Cadet corporals serve as team leaders. They learn to lead others by exercising responsibility for the professional development of one or two subordinates (cadet privates), while performing as a member of a larger military unit. Drawing on recent experiences as Fourth Class cadets, cadet corporals offer expertise and counsel which facilitates the transition process and development of cadet privates. Their role is to exemplify professional standards of behavior and values; to assist team members; to demonstrate commitment to duty through performance; and to support the policies of the chain of command. They strive for excellence in the academic, military, and physical programs while practicing habits of honorable living. The goals of MD201/202 are to:
(1) Provide opportunity for cadet corporals to exercise effective personal influence upon one or two immediate subordinates. Practice the Principles of Leader-Subordinate Relationships as outlined in USMA Circular 1-101.
(2) Enable cadet corporals to set the example as loyal, obedient, and spirited followers.
(3) Enable cadet corporals to set an example of leadership for subordinates to emulate.
(4) Provide opportunities for cadet corporals to continue to cooperate with others in team efforts and to follow the orders of designated leaders in the chain of command.
(5) Allow the cadet corporal to learn the leader's role in exercising and promoting ethical behavior.
(6) Increase physical capability through conditioning and participation in organized athletics.
Cadet corporals are evaluated by their chain of command and the tactical officer. 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 corporal is awarded a MD grade for the semester. There is an expectation of improved performance during MD202 based on lessons learned during MD201 and an increased understanding and inculcation of what is expected within the framework of the Leader Characteristics.
