The 11 Navy General Orders are a set of principles that guide the behavior and decision-making of personnel in the United States Navy. These orders are designed to ensure that all naval personnel conduct themselves in a professional and respectful manner, both on and off duty. The 11 General Orders are as follows:
Understanding the 11 Navy General Orders

To comprehend the significance of these orders, it’s essential to examine each one in detail. The 11 Navy General Orders are:
- To take charge of this post and all government property in view.
- To walk my post in a military manner, keeping always on the alert and observing everything that takes place within sight or hearing.
- To report all violations of orders I am instructed to enforce.
- To repeat all calls from posts more distant from the guardhouse than my own.
- To quit my post only when properly relieved.
- To receive, obey, and pass on to the sentry who relieves me, all orders from the commanding officer, officer of the day, and officers and noncommissioned officers of the guard only.
- To talk to no one except in the line of duty.
- To give the alarm in case of fire or disorder.
- To call the corporal of the guard in any case not covered by instructions.
- To salute all officers and colors and standards not cased.
- To be especially watchful at night and during the time for challenging, to challenge all persons on or near my post and to allow no one to pass without proper authority.
Importance of the 11 Navy General Orders
The 11 Navy General Orders serve as a foundation for the professional conduct and accountability of naval personnel. By following these orders, personnel can ensure that they are upholding the highest standards of the Navy and contributing to a safe and respectful environment. The orders are not only essential for maintaining discipline and order but also for promoting a sense of responsibility and duty among naval personnel.
| General Order | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | To take charge of this post and all government property in view. |
| 2 | To walk my post in a military manner, keeping always on the alert and observing everything that takes place within sight or hearing. |
| 3 | To report all violations of orders I am instructed to enforce. |
| 4 | To repeat all calls from posts more distant from the guardhouse than my own. |
| 5 | To quit my post only when properly relieved. |
| 6 | To receive, obey, and pass on to the sentry who relieves me, all orders from the commanding officer, officer of the day, and officers and noncommissioned officers of the guard only. |
| 7 | To talk to no one except in the line of duty. |
| 8 | To give the alarm in case of fire or disorder. |
| 9 | To call the corporal of the guard in any case not covered by instructions. |
| 10 | To salute all officers and colors and standards not cased. |
| 11 | To be especially watchful at night and during the time for challenging, to challenge all persons on or near my post and to allow no one to pass without proper authority. |

Key Points
- The 11 Navy General Orders provide a foundation for professional conduct and accountability in the Navy.
- These orders promote discipline, responsibility, and duty among naval personnel.
- Each order has a specific purpose and is essential for maintaining order and safety in the Navy.
- Naval personnel are expected to internalize and follow these orders at all times.
- The 11 Navy General Orders are a way of life for naval personnel, promoting a strong sense of discipline and responsibility.
The 11 Navy General Orders are an integral part of naval tradition and culture. By understanding and following these orders, naval personnel can ensure that they are upholding the highest standards of the Navy and contributing to a safe and respectful environment. Whether on duty or off, naval personnel are expected to conduct themselves in a professional and respectful manner, reflecting the values and principles of the Navy.
Implementing the 11 Navy General Orders

Implementing the 11 Navy General Orders requires a deep understanding of each order and its purpose. Naval personnel must be able to apply these orders in a variety of situations, from routine duties to emergency situations. By following these orders, personnel can ensure that they are taking the necessary steps to maintain order and safety in the Navy.
Challenges and Opportunities
While the 11 Navy General Orders provide a clear framework for professional conduct and accountability, there are challenges and opportunities associated with their implementation. One of the primary challenges is ensuring that all naval personnel understand and follow these orders consistently. This requires ongoing training and education, as well as a commitment to upholding the highest standards of the Navy.
Despite these challenges, the 11 Navy General Orders provide a valuable opportunity for naval personnel to develop a strong sense of discipline, responsibility, and duty. By internalizing these orders, personnel can become more effective and efficient in their duties, contributing to a safer and more respectful environment in the Navy.
What are the 11 Navy General Orders?
+The 11 Navy General Orders are a set of principles that guide the behavior and decision-making of personnel in the United States Navy. These orders are designed to ensure that all naval personnel conduct themselves in a professional and respectful manner, both on and off duty.
Why are the 11 Navy General Orders important?
+The 11 Navy General Orders are important because they provide a foundation for professional conduct and accountability in the Navy. By following these orders, personnel can ensure that they are upholding the highest standards of the Navy and contributing to a safe and respectful environment.
How do the 11 Navy General Orders promote discipline and responsibility?
+The 11 Navy General Orders promote discipline and responsibility by providing a clear framework for professional conduct and accountability. By internalizing these orders, personnel can develop a strong sense of discipline, responsibility, and duty, which are essential for success in the Navy.
What are some common challenges associated with implementing the 11 Navy General Orders?
+Some common challenges associated with implementing the 11 Navy General Orders include ensuring that all naval personnel understand and follow these orders consistently, and providing ongoing training and education to support their implementation.
What are some opportunities associated with implementing the 11 Navy General Orders?
+Some opportunities associated with implementing the 11 Navy General Orders include developing a strong sense of discipline, responsibility, and duty among naval personnel, and contributing to a safer and more respectful environment in the Navy.