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SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/cadet-oath-obey-not-wrong

The Cadet Oath says 'obey my officers.' What if an officer orders something morally wrong?

The cadet does not have to obey.

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  1. Obey anyway, since the oath says so
  2. Ask another cadet to do it
  3. The cadet does not have to obey ✔

Why: Promising to obey means admitting leaders have more experience and following their guidance. It never means doing something wrong.

Huh, didn't know that: For bullying, abuse, violence, or sensitive topics, a cadet may go to any trusted senior member outside the usual chain.

The dad joke
Why did the compass refuse a bad order? It always points true.
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References

Answer: The cadet does not have to obey. Promising to obey means admitting leaders have more experience and following their guidance. It never means doing something wrong.

  1. Learn to Lead, Volume 1: Personal Leadership www.gocivilairpatrol.com/media/cms/Vol1LetterLowFinal_FDCFE2AA96703.pdf
    if an officer were to tell you to do something morally wrong, you would not have to obey them.
    Checked 2026-10-10.
  2. CAPR 60-1, Cadet Program Management (18 Aug 2025) www.gocivilairpatrol.com/media/cms/R_601_D19B3E261AA1D.pdf
    if you need to report bullying, abuse, or violence, or to discuss sensitive topics.
    Checked 2026-10-10.

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