The Army General Orders are the basic outline of orders to be followed in the absence of more specific instructions. The three Army general orders cover your daily duties, emphasizing that you must maintain your assigned responsibilities and post only when properly relieved. Perform everything in a military manner that would make your leadership proud.
We recommend you memorize this before going to basic training! They will drill it into you when you get there, so you might as well get there prepared. Standing out in basic training is a GOOD thing as long as it’s something that makes you look good.
What Is a General Order in the Armed Forces?
A general order is a set of rules that govern a soldier’s conduct while on guard duty. These orders ensure that every sentry or guard knows their responsibilities. For example, the first general order instructs a soldier to “walk my post in a military manner,” which means to carry out their duty with precision and professionalism. These orders are standard across all branches of the armed forces, from the Army to the Navy and Marine Corps.
Understanding the three general orders is essential for maintaining security and order within the military camp and preventing any violations of orders. Without these clear instructions, confusion and lapses in security could lead to dangerous situations.
Army General Orders
General Order 1
I will guard everything within the limits of my post and quit my post only when properly relieved.
General Order 2
I will obey my special orders and perform all of my duties in a military manner.
General Order 3
I will report violations of my special orders, emergencies, and anything not covered in my instructions to the commander of the relief.
Tips for memorization
The best way to memorize the Army general orders is to NOT memorize them in order. It’s good to know them in order, however, your drill sergeants will be asking you them in any order they wish. So the ensure that you’re on top of your game, it’s best to memorize them in any order. Have your friends or family simply ask you “General Order Number #”, and you spout it off right away. A couple of days of practice is all it takes to have these 3 general orders memorized!
How Do the General Orders Apply to Guard Duty?
When a soldier is assigned to guard duty, the three general orders provide a clear framework for their responsibilities. The first general order emphasizes staying alert and observing everything that takes place within sight or hearing. This includes challenging anyone who approaches the post. The second and third orders focus on following orders from a commanding officer and making sure that no one passes without proper authority.
In addition to keeping their post in a military manner, a guard is responsible for reporting any violations of my special orders and ensuring that nothing is overlooked. The clarity provided by these general orders prevents mistakes that could endanger the security of the camp or facility.
Do the Three General Orders Differ Among Military Branches?
Though the three general orders are standard across all branches of the U.S. Armed Forces, some branches have slight variations or additional rules. For example, the Marine Corps and Coast Guard often emphasize the importance of challenging all persons on or near the post. This means that the guard must ensure that no one is allowed to pass without proper authority.
The Navy and Air Force may also have specific regulations regarding how to handle emergencies or other unique scenarios. Despite these differences, the core principles of the three general orders remain the same, focusing on duty, obedience, and communication.
Why Is Guard Duty So Important in the Army?
In the Army, standing guard is one of the most fundamental responsibilities. Guards are tasked with securing areas and making sure that any violations of orders are immediately reported. In the event of an emergency, it is the guard’s duty to stay calm, alert, and follow the chain of command.
The general orders play a critical role in ensuring that Army soldiers understand the importance of guard duty. Whether it’s during basic training or while deployed in a dangerous area, these orders provide the structure and discipline required for maintaining safety and order.
How Do the General Orders Prepare Recruits for Military Careers?
Learning the three general orders is one of the first tasks for new recruits in all branches of the U.S. Armed Forces. Understanding these orders is essential for success in the military, as they form the foundation for how soldiers, sailors, and marines conduct themselves while on guard duty.
For many recruits, memorizing and understanding these orders is a crucial part of preparing for their military career. The skills learned from applying the general orders, such as discipline, attention to detail, and communication, are valuable not only during their time in the military but also in civilian life.
What Role Do Officers Play in Guard Duty?
Officers of the guard have the responsibility of overseeing the sentries and ensuring that they adhere to their orders. The officer of the day or the commander of the relief will provide specific instructions, which must be followed without question.
It’s also the duty of the officers and non-commissioned officers to ensure that the sentries are prepared and aware of their responsibilities. They are also the ones who provide guidance in case of any confusion or unique circumstances that might arise during guard duty.
What Happens When a Guard Violates the General Orders?
If a guard fails to follow the three general orders, they could face serious consequences. Violations of orders, such as leaving a post before being properly relieved or failing to report suspicious activity, can result in disciplinary action. In some cases, the consequences could even extend to more severe punishments, especially if the violation leads to a breach of security.
The military takes the general orders seriously because they are designed to prevent these situations. By following these orders verbatim, soldiers can avoid mistakes that might compromise the safety of their fellow soldiers or their mission.
Why Are There Only Three General Orders?
Though there are only three general orders, they cover a broad spectrum of responsibilities. These orders are intentionally condensed to make them easy to memorize and apply in any situation. Whether on a quiet night shift or during an emergency, the general orders give a soldier the necessary guidance to handle any scenario.
Some branches, such as the Navy and Marine Corps, may expand these into what is known as the 11 general orders, which provide more detailed instructions, but the core principles remain the same. In all cases, the general orders ensure that each sentry remains vigilant and fully aware of their duty.