The most important and sacred responsibility entrusted to an officer or noncommissioned officer is the PRIVILEGE of leading Marines. Leading Marines and being charged with the responsibility of their professional development, and possibly their lives, is an awesome trust. Your subordinates must understand what is important to you because, ultimately, this will become important to them. No organization can progress without this framework and, more importantly, it must be understood and practiced by all leaders within the organization. This command philosophy is this framework - a framework which will guide how I operate in all environments, in the field or in garrison. 

• HONESTY:  Nothing is more important than personal integrity and ethical behavior. I'm not talking just about what is legal, I'm talking about what is right. You never get a second chance to be trusted and respected.

• LOYALTY: Loyalty must be both horizontal and vertical in any organization. I expect all leaders to positively support the chain-of-command. I will support my commander to the hilt. Given the opportunity, I will strongly represent the Squadron's position but when the decision is made, I will enthusiastically support it.

• PASSION: Be passionate about everything you do. You should play as hard as you work, and you should have fun at both. Pursue those new ideas you are passionate about, they could be the next great shift in warfare.

• EXCELLENCE:  Hold yourself and your Marines accountable to a high standard of performance. Lead by example, and never ask your Marines to work harder than you are willing to work yourself. 

• FLEXIBILITY:  Be flexible, open minded, and cooperative...no matter what! Embrace change and uncertainty. Continue to reassess everything, be proactive, and act quickly to adapt to new terrain and requirements. Do not become content with the status quo. 

Let me finish by stating how honored and proud I am to be serving with this unit. This Squadron has an outstanding reputation, which is directly attributable to the superb leadership of each of you. I demand confident leaders, tactically and technically proficient Marines, and a determined spirit. I look forward to serving with you and meeting the challenges ahead.

Semper Fidelis,

ANGELA M. NELSON

Lieutenant Colonel, U.S. Marine Corps

Commanding Officer