What element is considered to set Marines apart as much as anything else?

The element that sets Marines apart the most is the core values they uphold, which are honor, courage, and commitment. These values are fundamental to the Marine Corps' identity and culture, shaping behavior, decision-making, and character. They establish a common bond among Marines and guide them in their actions both inside and outside the military.

Core values foster trust, ensure accountability, and encourage a strong sense of teamwork and discipline. By embracing and embodying these values, Marines cultivate a unique ethos that influences their interactions with one another and their approach to missions. This commitment to core values transcends individual skills, rank, or experience, making it a defining characteristic of what it means to be a Marine.

In contrast, while skills and experience are important for effectiveness in various roles, they do not inherently capture the essence of what unites Marines as a brotherhood. Similarly, rank may denote a level of authority or responsibility but does not reflect the underlying principles that guide Marine conduct. Core values are the fundamental principles that truly distinguish Marines, integrating individual actions into a cohesive identity.