NCIS is a popular American television series that centers on a team of special Naval Criminal Investigative Service agents. Since its debut in 2003, it has become one of the longest-running scripted shows on CBS. Focusing on resolving cases including Navy and Marine Corps members, the show combines military and naval elements with crime investigation.
Over the years, the show has expanded into several spin-offs, including NCIS: Los Angeles, NCIS: New Orleans, and the forthcoming NCIS: Origins and NCIS: Sydney.
Typically, the narrative follows Special Agent Leroy Jethro Gibbs and his team as they untangle complex criminal investigations, including murder, espionage, or terrorism. Gibbs is known for his strong leadership, calm demeanor, and a unique set of personal rules that guide his decisions and actions.
Often referenced throughout the series, these "Gibbs' Rules" offer insight into his character and attitude. They serve as guiding concepts that allow him to navigate the challenges of his job.
Among these guidelines, Rule 9 reads, "Never go anywhere without a knife." Though it may appear easy, this rule has more significance when one considers Gibbs' Marine service.
The rule emphasizes being prepared and self-reliant, traits important for Gibbs to survive and thrive both in the military and as an NCIS agent. Figuring out this link helps us understand why Gibbs values this rule so highly.
Disclaimer: This article solely contains the author's opinion.
The connection between Gibbs’ Rule 9 in NCIS and his marine past
When you take into account Gibbs' background as a former U.S. Marine Corps Scout Sniper, Rule 9, "Never go anywhere without a knife," makes much more sense. Being a Marine taught Gibbs to always be ready for any circumstance, whether it involved survival skills, self-defense, or pragmatic problem-solving.
From my perspective, this rule is not just about carrying a weapon but about the mindset of preparedness that Marines develop during their service.
A tense scene in NCIS: Origins, where Gibbs uses a knife to flee from a halted lift, exposes the source of this rule. This scene emphasizes how his fast thinking and inventiveness were molded by his military training.
The knife is a sign of his willingness to confront unanticipated hazards, not only a tool. Gibbs, a Marine Scout Sniper, would have depended on his knife for many non-combat duties, including rope cutting and supply opening, therefore stressing the need to always have one available.
I believe that Gibbs’ consistent use of Rule 9 across the series reflects the lasting influence of his Marine training. It ties directly to the survival mindset he developed during his military career.
The rule also connects to other rules he follows, such as "Never take anything for granted" and "Always watch the watchers," emphasizing situational awareness and self-protection. Overall, Rule 9 is a practical reflection of Gibbs’ past, deeply embedded in his approach to life and work.
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More about the series
Since its first season in 2003, the show has developed considerably, establishing itself on American television. Combining procedural drama with personal narratives and team dynamics, the show centers on a team of agents solving Navy and Marine Corps-related crimes. Over the years, the show has added intriguing people and broadened its universe with various spin-offs.
Recently, the series has undergone cast changes and schedule modifications. Now, all three NCIS shows are scheduled for Tuesday broadcasts.
This new timetable shows the franchise's great appeal and the network's dedication to providing fans with new material. The show keeps evolving while keeping its main emphasis on naval crime investigations since forthcoming seasons ensure larger narrative arcs and deeper character development.
It stays anchored in ideas of justice, loyalty, and resilience as the performance develops. NCIS: Origins' debut gives viewers a look into Gibbs' earlier life and the experiences that formed the man they know.
Stay tuned for more updates on the show and similar projects as the year progresses.