Who is an army professional?

• A. An army Professional is a member of the Army Profession who meets the Army's certification criteria of competence, character, and commitment.
• B. A civilian contractor working with the Army.
• C. A non-commissioned officer only.
• D. A political appointee.

Answer: (A)

Being an army professional means being a member of the Army Profession who meets the Army’s certification criteria of competence, character, and commitment. This frames professionalism not just as holding a job, but as upholding a standard across training, ethics, and service.

Competence covers the knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform duties to standard. Character relates to integrity, accountability, and adherence to the Army Ethic. Commitment means a sustained dedication to the profession and to the mission, putting service above self.

Civilian contractors or political appointees aren’t part of the Army Profession in the same way, and being a professional isn’t limited to one rank or role. The best description is someone who is a member of the Army Profession and meets these certification criteria.