Military Lingo

One of the most challenging (and humorous) aspects of dating a military member is decoding their lingo. The military, like any other specialized field, has a unique system of jargon used by its members. However, for those of us at home, our significant other might as well be speaking a foreign language. There have been several times when I have been on the phone with my boyfriend and have to ask him to clarify his comments. The term I like to use is "civilian speak." I think this other language is fascinating, and some of them are downright hilarious. Here are some of my favorites:

1. Bravo Zulu

Civilian speak: Well done or good job

2. Tango Mike

Civilian speak: Thanks Much

3. Secret Squirrel 

Civilian speak: Highly classified

4. "Cover my 6"

Civilian speak: "Watch my back"

5. Blue Falcon

Civilian speak: used to describe a soldier who screws over another soldier

6. Hooah!

Civilian speak: an exclamation of excitement

7.  Whiskey Tango Foxtrot

Civilian speak: WTF 

8. Crumb Catcher

Civilian speak: Mouth

9. Dittybooper

Civilian speak: refers to signals used by intelligence radio operators trained to utilize Morse Code.


10. Gone Elvis

Civilian speak: a service member who has gone missing


11. Soup Sandwich

Civilian speak: a mission, individual, object or situation that has gone horribly wrong.


12. Rainbow

Civilian speak: a new recruit in basic training


13. Barney Style

Civilian speak: to explain something in very simple terms

14. Football Bat

Civilian speak: a particular way of doing things that is odd or abnormal

15. Oxygen Thief

Civilian speak: an individual who is very stupid or seemingly useless

Know any fun military jargon you didn't see on the list? Comment below! 

Sources:

 http://www.military.com/join-armed-forces/military-terms-and-jargon.html

 http://www.npr.org/blogs/parallels/2013/12/04/248816232/u-s-military-lingo-the-almost-definitive-guide