The Coast Guard’s Eleven General Orders are common to all branches of the U.S. Armed Forces. All military personnel must memorize these orders. There are slight differences between the branches’ general orders primarily due to ranks and titles differ between the branches. As a Seaman Recruit in basic training, you will be expected to know and follow these orders:
11 General Orders
- To take charge of this post and all government property in view.
- To walk my post in a military manner, keeping always on the alert, and observing everything that takes place within sight or hearing.
- To report all violations of orders I am instructed to enforce.
- To repeat all calls from posts more distant from the guard house than my own.
- To quit my post only when properly relieved.
- To receive, obey, and pass on to the sentry who relieves me all orders from the commanding officer, field officer of the day, officer of the day, and officers and petty officers of the watch.
- To talk to no one except in the line of duty.
- To give the alarm in case of fire or disorder.
- To call the petty officer of the watch in any case not covered by instructions.
- To salute all officers and all colors and standards not cased.
- To be especially watchful at night, and during the time for challenging, to challenge all persons on or near my post, and to allow no one to pass without proper authority.
* Updated January 2020