Third Battalion, First Marines

Commanding Officer’s Intent

I feel proud, and fortunate, to be a member of the Thundering Third, and you should too. This is a storied battalion with an extensive record of honor and achievement in places around the world and on many battlefields. As we again prepare to deploy forward and fight our nation’s battles, you need to know what is important to me.

Brotherhood – 3rd Battalion, 1st Marines is a family. EVERY member of this battalion has already earned the right to be here, so treat each other with respect and look out for each other 24/7. The buddy rule is always in effect. Leaders must be visible and available, especially after liberty call. Make sure no one messes with your men.

Strength – Toughness breeds confidence. Marines who never quit, who are physically and mentally tough, will always find a way to win. Developing physical and mental toughness through combat conditioning and challenging training will be part of our daily routine.

Basics – Keep things simple. The Battalion’s success will ultimately rest on the proficiency of our squads; they are my Main Effort. I expect every Marine to master his squad’s organic weapons/optics, combat first aid, and communications. I expect every squad to master attacking, defending, patrolling and the use of supporting arms. Success in combat boils down to mastery of basic infantry skills and when it comes to basic skills, there is no substitute for repetition.

Discipline – Continuing actions and basic disciplines are the habits that keep Marines alive in combat and build strong, cohesive units. Continuing actions are the business of Non-Commissioned Officers; they must be constantly supervised and consistently executed. Be disciplined enough to observe proper customs and courtesies. My red lines are Drugs, Hazing, Disrespect and Theft; do not cross them.

Learn – Have a thick skin. In training, making mistakes can be a good thing; we rarely learn when things go well. As long as those mistakes are not issues of integrity or safety then I will consider them learning opportunities. Leaders, take responsibility for teaching/training your subordinates.

Accountability – Do the right thing, especially when it’s the hard thing. If you do something wrong, be man enough to take responsibility for it and learn from it. Leaders must lead by example, and have the moral courage to correct others. Never forget who you are and what you represent.

Ask yourself as each week ends, “Have I gotten stronger, and have I learned anything?” If the answer is ‘no’ then you are not meeting my intent. If you have questions, find me.

Semper Fidelis.