The Articles of the Code of Conduct
Article I
I am an American fighting man. I serve in the forces which guard my country and our way of life. I am prepared to give my life in their defense.
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Article II
I will never surrender of my own free will. If in command, I will never surrender my men
while they still have the means to resist.
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Article III
If I am captured, I will continue to resist by all means available. I will make every effort to escape and aid others to escape. I will accept neither parole nor special favors from the enemy.
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Article IV
If I become a prisoner of war, I will keep faith with my fellow prisoners. I will give no information nor take part in any action which might be harmful to my comrades. If I am senior, I will take charge; if not, I will follow the orders of the senior prisoner, regardless of his branch of service (U.S. or allied Nation).
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Article V
When questioned, should I become a prisoner of war, I am required to give name, rank, service number,and date of birth. I will evade answering further questions to the utmost of my ability. I will make no oral or written statements disloyal to my country and its allies or harmful to their cause.
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Article VI
I will never forget that I am an American fighting man, responsible for my
actions, and dedicated to the principles which made my country free. I will
trust in my God and in the United States of America.
Neither the United States Marine Corps nor any
other component of the Department of Defense has approved, endorsed, or
authorized this product/service/activity.
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