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SUBJ/ANNUAL ETHICS MESSAGE// 
 
RMKS/1.  In the Strategic Guidance that I issued to the force in October of 
2021, I identified one of my top priorities as "Empowering our people through 
a culture of warfighting excellence."  In order to build a culture that 
enables us all to succeed in our mission, we must move forward with integrity 
at all times, whether anyone is looking or not.  This concept of integrity 
expands to all employees within the Department of the Navy (DON) - officers, 
enlisted, and civilian personnel.  Each of us represents the DON at all 
times, in our interactions with each other, across the Joint Force, in our 
engagement with other nations, and most importantly, with the American people 
whom we serve every day.  As the most powerful naval force in the world, we 
must continue to work together to build a strong culture of collaboration, 
trust, transparency, and communication. 
 
2.  Among the foundations for building and maintaining this culture are the 
Standards of Ethical Conduct.  The principle that Public Service is a Public 
Trust forms the basis for these standards.  Public service also comes with 
the responsibility to place our loyalty to the Constitution, laws, and 
ethical principles above private gain.  The basic principle of public service 
and the responsibility that comes with it are not aspirational goals.  These 
are requirements that we must put into use every day when making decisions in 
both our personal and professional lives. 
 
3.  To this end, I expect each supervisor, manager, and leader to foster an 
environment that embraces ethical standards of conduct.  You must set the 
example for your subordinates.  Engage in conversations regarding the 
standards of conduct and ethical decision making.  Be open to questions and 
encourage your employees to raise concerns. 
 
4.  All Sailors, Marines, and civilians should ensure that they understand 
the ethical rules and how the rules impact their personal and professional 
lives.  The ethical rules cover several topics including:  conflict of 
interests, post-Government employment rules, gifts, relations with non-
federal entities, impartiality in the performance of duties, misuse of 
position, and outside activities.  Employees who have questions regarding any 
of these topics should contact their supervisors or command ethics 
counselor.  To prevent conflicts of interests, all employees who are required 
to submit a financial disclosure report must do so in a timely manner.  It is 
your responsibility to ensure that the report is accurate and 
complete.  Additionally, all financial disclosure filers must complete annual 
ethics training no later than November 30th of each calendar year. 
 
5.  I have no doubt that each of you embraces the ethical standards of 
conduct and implement them into your daily lives.  Supporting each other and 
keeping these principles in mind will enable us to build and maintain a 
strong culture of collaboration, trust, transparency, and communication. 
 
6. Released by the Honorable Carlos Del Toro, Secretary of the Navy.// 
 
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