Esprit de Corps- How it empowers people

I recently received this poem from an US Army friend of mine. It is written by Corporal Aairon M Gilbert US Marine currently serving in Iraq. I just jotted down some of the traits and values I spotted. You may find more. What is interesting is that it reflects the training and value system of the US Marines Corps. Perhaps more importantly the poem demonstrates how pride of unit or “Esprit de Corps” can empower. This poem is clearly written under the ultimate pressure of continuous combat. Corporal Gilbert is able to perform his professional duties because the strong value system sustains him and gives him focus. Maybe there are some leadership traits and values from the US Marine Corps that business leaders could draw on.

Author: Bill Cole

We all came together, —————————————Team work
Both young and old
To fight for our freedom, ————————————A Goal everybody believed in
To stand and be bold. ——————————————————Courage

In the midst of all evil,
We stand our ground,
And we protect our country
From all terror around.—————————————————Motivation
Peace and not war,
Is what some people say.
But I’ll give my life, ————Unselfish commitment- Country before self
So you can live the American way.

I give you the right
To talk of your peace.
To stand in your groups,
and protest in our streets. ———————————————–Values
But still I fight on,
I don’t bitch, I don’t whine. ————————————————Loyalty
I’m just one of the people
Who is doing your time.

I’m harder than nails, —————————————————————-Confidence
Stronger than any machine. ———————————Fitness to lead
I’m the immortal soldier,
I’m a U.S. MARINE! ———————————Professional Pride

So stand in my shoes,
And leave from your home.
Fight for the people who hate you, ———————————–Moral Values
With the protests they’ve shown.

Fight for the stranger,
Fight for the young.
So they all may have,
The greatest freedom you’ve won

Fight for the sick,
Fight for the poor
Fight for the cripple,
Who lives next door.

But when your time comes,
Do what I’ve done.
For if you stand up for freedom,
You’ll stand when the fight’s done—————————-Honour