What is essential for maintaining integrity according to the Army Values?

Maintaining integrity is fundamentally linked to exercising moral and ethical decision-making. This principle is central to the Army Values, which emphasize honesty, accountability, and doing what is right even when no one is watching. Integrity involves making choices that reflect a strong moral compass, fostering trust and respect both within the military and in interactions with others.

The importance of moral and ethical decision-making is that it requires soldiers to evaluate situations critically and choose actions that uphold the values and standards of the Army. This not only applies in scenarios where supervision is direct but also in cases where individuals must act autonomously. Upholding integrity ensures that soldiers remain true to their codes of conduct, which ultimately contributes to the overall trustworthiness and professional image of the Army as a whole.

In contrast, the other options, while important to a certain degree, do not directly address the essence of integrity in the context of the Army Values. Following superiors' orders is crucial in a military hierarchy, but it does not inherently encompass the moral considerations necessary for maintaining integrity. Achieving personal success can divert focus from the collective values and duties expected of soldiers. Improving unit effectiveness is significant for operational success but is more focused on performance rather than the foundational ethical standards that integrity represents. Hence, the