Putting the Sailors Creed into real words.

1. CMDCM(AW/SW) Renick
VAQ 129

2. creed ‘kred n 1: a brief authoritative formula of
religious belief 2: a set of fundamental beliefs; a guiding
principle
* Webster’s Collegiate Dictionary (Tenth Edition), 1999

3. “I am a United States Sailor.”
What does it mean to be a United States Sailor? It means you are part of one of
the most revered military powers in the history of mankind.
No other country on this earth shares our ability to project global power from
the air, sea, land and below the sea; dominate the maritime environment;
render humanitarian assistance on the high seas; or exert control and influence
of critical Sea Lines of Communication (SLOC).
It is an honor and privilege to serve our Navy, and we should all strive to treat
it with the reverence and respect that it deserves. So many have paid the
ultimate cost, and we owe it to their memory to sustain this national asset in
the shining light of their selfless sacrifice. We can only do that by being
healthy in mind and body and by making sound decisions at the tactical and
personal levels.

4. “I will support and defend the Constitution of the United States of America
and I will obey the orders of those appointed over me.”
“Support and defend” is used as a binding commitment to willingly give your
life, as so many who have worn our cloth have done. If you feel you would
hesitate to give your life in defense of our nation, then you need to find
another line of work.
Although not specifically articulated, obeying “the orders of those appointed
over us” is a vast directive that simply encompasses the tenet of doing the right
thing. Hazing, fraternization, incurring huge debts, unauthorized absence and
driving under the influence of alcohol are clear examples of not doing the right
thing.
The tax paying public expects us to be international stewards and
ambassadors. If you can’t stay out of trouble in Hampton Roads, how will you
stay out of trouble in the Mediterranean, Middle East and Far East??
Remember - “Liberty Risk” casts a long shadow!

5. “I represent the fighting spirit of the Navy and those who have gone before me
to defend freedom and democracy around the world.”
Every time you don the uniform – in every action and in every respect – you
are a historical connection to more than two centuries of bravery, heroism,
sacrifice, and commitment to excellence. Treat your uniform with dignity and
respect. When someone asks you if you are in the Navy, your head should rise
up and you should respond with steadfast pride: “You’re darn right I am!”
The fighting spirit of the Navy was alive in our fledgling naval forces in the
War of 1812; on landing craft approaching the beaches of Normandy; in close-
quarters riverine combat in Vietnam; engaging MiG’s over the skies of Korea
and the Gulf of Sidra; skirmishing with Iranian and Iraqi units in the Persian
Gulf (including the heroic actions after the USS Stark was hit with two Exocet
anti-ship missiles); and even now, when our fellow Sailors patrol the desolate
landscape in Afghanistan. The American fighting spirit cannot be tamed and
is feared the world over.

6. “I proudly serve my country's Navy combat team with honor, courage, and
commitment.”
 HONOR: Do you walk tall and immerse yourself in professionalism? Do
you force yourself to exercise when those extra pounds steer you towards a
career debilitating PFA failure? Do you stand a proper watch, no matter how
tired you are? Do you seek the mentorship and communion from Sailors you
respect, or the ones always stirring up disdain and disgruntlement?
 COURAGE: When nobody is looking, do you do the right thing? Do you
correct a fellow Sailor when they need to be corrected? Do you inform your
chain of command of liberty incidents or issues with civil authorities?
 COMMITMENT: Do you find the resolve within to push forward through
adversity? Do you consistently pursue qualifications, knowledge and
advancement? When you walk down the P-way and see something that needs
to be picked up or cleaned, do you make it happen – or think, “somebody else
will take care of it.”

7. “I am committed to excellence and the fair treatment of all.”
The pursuit of excellence is the fuel for a successful naval career. Self-
evaluation and routine assessment are critical components as you progress up
the ranks. The SEAL’s have a great motto – “the only easy day was yesterday!”
Treat others as you expect to be treated - it’s as simple as that. We will not
condone racism, sexual harassment nor favoritism; they simply have no place
in our ship or our Navy.
Morals and character should not be selective traits. If it feels wrong, it
probably is wrong.
And remember – NOTHING good happens after midnight!

8. I firmly believe that 97% of us recognize right from wrong. What is different
within each of us is whether or not you are willing to silence your inner voice
when you know you are doing something unsavory.
The Sailor’s Creed was not created just to have something we can recite at
quarters or SOQ boards. The carefully chosen words are the foundation in
every aspect of our career.
We are sea going professionals ready and willing to do our nations bidding.
Demand excellence in every endeavor!
“ History does not long entrust the care of freedom to
the weak or the timid.” General Dwight D. Eisenhower