Введение

 

 

The world of military terminology is rich, unique, and full of slang that often confounds civilians but forms a critical part of the military culture. Among the many items in a soldier's arsenal, one piece of gear that stands out is the military backpack. Whether used for survival in extreme conditions, carrying essential equipment, or providing soldiers with the means to stay operational in various environments, these backpacks are indispensable. However, military backpacks go by many different names, many of which have evolved into slang terms over time. Understanding these terms not only sheds light on the gear's functional role but also provides insight into the military's cultural fabric.

 

In this article, we'll explore the different slang for military backpacks, their origins, the features that make them unique, and their significance in the context of military operations. By the end, you'll gain a deeper understanding of why these backpacks are so essential to soldiers and why their slang persists in military jargon.

 

What is the Slang?

 

Slang is a form of informal language that is often specific to a group, region, or profession. It evolves as part of the vernacular and serves to simplify or shorthand commonly understood concepts. In the military, slang plays a critical role in establishing camaraderie and identity among service members. It's not just about shortening phrases; it's about fostering a unique subculture that identifies those within the military community.

 

In the case of military backpacks, slang terms are often used to reflect their design, function, or historical significance. These terms may vary by country, military branch, or even by era, but they all serve to describe the essential gear soldiers carry into the field.

 

What is the Military Backpack?

 

A military backpack is a specialized piece of equipment designed to help soldiers carry the necessary gear for extended operations. These backpacks are engineered for durability, modularity, and functionality in challenging environments. Unlike civilian backpacks, military packs are often equipped with extra features to improve their performance under stress, including reinforced stitching, multiple compartments for organizational purposes, and options for integrating additional gear.

 

Military backpacks can vary greatly depending on their intended use. Some are designed for short missions, while others are tailored for long-term survival, transport, and logistics. The nature of military operations, with their varying terrains and demands, means that soldiers need different types of backpacks to fulfill specific roles—whether it's for carrying ammunition, medical supplies, food, water, or communications equipment.

 

What is the Slang for Military Backpacks?

 

The slang for military backpacks often arises from practical use, historical legacy, or specific features associated with the packs. While the terminology might differ depending on the country, military branch, or mission, several slang terms for military backpacks have become widely recognized. Below are the most commonly used slang terms for military backpacks.

 

1. Rucksack

 

The term "rucksack" is one of the most commonly used slang terms for military backpacks. The word "ruck" is derived from the German word "Rucksack," meaning "back sack." It was widely adopted by English-speaking soldiers during the First World War. The rucksack is known for its capacity to carry heavy loads over long distances, and it remains a standard term in many military circles.

• Origin: The term "rucksack" comes from the German word "Rücken" (meaning back) and "Sack" (meaning sack). It was adopted into English in the early 20th century.
• Differences from Civilian Backpacks: Rucksacks are larger, more rugged, and designed with modularity in mind. Unlike civilian backpacks, military rucksacks often feature additional straps, internal compartments, and enhanced durability to withstand the harsh conditions of combat zones.

 

2. ALICE Pack

 

The ALICE Pack stands for All-Purpose Lightweight Individual Carrying Equipment. This term refers to a specific system of military backpacks used by the U.S. military from the 1970s through the early 2000s. The ALICE pack is characterized by its simple, rugged design and modular components, which allow soldiers to custom military backpacks to meet specific needs.

• Origin: The ALICE pack was introduced in the late 1960s and officially replaced the M-1945 "H" frame rucksack.
• Особенности: The ALICE pack features a lightweight aluminum frame, adjustable shoulder straps, and a variety of pouches and compartments. Its modular design enables soldiers to attach various accessories, such as sleeping bags, ammunition, or radios, to the outside of the pack.

 

3. Go Bag or Bug-Out Bag

 

A Go Bag or Bug-Out Bag refers to a backpack that contains emergency supplies and essential items needed for rapid evacuation. Soldiers often carry a Go Bag to ensure they canquickly leave an area in case of a sudden emergency.

• Цель: The Go Bag is used in emergency situations, typically to provide basic survival gear such as food, water, medical supplies, and other tools necessary for sustaining life in the wild or a hostile environment.
• Differences from Regular Backpacks: Unlike standard military backpacks, a Go Bag is pre-packed with survival gear, and its contents are carefully selected to maximize utility in urgent situations.

 

4. Duffle Bag

 

The duffle bag is a cylindrical, soft-sided bag used for carrying personal gear. While it's not strictly a "backpack" in the conventional sense, the duffle bag is commonly used by military personnel to carry clothing, personal items, and other necessities.

• Origins: The term "duffle" comes from Duffle, a town in Belgium, where the thick fabric originally used to make the bags was first produced.
• Usage in Military Context: Duffle bags are used for transporting personal effects, such as clothing and gear, especially during deployments or temporary assignments.

 

5. MOLLE Pack

 

The MOLLE Pack (Modular Lightweight Load-carrying Equipment) is another popular term for a military backpack, particularly one that uses the MOLLE system. MOLLE refers to a set of webbing and straps that allows soldiers to attach and detach various pouches and accessories, making the pack highly customizable for different mission needs. This modular approach allows for maximum flexibility and has become the standard for modern military backpacks.

• Origins: The MOLLE Pack (pronounced "Molly") refers to a system of modular backpacks and carrying equipment that was introduced by the U.S. military in the late 1990s. The term MOLLE stands for Modular Lightweight Load-carrying Equipment. It was developed to replace the older ALICE (All-Purpose Lightweight Individual Carrying Equipment) system, which had been in service since the 1970s. MOLLE was designed to provide a more flexible, customizable, and durable system for soldiers, allowing them to carry various loads based on their mission requirements. The MOLLE system uses a webbing structure known as PALS (Pouch Attachment Ladder System), which consists of horizontal straps sewn onto the pack. These straps allow soldiers to attach various pouches, tools, and accessories as needed, enabling the pack to be tailored for different tasks, from combat to tactical operations.
• Usage in Military Context: The MOLLE pack is widely used by military personnel for both combat and logistical purposes. The system is versatile, allowing soldiers to configure their backpacks with additional pouches for ammunition, medical supplies, water, tools, or communications equipment. The MOLLE system's modularity makes it particularly useful for long deployments and operations in diverse environments, as soldiers can carry exactly what they need without being weighed down by unnecessary gear.

 

Why Use the Slang for Military Backpacks?

 

The use of slang for military backpacks serves several purposes.

• First, it helps simplify communication, allowing soldiers to quickly refer to specific types of backpacks without having to use formal language or descriptions. This is particularly useful in combat situations, where time is often of the essence, and concise communication is crucial.
• Second, slang builds camaraderie. Using specific terms to refer to military gear, including backpacks, helps foster a sense of belonging among soldiers. It's a way to bond over shared experiences and reinforce the unique identity of military life.

 

How Many Slang Terms for Military Backpacks Are There?

 

There are several slang terms for military backpacks, but the most common ones are:

Rucksack

ALICE Pack

Go Bag

Bug-Out Bag

Duffle Bag

Molle Pack

 

However, there are also regional variations and different slang terms depending on the country, branch of the military, and era. Some soldiers may refer to their packs using different terms based on their specific needs, preferences, or the mission at hand. The key takeaway is that these slang terms serve a practical and cultural purpose.

 

What Are the Slang for Military Backpacks in Different Countries?

 

Slang for military backpacks can vary significantly from one country to another. In some cases, countries have their own unique terminology, while in others, terms are borrowed from other military traditions.

 

• United States: Common terms include "rucksack," "ALICE pack," "Go bag," "bug-out bag" and "Molle Pack
• United Kingdom: The term "bergen" is often used to refer to a military rucksack, derived from the Bergen brand of backpacks widely used by British forces.
• Germany: The term "Rucksack" is still widely used, with some soldiers referring to specific packs as "Tactical Rucksack" or "MOLLE pack."
• Australia: Similar to the UK, Australian forces often use the term "Bergen" or "Rucksack."

 

Each of these countries has adapted the general concept of military backpacks to suit their own needs and operational environments.

The Slang for Military Backpacks Table in Different Countries

Country	The Slang for Military Backpacks
United States	rucksack, ALICE pack, Go bag, bug-out bag and Molle Pack
United Kingdom	Bergen
Germany	Rucksack, Tactical Rucksack, MOLLE pack
Australia	Bergen, Rucksack

 

Common Military Slang for Backpacks

 

"Rucksack"

• Definition:A large, durable pack used by military personnel.
• Origin:From the German word "Rucksack" (back sack).
• Differences from Civilian Backpacks:Larger, more durable, modular, and used for carrying heavy loads.

 

"ALICE Pack"

 

• Definition:A modular backpack system used by the U.S. military, designed to be lightweight yet functional.
• Acronym:All-Purpose Lightweight Individual Carrying Equipment.
• Historical Significance:Replaced older backpack systems during the Vietnam War and served through the Gulf War.

 

"Go Bag" or "Bug-Out Bag"

 

• Definition:A bag containing emergency supplies for rapid evacuation.
• Цель:Designed for survival and emergency situations, not for long-term operations.

 

"Duffle Bag"

 

• Definition:A cylindrical bag used to carry personal items.
• Use:Popular for long-term travel, storage, and transport.

 

"MOLLE Pack"

 

• Definition:The MOLLE Pack (Modular Lightweight Load-carrying Equipment Pack) is a modular, durable military backpack system designed for carrying gear and equipment in a flexible, customizable manner.
• Use:The MOLLE Pack is widely used by military forces worldwide due to its adaptability and strength. Popular for long-term travel, storage, transport, combat, reconnaissance, or special operations.

 

Military Backpack Features

 

Military backpacks are designed with specific features that make them different from civilian backpacks. Some key design features include:

 

• Долговечность:Built to withstand the harshest conditions, including extreme weather, rough terrain, and heavy loads.
• Модульность:Many military backpacks allow for customization, with pouches, straps, and compartments that can be added or removed as needed.
• Functionality:These backpacks are designed to carry specific gear like ammunition, food, and water, with compartments and straps designed to distribute weight evenly.

 

The Role of Backpacks in Military Operations

 

Military backpacks are integral to the success of soldiers on the ground. They serve a variety of roles depending on the environment:

 

• Load-bearing:Backpacks help soldiers carry heavy loads, such as ammunition, medical supplies, or communication equipment.
• Распределение веса:Properly designed backpacks distribute weight evenly to reduce fatigue and improve mobility.
• Tactical Advantage:Specialized packs, like hydration packs or tactical vests, give soldiers a distinct advantage in combat or survival situations.

 

Evolution of Military Backpack Slang

 

Military slang evolves alongside technology, culture, and the changing needs of armed forces. When it comes to military backpacks, the language used to describe these essential pieces of gear has transformed over the decades. The evolution of military backpack slang reflects changes in design, material advancements, and the shifting nature of warfare. we'll trace the history of military backpack slang and how different terms have come to represent varying levels of functionality and purpose.

 

1. Early Terms: "Haversack" и "Pack"

 

In the early days of organized military forces, backpacks weren't as sophisticated as they are today. Soldiers would carry their gear in simple cloth or leather bags, often referred to as "haversacks." The term "haversack" itself comes from the German habersack, meaning "oats sack" (originally used to carry oats for horses), but by the 18th and 19th centuries, it evolved to describe any small bag used by soldiers to carry their rations, tools, or personal items.

 

While these bags weren't technically backpacks, they served the same essential purpose: providing soldiers with a way to carry the items they needed to survive in the field. During this time, the term "pack" was also commonly used, a broad term that generally referred to any gear-carrying device. In these early periods, military slang for gear was less specific, as many armies used basic, non-specialized bags.

 

2. World War I: The Birth of the "Rucksack"

 

As warfare became more mobile and the technology of the 20th century advanced, backpacks began to take on more specialized designs. During World War I, soldiers were required to carry heavier and more diverse loads, including weapons, ammunition, food, and medical supplies. This need for larger, more robust backpacks led to the introduction of the rucksack.

 

The term "rucksack" became more commonly used to describe a soldier's primary backpack. Derived from the German words Rücken (back) and Sack (bag), this term has endured throughout modern military culture. The rucksack's design evolved to include a more rigid frame, more compartments, and better weight distribution systems, making it the precursor to the tactical packs seen in today's military.

 

3. World War II and the "ALICE Pack"

 

The ALICE Pack (All-purpose Lightweight Individual Carrying Equipment) is one of the most iconic examples of military backpack slang. First introduced by the U.S. military in the 1970s during the Vietnam War, the ALICE Pack was a major innovation over its predecessors. Unlike earlier rucksacks, the ALICE pack was designed for modularity, allowing soldiers to attach various pouches, water carriers, and other pieces of gear depending on their mission. This "modular" aspect gave soldiers unparalleled flexibility.

 

The ALICE Pack became a staple for the U.S. military for decades, influencing the design of modern packs and contributing to the evolving slang for military backpacks. While newer designs like MOLLE have overtaken the ALICE Pack in recent years, the term is still widely recognized and cherished by veterans and collectors alike.

 

4. The 1990s and the Rise of "Go Bags" and "Bug-Out Bags"

 

By the late 20th century, with the rise of new military operations and the increasing importance of rapid deployment, new slang emerged to describe lightweight, emergency-ready bags. Go Bags and Bug-Out Bags became essential terms for soldiers preparing for sudden, unexpected deployment. These small, often highly organized packs were designed to hold everything a soldier might need for 72 hours in the field.

 

Go Bags gained popularity as part of the broader shift toward preparedness in military operations, where rapid mobility and emergency readiness were paramount. In these slang terms, the focus shifted from just carrying gear for extended operations to ensuring soldiers were always ready to "go" or "bug out" quickly in a crisis.

 

5. 2000s-Present: The MOLLE Pack and Modern Tactical Terminology

 

The 2000s saw the introduction of the MOLLE Pack, which stands for Modular Lightweight Load-carrying Equipment. With the MOLLE system, soldiers could attach various pouches and accessories to their packs using a webbing system, allowing for endless customization based on mission requirements. This system revolutionized military backpacks, making them more adaptable and functional for a wide range of operations.

 

Today, slang surrounding military backpacks continues to evolve. With modern military operations requiring extreme versatility, backpacks are designed to carry far more than the essentials. Hydration packs, camelbacks, and even assault packs—smaller, lightweight backpacks used for quick strikes—have entered the lexicon. The term "MOLLE" is now synonymous with modern military packs, and Combat Load refers to the total gear a soldier carries into battle, often described by the size of their backpack or the specific pouches attached.

 

Besides the Slang for Military Backpack, What Other Military Terms, Slang, and Jargon Are There?

 

The military is rife with technical jargon. Below is a list of Other Military Terms, Slang, and Jargon, in alphabetical order.

 

A

 

Air Picket -- Any airborne system tasked with detecting, reporting and tracking enemy aerial movements within a certain area of operation.

Alpha Charlie -- Military alphabet used to represent ass chewing. Defines getting verbally reprimanded.

Anymouse -- A lockbox on Navy ships where sailors may drop anonymous suggestions.

Ass -- Armored vehicles such as Strykers and Tanks.

Ate-Up -- Describes a service member who follows regulations so closely that they disregard the context of the situation. Conversely, may describe a service member who doesn't understand regulations at all.

 

B

 

Band-Aid -- A Vietnam-era term for a medic.

Bang-bang -- An Army term describing a pistol or rifle.

Big Voice -- Term used to describe the loudspeaker on a military base. The Big Voice warns of everything from incoming attacks to scheduled ordnance disposal.

Bird -- Helicopter.

Bitchin' Betty -- Most U.S. military aircraft feature warning systems that frequently utilize female voices. The phrase is derived from the same anthropomorphizing applied to GPS units in cars, only Bitchin' Betty's alert pilots to life-threatening situations.

'Black' on ammo, fuel, water, etc. -- A common phrase denoting a particular resource is gone.

Blowed up -- The state of being hit by an IED.

Blue Falcon -- A euphemism for buddy **** or buddy ****er, which is slang for a backstabber.

Bolo -- A derogatory remark for recruits who cannot pass marksmanship training. The idea being that if one cannot use a rifle, one must resort to a bolo.

Bone -- A B-1 bomber.

Bull**** Bomb -- A package intended to disperse propaganda leaflets.

Bullwinkle Badge -- Another name for the Air Assault Badge.

Burn Bag -- A bag used to hold shredded documents, designed to be burned. May also refer to a useless person.

 

C

 

Cannibalize -- The act of taking workable parts of one item and using them in another.

Chancre Mechanic -- Medical officer who checks service members for venereal diseases.

Charlie Foxtrot -- Commonly used expression utilizing the military alphabet to stand for clusterf***.

Chem-Light Batteries -- A mythical object that would be extremely, functionally pointless. Often the source of fruitless hunts embarked upon by hapless privates.

Chest Candy -- Ribbons and medals worn on a uniform. Can be insulting or applauding.

Chicken plates -- Sheets of protective material, called Small Arms Protective Inserts, which are used in the Interceptor body armor system.

Comics -- Term used to describe maps presented by military intelligence. The term is fairly derogatory in nature as a slight against the accuracy of the maps. It also refers to the brightly colored layouts and symbols usually included.

Commo -- Communications equipment or the individuals who operate it. Usually given to communications officers on U.S. Navy vessels.

Combat Boot (Durable footwear worn in combat situations)

CONUS -- Continental United States, the 48 states on the U.S. mainland (not including Alaska or Hawaii.)

Crank -- Navy term for a sailor pulling temporary duty in the galley.

Crumb Catcher -- Military slang describing the mouth.

Crusher -- Hats worn by pilots during World War II. The hat's wide top brim would need to be crushed down to allow for headsets to be worn.

 

D

 

DD 214 (Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty) -- Every separated service member receives a Department of Defense (DD) Form 214 upon retirement, separation, or discharge from military service. This document states all the information related to their time of service (such as assignments, awards, dates of service, etc.) as well as the type and characterization of the discharge.

Dear John -- Common term referring to a significant other breaking up with a service member through a letter.

Demilitarized Zone -- A specific area in which any type of military force -- including but not limited to personnel, hardware and infrastructure -- are banned.

Digit Midget -- Usually used with a number as a prefix. X digit midget refers to the number of days till an individual goes on leave or retires.

Digies -- Digital camouflage worn by soldiers and Marines.

Dittybopper -- A term in the Army referring to signals intelligence radio operators trained to utilize Morse code. Also used as a verb to describe soldiers marching out of synch with a cadence.

Dope on a Rope -- Derogatory term used for air-assault soldiers.

Dust-off -- Specifically, a medical evacuation by helicopter.

Duty Station -- the geographic location at which a service member is conducting official duties. This may be a temporary location for professional military education or training, or it may be permanent (i.e., home station).

Dynamited Chicken -- Term originating in the Navy referring to chicken cacciatore or chicken a la king.

 

E

 

Embed -- When a reporter stays with the military in order to conduct journalistic business. They typically are provided with security and basic necessities provided by the unit they are embedded with.

Expectant -- A casualty who is expected to pass die.

Eagle Keeper -- Maintenance crew chief of an F-15.

 

F

 

Fang -- A verb to describe being rebuked, called out or otherwise disparaged.

Fangs -- A Marine Corps term for one's teeth.

Fart Sack -- Refers to a sleeping bag or an airman's flight suit.

Farts and Darts -- Refers to the clouds and lightning bolt embellishments found on Air Force officer caps.

Fashion Show -- A Naval punishment where a sailor is required to dress in each of his uniforms over a period of several hours.

Fast Mover -- A jet fighter. Aptly named due to the rapidity of a jet fighter's movement.

First Light -- The time of nautical twilight when the sun is 12 degrees below the horizon.

Flaming ***hole -- An Air Force term to describe the fiery effect of a jet plane turning on its afterburners during combat or any other military operation.

Flight Suit Insert -- Air Force slang for a pilot.

Fitty -- An M2 .50 caliber machine gun.

Five-Sided Puzzle Palace -- The Pentagon.

FOB (Forward Operating Base) -- Larger than a COP (smaller base located in a particularly hostile area.) A FOB typically offers more resources and comfort provisions such as hot meals, hot water and laundry facilities.

Football Bat -- An individual or way of doing things that is particularly odd.

Force Projection -- The ability of a nation-state to extend military force beyond their borders.

Fourth Point of Contact -- From rolling after a successful parachute drop: a term to describe an individual's buttocks. The first three points are feet, calves and back of the thigh.

Fruit Salad -- Slang for a service member's display of medals and ribbons on a dress uniform.

Fugazi -- Completely out of whack, ****ed up, screwy. This term originated during the Vietnam War and experienced limited use by civilians.

FUBAR (Fouled Up Beyond All Recognition)

 

G

 

Galloping Dandruff -- An Army term used since World War I to refer to crab lice.

Geardo -- An Army term for a soldier who spends an inordinate amount of money on gear, regardless of actual need.

Gedunk -- Refers to snack foods, such as candy and chips, as well as the place they're sold. Associated with the Navy and can be used in the phrase "gedunk sailor" as a pejorative remark for inexperienced sailors.

Gofasters -- A term for sneakers used in the Army, Navy and Marine Corps.

GOFO -- Literally stands for "grasp of the ****ing obvious."

Gone Elvis -- A service member who is missing in action.

Grape -- A term with two meanings; one for the Air Force and one for the Navy. A Navy Grape is an individual who refuels aircraft. An Air Force Grape, on the other hand, refers to an easy assignment and can be used as a compliment when a service member makes something look easy.

Great Mistakes -- The name sailors have given the Great Lakes Naval Training Center north of Chicago. It references the closing of two other training facilities in San Diego and Orlando, which both feature far more enjoyable weather.

Grid Squares -- A nonexistent item recruits typically are told to go find.

Groundhog Day -- Term originating from the titular movie that refers to deployments that seem to proceed in the exact same way despite attempts to change them.

Gum Shoe -- Navy slang for a sailor cryptology technician. The first CT school was located on top of a building where tar would get stuck to the bottom of students' shoes.

Gun -- Term for a mortar or artillery piece. Must never be used within the military to describe a pistol or rifle.

Gunner -- A service member who operates a crew-served weapon, such as a piece of artillery or ship's cannon.

 

H

 

Hangar Queen -- An aircraft that is used primarily for spare parts to repair other planes.

Hardball -- A hard-surfaced road.

Hardened Site -- A structure usually built under rock or concrete designed to withstand conventional, nuclear, biological and chemical attack.

Hat Up -- To change one's location. Refers to the need to wear a hat for the intended destination.

Hawk -- Term for cold weather. Commonly referred to as "the hawk."

Helo -- Short-hand term for a helicopter.

High Speed -- An individual who is highly motivated and at or near peak efficacy. Can be used sarcastically.

Hit the Silk -- Ejecting from an aircraft and utilizing a parachute.

 

I

 

IED (Improvised Explosive Device) -- A popular weapon with insurgencies in Iraq and Afghanistan, IEDs are roughly-organized, inexpensive bombs that are be easily modified to exploit an enemy's vulnerabilities.

Inactive Status -- Members of the Reserves who are unable to train for points, receive pay and cannot be considered for promotion.

Ink Stick -- Marine Corps term for a pen.

Iron Rations -- Rations used in an emergency survival situation.

 

J

 

Jawa -- Term for an Army soldier who is stationed in a desert area, named after the desert-dwelling aliens of "Star Wars."

Jesus Slippers -- Military-issued shower footwear.

Jockstrap Medal -- Derogatory term for medals given by the military to active CIA members.

Joe -- Army term for a soldier. Shortened from G.I. Joe.

Joint Operation Planning -- All type of planning involving joint military forces in regard to military operations, including, but not limited to, mobilization, deployment and sustainment.

 

K

 

Kinetic -- Slang adjective meaning violent.

Klicks -- Kilometers.

 

L

 

Latrine Queen -- Air Force specific term for a trainee in basic who is in charge of the team responsible for cleaning bathrooms.

Left-Handed Monkey Wrench -- A nonexistent tool. Often the object of fruitless searches undertaken by recruits at the behest of more experienced service members.

Long Pig -- Slang for when a human being is used as a source of food. Typically this happens in extremely desperate situations.

 

M

 

Major Nuclear Power -- Any nation-state with a nuclear arsenal capable of being delivered to any other nation in the world.

Meat Identifier -- A dish or sauce that identifies what type of meat is being served. For example, cranberry sauce indicates turkey while applesauce indicates pork chops.

Meat Wagon -- Slang for an ambulance or any other medical emergency vehicle.

Moonbeam -- Marine term for flashlight.

MOS (Military Occupational Specialty) – Military jobs are classified by codes that attach to their specialty. The Army, Marines and Coast Guard call this an MOS (military occupational specialty) or MOC (military occupation code); the Air Force calls them Air Force Specialty Codes (AFSC). The Navy uses a system of ratings and the Navy Enlisted Classification (NEC) system. The Department of Defense lists more than 7,000 codes representing various job skills someone might perform while on duty.

Moving Like Pond Water -- Moving so slowly that a unique term is required to describe it.

Mustang -- Term referring to any officer who was promoted from the enlisted ranks. Can be used respectfully or pejoratively.

MRE (Meals Ready to Eat)

 

N

 

Nut to Butt -- The instruction used to tell soldiers to line up in a tight, forward-facing line wherein one's nuts are in extreme proximity to the butt of the soldier before them.

 

O

 

OCONUS – "Outside of the Continental United States"

OEF (Operation Enduring Freedom) – The combat operation that Veterans may have deployed to in support of the War on Terror, where the theater of operations was in Afghanistan.

Officer's Candy -- Navy term used by sailors to describe the scented cake placed in urinals.

Officer of the Deck -- Any officer charged with the operation of a ship. Reports to the commanding officer, executive officer and navigator for relevant issues and concerns.

OIF (Operation Iraqi Freedom) -- The combat operation that Veterans may have deployed to in support of the War on Terror where the theater of operations was in Iraq.

Over the Hill -- Missing in action or someone who officially has gone missing from their post.

Oxygen Thief -- A biting piece of slang for someone who's useless or talks too much.

 

P

 

Pad Eye Remover -- A nonexistent item used by sailors to trick new service members into a fruitless search. Pad-eyes are used to secure airplanes with chains.

PCS (Permanent Change of Station) -- When a service member and their family from one geographic unit location to another due to orders for a new assignment. This is not temporary; thus, the use of the word "permanent.

People Tank -- A U.S. Navy term for the inner hull of a submarine.

Pill Pusher -- A U.S. Navy term for a hospital corpsman.

Pink Mist -- A distinct effect created by certain types of gunshot wounds.

Pogey Bait -- Snack food. A "pogue" is an individual who does not serve on the frontlines and performs non-combat-oriented roles. "Pogey bait" is, subsequently, a bribe given to these individuals in exchange for expedited or high-quality services.

Pollywog -- A sailor who has not crossed the equator on a U.S. Navy ship.

Puddle Pirate -- Member of the Coast Guard. So called due to a fallacious belief that the Coast Guard never operates in deep water.

PX Ranger -- An individual who purchases, from the Post Exchange, paraphernalia unique to certain prestigious ranks or occupations and passes them off as though they earned the items.

 

Q

 

Quay -- A man-made structure between a shore and land that can be used by ships to berth and is typically an area for handling cargo.

 

R

 

Rainbow -- A new recruit in basic training.

Red Team -- A body of experts on a specific topic who are instructed to research and suggest alternative methods regarding a planned course of action.

Remington Raider -- A somewhat derogatory term used for Marines given the harrowing task of performing office duties.

Rocks and Shoals -- U.S. Navy rules and regulations.

Rotorhead -- A helicopter pilot.

Ruck Up -- "Ruck" is short for "ruck sack," which refers to backpacks service members sometimes wear. To "ruck up" is to get through a particularly challenging or stressful situation.

 

S

 

 

Salad Bar -- Service ribbons found on a military uniform.

Sandbox – A desert area, specifically either Iraq or Kuwait. To say this is a short list is an understatement. Having a "cheat sheet" of commonly used terms is helpful for your hiring managers to refer to and use in interviewing and hiring. As an employer, work with your veteran hires to teach them common lingo and jargon for your company and industry, and accept that it might take time for your veteran employees to break old habits.

Sarge (Sergeant)

Scrambled Eggs -- The embellishments found on some officer's caps.

Self-Propelled Sandbags -- A derogatory term for a Marine based on their emphasis on fighting on the front lines.

Shavetail -- Second lieutenants in the U.S. Army. It primarily refers to the haircuts received in Officer Candidate School. The term's origins date to the time when the Army used pack animals, and handlers shaved the tail of newly broken animals to distinguish them from those more seasoned.

Shellback -- A sailor who has crossed the equator on a U.S. Navy ship. Responsible for turning all Pollywogs into Shellbacks once they cross the equator themselves.

Snake Eater -- Member of the U.S. Army Special Forces.

S*** on a Shingle -- A piece of toast with gravy.

Sky Blossom -- A deployed parachute.

Slick Sleeve -- A sailor who has not yet earned a rank that requires decoration on the sleeves.

Smoke -- To punish a service member with excessive physical work due to a minor infraction.

Snivel Gear -- Any equipment meant for use in cold weather.

Soap chips -- A psychological operations (PSYOPS) tactic where fake letters from an enemy's home country are written and placed on bodies and battle wreckage. They include sentimental content, hint at the infidelity of loved ones back home and are designed to demoralize combatants.

Soup Sandwich -- An individual, object, situation or mission that has gone horribly wrong. The thrust of the term's meaning derives from the fact that it is incredibly difficult, some would say impossible, to make a sandwich out of soup.

Swoop -- Marine term for a weekend trip off base.

 

T

 

Taco -- An Air Force term for receiving an "unsatisfactory" grade on a training exercise due to the vague taco-shape of the letter "u."

Tango Uniform -- Slang for "tits up," which is the position dead bodies tend to face. The term can be applied to the deceased as well as broken pieces of equipment.

Target Discrimination -- The capability of a surveillance or guidance system to choose certain targets when multiple options are presented.

Trench Monkey -- A derogatory term referring to a member of the U.S. Army.

Twidget -- A sailor who repairs electronic equipment. Suggested by user X-USN-DS1.

Тактическое снаряжение (Equipment for combat situations)

 

U

 

Un-Ass -- To move immediately or leave one's current position.

Uncle Sam's Canoe Club -- A U.S. Navy term for the U.S. Coast Guard.

Unit Identification Code -- An alphanumeric, six-character string that identifies all active, reserve, and guard units of the United States military.

 

V

 

Voice in the Sky -- Term referring to military base announcements broadcast over speakers.

Voluntold -- An assignment that is technically voluntary but understood to be mandatory.

 

W

 

Weapons of Mass Destruction -- Weapons that can cause destruction or death beyond the ability of conventional weapons. These typically are nuclear, biological, chemical, radiological or high-yield explosive in nature. This definition does not include the vehicle, or transportation method, of delivering the weapon.

 

Z

 

Zone of Action -- A smaller section of a larger area. Typically these are under the purview of a tactical unit, usually during an offensive maneuver.

Zoomie -- Term used by non-flying service members for anyone who operates a flying vehicle.

 

Заключение

 

Military backpacks are far more than just a convenient way to carry supplies—they are a key element in a soldier's operational success. The slang terms associated with these backpacks not only reflect their functionality but also the military culture from which they arise. Whether it's the "rucksack," the "ALICE pack," or the "Go bag," each term holds a unique place in military tradition.

 

Call to Action

 

What do you think about the evolution of military backpack slang? Do you have any personal experiences or knowledge of military gear you'd like to share? Drop a comment below and join the conversation! If you're an enthusiast of tactical gear, consider exploring different military backpacks and their histories to gain a deeper appreciation of the equipment that soldiers rely on.

Of course, if you are a brand owner, retailer, wholesaler, or e-commerce seller with bulk customization or wholesale needs, you can also contact LUPU Производитель тактического снаряжения to custom or wholesale.

 

 

 

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