How should officers approach ethical dilemmas according to SOS?

In addressing ethical dilemmas, officers are encouraged to evaluate the situation based on core values. This approach is rooted in the principles of integrity, service before self, and excellence in all they do, which are essential to military leadership. By considering core values, officers can navigate complex ethical situations with a framework that ensures their actions align with the expectations of their roles and the standards of their organization.

This method emphasizes the importance of principled decision-making over simply going along with the majority (group consensus), ignoring uncomfortable issues (avoiding the issue altogether), or placing personal gain above the collective good (prioritizing personal interests). By focusing on core values, officers strive to uphold the moral and ethical standards expected of them, thereby reinforcing trust and respect within their teams and the larger organization.