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21 Popular Military Words That Bewilder Civilians

August 25, 2024

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image credit: Jacob Lund/Shutterstock

The language of the military is rich with acronyms, slang, and terms that form the backbone of its unique cultural and operational structure. These terms, often unfamiliar to civilians, offer a window into the daily lives and rigorous demands faced by military personnel.

Understanding these terms demystifies aspects of military operations and deepens our appreciation for the challenges and complexities of military life.

In 2020, there were approximately 1.3 million active duty military personnel in the United States, each trained in this specialized vocabulary.

Dive into the meanings behind some of the most intriguing military terms used today.

Field Strip

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When soldiers clean their firearms, they perform a “field strip.” This involves disassembling the weapon into its major parts for routine maintenance. Such practices are crucial to ensure reliability in diverse environments, from arid deserts to humid jungles.

Angels

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In aviation, “angels” refers to an altitude of thousands of feet. “Angels five” means flying at 5,000 feet. Pilots must report their “angels” for safety, coordination, and tactical reasons during flight operations.

FUBAR

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An acronym for “Fouled Up Beyond All Recognition,” FUBAR describes a situation that has gone wrong. It is used humorously or ironically within the military to comment on operational mishaps or planning failures. This term gained popularity during World War II among American soldiers.

Zero Dark Thirty

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This term refers to an unspecified time in the early hours before dawn when it is still dark. It’s used to denote the start time for missions that require cover of darkness. The phrase became recognized after the titular film about the hunt for Osama bin Laden.

Bravo Zulu

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Originally from naval code, “Bravo Zulu” is a signal meaning “well done.” It’s used across various branches of the military to praise individuals or units for outstanding performance. This term has its roots in the NATO phonetic alphabet, where “B” and “Z” stand for “Bravo” and “Zulu,” respectively.

Five by Five

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“Five by Five” signifies optimal clarity and signal strength in radio communications. It indicates that the message is loud and clear, ranking five on a scale of one to five for both volume and clarity. The term is often used to confirm understanding between units during operations.

Pogey Bait

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Slang for candy or sweets, “Pogey Bait” is often used by infantry to refer to any non-essential luxury food items brought along in the field. The term originated in World War I and is still used to lighten the mood or as a bartering tool among troops.

Ruck Up

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To “ruck up” means to put on your rucksack and prepare to move out. This command is synonymous with resilience and readiness, key traits in military life. The rucksack, often weighing over 50 pounds, carries essentials for survival and operation.

Oscar Mike

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“Oscar Mike” means “on the move” in military lingo, originating from the NATO phonetic alphabet. It’s commonly used to indicate that a unit or individual is moving from one position to another. The term emphasizes mobility and readiness, critical in combat situations.

Scuttlebutt

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“Scuttlebutt” originally referred to a cask on ships that held drinking water; now it means rumors or gossip. Sailors would gather around the scuttlebutt for a drink and exchange stories, much like modern water cooler talk.

Dust Off

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Used primarily in medical evacuation scenarios, “dust off” refers to the urgent lifting of troops, especially for medical reasons. The term comes from the helicopter rotor wash that stirs up dust during takeoff and landing.

Echelon

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An “echelon” formation is a stepped, staggered, or diagonal line used for advancing troops or vehicles. It is designed to maximize firepower and observation capabilities while minimizing vulnerabilities. The term has historical roots dating back to Napoleonic warfare.

Fire for Effect

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This command is given to artillery units to execute a planned barrage after observing the impacts of initial rounds. It signifies that the preceding spotting shots were accurate, and a full-scale attack is now justified. The effectiveness of this command relies on precise communication and coordination.

G.I.

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An abbreviation for “Government Issue,” G.I. refers to standard-issue equipment supplied to soldiers. Over time, it has also come to represent the soldiers themselves. The term encapsulates the uniformity and standardization foundational to military logistics and personnel management.

Hard Target

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A “hard target” refers to an object or installation that is heavily fortified and difficult to attack or destroy. Identifying and engaging hard targets requires sophisticated tactics and weaponry.

Jump Master

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A “Jump Master” is a qualified specialist who oversees airborne operations from a military aircraft. They are responsible for the safety and precision of paratroopers’ jumps during training and operational drops. Their role is vital for successful air insertion missions.

Kill Chain

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The “kill chain” describes the process of target identification, force dispatch, and destruction. This systematic approach is employed to streamline operations and increase the likelihood of mission success.

Lima Charlie

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“Lima Charlie” stands for “Loud and Clear” in the phonetic alphabet, affirming clear communication. It is essential for effective operations, as miscommunication can lead to operational failures or casualties. The phrase is a staple in verbal confirmations during missions.

Mustang

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A “Mustang” is an officer who has risen from the ranks of enlisted personnel. This term is a nod to their grit and determination, much like the wild mustangs of the American West. Mustangs are respected for their experience and perspective.

No-go Area

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A “no-go area” is strictly off-limits to unauthorized personnel due to hazards or security protocols. These areas are often marked in conflict zones or around sensitive installations. The designation of no-go areas is crucial for maintaining operational security and safety.

Quarters

“Quarters” refers to living accommodations provided to military personnel. These can range from barracks for enlisted troops to private quarters for officers. The quality and type of quarters can significantly affect morale and operational effectiveness.