Lesson 1: USAF & USSF Core Values and Virtues

Core Values & Virtues

USAF & USSF Core Values and Virtues

• Core Values are brought to life through Virtues.

• Virtues are the practical behaviors that manifest Core Values; think of them as superpowers.

1. CHARACTER = Integrity First (USAF & USSF)

2. CONNECTION = Service Before Self (USAF & USSF)

• Consider all ideas (also tied to Respect in USAF).

3. COMMITMENT = Excellence in All We Do (USAF & USSF)

4. COURAGE = Smart Risk-Taking & Doing What's Right

• Not a core value title, but a vital virtue across all.

Final Thought

• Virtues are the "verbs" of the Core Values – they’re how you put them into action every single day as an Airman or Guardian.

USAF Core Values and Related Virtues

Integrity First

• Virtues:

  • Honesty: Be truthful.

  • Courage: Make the unpopular, right decision.

  • Accountability: Own your actions.

  • Humility: Absence of arrogance.

• Character Virtue Clue: He "Acts Honestly and Owns Mistakes"

• Act with Integrity

• Be Accountable

• Highest Standards

Service Before Self

• Virtues:

  • Duty: Make sacrifices.

  • Loyalty: Preserve something bigger than self.

  • Respect: Treat others with dignity.

Excellence in All We Do

• Refusal to cut corners, do it right every time.

• Virtues:

  • Mission: Give 110%.

  • Discipline: (professional and personal standards).

  • Teamwork: Everyone must be excellent.

USSF Core Values (4 C's) and Related Virtues

Connection - (consider all ideas)

• She "Speaks Kindly, Shares Freely, and Builds Trust"

• Inclusion

• Honesty, Respect, Authenticity

• Foster a Safe, Encouraging Environment

• Encourage Team Input

• Helping and asking for help

Commitment

• He "Sets Bold Goals and Learns Fast"

• Achieve audacious Goals

• Learn from Experience

• Seek & Offer Feedback

• Embrace Challenges

• 1% Better Daily

Courage

• She "Takes Smart Risks and Stands Strong"

• Take Smart Risks

• Doing what’s right under pressure

• Innovate

• Speak Up

• Share thoughts and ideas

Importance of USAF & USSF Core Values

• Why They Matter:

  • Foundation of Leadership – Core values are the bedrock of how Airmen and Guardians lead.

  • Moral Framework – They guide ethical decisions and right actions.

  • Culture & Identity – They define what it means to serve in the Profession of Arms.

  • Trust & Unity – Create a culture of respect, accountability, and teamwork.

Describe the USAF and USFF Core Values and their related virtues: