According to Article 1 of the Code of Conduct, what is the primary duty of an American service member?

The primary duty of an American service member, as outlined in Article 1 of the Code of Conduct, is to guard their country and way of life. This emphasizes the fundamental role of service members in defending the sovereignty, security, and values of the nation. The Code of Conduct highlights the seriousness of this obligation, which encompasses not only physical defense but also a commitment to upholding the principles and freedoms that the country stands for. By prioritizing the protection of the country and its way of life, service members align their actions with the core mission of the military, which is to ensure that citizens can live in safety and security. This commitment is essential for maintaining national integrity and safeguarding democratic ideals.