Which of the following is one of the five essential characteristics of the Army Profession?

• A. Trust
• B. Leadership
• C. Courage
• D. Patriotism

Answer: (A)

Trust is the defining attribute being tested. In the Army Profession, trust means the American people and the soldiers you lead can rely on you to know your job, act with integrity, and place the welfare of others and the mission above self-interest. That trust is earned through consistent demonstrations of military expertise, honorable service, esprit de corps, and responsible stewardship of the profession, all of which support credible, ethical leadership in action. When trust is present, orders are followed, decisions are supported, and teamwork thrives because people believe their leaders are competent and principled. The five essential characteristics are Trust, Military Expertise, Honorable Service, Esprit de Corps, and Stewardship. Leaders and soldiers embody these together; while leadership, courage, and patriotism are important, they are not the formal list, though they contribute to building trust and effectiveness.