Becoming a Leader of Character

It’s not easy—but if you want to make a real impact in the world, this is where you start.

Becoming a Leader of Character

It’s not easy—but if you want to make a real impact in the world, this is where you start.

Character & Leadership: Built in a Community That Lives It

At West Point, developing who you are as a person and growing as a leader don’t happen by accident. They happen on purpose—in a powerful environment where character and leadership are part of everyday life.

This kind of growth isn’t something you do alone. It happens within a community that lives by high standards, reflects deeply, and helps each other improve—kind of like being on a team that pushes you to level up every day.

Over the course of four intense, exciting, and demanding years—what we call the 47-month experience—you’ll grow mentally, physically, and morally. You’ll be challenged in the classroom, in the field, in your leadership roles, and even in your personal values. And through it all, you’ll be supported by mentors, teammates, and a tight-knit community that pushes you to be your best.

By the time you graduate, you won’t just be smarter and stronger. You’ll be a Leader of Character—someone the Army, your teammates, and the country can count on to make tough calls, put others first, and lead with heart and discipline.

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"Duty, Honor, Country"

- U.S. Military Academy at West Point Motto

Live Honorably

Living honorably isn’t about being perfect—it’s about striving to be better, choosing what’s right over what’s easy, and becoming someone others look up to.

Living honorably helps build a strong foundation for your future—especially if you’re following a path of service and leadership in the U.S. Army. It aligns with:

  • The Army Ethic – Serving with integrity, courage, and selflessness
  • Army Professional Character Certification – Earning the trust of those you lead and serve
  • West Point’s Motto: Duty, Honor, Country – Core values that shape your identity as a leader
  • Moral, Civic, and Social Character – Becoming the kind of citizen who strengthens your community and your country

Be the person who leads by example.

Living honorably isn't just about following rules—it’s about becoming the kind of person others can trust, count on, and respect. It means doing what's right, even when it’s hard, and becoming a leader who stands for something greater than themselves. Here's how West Point teaches you to live with honor every day:

Living honorably means making ethical and moral choices, even if those choices come with personal risk or sacrifice. It's about doing what’s right—not just what’s easy, popular, or convenient. Whether you're standing up for a friend, admitting when you made a mistake, or refusing to cut corners, honor means holding yourself to a higher standard.

🗣 Example: Choosing not to cheat on a test—even if it means a lower grade—because your integrity matters more.

Significant experiences across the 47-month experience that teach cadets how to do the right thing, even when it's tough.

  • CCEs related to living honorably in Academic Program
  • CCEs related to living honorably in Military Program
  • CCEs related to living honorably in Athletic Program
  • Margin of Excellence Opportunities related to living honorably
  • Responsibilities related to living honorably
  • Ceremonies related to living honorably

These could be grouped by the above topics.

Treating people with kindness, dignity, and fairness—no matter their background, beliefs, or status—is at the core of honorable living. Empathy means taking the time to understand what others are going through. When you respect others, you create an environment where everyone feels valued and seen.

🗣 Example: Listening without judgment when someone opens up to you, or stepping in when someone is being treated unfairly.

Significant experiences across the 47-month experience that teach cadets how to show respect and empathy for others.

  • CCEs related to living honorably in Academic Program
  • CCEs related to living honorably in Military Program
  • CCEs related to living honorably in Athletic Program
  • Margin of Excellence Opportunities related to living honorably
  • Responsibilities related to living honorably
  • Ceremonies related to living honorably

These could be grouped by the above topics.

Whether you’re in the classroom, at home, on the field, or online—how you act matters. Living with honor means having self-respect and presenting yourself with maturity. That includes how you speak, dress, treat others, and represent your school, team, or future profession.

🗣 Example: Being respectful to your teachers and teammates, and acting like a leader even when no one’s watching.

Significant experiences across the 47-month experience that teach cadets how to carry themselves with character in all situations.

  • CCEs related to living honorably in Academic Program
  • CCEs related to living honorably in Military Program
  • CCEs related to living honorably in Athletic Program
  • Margin of Excellence Opportunities related to living honorably
  • Responsibilities related to living honorably
  • Ceremonies related to living honorably

These could be grouped by the above topics.

Significant experiences for a Plebe:

  • CCEs related to living honorably in Academic Program
  • CCEs related to living honorably in Military Program
  • CCEs related to living honorably in Athletic Program
  • Margin of Excellence Opportunities related to living honorably
  • Responsibilities related to living honorably
  • Ceremonies related to living honorably

These would be presented in chronological order. If this organization works, an accordion topic will be created for Yearling, Cow, and Firstie years.

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"Encourage us in our endeavor to live above the common level of life. Make us to choose the harder right instead of the easier wrong, and never to be content with a half truth when the whole can be won."

- The Cadet Prayer

Lead Honorably

Leadership is not just about the mission—it’s about how you lead others to get there.

Leading with honor prepares you to be the kind of leader the world needs—in the Army and beyond. This outcome reflects:

  • The Army Ethic: Steward of the Army Profession – Taking responsibility for leading others with care, competence, and courage
  • Army Professional Character Certification: Commitment – Showing you're dedicated to others, your mission, and your values
  • West Point Motto: Duty, Honor, Country – Especially Country, reminding you that leadership is service to something bigger than yourself
  • Leadership Character – Being the kind of leader who inspires others to be better

Lead with purpose. Lead with strength. Lead with honor.

Leading honorably is about more than just being in charge. It means using your influence to do the right thing, bring out the best in others, and stay true to your values—even when things get difficult. It's leadership that makes a lasting impact and earns real respect.

Here’s how West Point teach you to lead with honor:

Great leaders don’t just wait for instructions—they think critically, ask questions, and figure out how to tackle challenges before they become bigger problems. They stay calm under pressure and look for smart solutions.

🗣 Example: You notice your team is falling behind on a project, so you come up with a new plan and organize everyone to get back on track.

Significant experiences across the 47-month experience that teach cadets how to think ahead and solve tough problems.

  • CCEs related to leading honorably in Academic Program
  • CCEs related to leading honorably in Military Program
  • CCEs related to leading honorably in Athletic Program
  • Margin of Excellence Opportunities related to leading honorably
  • Responsibilities related to leading honorably
  • Ceremonies related to leading honorably

These could be grouped by the above topics.

Leadership isn’t about bossing people around—it’s about inspiring them to work toward a shared goal, and doing it in a way that reflects strong values like honesty, respect, and teamwork. Real leaders earn trust, set the tone, and bring people together.

🗣 Example: Encouraging your group to stay focused and positive during a tough game or assignment, reminding them that how you win matters as much as winning itself.

Significant experiences across the 47-month experience that teach cadets how to influence others the right way.

  • CCEs related to leading honorably in Academic Program
  • CCEs related to leading honorably in Military Program
  • CCEs related to leading honorably in Athletic Program
  • Margin of Excellence Opportunities related to leading honorably
  • Responsibilities related to leading honorably
  • Ceremonies related to leading honorably

These could be grouped by the above topics.

Leading with honor means lifting others up—not leaving them behind. You create an environment where everyone feels welcome, valued, and supported. You help others grow their confidence, skills, and leadership too.

🗣 Example: Noticing someone who’s always quiet during group work and encouraging them to share their ideas. You make space for everyone to shine.

Significant experiences across the 47-month experience that teach cadets how to include and build up everyone around them.

  • CCEs related to leading honorably in Academic Program
  • CCEs related to leading honorably in Military Program
  • CCEs related to leading honorably in Athletic Program
  • Margin of Excellence Opportunities related to leading honorably
  • Responsibilities related to leading honorably
  • Ceremonies related to leading honorably

These could be grouped by the above topics.

Honorable leaders stand up for what’s right. They set high standards and make sure those standards are upheld, even if it’s uncomfortable. Whether it’s calling out bad behavior or staying true to your principles, you lead by example and hold yourself—and others—accountable.

🗣 Example: A teammate isn’t putting in the work or is disrespecting others—you step up and address it directly, because the team deserves better.

Significant experiences across the 47-month experience that teach cadets how to hold the line, even when it's hard.

  • CCEs related to leading honorably in Academic Program
  • CCEs related to leading honorably in Military Program
  • CCEs related to leading honorably in Athletic Program
  • Margin of Excellence Opportunities related to leading honorably
  • Responsibilities related to leading honorably
  • Ceremonies related to leading honorably

These could be grouped by the above topics.

Significant experiences for a Plebe:

  • CCEs related to leading honorably in Academic Program
  • CCEs related to leading honorably in Military Program
  • CCEs related to leading honorably in Athletic Program
  • Margin of Excellence Opportunities related to leading honorably
  • Responsibilities related to leading honorably
  • Ceremonies related to leading honorably

These would be presented in chronological order. If this organization works, an accordion topic will be created for Yearling, Cow, and Firstie years.

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"I will live with honor and integrity, scorn injustice, and always confront substandard behavior."

- The Cadet Creed

Demonstrate Excellence

Excellence isn’t about showing off—it’s about showing up, giving your all, and pushing your limits.

Demonstrating excellence builds the foundation for becoming a strong, capable, and trustworthy leader—on and off the field, in or out of uniform. This outcome reflects:

  • The Army Ethic: Army Experts – Being skilled, knowledgeable, and prepared to lead with competence
  • Army Professional Character Certification: Competence – Proving you have what it takes to lead and succeed
  • West Point’s Motto: Duty, Honor, Country – Especially Duty, reminding you to give your best because others are counting on you
  • Performance Character – The drive, grit, and focus to keep improving

Work hard. Stay humble. Get better every day. 

Excellence isn’t about being perfect—it’s about giving your best in everything you do, always learning, and never settling for “just okay.” To demonstrate excellence is to push yourself to grow in mind, body, and leadership, and to develop the discipline and confidence to rise to any challenge.

Here’s how West Point prepares you for a lifetime of excellence:

Excellence means becoming your best self across all areas—not just in school, but also in physical fitness and leadership. It’s about becoming sharp, strong, and dependable.

🗣 Example: You challenge yourself in class, show up prepared for practice, and step up when your team needs a leader.

Significant experiences across the 47-month experience that teach cadets strive to master their mind, body, and leadership skills.

  • CCEs related to demonstrating excellence in Academic Program
  • CCEs related to demonstrating excellence in Military Program
  • CCEs related to demonstrating excellence in Athletic Program
  • Margin of Excellence Opportunities related to demonstrating excellence
  • Responsibilities related to demonstrating excellence
  • Ceremonies related to demonstrating excellence 

These could be grouped by the above topics.

Excellent leaders know how to think clearly, especially under pressure. They stay focused, weigh their options, and make the right call at the right time. This builds trust and shows maturity.

🗣 Example: During a group project, someone suggests taking a shortcut that could risk your grade. You decide to do the work the right way—even if it’s harder.

Significant experiences across the 47-month experience that teach cadets strive to make smart decisions especially when it counts.

  • CCEs related to demonstrating excellence in Academic Program
  • CCEs related to demonstrating excellence in Military Program
  • CCEs related to demonstrating excellence in Athletic Program
  • Margin of Excellence Opportunities related to demonstrating excellence
  • Responsibilities related to demonstrating excellence
  • Ceremonies related to demonstrating excellence 

These could be grouped by the above topics.

Excellence isn’t just about what you know—it’s also about how well you share ideas, listen to others, and work as part of a team. Effective communication builds trust, avoids confusion, and helps everyone succeed.

🗣 Example: In a team sport or club, you speak up clearly, listen respectfully, and make sure everyone understands the game plan.

Significant experiences across the 47-month experience that teach cadets strive to communicate and connect with others.

  • CCEs related to demonstrating excellence in Academic Program
  • CCEs related to demonstrating excellence in Military Program
  • CCEs related to demonstrating excellence in Athletic Program
  • Margin of Excellence Opportunities related to demonstrating excellence
  • Responsibilities related to demonstrating excellence
  • Ceremonies related to demonstrating excellence 

These could be grouped by the above topics.

People who aim for excellence are always looking to improve. They’re open to feedback—even when it’s hard to hear—and they use it to get better every day.

🗣 Example: A coach or teacher points out something you could improve. Instead of getting defensive, you reflect, make adjustments, and come back stronger.

Significant experiences across the 47-month experience that teach cadets strive to learn from feedback and keep going.

  • CCEs related to demonstrating excellence in Academic Program
  • CCEs related to demonstrating excellence in Military Program
  • CCEs related to demonstrating excellence in Athletic Program
  • Margin of Excellence Opportunities related to demonstrating excellence
  • Responsibilities related to demonstrating excellence
  • Ceremonies related to demonstrating excellence 

These could be grouped by the above topics.

Significant experiences for a Plebe:

  • CCEs related to demonstrating excellence in Academic Program
  • CCEs related to demonstrating excellence in Military Program
  • CCEs related to demonstrating excellence in Athletic Program
  • Margin of Excellence Opportunities related to demonstrating excellence
  • Responsibilities related to demonstrating excellence
  • Ceremonies related to demonstrating excellence 

These would be presented in chronological order. If this organization works, an accordion topic will be created for Yearling, Cow, and Firstie years.

crest logo

"Cadets will treat others and themselves with dignity and worth and expect the same from those around them."

- The Respect Creed
Culture of Character Growth

West Point is more than a college—it’s a community built for growth. You’ll be surrounded by people who live with honor, lead by example, and help each other improve. Every class, every mentor, every moment helps shape you into a leader of character.

🗣 You’ll grow through feedback, reflection, responsibility—and most of all, by being part of something bigger than yourself.

One of the most powerful ways we learn at West Point is by seeing others do the right thing. This is called role-modeling.

  • Everyone at West Point—from cadets to faculty to officers—works hard to model strong character and leadership.
  • You’ll constantly be surrounded by people who lead with respect, act with integrity, and take responsibility.
  • Over time, you won’t just follow these examples—you’ll become one yourself.

Growth doesn’t just happen—you measure it. You get regular feedback from the people who know you best, and they help you see where you're improving and where you can still grow.

Throughout your time as a cadet, you’ll participate in things like:

  • Cadet Observation Reports (CORs): Quick snapshots of your performance and behavior from your peers and leaders.
  • Periodic Development Reviews (PDRs): Scheduled one-on-one check-ins—four times per semester—to reflect on your progress and set goals.
  • Cadet Development Reports: These happen every semester and give a big-picture look at how you’re growing in both leadership and character.

No one grows alone. At West Point, mentorship is built into your experience, from day one. Your mentors are there to challenge you, support you, and help you think through tough moments.

You’ll be connected with:

  • Plebe Sponsors: These are faculty or staff who help first-year cadets adjust to academy life and stay grounded.
  • Department Academic Counselors (DACs): They guide your academic journey, help you choose the right courses, and support your learning goals.
  • PL300 Mentors: During your junior year leadership course, mentors help you apply leadership theory to real-life situations.
Depending on Organization in ACCs

Lead to milestones?

Programs?

Other info

Possibly include the full creeds/prayer on the page or somewhere else?

Also, Army values?

Links to resources by audience? Or CTAs for this?

  • Prospective Cadets
  • Current Cadets
  • Staff and Faculty
  • Parents
  • Partners

SCPME

Definitely include SCPME in some way. 

Possibly as a partnering CTA?

Or do that in CTA Banners?