Page 3 - MMI Cadet Manual SY2017.18

A Message from the Office of the Commandant of Cadets

Dear Cadets:

Congratulations on your decision to become a member of the Marion Military Institute (MMI)
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Corps of Cadets. This year is especially important as MMI celebrates its 175 anniversary. You
are now part of a long-line of history and accomplishment. Our military model is over 130 years
old and has proven effective and resilient. We count over 200 flag officers in all services along
with countless notable alumni in all fields of human endeavor which proves our model.

Life in the Corps is both challenging and fun, all of which is intended to stimulate and advance
your physical and intellectual capabilities as well as your critical thinking and decision-making
abilities. What you get out of your time here at MMI is directly related to the amount of effort
you put into it. The faculty and staff are dedicated professionals who are driven to provide you
every opportunity to succeed and reach your potential.

MMI is a leadership college, and the Corps of Cadets serves as an instrument to implement,
assess, and reinforce the education and training critical to your personal and professional
maturation. During your time here at MMI each of you will play a critical role within the Corps
as both follower and leader. A successful leader is also a good follower, and both followership
and leadership requires the attributes of patience, understanding, respect, self-discipline and
above all, integrity.

These attributes are imbued in MMI’s motto of Truth, Honor and Service and reinforced through
an honor code and honor system intended to advance the leadership and character development
of all cadets. The MMI Honor Code states: I will not lie, cheat, or steal. MMI’s Honor Code is
not intended to serve as a coercive tool for peer leaders, faculty, staff, or anyone associated with
the College. The Code is something to be embraced as a mechanism to guide thoughts, actions,
and honorable living. We want you to live in the “spirit of the code”. Many of you, especially
when you advance as peer leaders, will face personal or professional dilemmas that may
challenge your decision-making process. If you follow the Honor Code, regardless of the
possible short-term repercussions, you will be successful here and in the future.

The Cadet Manual outlines rules, regulations, and policies intended to guide your decision-
making process and reinforce MMI as a values-based organization. It is imperative that you read
and understand the information contained within this document. If you have any questions or
concerns, please notify your chain of command or your TAC officer.

Once again, congratulations on your choice to join the MMI’s historic Corps of Cadets.

Truth, Honor, Service – We hail the Corps!

Colonel Edwin W. Passmore, USA (ret)

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