Dignity and respect are two values that form the foundation for character development at the Academy. More than just helping to develop your character, dignity and respect serve as the basis for the trust building that is essential to any team, whether at the Academy or as a future officer in the Navy or Marine Corps.The people who we serve with on an everyday basis are the people who we will serve with in times of war or in times of need. Trust begins with respect between shipmates. As future officers, we must treat others-both seniors and subordinates-fairly and with respect and dignity, as we would wish to be treated. The CMEO program is designed to help midshipmen understand and practice the values of dignity and respect in every aspect of their lives.

One of the greatest influences on our lifestyles and attitudes is our peers. We look to our peers for validation, feedback, companionship, education, and empathy. While we are not necessarily dependent on our peers, they are often the first people we turn to when we are frustrated or in need of help. In our demanding environment, seeking help when we need it the most is sometimes difficult.

That's why CMEO's or other character representatives are in every company in every class.  These representatives are each trained in an area of character, whether it be SAVI, ADEO, or CMEO, and are prepared to help a fellow midshipman for any situation, either by dealing with it personally, or involving someone in their company or chain of command who is more specially trained for that situation.

Overall, CMEOs and other character staff are here as resources for our fellow midshipmen - to reach a helping hand when needed, and to observe and recognize problems in the brigade so that we can make our command climate an effective way to train and learn.