The Army (ADP 1)

Book excerpt: ADP 1 and ADP 3-0, Operations, are the two Army capstone doctrinal manuals that serve as the foundation of our professional body of knowledge. It explains our Army's historical significance in the formation and preservation of our Nation and its role today and in the future as a member of the joint force to guarantee the Nation's strength and independence. At the heart of this doctrine is the professional Soldier-our true asymmetric advantage and most valued asset. Today's Soldiers are the legacy of the millions of Soldiers who came before them. They each freely volunteer to serve a higher purpose--an ideal greater than themselves. Soldiers continually demonstrate their character, commitment, and competence to protect our Nation under demanding and complex conditions. The oath they freely take to the Constitution of the United States is our Soldiers' sacred bond to maintain the confidence of the American people as trusted professionals in the world's premier land force.