Importance Of Esprit De Corps

French for the spirit of the body, esprit de corps, has been highlighted as an essential characteristic that must be present in all organizations. Since its beginning, esprit de corps is the spirit of commitment and honor that exists between members of a group. Instilled in societies over centuries the phrase has grown, finding its way into everyday life. From its start in France in the late 1700s, esprit de corps is now widely used in organizations, companies, and teamwork throughout the globe. Its existence can be seen especially in environments where teamwork is essential and members rely on the loyalty and devotion of each member. Esprit de corps is one of the main reasons that the military and other organizations are successful.

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He attributes success to esprit de corps saying, “individual commitment to a group effort – that is what makes a team work, a company work, a society work, a civilization work” (). Essentially, Vince Lombardi equates esprit de corps to an individual’s commitment to a group effort. After living a life of commitment to his football teams, he is a great example of what devotion and loyalty to a group can create. Presently esprit de corps can be witnessed in all branches of the military and throughout any size organization. In the Army esprit de corps is one of the five essential characteristics present to ensure an effective, ethical, and trusted military profession. Their focus is on respect for history and tradition, and commitment to each member and collective excellence (). Similarly, the Air Force’s use of esprit de corps focuses on the fact that no one is an “individual but part of the best military in the world” (). This is because as an individual it is not possible to accomplish every task, but as a group committed towards a common goal the mission can be accomplished and

Instead of a group of many individuals within a unit, the group becomes a body of one that has a sense belonging and members. Esprit de corps is ultimately the morale or the feeling of the group’s members. Associated with it, is the feeling of pride, fellowship, honor, and loyalty. Pride in being a member of a group that is successful and works. As well as, honoring the history and traditions that come with the reputation of the group they are a member of. All of which continue to create an inspiring, enthusiastic, and devoted spirit that members of the group would reciprocate to one another. But more importantly, each member must remember that we will never be successful in our service as individuals and that our overall impact is greater than we can