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So you're dead set on playing a military character. Should be simple right? Slap on some camo, throw out some military lingo, gun down some players and zombies for F R E E D O M. . . In reality, that's really just Hollywood and the game industry's idea of how the military operates. It sells seats and game copies, but definitely isn't an accurate depiction of the armed forces, especially not the United States. After all, the average consumer doesn't want to play as a cook, a supply driver, or aircraft ground crew.
This guide is directed towards those aiming to create a military character and give some ideas on how to flesh them out in more ways than just "I'm an infantryman" or "I'm a veteran that served in Afghanistan".
As a side note, know that I mean no disrespect to the current and former servicemen and women of the armed forces. In my belief, playing the role of soldier is far more difficult than people seem to think, and properly reflecting them in an accurate manner is far more respectful. Otherwise you just end up looking like one of the many Stolen Valor dunces caught on camera.
So, let's get started. (Know that this guide is still under construction.)
An Overview:
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1 - The Basics
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2 - What You SHOULD Know
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The military operates on a unique time system. Military Time is a clean, clear method of expressing time. Instead of a 12 hour clock, it operates on a 24 hour clock that begins at midnight at 0000 hours to 11:00 being 2300. Minutes and seconds operate the same as with normal time. For instance, 1:32 PM would be 1332 hours, or 8:27 AM would be 0827 hours.
This guide is directed towards those aiming to create a military character and give some ideas on how to flesh them out in more ways than just "I'm an infantryman" or "I'm a veteran that served in Afghanistan".
As a side note, know that I mean no disrespect to the current and former servicemen and women of the armed forces. In my belief, playing the role of soldier is far more difficult than people seem to think, and properly reflecting them in an accurate manner is far more respectful. Otherwise you just end up looking like one of the many Stolen Valor dunces caught on camera.
So, let's get started. (Know that this guide is still under construction.)
An Overview:
- 1 - The Basics
- 1.1 - U.S. Military Branches, Reserves, and National Guard
- 1.2 - Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) Code
- 1.3 - Rank, Promotion, and Time Requirements
- 1.4 - Contract Terms and Discharges
- 1.5 - Women in the Military
- 2 - What you SHOULD know
- 2.1 - Bootcamp and Schools
- 2.2 - Operating a Firearm, Military Style
- 2.3 - Unit Size and Composition
- 2.4 - Your Unit and Deployments
- 2.5 - Radio Chatter and NATO Phonetic Alphabet
- 2.6 - Military Time
- 3 - Enlisted Life
- 3.1 "Why We Serve" and How You Got Stuck Here
- 3.2 Disciplining the Undisciplined
- 3.3 A Day in the Life
- 3.4 Enlisted Sense of Humor
- 3.5 Being Wounded
- 4 - Officer Life
- 5 - Veterans and Leaving the Military
- 5.1 - So You Just Got Back Home
- 5.2 - Readjusting to Civilian Life
- 5.3 - Benefits and the VA
- 5.4 - On Depicting PTSD and other Issues
- 6 - Common Terminology, Acronyms, and Jargon
- 6.1 - Terminology and Acronyms
- 6.2 - Slang and Jargon
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1 - The Basics
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1.1 - U.S. Military Branches, Reserves, and National Guard
As to be expected of a country that pumps hundreds of billions of dollars into it, the United States Armed Forces is H U G E. No one organization could properly manage the various branches as a whole; as such, it is divided into five branches (six if you count the fledgling Space Force).
Unlike the Reserves, the Army National Guard and Air National Guard are under the command of their respective state governments. National Guardsmen, like reservists, are expected to fulfill a service commitment of one weekend a month and two weeks a year. They can be called up by the governor of a state in response to threats of violent civil disobedience, natural disasters, and other problems. However, in times of war, National Guard units can be federalized by the President and brought into full time active duty and sent to support federal military operations abroad.
As to be expected of a country that pumps hundreds of billions of dollars into it, the United States Armed Forces is H U G E. No one organization could properly manage the various branches as a whole; as such, it is divided into five branches (six if you count the fledgling Space Force).
- United States Army - Founded on June 14th, 1775, the US Army serves as the land based branch of the US military. It is the backbone of the US military and the nation's primary forces when engaged in a conflict. Represented with the largest set of occupations, ranging from the simple infantryman to armored, artillery, logistics, communications, and many more.
- United States Navy - Founded on October 13th, 1775, the US Navy serves as the naval warfare service branch of the US military. Its capabilities and size make it the largest naval power in the world, and since World War II, has been the de facto protectorate of free trade globally with fleets and ships found across the globe. Represented with a range of roles including sailors, airmen, and a variety of other choices.
- United States Marine Corps - Founded on November 10th, 1775, the USMC technically falls under the wing of the Department of the Navy since 1834. In the modern day, it engages in expeditionary and amphibious operations. Unlike other branches, due to the nature of marine operations, they are equipped with a variety of equipment used by all branches, ranging from small boats and tanks to helicopters and jets.
- United States Air Force - Founded on September 18th, 1947, the USAF strives to secure and maintain air superiority in the theaters of operations the US engages in. The USAF specializes in a variety of roles ranging from strike based operations to reconnaissance and intelligence gathering. They also provide aid in rescue operations for other branches where needed.
- United States Coast Guard - Founded on August 4th, 1790, the United States Coast Guard works in tandem with the navy to uphold maritime law (primarily in the coastal waters of the United States). Among other roles, the Coast Guard commonly fights drug trafficking and illegal aliens from entering the US via the ocean.
Unlike the Reserves, the Army National Guard and Air National Guard are under the command of their respective state governments. National Guardsmen, like reservists, are expected to fulfill a service commitment of one weekend a month and two weeks a year. They can be called up by the governor of a state in response to threats of violent civil disobedience, natural disasters, and other problems. However, in times of war, National Guard units can be federalized by the President and brought into full time active duty and sent to support federal military operations abroad.
1.2 - Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) Code
Each branch has a variety of roles and occupations that an individual can obtain. As said prior, not everyone is an infantryman on the front lines of combat. In fact, most servicemen are not. Infantrymen only make up 15% of the Army; 12% for the Marines.
The Armed Forces are like a giant clock, and each part is important in keeping it running. If you thought the man pulling the trigger was all that mattered, think again. Someone needed to feed the soldier, transport him to the frontline, construct cartridges, and so on. Although they may not seem as glamorous as infantryman, there are numerous roles to pick, and it could lead to some interesting interpretations of playing a military character that are more than just "infantryman".
All five branches make use of their own systems for job identification whilst in the military. A serviceman can have multiple specialties, meaning one is qualified in more than one job. If given multiple specialties, then their primary function is called a duty military occupational specialty (DMOS). You should know these like the back of your hand.
Each branch has a variety of roles and occupations that an individual can obtain. As said prior, not everyone is an infantryman on the front lines of combat. In fact, most servicemen are not. Infantrymen only make up 15% of the Army; 12% for the Marines.
The Armed Forces are like a giant clock, and each part is important in keeping it running. If you thought the man pulling the trigger was all that mattered, think again. Someone needed to feed the soldier, transport him to the frontline, construct cartridges, and so on. Although they may not seem as glamorous as infantryman, there are numerous roles to pick, and it could lead to some interesting interpretations of playing a military character that are more than just "infantryman".
All five branches make use of their own systems for job identification whilst in the military. A serviceman can have multiple specialties, meaning one is qualified in more than one job. If given multiple specialties, then their primary function is called a duty military occupational specialty (DMOS). You should know these like the back of your hand.
- Army - Military Occupational Specialty Code (MOSC) - MOS List, Enlisted Only MOS
- Navy - Combination of Navy Enlisted Classifications (NEC) and Naval Ratings System - Enlisted Ratings, NEC, Commissioned Officer Designators
- USMC - Military Occupation Specialty Code (MOSC) - MOS List
- Air Force - Air Force Specialty Codes (AFSC) - Enlisted AFSC, Officer AFSC
- Coast Guard - Coast Guard Ratings - Ratings List
1.3 - Rank, Promotion, and Time Requirements
One of the funniest things that I have seen during my time roleplaying is how some people believe they can blindly throw a rank on their character, no matter their age. No, you're not going to be a major at the age of 21 in the age of modern military bureaucracy. Experience and respect are earned over time; if you want to play a man or woman of higher rank, you're going to have to sacrifice youth for it. In general, the earliest someone can enlist is 17 (with parent's permission) or 18, whereas an officer will first go through college and enter military service at the age of 23.
Each Branch follows its own rank system denoted by different insignia and nomenclature. These are separated into three groups; enlisted, warrant officers, and commissioned officers, each with separate pay grades. The higher the rank, the more responsibilities entrusted upon the serviceman, and the higher the pay grade.
Enlisted and Officers are simple enough, but warrant officers deserve some explanation. Warrant officers are a separate group that rank above NCOs, officer candidates, cadets, and midshipmen, but below the lowest officer (O-1, or second lieutenant). Warrant officers are highly skilled, specialty officers dedicated to specific fields, serving as a technical expert and providing guidance and expertise to enlisted and commissioned officers alike. This ranges from knowing the ins and outs of tanks to helicopters and so on. In one anecdote, a Chief Warrant Officer with over 40 years of experience could tell just by listening to the noises an M1 Abrams passing by that there was a problem with the tank's transmission and that it would give out in five minutes if it wasn't replaced. They just know, that's how in depth their knowledge and expertise is. (Note that the USAF has not had WOs since the 1950s)
Who doesn't want to be promoted? Better rank, better pay, right? Whilst one has the option to refuse a promotion, the negatives usually outweigh the positives, especially considering the Army and Navy have policies that essentially remove one from the service should they go too long without promotion. So promotion is good. As one rises the ranks, promotions grow further apart and the responsibilities for the serviceman increase. From E-1 to E-4, promotion is practically guaranteed with good conduct. From E-5 (Sergeant) and upward, the serviceman must be a reviewed by a promotion board and selected for promotion. This page serves as a good breakdown of the process.
Promotion as an officer is far more competitive and rigorous, but offers greater opportunities, benefits, and pay. Based on one's deployments, he or she will be given numerous opportunities to distinguish themselves for promotion. It is through their conduct and effort that promotion boards will analyze and decide whether one will be given a promotion or not. This page offers a very loose breakdown, though further research is encouraged if you want to play a military officer properly, particularly higher ranked ones.
Finally of note, the mandatory retirement age for enlisted members (up until 2018) was 55. This was pushed up to 62, matching the mandatory retirement age for officers. Keep this in mind depending on what year the lore takes place. You can't be in the military forever...nor would you want to, to be honest.
One of the funniest things that I have seen during my time roleplaying is how some people believe they can blindly throw a rank on their character, no matter their age. No, you're not going to be a major at the age of 21 in the age of modern military bureaucracy. Experience and respect are earned over time; if you want to play a man or woman of higher rank, you're going to have to sacrifice youth for it. In general, the earliest someone can enlist is 17 (with parent's permission) or 18, whereas an officer will first go through college and enter military service at the age of 23.
Each Branch follows its own rank system denoted by different insignia and nomenclature. These are separated into three groups; enlisted, warrant officers, and commissioned officers, each with separate pay grades. The higher the rank, the more responsibilities entrusted upon the serviceman, and the higher the pay grade.
Enlisted and Officers are simple enough, but warrant officers deserve some explanation. Warrant officers are a separate group that rank above NCOs, officer candidates, cadets, and midshipmen, but below the lowest officer (O-1, or second lieutenant). Warrant officers are highly skilled, specialty officers dedicated to specific fields, serving as a technical expert and providing guidance and expertise to enlisted and commissioned officers alike. This ranges from knowing the ins and outs of tanks to helicopters and so on. In one anecdote, a Chief Warrant Officer with over 40 years of experience could tell just by listening to the noises an M1 Abrams passing by that there was a problem with the tank's transmission and that it would give out in five minutes if it wasn't replaced. They just know, that's how in depth their knowledge and expertise is. (Note that the USAF has not had WOs since the 1950s)
Who doesn't want to be promoted? Better rank, better pay, right? Whilst one has the option to refuse a promotion, the negatives usually outweigh the positives, especially considering the Army and Navy have policies that essentially remove one from the service should they go too long without promotion. So promotion is good. As one rises the ranks, promotions grow further apart and the responsibilities for the serviceman increase. From E-1 to E-4, promotion is practically guaranteed with good conduct. From E-5 (Sergeant) and upward, the serviceman must be a reviewed by a promotion board and selected for promotion. This page serves as a good breakdown of the process.
Promotion as an officer is far more competitive and rigorous, but offers greater opportunities, benefits, and pay. Based on one's deployments, he or she will be given numerous opportunities to distinguish themselves for promotion. It is through their conduct and effort that promotion boards will analyze and decide whether one will be given a promotion or not. This page offers a very loose breakdown, though further research is encouraged if you want to play a military officer properly, particularly higher ranked ones.
Finally of note, the mandatory retirement age for enlisted members (up until 2018) was 55. This was pushed up to 62, matching the mandatory retirement age for officers. Keep this in mind depending on what year the lore takes place. You can't be in the military forever...nor would you want to, to be honest.
1.4 - Contract Terms and Discharges
I hope you're ready to sign the dotted line, cause we're ready to discuss term contracts. How exciting. All branches use the same enlistment contract, the DD Form 4/1. One thing to quickly note, if the recruiter made promises about bonuses, a free car, whatever, and that is not in the form, congrats buddy, you just sold your ass to the military's bottomless pit of a soul for eight years. Hope you're ready for PT.
Contrary to popular belief, you can't enlist for just 4 years. The minimum obligation for non-prior service enlistments is eight years, and the military is going to get its use from you. Though you may only spend four years on active duty, you will spend the remainder of your obligation in the inactive reserves for the other four years.
In general, the most common enlistment options follow four, five, and six year active duties with the respective remainder in the inactive reserves. The Air Force only offers four and six year options. Unlike other jobs one cannot quit the military; in most cases, once you're in, you're in, and only extraordinary circumstances are going to lead to you leaving prior to completion of your enlistment obligation.
When one's obligations have finally come to an end, they are officially discharged from the military. There are a slew of different cases where one may be discharged from the military.
I hope you're ready to sign the dotted line, cause we're ready to discuss term contracts. How exciting. All branches use the same enlistment contract, the DD Form 4/1. One thing to quickly note, if the recruiter made promises about bonuses, a free car, whatever, and that is not in the form, congrats buddy, you just sold your ass to the military's bottomless pit of a soul for eight years. Hope you're ready for PT.
Contrary to popular belief, you can't enlist for just 4 years. The minimum obligation for non-prior service enlistments is eight years, and the military is going to get its use from you. Though you may only spend four years on active duty, you will spend the remainder of your obligation in the inactive reserves for the other four years.
In general, the most common enlistment options follow four, five, and six year active duties with the respective remainder in the inactive reserves. The Air Force only offers four and six year options. Unlike other jobs one cannot quit the military; in most cases, once you're in, you're in, and only extraordinary circumstances are going to lead to you leaving prior to completion of your enlistment obligation.
When one's obligations have finally come to an end, they are officially discharged from the military. There are a slew of different cases where one may be discharged from the military.
- Honorable Discharge - The most common military discharge, it indicates the serviceman performed his or her duties well, faithfully executed the overarching mission, and was an asset to the military.
- General Discharge Under Honorable Conditions - This type of discharge denotes that whilst the serviceman performed well in some areas, others were mired by misconduct or failure, resulting in such a discharge. Not as bad as a DD, it can still lead to some problems with employment and potentially hinder future military service.
- Other Than Honorable Discharge - The most severe of discharges that doesn't require a court martial. Reasons vary on the severity of offenses, how the particularly branch traditionally handles said issues, and other possible variables. This will most likely bar all future military service.
- Bad Conduct Discharge - Come from the result of a court martial and can be followed up with prison time depending on the severity and nature of the conduct. This is a barrier to future military service as well as a number of military benefits.
- Dishonorable Discharge - The most punitive of all military discharges and is the result of a successful court martial. Desertion, murder, fraud, and other crimes performed in uniform can result in a tribunal and court martial leading to a DD. No military benefits or future military service is possible under said discharge.
- Entry-Level Discharge - A recruit that cannot complete Basic, adapt to the military environment, or is unwilling to complete training is given an Entry-Level Discharge. These are not considered good or bad, with the recruit not eligible for veteran status and not eligible for military benefits.
- Medical Discharge - Given to service members who become too sick or injured to the point where they cannot fulfill their military duties. The process may be lengthy Those who receive a medical discharge are allowed to apply to Veteran's Affairs for service connected medical issues.
- Separation for Convenience of the Government - A rare discharge, this discharge comes about when a situation that requires a separation of a new recruit or military member "for the convenience of the government" and is done at the discretion of the branch service involved.
Worried about girls playing soldier? Well don't be! To some's surprise, women have a long history working alongside their male military counterparts, even if they themselves weren't considered soldiers. From the American Revolution to World War II, numerous women served as nurses, tailors, and took up jobs that were abandoned by men headed for the front. In World War II, nearly 350,000 women served in uniform. And their efforts were essential to each and every conflict; and it didn't go unnoticed. In 1948, women (of all races, following Truman's desegregation of the military) finally gained the right to serve as full members of all branches of the US Armed Forces.
Despite this, it'd be premature to call them equals -- women were restricted from many roles. It'd take Vietnam for shifting policy; by 1973, more roles opened to women and they could attain the rank of general/admiral. Throughout the latter half of the 20th century, many barriers were broken, and many more entered military service; whereas ~42,000 served in 1973, more than 166,000 served in 2010 (making up 2% and 14% of enlisted armed forces personnel respectively). Female officers saw a similar trend over the decades. Today women serve distinctly in all branches, from Army tankers to Navy captains, Air Force combat pilots to Marine cannoneers.
So roleplaying as a woman in the military is entirely viable; however the potential roles they're allowed to take will vary based on the date of the lore and admin discretion. Some important dates to note:
One final thing you may want to consider when creating a female serviceman is gender discrimination and sexual harassment towards women in the military. Although the situation has improved significantly, it's still a prevalent issue. The first survey on sexual harassment in 1988 found that 64% of military women had been subjected to sexual harassment of some form. In 2007 it was found that 25% of active duty women personnel were likely to be sexually assaulted in some form. Though these acts are severely punishable, many are dissuaded from reporting and instead fall into a 'code of silence', expecting little will come from it, and instead only make things worse. For those that do report, often enough nothing does come of it.
This is tough, but real subject that you may want to incorporate into a character's backstory. Sexual assault on your character will likely lead to a number of potential problems, including PTSD, depression, substance abuse and other issues, physically and mentally. It can serve as something to help build your character, but it is important to do proper research and treat the subject with respect.
Despite this, it'd be premature to call them equals -- women were restricted from many roles. It'd take Vietnam for shifting policy; by 1973, more roles opened to women and they could attain the rank of general/admiral. Throughout the latter half of the 20th century, many barriers were broken, and many more entered military service; whereas ~42,000 served in 1973, more than 166,000 served in 2010 (making up 2% and 14% of enlisted armed forces personnel respectively). Female officers saw a similar trend over the decades. Today women serve distinctly in all branches, from Army tankers to Navy captains, Air Force combat pilots to Marine cannoneers.
So roleplaying as a woman in the military is entirely viable; however the potential roles they're allowed to take will vary based on the date of the lore and admin discretion. Some important dates to note:
- 1976: First group of women admitted into U.S. Military Academy (West Point), graduating in 1980
- 1983: Over 100 women serve in a combat zone during Operation Urgent Fury in Grenada
- 1990/91: Around 40,000 women deployed for Gulf War operations
- 1994: Policy prohibits women from assignment to ground combat units below the brigade level -- women were still allowed to participate as combat pilots and on ships
- 1994: Don't Ask Don't Tell goes into effect, barring openly gay, lesbian, and bisexual people from serving in the military -- the policy was eventually repealed in 2011.
- 2015: The ban on women serving in direct combat roles is lifted, allowing them
One final thing you may want to consider when creating a female serviceman is gender discrimination and sexual harassment towards women in the military. Although the situation has improved significantly, it's still a prevalent issue. The first survey on sexual harassment in 1988 found that 64% of military women had been subjected to sexual harassment of some form. In 2007 it was found that 25% of active duty women personnel were likely to be sexually assaulted in some form. Though these acts are severely punishable, many are dissuaded from reporting and instead fall into a 'code of silence', expecting little will come from it, and instead only make things worse. For those that do report, often enough nothing does come of it.
This is tough, but real subject that you may want to incorporate into a character's backstory. Sexual assault on your character will likely lead to a number of potential problems, including PTSD, depression, substance abuse and other issues, physically and mentally. It can serve as something to help build your character, but it is important to do proper research and treat the subject with respect.
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2 - What You SHOULD Know
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2.1 - Bootcamp and Schools
Signing a paper and enlisting in your branch of choice is easy. Now comes the hard part. Once you've enlisted and taken your Military Entrance Processing Station (MEPS) and Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) testing, you will be assigned to your branch's respective boot camp and basic training (generally the base closest to you at time of enlistment). The duration of this training period ranges from 7 weeks (Navy) to 12 weeks (Marines). It is here where recruits will undergo physical training, learn drill and ceremony, conduct troop movements and weapons training, and go through live fire field training exercises amongst a variety of other soldier building exercises. I recommend going to /r/MilitaryStories and reading some bootcamp stories to get an idea of some of the things that went on. Feel free to incorporate some of them even. It'll make things amusing.
Signing a paper and enlisting in your branch of choice is easy. Now comes the hard part. Once you've enlisted and taken your Military Entrance Processing Station (MEPS) and Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) testing, you will be assigned to your branch's respective boot camp and basic training (generally the base closest to you at time of enlistment). The duration of this training period ranges from 7 weeks (Navy) to 12 weeks (Marines). It is here where recruits will undergo physical training, learn drill and ceremony, conduct troop movements and weapons training, and go through live fire field training exercises amongst a variety of other soldier building exercises. I recommend going to /r/MilitaryStories and reading some bootcamp stories to get an idea of some of the things that went on. Feel free to incorporate some of them even. It'll make things amusing.
- Army Basic Combat Training - 10 Weeks - Locations: Fort Benning, GA, Fort Jackson, SC, Fort Leonard Wood, MO, Fort Sill, OK.
- Marine Corps Recruit Training - 12 Weeks - Locations: Marine Corps Recruit Depot, Parris Island, SC, Marine Corps Recruit Depot, San Diego, CA.
- Navy Boot Camp - 7 to 9 Weeks - Location: Great Lakes Recruit Training Depot, IL.
- Air Force Basic Military Training - 8.5 Weeks - Location: Lackland Air Force Base, TX.
- Coast Guard Recruit Training - 8 Weeks - Location: Cape May Coast Guard Training Center, NJ.
- US Army Officer Candidate School- 12 Weeks - Fort Benning, GA.
- Upon completion and commission as 2LT, graduates attend the rest of their Basic Officer Leadership courses.
- USMC Officer Candidates School- 10 Weeks - Marine Corps Base Quantico, VA.
- Upon graduation, all newly commissioned Marine 2ndLT go to The Basic School (TBS) before training for their MOS.
- US Navy Officer Candidate School- 12 Weeks - Naval Station Newport, RI.
- Upon completion, candidates are commissioned as Ensigns and become eligible for orders to fleet or further training.
- USAF Officer Training School- Three Courses Offered - Maxwell Air Force Base, AL.
- Basic Officer Training (BOT) - 9 Weeks - Designed for those seeking commission in USAF. Upon completion, commissioned as 2d LT
- Commissioned Officer Training (COT) - 5 Weeks - Introduction to the USAF for those directly commissioned in the USAF, mostly chaplains, doctors, and lawyers.
- Academy of Military Science (AMS) - 6 Weeks - Covers same info as BOT and COT but provides information on Air National Guard. Upon completion, candidates receive the oath of office alongside state and federal commissions as 2d LTs.
- Coast Guard Officer Candidate School- 17 Weeks - U.S. Coast Guard Academy, CN.
- Upon completion, candidates are commissioned as Ensigns and can report to Coast Guard cutters, sectors, or flight training.
2.2 - Operating a Firearm, Military Style
Operating a firearm should be easy, right? Just point and shoot at your target until you're the only one left. Unfortunately life's never so simple, and if there's one thing the military emphasizes no matter what, it's safety (ironic, I know). The armed forces, particularly the Army have a knack for making things as idiot proof as possible, so as to avoid costly incidents that can hinder operations, which leads to some amusing ironies (look up PT Belt Memes).
At Basic, new recruits will undergo three training phases to learn how to operate and accurately use their equipment.
Phase 1 goes over the basics of firearms safety and training on how to disassemble, clean, and reassemble the weapon. One will learn how to safely load and unload magazines and weaponry, correcting malfunctions, and more. Moreover, soldiers practice and develop an understanding for the four fundamentals of marksmanship:
Here's a link to an early 2000s slideshow made for the Marines on proper pistol handling, maneuvering and safety. This should give some visual aid to what your character should know in terms of firearms safety. Even if there are some fuck ups that negligently discharge their weapon, they're very few in number because of how hard the military drills safety. I also recommend looking up operation of the M16/M4 online.
Phase 3 is the qualification course is completed by passing the minimum standards, shooting targets from the supported prone, unsupported prone, and kneeling position.
Standard small arms in the US military's arsenal. These are the basic arms that you'd be expected to know at a glance. Keep in mind the adoption date. If the lore is set prior to that, then it hasn't been chosen by the military at that point. Keep in mind that it takes time for the military to transition to newly adopted firearm; the US Army still had units using the M1911 into the 90s, for example, and despite adopting the M17 in 2017, a large number of military units, particularly reserve and National Guard units still make use of the M9. Research at your own discretion.
Operating a firearm should be easy, right? Just point and shoot at your target until you're the only one left. Unfortunately life's never so simple, and if there's one thing the military emphasizes no matter what, it's safety (ironic, I know). The armed forces, particularly the Army have a knack for making things as idiot proof as possible, so as to avoid costly incidents that can hinder operations, which leads to some amusing ironies (look up PT Belt Memes).
At Basic, new recruits will undergo three training phases to learn how to operate and accurately use their equipment.
Phase 1 goes over the basics of firearms safety and training on how to disassemble, clean, and reassemble the weapon. One will learn how to safely load and unload magazines and weaponry, correcting malfunctions, and more. Moreover, soldiers practice and develop an understanding for the four fundamentals of marksmanship:
- Steady Position - Learn to properly grip and handle the weapon in firing and non-firing stances, as well as support the weapon and relax one's muscles.
- Eye Focus - Learn the fundamentals of aiming, including sight alignment and proper eye focus, as well as establishing and maintaining sight picture
- Breath Control - Knowing and practicing control of one's breathing. One should fire after exhaling, when the body is the most steady. Breathing will cause minor convulsions and movements whilst firing, harming accuracy.
- Trigger Squeeze - Practicing squeezing the trigger instead of directly pulling the trigger. Pulling on the trigger uses far more force and will in turn lead to wobbling and the weapon shifting about, harming accuracy.
- Treat every weapon as if it's loaded, even if you know it isn't.
- Handle every weapon with care, knowing the direction the muzzle is pointing.
- Identify the target before you fire, as well as what lies behind the target.
- Never point the muzzle at anything you don't intend to destroy.
- Keep the weapon on safe and finger off the trigger until you intend to shoot.
Here's a link to an early 2000s slideshow made for the Marines on proper pistol handling, maneuvering and safety. This should give some visual aid to what your character should know in terms of firearms safety. Even if there are some fuck ups that negligently discharge their weapon, they're very few in number because of how hard the military drills safety. I also recommend looking up operation of the M16/M4 online.
Phase 3 is the qualification course is completed by passing the minimum standards, shooting targets from the supported prone, unsupported prone, and kneeling position.
Standard small arms in the US military's arsenal. These are the basic arms that you'd be expected to know at a glance. Keep in mind the adoption date. If the lore is set prior to that, then it hasn't been chosen by the military at that point. Keep in mind that it takes time for the military to transition to newly adopted firearm; the US Army still had units using the M1911 into the 90s, for example, and despite adopting the M17 in 2017, a large number of military units, particularly reserve and National Guard units still make use of the M9. Research at your own discretion.
- Handguns
- M9 - Beretta semi-automatic pistol. - Adopted in 1985, chambered in 9x19 Parabellum - uses 15 round box magazines.
- M11 - Sig Sauer semi-automatic pistol. - Adopted in 1992, chambered in 9x19 Parabellum - uses 13 round box magazines. More compact and intended for use with a small number of units in the Army, Air Force, and Navy.
- M17 - Sig Sauer semi-automatic pistol. - Adopted in 2017, chambered in 9x19 Parabellum - uses 17 or 21 round box magazines. More modular, capable of mounting a backup optic, light, suppressor for various operations.
- M18 - Sig Sauer semi-automatic pistol. - Adopted in 2018, chambered in 9x19 Parabellum - uses 17 or 21 round box magazines. The same as the M17 but in a smaller, more compact package.
- Assault Rifles
- M16A2 - Colt semi/burst fire assault rifle. - Adopted in 1986, chambered in 5.56x45 NATO - uses 30 round box magazines. Improved upon the M16A1 with a new adjustable rear sight, heavier barrel, improved handguard, pistol grip, and butt stock.
- M16A4 - Colt semi/burst fire assault rifle. - Adopted in 1997, chambered in 5.56x45 NATO - uses 30 round box magazines. Improved upon the M16A2 with a picatinny rail on the upper receiver and handguard for mounting optics and other devices.
- M4A1 Carbine - (Various Manufacturers) semi/full auto fire carbine. - Adopted in 1994, chambered in 5.56x45 NATO - uses 30 round box magazines. Carbine with telescoping stock capable of taking a variety of customization add ons and features. Equipped with an ambidextrous fire control and a heavier barrel that provides a sustained rate of fire.
- M27 IAR - HK semi/full auto fire assault rifle - Adopted in 2010 in limited numbers, began replacing M16/M4 in 2018. USED EXCLUSIVELY BY USMC. Chambered in 5.56x45 NATO - Uses 30 round box magazines. Intended as an automatic rifle, the IAR has increased ability to put out sustained fire without stoppage, overheating, and accuracy loss in comparison to the M4/M4A1
- Machine Guns
- M249 SAW - FN Herstal semi/full auto fire machine gun. - Adopted in 1984, chambered in 5.56x45 NATO - Uses a 200 round linked belt or 30 round box magazines. The squad automatic weapon is generally used to provide suppression fire to enemy positions. It has a collapsible buttstock that allows for firing in extended and collapsed positions and a shorter barrel for maneuvering in close-quarter combat.
- M240 - FN Herstal semi/full auto fire machine gun. - Adopted in 1977, chambered in 7.62x51 NATO - Uses a 200 round linked belt. Reconfigured for ground applications with buttstock, bipod, iron sights, and forward rail assemblies.
- M2HB - Browning full-auto fire machine gun. - Adopted in 1933, chambered in .50 BMG - Belt Fed, available either mounted on vehicles or on a tripod. Too heavy to carry on one's own.
- DMR/Sniper Rifles
- M24 SWS - Remington bolt action sniper rifle - Adopted in 1988, chambered in 7.62x51 NATO - 5 round internal magazine or 5 round detachable box magazine. Mounted with day optic with adjustable magnification, metallic iron sights, deployment kit, cleaning kit, and an optional bipod.
- M107 - Barrett Semi-Automatic Sniper Rifle - Adopted in 2002, chambered in .50 BMG - Uses 5 or 10 round detachable box magazines. Capable of delivering accurate fire out to 2000 meters. Highly modular, and capable of use in anti-personnel, anti-materiel, counter-sniping and numerous other operations.
- M110 SASS - Knight's Armament Company Semi-Automatic DMR/Sniper Rifle - Adopted in 2007, chambered in 7.62x51 NATO - Uses 10 or 20 round detachable box magazines. It's an anti-personnel and light materiel weapon and is highly modular, including suppressor mounting capabilities.
- M110A1 CSASS - HK Semi-Automatic DMR/Sniper Rifle - Adopted in 2016, chambered in 7.62x51 NATO - Uses 10 or 20 round detachable box magazines. Replacing the M110 SASS, it is intended to fulfill the same role, being lighter and capable of mounting new optics and accessories.
- Shotguns
- M37 - Ithaca Pump-Action Shotgun - Adopted in the 1942, chambered in 12ga - Uses a 5 round tube magazine. Reliable and available in several versions. Used primarily in military police work and with breaching teams.
- M1014 - Benelli Semi-Automatic Shotgun - Adopted in 1998, chambered in 12ga - Uses a 7 round tube magazine, +1 in the chamber. Using a new gas system, the M1014 is capable of high reliability in a semi auto shotgun. It's highly modular, with adjustable ghost ring sights or mounting of optics alongside an adjustable stock.
2.3 Unit Size and Composition
Unit size and composition is pretty self explanatory. This is going to be a quick overview of typical units, their size, commanders, and so on. Since armor, aircraft, and ships do not exist in Project Zomboid, I will not cover what those types of units look like, but you should take a quick look into that hierarchy if you're say, a pilot.
Unit size and composition is pretty self explanatory. This is going to be a quick overview of typical units, their size, commanders, and so on. Since armor, aircraft, and ships do not exist in Project Zomboid, I will not cover what those types of units look like, but you should take a quick look into that hierarchy if you're say, a pilot.
- Fireteam- Consists of four members lead by a Team Leader (TL), usually sergeant (E-5) or corporal (E-4). The general fireteam is made up of:
- Team Leader (TL) - Provides tactical leadership and uses the GPS and Radio. Equipped with M16/M4
- Rifleman (R) - Standard infantryman with M16/M4
- Grenadier Rifleman (GR) - Standard infantryman equipped with an M16/M4 with an M203 or M320 Grenade Launcher.
- Automatic Rifleman (AR) - Provides overwatch and suppressive fire. Equipped with an M249 LMG.
- The USMC is similar in size; differences include the TL has the grenade launcher, and the AR equipped with an M27 IAR and serving as second in command instead of an M249 (ONLY IF POST 2018). Instead of a GR, the fourth soldier is an Assistant Automatic Rifleman and provides spotting support, carries extra ammunition, and offers close protection.
- Squads
- Army - Organized into two fireteams under one squad leader (SL) for a total of 9 men. SL is a staff sergeant (E-6)
- USMC - Rifleman squad organized into three fireteams of four Marines and an SL for a total of 13 men. SL is a sergeant (E-5) or a corporal (E-4)
- Platoon
- Army - Composed of 42 soldiers. Consist of three rifle squads, one weapon squad, and a six man HQ
- HQ Consists of Platoon Leader (PL) a 2nd lieutenant (O-1), Platoon Sergeant (PSG), a radio operator (RTO), a forward observer (FO), the FO's RTO, and the platoon medic.
- USMC - Rifle platoon composed of 43 Marines. Consist of three rifle squads, though in a defence will be augented with a two man mortar team and reinforced by a machine gun squad or assault weapons squad.
- HQ consists of Platoon Commander, usually a 2nd lieutenant (O-1), a Platoon Sergeant (PSG) a staff sergeant (E-6), a Platoon Guide, a sergeant (E-5), and a messenger (E-2 or E-3)
- Army - Composed of 42 soldiers. Consist of three rifle squads, one weapon squad, and a six man HQ
- Company
- Army - Infantry company is composed of at most 200 soldiers. Consists of three rifle platoons and a heavy weapons platoon.
- Usually commanded by a Captain (O-3) and accompanied by support staff, such as an Executive Officer (XO), first sergeant, and so on.
- USMC - Rifle Company is composed of 243 Marines. Consists of three Rifle Platoons, a Weapons Platoon, and can be augmented with other attachments based on the operation.
- Company HQ is usually commanded by a Captain (O-3) and consists of an Executive Officer (XO, O-2), a First Sergeant (E-8), a Gunnery Sergeant (E-7), Property NCO (E-5) and a Messenger/Driver (E-1 - E-3)
- Called a battery in artillery units and a troop in cavalry units.
- Army - Infantry company is composed of at most 200 soldiers. Consists of three rifle platoons and a heavy weapons platoon.
- Battalion
- Army - A battalion is comprised of typically 500 - 600 but a maximum of 1000 soldiers. Consists of HQ and two to six companies.
- HQ consists of a Battalion Commander (O-5), Executive Officer (O-4), Command Sergeant Major, and further staff.
- USMC - A battalion is usually comprised of 729 Marines. Typically consists of three companies and a weapons company.
- HQ Consists of a commanding officer (O-5), XO (O-4), Sergeant Major, and Executive Staff.
- Infantry Battalions are organized into Battalion Landing Teams (BLT) as the ground combat elements of a Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU). and are typically supported by artillery battery and a platoon each of tanks, amphibious assault vehicles, light armored reconnaissance vehicles, reconnaissance marines, and combat engineers.
- Army - A battalion is comprised of typically 500 - 600 but a maximum of 1000 soldiers. Consists of HQ and two to six companies.
- Regiment
- Army - Army regiments were disbanded in 1957. By 2015, the only unit still organized as a regiment was the 75th Ranger Regiment.
- USMC - An infantry regiment is usually comprised of 2,187 Marines. It typically consists of a regimental Headquarters and Service Company (H&S Co) and three rifle battalions.
- HQ is lead by a Colonel (O-6)
- Brigade
- Army - In 2013, the Army moved from Brigades to Brigade Combat Teams (BCTs), wherein each brigade contains both combat elements and their support units. Following this reform, the number each is comprised of between 4,400 and 4,700 personnel.
- Commanded by a colonel (O-6)
- USMC - Designated Marine Expeditionary Brigades (MEBs) and made up of between 3,000 and 4,000 soldiers. They consist of three regimental sized units and a command element.
- Commanded by a Brigadier General (O-7)
- Army - In 2013, the Army moved from Brigades to Brigade Combat Teams (BCTs), wherein each brigade contains both combat elements and their support units. Following this reform, the number each is comprised of between 4,400 and 4,700 personnel.
- Division
- Army - An Army division is usually comprised of 17,000 to 21,000 soldiers, but can be augmented with support units, boosting its size to 35 - 40,000 soldiers. They are commanded by a major general (O-8)
- USMC - A Marine division is usually comprised of 6,561 Marines. The USMC has three active divisions and one reserve divisions, each consisting of one HQ Battalion, two or three infantry regiments, an artillery regiment, and a recon battalion. They are commanded by a major general (O-8)
- All Marine Divisions except 3rd MARDIV have an assault amphibian battalion, a tank battalion, a light armored recon battalion, and a combat engineer battalion. 3rd MARDIV instead has a combat assault battalion.
- Corps
- Army - The US Army uses administrative corps, known as Army Branches, to group personnel of common function. There are over 20 corps with a variety of functions, ranging from the Chaplain Corps to the Military Police Corps. They typically consist of 20,000 to 45,000 soldiers and are commanded by a lieutenant general (O-9)
- Army Corps can be reactivated and deactivated as needed. As of 2020, there are only four active Operational Theater Corps: I Corps, II Corps, V Corps, and XVIII Airborne Corps
- USMC - The US Marine Corps is comprised of all USMC combat forces, totaling about 27,000 Marines. It is led by the Commandant of the USMC, a four year position appointed by the president from the USMC's Generals.
-
- Carl E Mundy Jr - 1991 to 1995
- Charles C. Krulak - 1995 to 1999
- James L. Jones - 1999 to 2003
- Michael W. Hagee - 2003 to 2006
- James T. Conway - 2006 to 2010
- James F. Amos - 2010 to 2014
- Joseph Dunford - 2014 to 2015
- Robert Neller - 2015 to 2019
- David H. Berger - 2019 to Present
- Army - The US Army uses administrative corps, known as Army Branches, to group personnel of common function. There are over 20 corps with a variety of functions, ranging from the Chaplain Corps to the Military Police Corps. They typically consist of 20,000 to 45,000 soldiers and are commanded by a lieutenant general (O-9)
- Field Army
- The largest unit in the Army, there are currently seven field armies in existence and are divided based upon their locations and where they are headquartered. They're commanded by Lieutenant Generals (O-9) or Generals (O-10)
- First Army, US Army Forces Command - Rock Island Arsenal, Rock Island, Illinois, United States.
- United States Army Central (Third Army/ARCENT) - Shaw AFB, Sumter, South Carolina
- United States Army North (Fifth Army/ARNORTH) - Fort Sam Houston, Texas
- United States Army South (Sixth Army) - Fort Sam Houston, Texas
- United States Army Europe (Seventh Army) - Wiesbaden, Germany
- United States Army Korea (Eighth Army) - US Army Garrison Humphreys, Pyeongtaek, South Korea
- United States Army Africa (Ninth Army) - Caserma Carlo Ederle, Italy
- The largest unit in the Army, there are currently seven field armies in existence and are divided based upon their locations and where they are headquartered. They're commanded by Lieutenant Generals (O-9) or Generals (O-10)
2.4 - Your Unit and Deployments
If you've seen any Stolen Valor clips, you know one of the key things that any servicemen will know by heart is which unit he or she served with, whether they have deployed, and where. Though one may not know or remember every village they passed through, locations of bases, major cities nearby, battles, and major operations will no doubt be ingrained by the time personnel leave the military. Make sure to do some research and have a small cheat sheet typed for yourself.
As denoted in the MOS Section, there are hundreds of potential specialties servicemen are assigned. Some can be embedded with near any type of unit; a motor transport operator (88M) can be assigned to a variety of different units.
This timeline serves as a good overview of major US military operations throughout the nation's history and a great jumping off point for digging deeper into where your character and his or her unit may have served. This of course assumes that your character would have been deployed in the first place. Always make sure to look at the size of the operation. If your character wasn't a member of the 75th Rangers or Delta Force, it is very unlikely that they were there for the 1993 Battle of Mogadishu.
Something important to note about deployments: the vast majority of military personnel never see combat, and most deployments are not to countries actively at war. "1% of the population of the US will serve in the military. 1% of the military is combat arms. 10% of combat arms will ever see combat." Know that your character doesn't have to see combat on their deployment to be interesting. Perhaps think about what they may do or learn during their deployment instead of fighting. That can help lead to a richer and more interesting roleplaying experience for both yourself and other players interacting with your character.
The most common nations US servicemen are deployed to (as of the end of 2019) are as follows:
If you've seen any Stolen Valor clips, you know one of the key things that any servicemen will know by heart is which unit he or she served with, whether they have deployed, and where. Though one may not know or remember every village they passed through, locations of bases, major cities nearby, battles, and major operations will no doubt be ingrained by the time personnel leave the military. Make sure to do some research and have a small cheat sheet typed for yourself.
As denoted in the MOS Section, there are hundreds of potential specialties servicemen are assigned. Some can be embedded with near any type of unit; a motor transport operator (88M) can be assigned to a variety of different units.
This timeline serves as a good overview of major US military operations throughout the nation's history and a great jumping off point for digging deeper into where your character and his or her unit may have served. This of course assumes that your character would have been deployed in the first place. Always make sure to look at the size of the operation. If your character wasn't a member of the 75th Rangers or Delta Force, it is very unlikely that they were there for the 1993 Battle of Mogadishu.
Something important to note about deployments: the vast majority of military personnel never see combat, and most deployments are not to countries actively at war. "1% of the population of the US will serve in the military. 1% of the military is combat arms. 10% of combat arms will ever see combat." Know that your character doesn't have to see combat on their deployment to be interesting. Perhaps think about what they may do or learn during their deployment instead of fighting. That can help lead to a richer and more interesting roleplaying experience for both yourself and other players interacting with your character.
The most common nations US servicemen are deployed to (as of the end of 2019) are as follows:
- Americas
- Contiguous United States - 1,120,661 in total
- Alaska - 19,510 in total
- Cuba - 808 in total
- East Asia/Southeast Asia/Pacific
- Japan - 57,094 in total
- Hawaii - 42,386 in total
- South Korea - 26,643 in total
- Europe
- Germany - 34,668 in total
- Italy - 12,486 in total
- United Kingdom - 9,299 in total
- Middle East (approximate)
- Afghanistan - 14,000
- Qatar - 13,000
- Kuwait - 13,000
- Bahrain - 7,000
- Iraq - 6,000
2.5 - Radio Chatter and NATO Phonetic Alphabet
Properly speaking on military frequencies is probably one of the most misunderstood aspects of the military, whether it be callsigns or how one speaks on the radio. This is due in large part to Hollywood misconceptions. Alongside this, you absolutely must know the NATO Phonetic Alphabet (or at least have a tab of it on hand).
Before going forward, lets talk about callsigns. Unless you're an Air Force pilot, you don't really get a personal callsign (and even then, it usually will not be something cool. No 'Mavericks' or 'Icemans'). Instead, the callsign applies to one's unit, starting from the platoon level.
Michael Peacock does a good job explaining it HERE. A proper guide is also provided HERE
Unit call signs don't follow a particular scheme overall and generally change with each operation. Generally the only individuals that will receive a specific tactical callsign for themselves are unit commanders, alongside a name that denotes that position, such as 'Godfather' or 'Overlord'.
Some names your character's unit could use include as a tactical callsign:
Aries, Baker, Checkmate, Dingo, Eerie, Foxhound, Grendel, Hilltop, Indigo, Jackson, and so on.
Callsigns also apply to certain members of the company or platoon. For example, the company commander's callsign would be "Aries Actual". Contacting just "Aries" would patch you through to his Radio Telephone Operator (RTO). "Aries 1 Actual" would be first platoon leader, "Aries 2 Actual" would be second platoon's leader and so on.
One of the main rules of thumb when talking on the radio is "Hey you, this is me". When you're calling someone on comms, you first announce the call sign of the person you're calling and then your own call sign so they know who to respond to.
Ex. "Warthog 2-1, this is Warthog 2-2, over..." (Warthog 2-2 is calling for Warthog 2-1)
"Warthog 2-2, this is Warthog 2-1, over..." (Warthog 2-1 responds, Warthog 2-2 knows that he is listening an can send his/her transmission.)
This is how the beginning of every official conversation will start in the military. Next comes the transmission of the message. Some things to keep in mind:
Finally, be aware of the NATO Phonetic Alphabet. It is used ubiquitously throughout the military, replacing letters with set words to help more clearly spell out words, acronyms, and codes over the radio. A lot of slang is akso based on it, such as "tango yankee" (Thank you), "Oscar Mike" (On the move) or "Alpha Mike Foxtrot" (Adios, motherfucker). It can be found here.
Properly speaking on military frequencies is probably one of the most misunderstood aspects of the military, whether it be callsigns or how one speaks on the radio. This is due in large part to Hollywood misconceptions. Alongside this, you absolutely must know the NATO Phonetic Alphabet (or at least have a tab of it on hand).
Before going forward, lets talk about callsigns. Unless you're an Air Force pilot, you don't really get a personal callsign (and even then, it usually will not be something cool. No 'Mavericks' or 'Icemans'). Instead, the callsign applies to one's unit, starting from the platoon level.
Michael Peacock does a good job explaining it HERE. A proper guide is also provided HERE
Unit call signs don't follow a particular scheme overall and generally change with each operation. Generally the only individuals that will receive a specific tactical callsign for themselves are unit commanders, alongside a name that denotes that position, such as 'Godfather' or 'Overlord'.
Some names your character's unit could use include as a tactical callsign:
Aries, Baker, Checkmate, Dingo, Eerie, Foxhound, Grendel, Hilltop, Indigo, Jackson, and so on.
Callsigns also apply to certain members of the company or platoon. For example, the company commander's callsign would be "Aries Actual". Contacting just "Aries" would patch you through to his Radio Telephone Operator (RTO). "Aries 1 Actual" would be first platoon leader, "Aries 2 Actual" would be second platoon's leader and so on.
One of the main rules of thumb when talking on the radio is "Hey you, this is me". When you're calling someone on comms, you first announce the call sign of the person you're calling and then your own call sign so they know who to respond to.
Ex. "Warthog 2-1, this is Warthog 2-2, over..." (Warthog 2-2 is calling for Warthog 2-1)
"Warthog 2-2, this is Warthog 2-1, over..." (Warthog 2-1 responds, Warthog 2-2 knows that he is listening an can send his/her transmission.)
This is how the beginning of every official conversation will start in the military. Next comes the transmission of the message. Some things to keep in mind:
- NEVER say another soldier's name or rank, ALWAYS use their callsign. It keeps things organized, especially in the chaos that can come in the theatre of operations.
- NEVER say repeat. If you need someone to repeat their last message, you will say something like "say again," or "say again last transmission". Reason for this being if you are calling a fire order (airstrike/artillery strike) and you ask the FO to "repeat that", he or she may believe you want to repeat the fire mission.
- When sending a long transmission, occasionally say BREAK, releasing the radio for a few seconds before pressing it again and continuing the transmission. This is so someone trying to send important info can send it up and so you aren't blocking the frequency.
- NOBODY says "Over and out". It is a Hollywood fabrication.
- Only the person who began the transmission can call "Out".
- At the end of a transmission, there are multiple things that you can say to cue the person you're talking to on what comes next:
- Over - This means you await the other person's reply.
- Prepare to copy - Telling the other person to get ready to copy down information.
- How copy? - Asking the other person to let you know if they got the full message. If you receive a 'how copy', you will repeat the transmission back to them.
- Good Copy - After you 'how copy' someone and they repeat the message back to you, you respond a 'good copy' if they got it correct. If the information doesn't need to be recorded and can be easily understood/memorized, you can just respond with 'good copy'.
- Break - This means you are taking three second break from comms to listen if anyone else is trying to say something. Unless it is VERY IMPORTANT, everyone else will wait for that person to come back up on the net and finish transmission.
- BREAK BREAK BREAK - Only done to cut off a other comms on the frequency because of an emergency
- Out - This means you are done speaking with that person, as well as lets others know the freq is free.
Finally, be aware of the NATO Phonetic Alphabet. It is used ubiquitously throughout the military, replacing letters with set words to help more clearly spell out words, acronyms, and codes over the radio. A lot of slang is akso based on it, such as "tango yankee" (Thank you), "Oscar Mike" (On the move) or "Alpha Mike Foxtrot" (Adios, motherfucker). It can be found here.
2.6 - Military Time
The military operates on a unique time system. Military Time is a clean, clear method of expressing time. Instead of a 12 hour clock, it operates on a 24 hour clock that begins at midnight at 0000 hours to 11:00 being 2300. Minutes and seconds operate the same as with normal time. For instance, 1:32 PM would be 1332 hours, or 8:27 AM would be 0827 hours.
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