained on the battlefield, exposing himself to enemy fire to save his wounded comrades. For his bravery and selflessness, Doss was awarded the Medal of Honor, the highest military award for valor.

Doss’s story illustrates how personal accountability is not only about taking control of one’s actions, but also about taking a proactive role in ensuring the safety and success of one’s team. Doss showed exceptional courage and commitment to his fellow soldiers in the face of incredible danger, and his actions serve as an inspiration to soldiers to this day.

Conclusion

In summary, personal accountability is a fundamental trait in the Army that underpins trust, teamwork, and success. Soldiers who take personal accountability seriously are seen as reliable and trustworthy individuals who can be depended upon to complete tasks and maintain the integrity of the team. Personal accountability does not just involve taking responsibility for one’s actions; it requires a proactive mindset that identifies potential problems, taking necessary measures to prevent them, and addressing them promptly if they do occur. The Army values personal accountability as a core value that is instilled in every soldier and remains essential throughout their military career.