Traits & Principles of USMC Leadership

• The 14 leadership traits
• The 11 leadership principles
• Learning objectives

Leadership Defined: The sum of those qualities of intellect, human understanding, & moral character that enable a person to inspire & control a group of people successfully.

Gen Clifton B. Cates 19th Commandant

“Leadership is intangible, hard to measure, & difficult to describe. Its quality would seem to stem from many factors. But certainly they must include a measure of inherent ability to control & direct, self-confidence based on expert knowledge, initiative, loyalty, pride, & sense of responsibility. Inherent ability cannot be instilled, but that which is latent or dormant can be developed. Other ingredients can be acquired. They are not easily learned. But leaders can be & are made.”