THE MILITARY COVENANT

The Military Covenant is an informal yet seriously regarded ‘pact’ between the people of Britain and the british armed forces.  The pact was formally  considered as covenant in 2000, although not enforced by law it is deemed ‘duty bound’ to adhere to the pact in custom, practice and respect. Despite referring to the army in wording its meaning and intention extends to all branches of the British armed forces.

Soldiers will be called upon to make personal sacrifices - including the ultimate sacrifice - in the service of the Nation. In putting the needs of the Nation and the Army before their own, they forego some of the rights enjoyed by those outside the Armed Forces.

In return, British soldiers must always be able to expect fair treatment, to be valued and respected as individuals, and that they (and their families) will be sustained and rewarded by commensurate terms and conditions of service.

In the same way the unique nature of military land operations means that the Army differs from all other institutions, and must be sustained and provided for accordingly by the Nation.

This mutual obligation forms the Military Covenant between the Nation, the Army and each individual soldier; an unbreakable common bond of identity, loyalty and responsibility which has sustained the Army throughout its history. It has perhaps its greatest manifestation in the annual commemoration of Armistice Day, when the Nation keeps covenant with those who have made the ultimate sacrifice, giving their lives in action.

Army Doctrine Publication Volume 5

IF YOU ARE CONCERNED THAT THIS COVENANT HAS BEEN BROKEN PLEASE FORWARD THE INCIDENT TO US AND WE WILL PUBLISH IT HERE.