The Influence Of The Honor Code

The term, “A cadet will not lie, cheat, steal or tolerate those who do” sets an unprecedented standard, setting an individual up for success. This Creed stands for more than just the military aspect of West Point, it translates into the daily lives of cadets from all walks of life. The Honor code unifies the common morals of, “not [lying], [cheating], or [stealing]”, in order to develop a moral group of individuals well versed in restraint from common faults their peers become engrossed in, building a strong team that is renowned worldwide for their rigor and moral compass not “[tolerating] those who do”. My school, Summerlin Academy, boasts a much similar Honor Code, known as the Cadet Creed. This code has driven every aspect of my life since my acceptance into the academy in May of 2014. It has transformed into a better performing citizen who always puts forth the required effort and then some. The honor code applies into all aspects of life, for me it is more than just a code, it is a way of life. No matter what I am doing I need to be trustworthy and the “Honor Code” sets that as a priority, allowing for the delegation of leadership and responsibility.

As a officer, you cannot be a great responsible leader if you cannot be taken at your word for lying. This is why the Honor Code emphasizes this allowing the cadet to be truthful throughout all aspects of life, developing trust. The Honor Code, means to me, being a truthful citizen who can be trusted at his own word throughout all of life who weathers through any adversity with confidence and