After 22 years, 6 months, and 3 days of wearing the uniform of the United States Army, I would have to say - the epidemy of pride. If I had it to do over again - would I? In a heart beat.
My father also proudly served during World War I as a member of the United States Navy. I grew up listening to his memories and understanding that they had adhered strongly to his heart and mind. Even the stories of the tragedy of war didn't seem to dampen his respect for the cause. He said many times that he felt if he had to die to make a contribution, then so be it.
Joining the military was something I chose to do voluntarily. I went into the service blind to expectations but knowing it definately held a potential for rewards. It would be foolish to say there were no downsides but the positives far outweighed the less then acceptable opportunities. Never the less they were all challenges that I faced with the intent to learn and grow.
I was one of the less than average number who was fondly referred to as a "Mustang" officer. I went into the Army as enlisted and earned my commission later. I consider this as one of the benefits of my experience because it gave me the opportunity to see both sides of two very different worlds. It also gave me a deeper understanding of both.
No man is more professional than I. I am a Noncommissioned Officer, a leader of soldiers. As a Noncommissioned Officer, I realize that I am a member of a time honored Corps, which is known as "The Backbone of the Army." I am proud of the Corps of Noncommissioned Officers and will at all times conduct myself so as to bring credit upon the Corps, the military service, and my country regardless of the situation I find myself. I will not use my grade or position to attain pleasure, profit, or personal safety. Competence is my watch-word. My two basic responsibilities will always be uppermost in my mind - accomplishment of my mission and the welfare of my Soldiers. I will strive to remain tactically and technically proficient. I am aware of my role as a Noncommissioned Officer. I will fulfill my responsibilities inherent in that role. All Soldiers are entitled to outstanding leadership; I will provide that leadership.
I know my Soldiers, and I will always place their needs above my own. I will communicate consistently with my Soldiers and never leave them uninformed. I will be fair and impartial when recommending both rewards and punishment.
Officers of my unit will have maximum time to accomplish their duties; they will not have to accomplish mine. I will earn their respect and confidence as well as that of my Soldiers. I will be loyal to those with whom I serve; seniors, peers and subordinates alike. I will exercise initiative by taking appropriate action in the absence of orders. I will not compromise my integrity, nor my moral courage. I will not forget, nor will I allow my comrades to forget that we are professionals, Noncommissioned Officers, Leaders of Soldiers!
I will give the selfless performance of my duty and my mission the best that effort, thought, and dedication can provide. To this end, I will not only seek continually to improve my knowledge and practice of my profession, but also I will exercise the authority entrusted to me by the President and the Congress with fairness, justice, patience, and restraint, respecting the dignity and human rights of others and devoting myself to the welfare of those placed under my command. In justifying and fulfilling the trust placed in me, I will conduct my private life as well as my public service so as to be free both from impropriety and the appearance of impropriety, acting with candor and integrity to earn the unquestioning trust of my fellow soldiers--juniors, senior, and associates--and employing my rank and position not to serve myself but to serve my country and my unit. By practicing physical and moral courage, I will endeavor to inspire these qualities in others by my example. In all my actions, I will put loyalty to the highest moral principles and the United States of America above loyalty to organizations, persons, and my personal interest.
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Share your pride with me. 
Wado and blessings, Silver
Soft Silver Wolf