Military discipline is founded upon what?

• A. Self-discipline, respect for properly constituted authority, and embracing the professional Army ethic with its supporting individual values
• B. Obey military orders unconditionally
• C. Physical strength alone
• D. Reliance on luck

Answer: (A)

Discipline in the Army comes from within you and from living the Army’s standards every day. Self-discipline means you hold yourself to high standards, stay ready, and act consistently with policies even when no one is watching. Respect for properly constituted authority keeps the chain of command functioning and ensures orders are carried out properly and legally. Embracing the professional Army ethic with its supporting individual values ties your actions to the Army as a profession—upholding integrity, service before self, loyalty, duty, respect, and courage—so conduct aligns with mission, safety, and lawful behavior. This blend of internal control, respect for authority, and professional ethics is what truly sustains military discipline. Obedience without judgment, reliance on luck, or strength alone don’t capture that holistic foundation.