The purpose of MD101 and MD102 is twofold: 1) to learn to be a follower and to support the chain of command and 2) to develop understanding of and commitment to the duty concept. Cadet privates serve as members of a squad in their assigned companies. The cadet private's primary task is to strive for excellence in academic, military, and physical activities. Cadets fulfill responsibilities commensurate with their rank as outline in USMA Circular 1-101. It is part of their duty to know assigned tasks, to perform them with enthusiasm even in small matters, to seek assistance as needed, and to demonstrate standards of behavior and values consistent with the goals of USMA. Cadet privates learn and practice habits of honorable living. The cadet chain of command and tactical officer evaluate cadet privates. Evaluation is based on performance data within the framework of the Leader Characteristics. The sources of this data include academic instructors, team coaches, club officers-in-charge, and other members of the staff and faculty who observe cadets in different situations. The cadet private is awarded a MD grade
for the semester. There is an expectation of improved performance during MD102 based upon lessons learned from MD101 and an increased understanding and inculcation of what is expected within the framework of the Leader Characteristics.
