Which Article of the Code of Conduct states, "I will never surrender of my own free will?"

The statement "I will never surrender of my own free will" is found in Article I of the Code of Conduct. This article emphasizes the importance of maintaining a strong resolve and commitment to resist capture and to uphold one's duty to fight. By stating that a service member will never surrender of their own free will, it reinforces the value of perseverance and loyalty to their mission and unit.

Understanding the essence of this article is critical as it establishes the mindset of a Marine or service member, reinforcing their obligation to resist enemy forces as long as possible. It is part of a broader framework that guides a service member's behavior during captivity and stresses their responsibility to uphold military honor and integrity, even under extreme circumstances.