The Basic School - Instruction at TBS

Instruction At TBS

The most critical aspect of instruction at The Basic School is the Five Horizontal Themes. They were created to clearly define the expectations of every student officer at TBS. These themes are not only taught to the student officers at The Basic School, but they cross all subordinate units. The purpose for this is consistency, unity of effort and shared vision among all personnel at TBS.

• A Man or Woman of Exemplary Character
  • Has a clear understanding that a Marine commission brings with it "special trust and confidence" and the highest expectations of the American people.
  • Devoted to our Core Values of Honor, Courage and Commitment
  • Possesses a moral compass that unerringly points to "do the right thing" - an ethical warrior
• Devoted to Leading Marines 24/7
  • Embraces the "exceptional and unremitting" responsibility to one's Marines and their families
  • Inspires and instills confidence in his/her Marines during times of adversity
  • Adheres to and enforces standards regardless of time of day, location or duty status
  • Treats all Marines and Sailors with dignity and respect
  • Dedicated to a lifetime of study and learning about the profession of arms
• Able to Decide, Communicate, and Act in the fog of war
  • Can think critically and arrive at an acceptable decision based on sound tactical thinking within their commander's intent
  • Communicates clearly both orally and in writing in tactical and administrative situations with emphasis on issuing clear, meaningful orders and guidance
  • Has a bias for action - seizes the initiative and acts instead of waiting for the perfect sight picture or direction from higher
  • Once action is initiated, acts with boldness and determination
• A Warfighter who embraces the Corps's warrior ethos
  • A competent combat leader, grounded in the basic infantry skills, and characterized by sound judgment and aggressiveness in execution
  • Educated in the fundamentals of maneuver warfare, tactics, combined arms, and the time-tested principles of battle
  • Maintains an offensive mindset throughout - proactive, not reactive
• Mentally Strong and Physically Tough
  • Imbued with a warrior spirit and able to thrive in a complex and chaotic environment and persevere despite the obstacles to mission accomplishment
  • Possesses the self-discipline to push past preconceived limits