What is meant by Stewardship in the context of ADP 4-0?

Stewardship in the context of Army Doctrine Publication 4-0 refers to the concept of caring and responsible management of resources. This principle emphasizes the obligation of military leaders and organizations to manage resources effectively while ensuring that they are preserved for future use. Stewardship encompasses ethical decision-making, accountability, and the efficient use of personnel, equipment, and funding, recognizing that those resources are entrusted to the Army by the public and should be utilized in a way that benefits both current operations and future needs.

This perspective allows leaders to prioritize sustainability and operational readiness while fostering a culture of responsibility among service members. By focusing on responsible management, stewardship ensures that the resources will be available and effective for fulfilling missions over time, thus maintaining the Army's effectiveness and integrity.