2016 USO BRAND BOOK

April 18, 2016 Version 2 THE USO BRAND INTRODUCTION

Introduction Senior Vice President, Brand Advancement 1 Dear USO Colleagues: The USO Brand NEW Brand Language 2 Welcome to the refreshed brand of the USO! Brand Framework 3 At 75 years old, this iconic American brand was due for an update. This guidebook is designed to give you all the information, direction and resources you need to consistently bring the USO’s brand elements to life. 2016 USO Logos NEW Badge logo 4 In this guide you will find a new expression of the USO as an organization on a singular mission of connection – keeping Individual logo files 5 military service members connected to family, home and country, throughout their service to the nation. A new mission Spacing and Size 6 statement, as well as an updated logo and brand language, all reflect this new brand positioning. Proper logo usage 7 NEW 75 Years logo 8 A note on our brand colors: To give additional symbolism to our visual brand elements, we adopted the colors of the Individual logo files 9 American flag (dubbed Old Glory Red and Old Glory Blue). This new logo, along with its vibrant, new colors, should Spacing and Size 10 replace all other logo versions, except our 75th anniversary logo in use throughout 2016. Proper logo usage 11 Logo Matrix 12 Great brands are strengthened by using their brand elements with absolute and unwavering consistency. Our logo, Expired USO Logos 13 brand colors, design guidelines, mission statement and core brand language should be used exactly as prescribed in this guidebook.

Color Palette Should you have any questions, or need clarity, our Brand and Creative Services team is here to support you. You may Brand palette 14 call a Brand and Creative Services colleague for help or email us at [email protected]. Either way, we are here as a resource and look forward to hearing from you.

Typography As our 75th anniversary highlights, our deep history underscores the very temporary nature of our privilege as stewards Primary and secondary fonts 15 of one of America’s great brands. To do the best job we can to support American service members for the next 75 years and beyond, it is up to us to leave our successors the strongest USO brand possible. Photography 16 Making regular and consistent use of this guide is the first step. Video 18 Sincerely, Applications 20

Brand Language 25

Paul G. Allvin Senior Vice President, Brand Advancement

1 THE USO BRAND Brand Framework

WE BELIEVE... NEW Brand Language High morale is vital to the success of a nation’s military service community. Service members draw strength from connecting to the things they love and fight for. Service members should feel connected to family, home and country throughout their service, no matter the circumstances. The USO is on a mission of connection, keeping service members connected to the things they love and fight for – family, home, and country – throughout their time of service. ABOUT US We act as an extended family, with kindness, caring, comfort, compassion, encouragement, support and reassurance, for American service members everywhere. Mission Statement: We know that meaningful expressions of love and support have a powerful impact on those who serve.

The USO strengthens America’s military service members by keeping them connected THOSE WE SERVE to family, home and country, throughout their service to the nation. Are service members, not just “troops.” Are pillars of American strength, not weakened by conditions of their service.

KEY BRAND WORDS Core Brand Expression: Connection * Family * Home * Country * Service

This new element is a comprehensive statement that frames how we talk about the USO. It need not ATTITUDE PLACE OUTCOME MOTIVATION EMOTION be quoted directly, but its articulation should inform all written, spoken and visual characterizations Welcome Home Release Gratitude Family of the USO. It may be quoted, paraphrased, or just used as a guide for original language: Open Comfort Relief Support Mom Kind Haven Reassurance Service Dad The USO has kept our military men and women connected to family, home and country throughout their time of Caring Food Break Giving Back Son service – no matter where, how long, or under what conditions they serve. It was founded in preparation for World Smile Snacks Daughter War II by national leaders who understood that maintaining high morale in a fighting force is vital to a nation’s military success. Over time, the USO has become the vital bridge between Americans and their military service members. Chair Husband Wife The USO is a family of volunteers, sustained by the charitable contributions of millions of generous Americans. We Connection are united in our commitment to support America’s service members by keeping them connected to the people, Hug places and things they love. We do this through countless acts of caring, comfort, connection and support. Our work Love is America’s most powerful expression of gratitude to the men and women who secure our nation’s freedoms.

2 3 2016 USO LOGOS Individual Logo Files

NEW Badge Logo The USO logo should As part of the USO’s brand refresh, the logo has been optimized for reproduction across a wide range of materials and features be used in full color as a more modern design with cleaner lines and richer colors (our logo now features the official colors of the American Flag). By the first option on all the start of 2017, all materials developed and distributed will be required to use the new USO Badge logo. We ask that over the communications and course of 2016 you begin the process of exhausting your current supply of materials featuring older versions of the USO logo products whenever (see page 13 for expired logos). possible. One color options are also available for use in either black or white. USO BADGE FULL-COLOR (LIGHT BG) USO BADGE FULL-COLOR (DARK BG) The universal USO badge For Use on Light Backgrounds For Use on Dark Backgrounds logo may be downloaded here: https://uso.box. com/badge-logo Patch logo *NEW* USO Badge logo (2003-Dec. 31, 2016) (Jan 1., 2016 +) Features rounded edges and Features sharp edges and stars, Center logos may be stars, and block letters. smooth letters, and features downloaded here: the official color values of the https://uso.box.com/ American Flag. center-badge-logos USO BADGE BLACK (WHITE BG) USO BADGE WHITE (DARK BG) For Use on Light Backgrounds. Only for use in For Use on Dark Backgrounds. Only for use in Program logos may black and white materials. black and white materials. be downloaded here: https://uso.box.com/ program-badge-logos For the most accurate color reproduction of the USO Badge logo, please use the provided color formulas.

Center Name Program Name OLD GLORY BLUE OLD GLORY RED WHITE PMS: 282 PMS: 193 CMYK 0/0/0/0 Using the USO logo is the best way to communicate your official connection to the organization. In some instances, CMYK: 100/87/37/51 CMYK: 8/100/77/1 RGB 255/255/255 it may be important for your audience to know the specific center or program behind the communications. RGB: 0/33/71 RGB: 187/19/62 Hex: #FFFFFF Every USO center and national-level program has an official logo, created by Brand and Creative Services, which may Hex: #002147 Hex: #BB133E be used to identify specific centers and/or programs on both web and printed materials. Center and program logos are made up of two elements (the USO logo and a wordmark), neither of which should be altered in any way. ! Important note The USO Badge logo is the primary element of the organization’s visual identity and may not altered in any way. The registered trademark (®) on the bottom right side of the logo must always be visible. We have created logo files for use on both light backgrounds (featuring a dark registered trademark symbol) and dark backgrounds (featuring a white registered trademark symbol). If you have any questions about which logo file to use, please contact [email protected]. We’re here to help!

4 5 Spacing & Size Proper Logo Usage

DO USE THE LOGO LIKE THIS DO NOT USE THE LOGO LIKE THIS CLEAR SPACE

The USO Badge logo requires separation from the other elements around it. At a minimum, copy and images should stand clear of the logo in all directions by a factor equivalent to Welcome! one half the height of the center panel that holds the stars and lettering. % DO use the logo on solid white (or navy) × DO NOT use the color logo on a red background. × DO NOT add any text to the logo. backgrounds with plenty of breathing room.

% DO use the appropriate one-color × DO NOT tilt the logo. × DO NOT use the logo with other USO logos. Center Name logo for black and white printing.

% DO use the logo on images with plenty of white space. × DO NOT use the logo over busy backgrounds. × DO NOT change any colors in the logo.

Donate Today Donate Today Program Name

% DO use the appropriate amount of clear space × DO NOT place the logo too close to other design elements. × DO NOT stretch the logo. between the logo and other design elements.

SIZE To ensure the USO logo is easy to read, minimum size requirements have been set to keep the USO letters legible. Minimum Minimum width screen: width print: 100px 0.75”

Center Name Center Name

Program Name Program Name ! Important note: The Badge logo may not be altered in any way. For questions, please e-mail [email protected].

6 7 NEW 75 Years Logo Individual Logo Files

In celebration of the USO’s 75th anniversary, we have created a distinctive logo to help us highlight this major Four-color gold and one- milestone and increase awareness about our dedication to America’s service members for 75 years and counting. color black or white options The use of a single logo during the anniversary year represents our shared commitment to keep America’s service of the 75 Years logo are members connected to family, home and country throughout their service to our nation. The 75 Years logo is the available for download official anniversary logo of the USO from January 4, 2016 - December 31, 2016 and should be used in place of the USO here: uso.box.com/75-logo badge logos on all communications highlighting the celebration. (*Please refer to page 12 for more information.)

75 YEARS LOGO (GOLD - LIGHT BG) 75 YEARS LOGO (WHITE) (Preferred) For use on light backgrounds. For use when color printing is not an option.

75 YEARS LOGO (GOLD - DARK BG) 75 YEARS LOGO (BLACK) For use on dark backgrounds. For use when color printing is not an option.

For the most accurate color reproduction of the 75 Years logo, please use the provided color formulas.

DARK GOLD LIGHT GOLD OLD GLORY BLUE PMS: 2007 PMS: 2004 PMS: 282 CMYK: 0/32/89/14 CMYK: 0/15/64/0 CMYK: 100/87/37/51 RGB: 224/165/38 RGB: 254/216/128 RGB: 0/33/71 Hex: #E0A526 Hex: #FBDD7A Hex: #002147

! Important note The anniversary logo may not be altered in any way. This includes the 75 Years text, as it is part of the logo.

8 9 Spacing & Size Proper Logo Usage

CLEAR SPACE SIZE DO USE THE LOGO LIKE THIS DO NOT USE THE LOGO LIKE THIS The 75 Years logo requires separation from the To ensure the 75 Years logo is easy to read, minimum size requirements have been set to keep the “USO” letters and “75 other elements around it. At a minimum, copy and Years” tag legible. images should stand clear of the logo in all directions by a factor equivalent to one half the height of the Happy Anniversary! center panel that holds the stars and lettering. % DO use the logo on solid white (or navy) × DO NOT use the logo on backgrounds × DO NOT add or change any text in the logo. backgrounds with plenty of breathing room. without enough contrast.

% DO use the appropriate one-color × DO NOT tilt the logo. × DO NOT use the logo with another USO logo. logo for black and white printing.

Minimum Minimum width screen: width print: 100px 0.75”

% DO use the logo on images with plenty of white space. × DO NOT use the logo over busy backgrounds. × DO NOT change the color of the logo.

Donate Today Donate Today

% DO use the appropriate amount of clear space × DO NOT place the logo too close × DO NOT stretch the logo. between the logo and other design elements. to other design elements.

! Important note: The 75 Years logo may not be altered in any way. For questions, please e-mail [email protected].

10 11 Logo Matrix Expired USO Logos

Program Name Center Name

BADGE 75 YEARS PROGRAMS CENTERS There are four types GENERAL OFFICE USE DO NOT USE HISTORICAL USO LOGOS of USO logos that are Business Cards % % × % Below are a few examples of historical USO logos that are no longer permitted for use on any communications. The only approved for use in Letterhead % % × % USO logos permitted for use in 2016 are the USO badge logos (universal, centers, national-level programs) and the 2016: The USO Badge Envelopes % % × % 75 Years logo. (universal logo); 75 PowerPoint % % % % Years (anniversary logo); Note Cards % % × % national-level program E-mail Signature % % × % logos; and center logos. Contracts % × × % LONG TERM USE Please use the following Center Signage % × × % chart to help determine Vehicle Wraps % × × % when and where to use MARKETING MATERIALS the approved logos. Information Sheets % % % % Brochures % % % % Posters % % % % Ads (Print/Digital) % % % % Flyers % % % % Misc. Print Promotions % % % % Folders % % × % Press Releases % % × %

INTERNAL MATERIALS Routing Slips % × × % Fax Sheets % × × % Finance Forms % × × % MERCHANDISE Clothing % % × % Accessories (Hats, pins, % % × % ties, scarves, etc.) Promotional Products % % % % EVENTS (Special Events/Program Events) Banners % % % % ! Important note Step and Repeat % % × % The 75 Years logo is not General Signage % % % % ! Important note % % % % approved for use beyond Invitations The 2003 USO logo — currently in use — will expire DIGITAL December 31, 2016, please on December 31, 2016. (See page 4 for more details.) USO.org/Center Websites % % % % keep this in mind when Social Media Channels % % % % you are purchasing items E-Communications % % % % featuring this logo. Video % % % %

12 13 COLOR PALETTE TYPOGRAPHY

The use of Old Glory Blue, Old Glory Red and White, creates a unified, recognizable appearance for the Primary Fonts Secondary Fonts USO across all communications and materials. Whitney is the official typeface of the USO and should When Whitney isn’t available for use, Calibri is an be used on external print and digital communications appropriate alternative and may be used by in-house whenever possible. teams for low production value communications, such as The brand palette features the official brand colors of the USO and includes specifications for Pantone colors on The consistent use of typography, as outlined here, will add flyers, PowerPoint presentations, information sheets, etc. coated stock (C); when reproduced using the four-color process (CMYK); and for digital presentations (RGB). strength and visual meaning to our communications. Whitney was selected for its warm, friendly personality and its legibility at all sizes and across multiple mediums.

Brand Palette Whitney Bold | ABC abc 123 Calibri Bold | ABC abc 123 Whitney Bold Italic | ABC abc 123 Calibri Bold Italic | ABC abc 123 Whitney Semibold | ABC abc 123 Calibri Regular | ABC abc 123 Whitney Semibold Italic | ABC abc 123 Calibri Italic | ABC abc 123

OLD GLORY BLUE OLD GLORY RED WHITE Whitney Medium | ABC abc 123 Calibri Light | ABC abc 123 PMS: 282 PMS: 193 CMYK 0/0/0/0 CMYK: 100/87/37/51 CMYK: 8/100/77/1 RGB 255/255/255 Whitney Medium Italic | ABC abc 123 RGB: 0/33/71 RGB: 187/19/62 Hex: #FFFFFF Hex: #002147 Hex: #BB133E Whitney Book | ABC abc 123 Whitney Book Italic | ABC abc 123 Whitney Light | ABC abc 123 Whitney Light Italic | ABC abc 123

Accent Color

BLUE PMS 7691 An accent color has been chosen to complement our primary PRINT AND WEB CMYK 100/45/0/45 palette if needed and should be used minimally. As a general rule, Whitney book is used for body text and semibold or light is used for headings and sub-headings. RGB 0/98/152 Hex: #006298 Whitney black should be avoided whenever possible. Body text should be set in normal case. Headings may be set in all caps and normal case (never small caps). All text should be left justified wherever possible.

Whitney may be purchased through Hoefler & Co. at typography.com.

14 15 PHOTOGRAPHY

When it comes to selecting the best photos for your project, keep the focus on the positive connections we create through our mission delivery and portray those we serve as pillars of American strength. Service members should never not weakened by conditions of their service. We are a forward-thinking brand united in our commitment to support America’s service members by keeping them connected to family, home and country throughout their service to the nation. This tenet should always be reflected in our imagery.

A few things to keep in mind when selecting photography for your print or digital communications…

Please use photos that are: Topical — The most up-to-date photos relating directly to the content of what is being communicated. Cultural — Highlighting the people, places and things at the heart of the USO. This may include: Volunteers, center staff, centers in use, service members utilizing centers and/or participating in USO programs. Historical — Use only when illustrating our legacy. (Note: Historical photos should be used sparingly and only in a supporting role. When talking about our history, we prefer to give a nod to the past while shining the brightest light on the future.)

To request images for use in your next project or for recommendations where to ! Important note purchase stock photography, please contact [email protected]. The DOD has strict guidelines about using service members in advertising, marketing and promotional materials. Before using images of service members on any external communications, please contact [email protected] for approval.

16 17 VIDEO

Before starting any video project, please contact the Brand Advancement department. A member of the department will WATERMARK need to approve any scripts and intent for video use and/or distribution prior to filming. If your video project is approved All USO videos should have a watermark placed in the bottom right hand corner of the video. for production, a Brand Advancement team member will work with you to ensure that the message and branding are You can download the watermark here: uso.box.com/vgcenterswatermark consistent with the organization’s standards. Here are a few guidelines to help you get started with your approved projects: For users building their videos in Adobe Premiere, the positioning of the logo should be: 1710.0 (X axis), INTRO 930.0 (Y axis), scaled to 12.0 percent. For users building their videos in another editing software, please Please use the USO logo animation at the beginning of your video. No modifications should be eyeball the watermark to reflect the above image or existing videos on the USO’s YouTube channel. made to this intro. The intro files can be downloaded here: uso.box.com/vgcentersrollin TRANSITIONS CREDITS In video and film, transition effects have meaning. As such, transition effects should be used sparingly.

The end of video credits are constructed in Adobe After Effects and use Whitney or Calibri ASPECT RATIOS font. The template can be downloaded here: uso.box.com/vgcenters2016credits We strongly suggest everything be shot in 16:9 wide screen. Vertical video is highly discouraged.

LENGTH Videos should ideally be kept between 2-3 minutes long and no more than 5 minutes.

VIDEO THUMBNAILS A video thumbnail is the image displayed in the video player when the video is not playing. By default, YouTube selects a thumbnail image for each video. However we recommend going to the Basic Info tab on each YouTube video you upload and adding a custom thumbnail to ensure the best possible image has been selected to represent your video. Your custom thumbnail image should be as large as possible, as the image will also be used as the preview image in the embedded player. We recommend your custom thumbnails: Have a resolution of 1280x720 (with minimum width of 640 pixels); Be sure to uploaded in image formats such as .JPG, .GIF, or .PNG.

Text should be set in all caps in either Whitney Semibold or Calibri Bold font and should be aligned into two columns FILE REQUIREMENTS FOR PLAYBACK ON USO DIGITAL PROPERTIES and bolded/unbolded. All text should lie on a large black square as in the above photo. The black square, with Format: .mp4, .mov // Audio Codec: AAC-LC // Video Codec: H.264 text, should briefly fade in and fade out. We strongly discourage any graphics or animations in the credits.

LOWER THIRDS Lower thirds are used to identify speakers and may also be used to communicate other information such Need an example? Visit the USO’s YouTube channel to see a few examples in action. as location or a call to action. The lower thirds are constructed in Adobe After Effects and use Whitney The video found here: https://youtu.be/QBSGXP6jRCc is a great example or Calibri font. The template can be downloaded here: uso.box.com/vgcenterslowerthirds of how the USO’s standard video graphics should look.

Text should be set in all caps in either Whitney Semibold or Calibri Bold font and should be left aligned on a black bar in the lower left or lower right corner of the video. Bars should briefly fade in and fade out. We strongly discourage any graphics or animations in the lower thirds.

18 19 APPLICATIONS

STATIONERY Here are examples of our brand applied on various promotional mediums, products and internal works.

Office Communications E-MAIL SIGNATURE

The e-mail signature is a vital tool in presenting the USO as a unified brand while providing relevant information to help others communicate with us. Please choose from the following options for your @uso.org e-mail address to present a more unified, professional appearance for official USO communications.

E-mail signatures should be formatted using Calibri (color black) and the font size should be no larger than 14pt. For e-mail signatures on mobile devices, default fonts may be used. Your first and last name should be set in bold, all other lines should be regular (no italics).

! Important note Do not add any personal information to your e-mail signature (such as inspirational quotes) *If you actively use social media as part of your job with as it distracts from the unified USO brand. the USO you have the option to include this information on the last line before the mission statement.

20 21 Marketing Materials Event Display Materials

FLYER, POSTER & ONE PAGER TEMPLATES WALL BANNER (W/GROMMETS) POP-UP BANNERS

EVENT INVITATIONS

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22 23 BRAND LANGUAGE Social Media

ABOUT OUR BRAND VOICE

The USO, much like the military community it serves, speaks a language all its own. Our mix of military speak and All official USO social media accounts must use either the USO Badge/Center logo or the USO 75 Years Logo as nonprofit nomenclature can make it challenging to keep our organizational voice clear and consistent. This stylebook the profile image. If you need assistance setting up your profile images, please contact [email protected]. When is designed to help us maintain that clarity and consistency. It should be used as a guide for all USO written posting photos to your social media accounts, please refer to the photography guidelines on page 20. communication.

This is a guide to the mundane and obscure, to military jargon and only-at-the-USO language. From AAFES to “Your USO at Work,” it helps us keep our tongues untied and our expressed intentions clear. When do we use GWOT? When do we say “troops” versus “service members?” What’s the difference between “deactivate” and “inactivate?” It’s all in this FACEBOOK INSTAGRAM guide.

There’s something else informing the USO Stylebook, as well: The brand voice of the USO. Our voice should carry our new brand positioning, as the 75-year-old American institution that today, as always, carries out its mission of connection. We strengthen America’s military service members by keeping them connected to family, home and country, throughout their service to the nation.

The voice of this mission should reflect the pride with which we pursue our mission, the esteem in which we hold the military community we serve and the warm, supportive, home-and-family atmosphere we seek to create for service members, whenever and wherever they seek us out.

Consider it a companion piece to the new Graphic Identity Guide. Together, these two books will help give the USO consistent visual and verbal consistency to ensure a strong, new brand positioning. TWITTER GOOGLE+ TWO NOTES ON BRAND LANGUAGE

• When we write about the USO, our expressions should reflect our three core beliefs that form the foundation of our new brand expression: • High morale is vital to the success of a nation’s military community. • Service members draw strength by staying connected to the things they love and fight for. • Service members should feel connected to family, home and country throughout their service, no matter their circumstances. Also, we should characterize service members with language that reflects the feedback received directly from them. YOUTUBE FLICKR Most prefer being referred to generically as service members, not troops (particularly the airmen, sailors and members of the Coast Guard).

• They are not weakened by conditions of their service. They are pillars of strength for America. • While they welcome our support, they don’t seek or welcome pity.

The goal of this stylebook is big and simple: Help us achieve our ideal of operating as one USO, speaking with one voice.

*If you have a question this style guide can’t answer, please consult AP (Associated Press) style or contact a member of the Brand Advancement department at [email protected].

24 25 A Navy/Marine Corps: afghani airborne, Airborne http://www.foxfall.com/fmd-navy-ach.htm The currency of Afghanistan. Not to be confused with Do not abbreviate. Capitalize when referring to an Afghan, a person from Afghanistan. airborne unit or the Army Airborne School at Fort AAFES Air Force: Benning, Ga. Use Roman numerals with airborne corps, See Army and Air Force Exchange Service. OK to use as http://foxfall.com/fmd-usaf-ach.htm Afghanistan War e.g., XVIII Airborne Corps, but 82nd Airborne Division. second reference and in headlines. Capitalize as part of the name of a specific conflict. Also, Infantry soldiers who are airborne qualified (to jump out Coast Guard: Iraq War, Vietnam War, etc. of aircraft) are paratroops. AB http://foxfall.com/fmd-uscg-ach.htm Do not use this abbreviation for air base, which is Air AFN aircraft carriers Force nomenclature for bases outside the United States. Joint Service: See American Forces Network. As with all Navy ships, use “USS (Name).” Do not Also see AFB and Air Force base. http://www.foxfall.com/fmd-dod-jsam.htm use its hull number (i.e., CVN-70) unless absolutely AFRICOM needed. http://www.navy.mil/navydata/fact_display. ABU acronym finder Acceptable in a headline. See U.S. Africa Command asp?cid=4200&tid=200&ct=4 See Airman Battle Uniform. A valuable tool for acronym identification: http://www. dtic.mil/doctrine/DOD_dictionary/ Air Force birthday airman accompanied tour The Air Force is September 18, 1947. 1) Any member of the Air Force, regardless of gender. An assignment in which housing or services for the active duty Lowercase. 2) The lowest three ranks in the Air Force. service member’s family is authorized. Typically, Hyphenated when used as a compound adjective. Air Force Cross Uppercase when referring to an actual rank, using AP accompanied tours last for three years, as opposed to Examples: “Service members on active duty will A medal awarded for extraordinary heroism in style. 3) A Navy or Coast Guard member who is trained one to two years for unaccompanied tours. receive a 3 percent raise Jan. 1.” or “Active-duty service connection with military operations against an opposing or training in the field of aviation. Uppercase when members will receive a 3 percent raise Jan. 1.” force. Ranks second in precedence below the Medal of associated with a rating. The term, in all cases, applies achievement medals Honor. See military decorations. http://www.afpc.af.mil/ to both men and women. Each armed service awards a medal for outstanding admiral library/factsheets/factsheet.asp?id=7726 achievements or meritorious service. The Army There are four grades of admiral in the Navy and Coast Airman Battle Uniform Achievement Medal can be awarded to any member of Guard. From lowest to highest, they are Rear Admiral, Air Force Military Training Center The Air Force introduced the ABU in 2007 to replace the the armed forces serving in any capacity with the Army lower half (one star), Rear Admiral, upper half (two Located at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio. The Battle Dress Uniform. It will be completely phased in by in a noncombat area. The Navy Achievement Medal is stars), Vice Admiral (three stars) and Admiral (four center where most Air Force personnel undergo initial late 2011. Only use the abbreviation in a headline when limited to Naval and Marine junior officers and enlisted stars). There have been five-star admirals (Fleet training. Do not abbreviate. clarifying that it’s an Air Force thing (example: “Air Force members. It can be awarded for combat or noncombat Admiral), but none since WWII. In headlines, an issues new ABU guidelines”). http://www.afpc.af.mil/ actions, and the V device is authorized for actions admiral of any rank can be referred to simply as admiral; Air Force specialty code dress/abubdu.asp involving valor. The Air Force Achievement Medal however, his/her exact rank must be clearly noted on Job codes for Air Force members. Example: 3A051 is and Coast Guard Achievement Medal are awarded first reference within the story. See general. information manager, 3S051 is supply specialist and Airman’s Medal to members of those services whose professional 3N071 is public affairs. Corresponds to Army military An Air Force medal awarded for heroism that involves achievements exceeded normal expectancy. It can be AFB occupation specialty and Navy enlisted classification the voluntary risk of life under other-than-combat awarded for combat or noncombat actions, and the V Do not use this abbreviation for a stateside Air Force code. Use specialty, skill or code on second reference. conditions. See military decorations. http://www.afpc. device is authorized for actions involving valor. base. Example: Lackland Air Force Base, Texas. See air af.mil/library/factsheets/factsheet.asp?id=7769 base, Air Force base. air station See military decorations. A small Air Force overseas installation that has no flight AK-47 Afghan line. Stories about air stations carry the name of the city A Soviet-designed 7.62 mm automatic assault rifle, Army: A person from Afghanistan. Not to be confused with of their location as datelines. Do not abbreviate. produced in many countries and in common use by http://www.foxfall.com/fmd-army-ach.htm afghani, the currency of Afghanistan. armies and insurgents around the world. Initially fielded in 1947, it was designed by Mikhail Kalashnikov. AK

26 27 refers to Avtomat Kalashnikov, the Soviet name for the always use American Red Cross to avoid possible unless referring to a specific unit. Examples: U.S. Army, harbors, waterways and locks throughout the United weapon. A 5.45 mm version, the AK-74, was fielded confusion with other agencies, such as the International British army and German air force, but British Royal Air States. In its military research and development role, it in the 1970s, but is not as common as the AK-47. The Committee of the Red Cross. Force. deals with such issues as rapid repair and restoration of AK-47 design spawned an entire series of weapons of bomb-damaged runways, computer-aided architectural various calibers. Use AK-47 in all copy (with hyphen); ammo Army Air Corps and engineering design systems, and energy analysis Kalashnikov or Kalashnikov rifle is acceptable in a quote. Slang term for ammunition. Do not use except in direct Take care with references in stories about World War systems for estimating fuel consumption in buildings. quotes. Use ammunition instead. II. The corps was established on July 2, 1926, before it American Forces Network was replaced by the Army Air Forces in June 1941 — Army Human Resources Command AFN is acceptable on second reference and in headlines. AO before Pearl Harbor. Hence, World War II articles should The personnel system of the Army. Headquarters moved AFN, an American Forces Radio and Television Service Area of operations. Military term for a unit’s garrison not call it the Army Air Corps. The Army Air Forces to Fort Knox, Ky., in 2010 under Base Realignment and outlet, is funded by Congress to provide service and field locations. Do not abbreviate. became the U.S. Air Force in September 1947, when the Closure (BRAC). members, families and Defense Department civilians Department of the Air Force was established. with entertainment and information. AFN broadcasts TV AP Asian regions and radio to Americans around the world, including Iraq Acceptable on second reference as an abbreviation for Army Air Forces Geographic usage follows these popular divisions: Asian and Afghanistan. http://myafn.DODmedia.osd.mil/ The Associated Press (the capitalized article is part of Established in June 1941 to replace the Army Air Corps. subcontinent: Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Nepal, Sikkim the name). Also used in photo credits. Do not capitalize In September 1947, the Army Air Forces became a and Sri Lanka. Far East: China, Japan, North and South American Forces Radio and Television Service the word “the” when using the abbreviation in copy. separate branch, the U.S. Air Force. See Army Air Corps. Korea, Taiwan, Hong Kong and eastern portions of A system that broadcasts information and Russia. Middle East (also called Southwest Asia by the entertainment to Defense Department personnel and APO AA Army and Air Force Exchange Service military): Afghanistan, Iran, Iraq, Israel, Kuwait, Jordan, their families stationed overseas. Core programming Army or Air Force post office in Central or South AAFES is acceptable in all references, but make sure Lebanon, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Syria, Turkey, from U.S. commercial networks and other sources America. a first-reference use is followed by the full name. United Arab Emirates and the Republic of Yemen. Also is furnished through the American Forces Radio and Acceptable to use exchange, exchanges or the exchange included are the island of Cyprus and the northeastern Television Broadcast Center at March Air Reserve Base APO AE service on second reference. Headquarters are in Dallas. African nations of Egypt and Sudan. Southeast Asia: in California. Local programs are produced by AFRTS Army or Air Force post office in Europe. http://www.aafes.com/ Burma, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Papua outlets to serve the needs of local audiences. AFRTS New Guinea, the Republic of the Philippines, Singapore, acceptable in headlines and on second reference. APO AP Army birthday Thailand and Vietnam. Pacific Rim: A less specifically Headquarters are in Alexandria, Virginia. Parent unit of Army or Air Force post office in the Pacific. The Army’s birthday is June 14, 1775. defined reference to those nations of Asia that border American Forces Network. http://afrts.DODmedia.osd. the Pacific Ocean. mil/ appropriated funds Army Combat Uniform Tax-supported funds that Congress sets aside for Introduced in 2005 to replace the 1980s-era Battle Associated Press Stylebook American Red Cross Department of Defense expenses. See NAF. Dress Uniform and Desert Camouflage Uniform. Known The stylebook of The Associated Press. USO uses the Red Cross permitted on second reference. Do not for its unique “digital pattern.” The ACU relies heavily AP stylebook as the first reference for editing and style abbreviate. Red Cross operates four European hub Arlington National Cemetery on Velcro fasteners; another distinguishing feature is matters. The second reference, particularly for military offices in Hanau, Ramstein and Mannheim, Germany, All military retirees and all service members who die that the wearer’s rank is affixed to his/her chest. Use issues, is this stylebook. and in Naples, Italy. Many offices operating in foreign on active duty are eligible to be buried in Arlington. It is abbreviation ACU in headlines and on second reference. countries are affiliated with the International Red adjacent to Fort Myer, Virginia., near Washington, D.C. Generally speaking, combat uniform will suffice. Also attention Cross and Red Crescent Society; for example, national http://www.arlingtoncemetery.org/ see ACU and MultiCam. http://www.army.mil/symbols/ A service member at the position of attention stands Red Cross societies exist in Japan, Macau, Hong Kong combatflash.html straight, arms at their sides, heels together and toes and Singapore. Some American Red Cross operations armed forces apart at a 45-degree angle. This is the only position overseas are located on military installations, such Lowercase except in proper name. Do not abbreviate as Army Corps of Engineers from which a salute is rendered; it is also the position a as Misawa Air Base in Japan. When referring to a “AF”. Capitalize names of armed forces of the United The Army Corps of Engineers, with headquarters in service member assumes when talking to a warrant or Red Cross operation on a U.S. military installation, States. Other nations’ armed forces are lowercase Washington, D.C., has constructed major dams, levees, commissioned officer senior to them. See parade rest.

28 29 http://usmilitary.about.com/od/theorderlyroom/l/ awards basic training Do not use the outdated terms flak jacket or flak vest, blattention.htm See military decorations. See recruit training. unless in a direct quote or in a historical context. attribution B battalion BRAC Always seek the fullest possible attribution for news Do not abbreviate. When used with a figure, it forms a See Base Realignment And Closure. stories. Avoid use of reportedly in a news story. Instead, name and should be capitalized, e.g., 1st Battalion. See it is preferred the source of the information be cited. barracks echelons of command. brackets When an unnamed source is used in a story, the source Formally called bachelor enlisted or bachelor officer Brackets are used when words of the quote are missing: should be characterized as precisely as possible without quarters (BEQ or BOQ). The Air Force calls them battery “Obama said [Biden] was at an undisclosed location.” jeopardizing that person, and the reason for withholding dormitories; the other services call them barracks. Many An Army or Marine Corps unit of artillery equivalent Parentheses are used to add explanatory words to the the name should be indicated. lower-ranking single enlisted personnel or married to a company. Usually commanded by a captain and quote: “Obama said Biden (the vice president) was at an personnel living apart from their families live in barracks subordinate to a battalion. Proper style is “Battery A, 1st undisclosed location.” attribution of family members or dormitories. Barracks also applies to Navy or Coast Battalion, 113th Field Artillery Regiment.” When a husband and wife are both named in a story, Guard quarters on land. Quarters aboard ship is called Bradley Fighting Vehicles do not refer to the wife as, for example, “Mrs. Jones” berthing. It’s always acceptable to use quarters. BDU The M2 and M3 Bradley Fighting Vehicle is a lightly and the husband as simply “Jones” on second reference. See battle dress uniform. Abbreviation acceptable in armored, fully tracked transport vehicle that provides Repeat their first and last names if needed for clarity or bases, camps, forts headlines and on second reference. cross-country mobility, mounted firepower and write around the problem (“his wife said,” “the husband Most stateside Army bases are called forts, although protection from artillery and small-arms fire. It is used in reported”). Examples: “President Bill Clinton and Hillary there are a number of camps that generally host berthing mechanized infantry and armored cavalry combat. See Rodham Clinton headed to Pennsylvania for the burial National Guard units for training exercises. Many Army Quarters for personnel aboard ship. See barracks. M2, M3 of her father Friday. Earlier in the day, the president facilities overseas are called camps, as are many Marine eulogized his father-in-law, Hugh Rodham, during a bases stateside. In all cases, use the proper name of the billet brig private service in Little Rock, Ark., where Hillary Clinton facility, but “base” is always acceptable in headlines and A particular job slot a service member is assigned to. A Navy, Coast Guard or Marine Corps confinement had kept a 16-day vigil at the retired drapery maker’s on subsequent references. Term most commonly used among Navy, Marine Corps facility for service members awaiting court-martial or bedside. In addition to the first lady, Rodham is survived and Coast Guard. convicted under the Uniform Code of Military Justice. by his wife and two sons.” For other family members, base pay See stockade, detention facility. repeat first and last names when needed on second Basic salary, excluding food, housing, cost-of-living Black Hawk reference. Example: “Robert Jones claimed that his allowances and special duty pay. 2016 base pay (all Two words, both capitalized. The nickname for the brigade parents had never loved him. Jones’ brother, Bill, denied ranks). Army’s UH-60 Black Hawk utility helicopter. There Do not abbreviate in unit names. See echelons of that, however. ‘They gave him everything they had and are several variants of the Black Hawk used by other command. then some,’ Bill Jones said.” In general, refer to children Base Realignment And Closure services. See Pave Hawk (Air Force), Seahawk (Navy), under 18 by their first names on second reference. In the A program of consolidation, reorganization and base Jayhawk (Coast Guard). https://safety.army.mil/ON- Bronze Star Medal case of teenagers, the story’s subject – such as a juvenile closures undertaken beginning in 2005. Many major DUTY/Aviation/UH-60BlackHawk.aspx Awarded for heroic or meritorious achievement or being tried for a crime as an adult or young marriage – commands have relocated or will relocate under this service, not involving aerial flight, in combat. When a might make last names preferable. Be careful using the program. Also, many adjoining military bases will be Blue Angels Bronze Star is awarded for heroic/valorous action, a V term dependent. It is the traditional term for the spouse combined into a joint base. For example, Fort Lewis, The Navy’s air demonstration team that flies the F/A-18 device is added to the ribbon of the medal. http://www. and children of a service member, but family member Wash., and McChord Air Force Base, Wash., have Hornet. http://www.blueangels.navy.mil/ foxfall.com/fmd-common-bsm.htm is preferred unless writing about compensation or legal been combined into Joint Base Lewis-McChord. BRAC issues that require the use of dependent in the narrow is acceptable in a headline, but spell it out on first body armor BX legal sense. reference. http://www.brac.gov/ A fabric vest with inserted metal or ceramic plates, Use base exchange or exchange for an story involving designed to protect the wearer from shrapnel or bullets. AAFES at an Air Force base or installation. An Army facility is a post exchange or PX. A Navy facility is a NEX,

30 31 and a similar Marine Corps facility is an MCX. Use BX cavalry chaplain chow, chow line only within direct quotes. Capitalize in unit names. Historically, horse-mounted Use: Chaplain (Maj.) John Jones. Military chaplains are Slang for food or waiting in line to get food. Acceptable soldiers. In a modern sense, cavalry units are either officers who are clergy and perform religious services for in feature stories; avoid in hard news stories, except in C armored (tank) or used in scout/reconnaissance roles. military units. Usually assigned by religious affiliation. direct quotations. Cavalry is sometimes referred to as “cav,” but only use Chaplain is a job title, not a military rank, but chaplains that in a direct quote. NOTE: Always check the spelling are routinely addressed as “Chaplain” (regardless of chow hall camp of C-A-V-A-L-R-Y, so that it is not confused with the religion) rather than by their military rank. See doctor. An outdated, informal term, but still used in the ranks. See bases, camps, forts. Biblical Calvary, where Jesus was crucified. Rule of Use only in direct quotes. Most services officially prefer thumb: Cavalry is called “cav,” not “cal.” chartered center the term dining facility. See mess hall. captain See also USO chartered center. A chartered center 1) An Army, Air Force or Marine officer with the pay cemeteries receives a USO charter from USO, Inc. to operate under CHU grade of O-3. AP style is Capt. when referring to an The American Battle Monuments Commission, the USO’s brand. USO Inc. conducts periodic reviews Containerized Housing Unit. Acceptable on second individual officer, captain(s) when not followed by a established in Washington, D.C., in 1923, maintains of chartered centers to ensure that their operations are reference. See hooch. name or used collectively. 2) A Navy or Coast Guard 24 U.S. military cemeteries on foreign soil (it does in keeping with USO’s Standard of Excellence (SOE). officer in the pay grade of O-6. AP style is Capt. when not administer any in the United States). See the Chartered centers are independent organizations and civil affairs referring to an individual officer, captain(s) when not American Battle Monuments Commission website for receive the majority of their funding through their local Military personnel, particularly in the Army, specifically followed by a name or used collectively. 3) An officer the locations of cemeteries. http://www.abmc.gov/ community. trained in acting as a liaison between combat forces of any rank who commands a ship. In this case, use the cemeteries-memorials#.VuBQNvkrLcs and local populations. Among civil affairs duties are officer’s rank and the fact that he/she is the captain of chief coordinating interaction between U.S. forces and local the ship. For example: Cmdr. Jimmy Buffett, captain of center The unofficial form of address for the Army of Air Force civilian authorities, identifying local areas of need (food, the USS Margaritaville, ordered his crew to set sail for See also USO center. Note “center” is lowercased. At chief of staff, but standard for an Air Force chief master medical, etc.) and assisting in civil administration where the nearest port with plenty of bars. more than 180 locations around the world, thousands sergeant, a Navy chief petty officer, a chief warrant effective government has been compromised. Civil of U.S. service members and their families walk through officer or an Air Force crew chief. To prevent confusion, affairs personnel work with all aspects of the military, caregiver the doors of the USO every day. Inside the USO, they’ll do not use “chief” in headlines to mean senior Navy including combat arms units, intelligence, medical The person who provides essential assistance to find a place to relax, ways to connect with loved ones leadership, e.g., Navy chief predicts slower promotions. elements and engineering, as well as special operations wounded, ill or injured service members or veterans. back home, snacks to enjoy and a wide range of USO Instead, use the person’s actual rank and/or job title. forces. Capitalize both words when referring to a Caregivers often are family members such as a spouse programs and services. To locate a center, visit: https:// specific civil affairs unit. or parent. www.uso.org/centers chief warrant officer An officer in the pay grades of W-2 through W-5. civil engineers Caregivers Seminar Central Command Warrant officers tend to be technical experts in their The unit responsible for maintaining an installation, A USO program, Caregivers Seminars offer those See U.S. Central Command. CENTCOM is acceptable in chosen field, with more responsibility than enlisted including roads, grounds and buildings. providing care a variety of insights into how best to a headline. personnel, but without the command responsibility of care for wounded, ill or injured service members, while commissioned officers. While chief warrant officers are civvies caring for themselves and other family members. For change of command informally called “Mr. /Miss/Mrs. (name)” or “Chief A slang term for nonmilitary clothing. Do not use except more on Caregivers Seminars, visit: http://www.uso.org/ A change of command is a formal military ceremony (name)” by others, only use those terms in a direct in direct quotes. caregivers during which the outgoing commander passes the quote. Otherwise, use the AP style. The Air Force does unit colors or guidon to the incoming commander. The not have chief warrant officers. See warrant officer. Class A uniform casualty assumption of command is the issuing of the orders that The Army and Navy military uniform combination that Military casualty numbers include both people who are assigns a person the legal authority to command. chopper includes jacket and trousers or skirt. Air Force equivalent killed and those who are wounded. Acceptable on second reference as a nickname for is Combination 1. Use service uniform for any uniform helicopter, but not recommended. Perhaps more combination except battle uniforms or Navy dungarees. appropriate for light features. Also see copter, helo. The Army Class A uniform is being phased out in favor

32 33 of Dress Blues, known as the Army Service Uniform. spell out on first reference. http://www.army.mil/ Comfort Crew for Military Kids commendation medals can be awarded with V device if The Army Class A Green uniform will not be worn after symbols/CombatBadges/infantry.html The USO partners with the Comfort Crew for Military heroism in combat was involved. 2014. Kids – a USO Transition 360 Alliance member – to Combat Medical Badge send award-winning author and motivational speaker Army: http://www.foxfall.com/fmd-army-arcom.htm click, clicks Awarded to medical personnel holding the rank of Trevor Romain on tour to promote self-confidence and Military slang for kilometers. Do not use except in direct colonel or below, who are assigned or attached to resiliency in military children ages 6 to 15 years old. Air Force: http://foxfall.com/fmd-usaf-com.htm quotes, and with explanation. ground combat units and perform medical duties under For more on the Comfort Crew for Military Kids, visit: fire. Established in 1945. Do not abbreviate in headlines. https://www.uso.org/programs/comfort-crew-for- Navy and Marine Corps: http://foxfall.com/fmd-navy-com.htm CNO http://www.army.mil/symbols/combatbadges/medical.html military-kids Chief of Naval Operations. The top Navy officer and a Coast Guard: http://www.foxfall.com/fmd-uscg-cgcm.htm member of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. Do not abbreviate. combat stripes command-sponsored The Army awards one gold stripe for each six months Term for a family member who is authorized to Joint Service: http://foxfall.com/fmd-DOD-jscm.htm CO of combat duty. The stripes are worn on the lower right accompany his or her sponsor to an overseas Commanding officer. Use commander. “CO” may be sleeves of service and dress uniforms. Other services assignment and is eligible for all benefits. Non- commissary acceptable in direct quotes, but should be explained in have similar combat duty indicators. command-sponsored family members are those who are The Defense Commissary Agency (DeCA) controls context. not authorized to accompany their sponsors and who military commissaries worldwide. It operates 284 stores Combat V are not guaranteed any privileges except medical care. in 15 countries, as of 2010. DeCA’s headquarters are Cold War See V device. Sponsors must pay for their families’ transportation to at Fort Lee, Virginia. http://www.commissaries.com/ Refers specifically to the rivalry between the United the overseas location. Commissary, exchange, education store_locator.cfm States and the former Soviet Union after the close of combined and family housing privileges vary, depending upon the World War II until the dissolution of the USSR in 1991. Refers to operations and task forces comprised of status of forces agreement in each country. commissioned officer Always capitalize. military forces from more than one country. For Air Force, Army or Marine Corps members holding example, an early command of the allied invasion and commanding general ranks ranging from second lieutenant to general. Navy Combat Action Badge occupation of Iraq was called Combined Joint Task Use commander. For example: “Maj. Gen. Rufus T. and Coast Guard officers range from ensign to admiral. Awarded to soldiers who engaged or were engaged by Force-7. See joint. Clodhopper, commander of the 27th Cavalry Division, Pay grades in all cases are from O-1 (lowest) to O-10 hostile forces in designated combat zones. Generally said...” (highest). Their authority derives from commissions awarded to soldiers who are not qualified for the combined command signed by the president and confirmed by Congress. Combat Infantry Badge or the Combat Medical Badge. Consists of forces from more than one nation; e.g., commander There are no rank restrictions on this award; it can European and Atlantic commands contribute forces to 1) An officer who commands a military unit, ship or commodore also be awarded to members of other services. Do not the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO). installation. Can also be called the “commanding Obsolete as a U.S. Navy rank. The one-star rank is now abbreviate in headlines. Established in 2005. http:// officer.” Lowercase. 2) A Naval officer rank, designated as rear admiral (lower half). The term still www.army.mil/symbols/combatbadges/Action.html Combined Federal Campaign corresponding to the pay grade of O-5. AP abbreviation applies to certain officers, but is a job title (such as seen The Defense Department’s annual charitable fundraising is Cmdr. with executive officer or chaplain). Combat Distinguishing Device effort at military installations; similar to United Way in See V device. the United States. The only regular, officially sanctioned commendation medal company fundraising effort conducted among federal employees. The Army, Navy, Coast Guard and Air Force award An Army or Marine Corps unit, subordinate to a Combat Infantry Badge This campaign usually occurs during a six-week period the commendation medal for outstanding service or battalion. Do not abbreviate company in unit names. Awarded to infantry or Special Forces soldiers holding in September and October. CFC is acceptable on second achievement. The Joint Service Commendation Medal Use Company D, not D Company or Delta Company. the rank of colonel or below, for engaging or being reference. http://www.opm.gov/cfc/ is awarded for outstanding performance of duty or Sometimes, nicknames such as “Danger Company” will engaged by hostile forces in a designated combat zone. meritorious achievement while assigned to a joint staff pop up; only use this in quotes after the proper name Established in 1943. Can be abbreviated in a headline, or joint activity of the Defense Department. Capitalize of the unit has been used. When spelling out a unit’s when referring to a specific branch’s medal. All full name, the company comes after platoon and before

34 35 battalion, as in “Pvt. Joe Jones, of 1st Platoon, Company pay. Use post allowance. Civil service employees and currency Defense Dependent Elementary and Secondary A, 1st Battalion, 120th Infantry Regiment, just wanted to NAF employees overseas receive post allowances. All figures in currency other than U.S. dollars should Schools go home.” NOTE: An equivalent cavalry unit is a troop; Federal retirees and Social Security recipients receive be converted whenever practical. For a quick converter The branch of the Department of Defense Education an equivalent artillery unit is a battery. See echelons of cost-of-living adjustments. of the major currencies we deal with, see: http://www. Activity that oversees primary and secondary schools command. DODcommunitybank.com/home/products/currency_ for military dependents at installations in the United counseling services exchange States, Guam and Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. company grade officer Army Community Counseling Centers replace An Army, Air Force or Marine Corps officer from 2nd Community Drug and Alcohol Assistance Centers. Use Cyber Command Defense Finance and Accounting Service Lieutenant through Captain (O-1 through O-3 pay centers on second reference. The Navy operates family See U.S. Cyber Command. CYBERCOM is acceptable in The service handles Department of Defense financial grades). See junior officer. service centers. The Air Force operates family support a headline. management through consolidation, standardization centers. and integration of finance and accounting procedures, D operations and systems. DFAS is acceptable in headlines Counterinsurgency and on second reference. http://www.dfas.mil congressional Armed conflict against an insurgency in which forces Lowercase unless part of a proper name: congressional attempt to improve the lives and well-being of people D-Day Defense Information Systems Agency salaries, the Congressional Quarterly , 1st Congressional in an area threatened by insurgent forces attempting to The unnamed day on which an operation or offensive is The Department of Defense’s agency that handles District. diminish or eradicate the power of a recognized, friendly to be launched. Most commonly associated with June computerized information and data throughout DOD. government. In headlines, use COIN strategy. 6, 1944, the day on which the Allied forces invaded Headquarters are in Arlington, Virginia. Do not use the Congressional Medal of Honor Society Normandy, France, during World War II. Often used abbreviation. http://www.disa.mil/ The official society, chartered by Congress, of all living court-martial, courts-martial casually and informally for any significant future date. recipients of the Medal of Honor. Note that while the Military trials. Authority, composition and procedures Always capitalize. Defense Intelligence Agency name of the society says “Congressional,” the award for courts-martial are outlined in the Manual for The Defense Department’s main intelligence agency. itself is simply the Medal of Honor. See Medal of Honor. Courts-Martial. The three kinds of courts-martial in deactivate, inactivate Headquarters are at the Pentagon. DIA acceptable in http://www.cmohs.org/ ascending severity are: summary, special and general. To deactivate a unit means it is forever retired. To headlines and on second reference. http://www.dia.mil The word also is used as a verb, e.g., “Sgt. Jones was inactivate means the unit may be activated again. CONUS court-martialed for his crimes.” In the plural form, the Defense Language Institute Continental United States. When possible, use “s” is attached to “court.” The courts-martial of the three DeCA The U.S. military’s school for foreign language training at stateside. Use CONUS only to make a story clear; e.g., soldiers concluded yesterday. See Defense Commissary Agency. The “e” does not Presidio of Monterey, Calif. Do not abbreviate. in a complicated story on assignment policies. Explain stand for anything, and it should be lowercase. this abbreviation high in the story, even if it is used in a Criminal Investigation Command Defense Logistics Agency quotation. See OCONUS. Army command that investigates serious Army crime, deck This agency keeps Department of Defense activities provides personal security for senior Army and Defense Used by sailors and Marines to describe different levels supplied with goods and contracted services. DLA copter, ‘copter Department officials, operates forensic crime labs and of ships and buildings. Use deck for ship levels, and floor acceptable in headlines and on second reference. Do not use as short for helicopter, chopper or helo, all of operates the Army crimes records center. Formerly for those in buildings. Headquarters are at Fort Belvoir, Virginia. which are acceptable. called the Criminal Investigation Division. Do not abbreviate CID, an acronym that still lingers in military Defense Commissary Agency Defense Meritorious Service Medal cost-of-living allowance speech even though the name for which it stood, the This agency manages military commissaries worldwide. Awarded in the name of the secretary of defense in A monthly tax-free allowance for active duty service Army’s Criminal Investigation Division, changed to The agency headquarters are located at Fort Lee, recognition of meritorious achievement. http://foxfall. members to help offset the costs of living in expensive Criminal Investigation Command many years ago. Virginia. Acronym DeCA (note the lowercase “e”) com/fmd-dod-dmsm.htm areas overseas. The acronym COLA is acceptable in Headquarters are at Fort Belvoir, Virginia. http://www. acceptable in headlines and on second reference. http:// headlines and direct quotes. Do not use this wording to cid.army.mil/ www.commissaries.com/ refer to similar adjustments to some civilian workers’

36 37 Demilitarized Zone Department of Defense Education Activity the honorable discharge; the general discharge (under drawdown The Demilitarized Zone, roughly along the 38th parallel DODEA is acceptable in headlines and on second honorable conditions); the other-than-honorable One word. A reduction in force throughout the armed North, separates the nations of North Korea and South reference. DODEA is the activity that oversees all discharge; and two punitive grades that may result only services or from a particular theater of operations. Korea. It was established in 1953 by the truce that ended U.S. and overseas military schools, which means the from conviction by court-martial — the bad-conduct the Korean Conflict. Despite the name, the DMZ is Department of Defense Dependents Schools (DODDS) discharge and the dishonorable discharge. DUSTWUN heavily guarded by armed forces of North Korea on the are under DODEA. Although the activity writes their DUty STatus - Whereabouts Unknown. Newer (post- north and by combined joint forces of South Korea and acronym as “DODEA,” USO style is to use DODEA in Distinguished Service Cross 9/11) DOD term that indicates a service member is the U.S. on the south. DMZ acceptable in headlines and headlines and on second reference. http://www.DODea. An Army medal given for extraordinary heroism in missing, but a determination has not been made on on second reference in copy. edu/home/ combat. Ranks second in precedence below the Medal whether that person is injured, killed, captured or of Honor. Air Force equivalent is the Air Force Cross; otherwise. Do not use the acronym in headlines or Department of Defense dependent Navy and Marine Corps equivalent is the Navy Cross. without a full explanation. Also called the Defense Department. The acronym DOD Traditional term for the spouse and children of a service http://www.foxfall.com/fmd-army-dsc.htm (all caps) is permissible in headlines and on second member. Family member is preferred unless writing E reference. http://www.defense.gov about compensation or legal issues that require the use division of dependent in the narrow legal sense. Do not abbreviate. Capitalize in unit names. Department of Defense Dependents Schools Eagle, Globe and Anchor DODDS acceptable in headlines and on second detainee, detainees doctor Emblem of the U. S. Marine Corps. Marine Corps reference. The Department of Defense Education Term used by the U.S. military to describe enemy Dr. (Capt.) John Jones is correct, but preferred style is: recruits do not wear the Eagle, Globe and Anchor on Activity (DODEA) operates the worldwide system of fighters (foreign or American) apprehended or captured “Dr. John Jones, an Army captain, treated the patient.” their uniform until completing recruit training. Spell military schools, but it’s the Department of Defense during conflicts in foreign lands. Term gained popular or “The doctor, Capt. John Jones, was present.” it out, capitalized, on first reference. Use EGA only Dependents Schools when referring to those schools usage as an alternative to Prisoner of War (POW) in in direct quotes. https://www.marines.com/history- overseas. On second reference, it should be DODEA Afghanistan and Iraq, as they were not formally declared Domestic Dependent Elementary and Secondary heritage/symbols and DODDS-Europe, or simply DODDS or school wars. Schools system. The system, with headquarters in Arlington, The school system that educates some children of U.S. early out Virginia, has shrunk through drawdown from five detention facility service members stationed in the United States and Informal term for voluntary early-release or early- regions to three areas: Europe, Pacific and Domestic. A military confinement facility for either service its territories, including Guam. Use DDESS on second retirement programs, generally implemented to reduce DODDS Europe (DODDS-E) - European headquarters members or detainees/POWs. reference if necessary, although the school system payroll. The program is generally called an early-out in Wiesbaden, Germany, is headed by the area is preferable. Note that DDESS is one of two school plan. Only use the term in context, with explanation as superintendent. It oversees schools in Bahrain, Belgium, dining facility systems grouped under a parent organization, the needed. England, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, the Azores The official term used to describe military cafeterias and Department of Defense Education Activity. The other (Portugal), Spain. DODDS Pacific (DODDS-P) - other food preparation areas. Colloquially referred to as system, which supervises schools outside the U.S. and echelons of command Schools in Japan, Okinawa, Guam and Korea. DODDS a chow hall or mess hall. its territories, is the Department of Defense Dependents Each service has a system of defining levels of Pacific headquarters are located in Okinawa, Japan. Schools. Thus: “DDESS has decided to make geography command, with usually more than one smaller unit Regional offices also are maintained in Japan, Korea direct report center classes mandatory in all its high schools.” But: “Students subordinate to the next higher level. For a basic rundown and Okinawa. Please note that schools in Guam, a U.S. See also USO direct report center. Direct report centers in DOD schools are above the national average in test on how each service is structured in this fashion, refer to territory, are under the supervision of the Domestic are directly owned and operated by USO, Inc., and are scores.” http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/intro/org.htm Dependent Elementary and Secondary Schools, the financially funded by their local community, where DODEA division responsible for schools in the U.S. See available, in addition to funds raised through USO, Inc. dormitories EEO Defense Dependent Elementary and Secondary Schools. The Air Force’s name for bachelor enlisted quarters. See Acronym for Equal Employment Opportunity, not “Equal http://www.DODea.edu/home/ discharges barracks. Employment Office.” The name of the program for There are five grades of discharges given to enlisted Department of Defense civilian personnel; it deals with military personnel. They are issued administratively:

38 39 employment issues only. Only use the abbreviation on Equal Opportunity (EO) https://www.uso.org/programs/support-for-families-of- fatigues second reference in copy. Equal Opportunity is for military personnel and their the-fallen Olive drab military work/combat uniforms. The term is family members. In addition to discrimination issues in obsolete, unless referring to uniforms used before the EEOC employment, it also covers those dealing with housing, Family Advocacy Program early 1980s. See battle dress uniform (BDU). Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. Only use club systems or clubs, for example. Use the abbreviation An Army agency designed to help service members the abbreviation on second reference in copy. only on second reference in copy. See EEO. and families with problems such as child or spouse Field Artillery abuse, foster parenting or financial difficulties. Do not Use Field Artillery in unit names, not “FA.” The two main emergency leave European Command abbreviate. kinds of field artillery are self-propelled and towed (e.g., Time off, chargeable to annual leave, granted when a See U.S. European Command. EUCOM is acceptable in howitzers). personal emergency arises (such as a death in one’s a headline. family counseling centers family). Military personnel granted emergency leave Each service has a one-stop help center that offers field grade officer are allowed free travel aboard Air Mobility Command exchange short-term counseling for personal or family problems A major, lieutenant colonel or colonel in the Army, Air aircraft. Circumstances involving an emergency leave Acceptable to use in headlines and on second reference and referrals to local professionals for more lengthy Force or Marine Corps. The equivalent Navy and Coast request must be verified by the American Red Cross in instead of “post exchange” or “base exchange.” See counseling. Many centers operate hot lines to deal with Guard ranks (lieutentant commander, commander and the locality of the emergency. Army and Air Force Exchange Service, Navy Exchange, emergencies, have household items that newly arrived captain) are known as mid-grade officers. Use AP style Marine Corps Exchange. service members may borrow and offer employment for the specific ranks. emergency relief associations information. The Navy and Marine Corps have Family Army Emergency Relief, Air Force Assistance Fund, executive officer Service Centers. The Air Force has Family Support Fifth Corps Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society, Coast Guard Mutual Second in command of a military unit. Use the Centers. The Army has Army Community Service Use V Corps. An Army three-star command with Assistance and American Red Cross. shorthand “XO” only in headlines or on second Centers. The Coast Guard has Community Support headquarters in Heidelberg, Germany. All numbered reference. At higher levels, the second in command may Centers. It’s always fine to use counseling center. Army corps and Marine Expeditionary Forces use enlistment/enlisted be called the “deputy commander.” Note that executive Roman numerals (i.e., XVIII Airborne Corps, II MEF). A person who joins the military as an enlisted person officer is a job title, not a rank. Family Resource Center does so with an initial eight-year commitment to the See Military Family Resource Center. fireman military, some of which (two to six years, depending on exercise, exercises In the Navy, an enlisted sailor who specializes in the enlistee’s chosen military occupational specialty) Military practice maneuvers. CPX stands for command family separation allowance engineering, propulsion and other shipboard systems. will be served on active duty. The remainder of that post exercise, which involves the headquarters or A monthly tax-free allowance paid to service members Not a specifically a person who fights fires (although commitment will be served in his/her service’s reserve command staff. FTX stands for field training exercise, whose duties require them to live apart from their they are trained in damage control). It’s not a rank. The component or on Inactive Ready Reserve. Most enlistees involving service members in the field and headquarters families. Do not abbreviate. term applies to both men and women. join at the pay grade of E-1, but some come in as an staff. Do not use either abbreviation. E-2, E-3 or E-4, depending on previous job experience, Family Service Center flag officer college credits, participation in a JROTC program and ex-Marine Navy and Marine Corps resource and counseling center. A Navy or Coast Guard admiral of any grade. Equivalent other factors. See former Marine. Do not abbreviate. It’s always fine to use counseling to Army, Air Force or Marine Corps general officers. center. Always use AP style for a specific rank. EOD F Explosive ordnance disposal. Abbreviation EOD Family Support Center flak jacket/flak vest acceptable in headlines and second reference in copy. Air Force resource and counseling center. Do not An older term for projectile-resistant outer coverings. Spell it out on first reference in copy. Note spelling of Families of the Fallen Support Program abbreviate. It’s always fine to use counseling center. Usually refers to Vietnam-era and earlier attempts to O-R-D-N-A-N-C-E, which generally means military Always spell out. The USO supports families of fallen protect individuals from shrapnel. Modern systems, items that shoot, explode or use fire; “ordinance,” with service members by facilitating and easing their trip to with ceramic plates and higher projectile resistance, are an “i,” refers to laws passed by a city. Dover Air Force Base, Delaware, to receive the remains generally referred to as body armor. Use flak jacket/flak of their loved one. For more on the program, visit:

40 41 vest only in a direct quote or in a historical context (such forward general Good Conduct Medal for every three years of qualifying as in a story about the Vietnam War). Advance detachment or main battle element of a There are four grades of general in the Army, Air Force service. Not awarded to officers. deployed unit. Units deployed close to or in the battle and Marine Corps. From lowest to highest, they are flight deck area. Do not abbreviate; capitalize if part of a unit name. brigadier general (one star), major general (two star), Army: http://foxfall.com/gcrm-army.htm Refers to the visible deck of an aircraft carrier, where lieutenant general (three star) and general (four star). aircraft operations are carried out. Sometimes also forward-deployed There have been five-star generals (General of the Navy: http://foxfall.com/gcrm-navy-curr.htm refers to the forward compartment of an aircraft, A term used by the military to describe elements or Army/Air Force), but none since Omar Bradley died in where the pilots sit, commonly referred to as a cockpit, vessels normally assigned to a foreign country. Avoid 1981. In headlines, a general of any rank can be referred Marine Corps: http://foxfall.com/gcrm-usmc.htm especially in civilian passenger aircraft. this term, whenever possible, except in quotations. to simply as general; however, his/her exact rank must Acceptable substitutes are based and assigned, as in be clearly noted on first reference within the story. See Air Force: http://foxfall.com/gcrm-usaf.htm flight line “The 3rd Battalion, based at Camp Swampy, Mont., admiral for Navy equivalents. A parking and servicing area for airplanes. Has broader was assigned to FOB Bernstein for a year,” or “The 3rd Coast Guard: http://foxfall.com/gcrm-uscg.htm usage referring to any space that might be occupied Battalion was based out of FOB Bernstein for a year.” G.I. by aircraft taking off and landing. Acceptable in all Originally an abbreviation for “General Issue,” this Great Lakes Naval Training Center references, with explanation as needed. FPO antiquated term to refer to an enlisted service member Located at Great Lakes, Ill., on Lake Michigan between Fleet post office. Navy equivalent to Air Force or Army should not be used. “Service member” or a variant Chicago and Milwaukee. The major units on the base are flight pay Post Office (APO). See APO. (Note: APO addresses and should be used instead. the Naval Training Center; Recruit Training Command; Technically called aviation career incentive pay, this FPO addresses also carry the two-letter abbreviation Service School Command; Great Lakes Naval Hospital; monthly supplementary pay compensates aviators for AP, for all-Pacific; AE, for all-Europe or AA, for the Gitmo and Personnel Support Activity. http://www.bootcamp. the extra hazards they face. Officers’ flight pay is based Americas.) In this case, Navy post office always works. Shorthand for Naval Station Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. navy.mil/ on rank, time in service and flying experience. Enlisted Acceptable in headlines and direct quotes only. http:// flight pay is based on rank. On second reference and in frocked, frocking www.cnic.navy.mil/regions/cnrse/installations/ns_ Green Beret headlines, flight pay is acceptable. The services infrequently allow a service member who guantanamo_bay.html Nickname for a member of the Army’s Special Forces. has been selected for promotion to wear the insignia of Use only when a first reference already has made the former Marine grade before the promotion is official. Frocking is usually Global War on Terrorism subject clear. Also can be used in headlines for feature/ The preferred term for Marines who are no longer restricted to senior officers. Use judiciously, be sure to Term coined after Sept. 11, 2001, to describe operations enterprise stories. serving. Do not use “ex-Marine” unless “former Marine” explain as needed. in Afghanistan, Iraq and other locations against al-Qaida just won’t fit in a headline. Marines and former Marines and other state/non-state organizations. The term has grunt have been known to take issue with the term “ex- Front Lines fallen into disfavor with the Obama administration, Slang term for an infantry soldier. Do not use except Marine.” Marines like to say, “Once a Marine, always Front Lines was a quarterly hard copy USO newsletter but is still in common use. The armed forces have two within direct quotes. Can be used sparingly in headlines a Marine,” hence the opposition to “ex-Marine.” If the designed to engage our major donors and encourage medals for service in the global war on terrorism: The and copy, in feature or conversational stories. former Marine is a retiree, use “retired Marine.” further giving by informing them how their donor GWOT Expeditionary Medal and the GWOT Service dollars are directly supporting the USO’s mission. It was Medal. GS fort discontinued beginning 2016. General Schedule rating of government jobs. GS is A large Army installation in the United States. Do not Golden Knights acceptable on first reference, as in GS-9, but explain abbreviate. Examples: Fort Hood, Texas; Fort Bragg, N.C. G The Army’s official aerial demonstration parachute early in the story. When not using the formal name on later reference, team, based at Fort Bragg, N.C. “Army post” is acceptable. For example, “The sprawling Guantanamo Bay, Cuba Army post in North Carolina is home to the 82nd Gala Good Conduct Medal Officially referred to as Guantanamo Bay Naval Base, Airborne Division.” See USO Gala. Each military service awards its own medal for it is a 45-square mile area in the southeastern shore of exemplary behavior, fidelity and efficiency. Active-duty, Cuba, and has been occupied by the United States since enlisted service members receive a new award of the 1898. Now best known for housing detainees from the

42 43 Global War on Terrorism. The Navy slang “Gitmo” is participation in designated overseas geographic headlines Holiday Care Packages acceptable in headlines, but spell it out in copy. Do not locations. For more information, visit this link. USO uses an “up” headline style with the first letter of USO Holiday Care Packages include decorations, snacks, use the Navy abbreviation “GTMO.” each significant word capitalized. Brief words like “a, or, DVDs and games to help service members serving GWOT Service Medal the, at, for” can remain lowercased. in remote corners of the world celebrate American guardsman Awarded to members of the armed services who holidays. For more about this program, visit: https:// See also National Guardsman. When referring to an directly supported military efforts in the Global War on headquarters, headquartered www.uso.org/programs/holiday-care-packages individual in a National Guard unit, use either National Terrorism on or after Sept. 11, 2001. Those who support See “headquarters” entry in The Associated Press Guardsman or, when it stands alone, guardsman. overseas efforts in an active or reserve status from the Stylebook, which advises against using the word as a homeport, home-ported United States are eligible, as are service members who verb. Capitalize and spell out in unit names; HQ can be Acceptable in reference to ships. For example: “The USS guidon deploy outside the U.S. to participate in such efforts. used in headlines (as in “Division HQ staff officers under George Washington, home-ported at Yokosuka Naval A small flag carried by company- or platoon-sized units, scrutiny.”) Base, Japan, patrolled the Pacific,” or “Yokosuka Naval indicating the unit name and type (cavalry, infantry, http://www.afpc.af.mil/library/factsheets/factsheet. Base, the homeport of the USS George Washington...” etc.). In a formation, the guidon bearer is posted in front asp?id=7813 headquarters company of the rest of the unit members. In unit names, capitalize and do not abbreviate. Unlike Honor flight H lettered companies (Company A, etc.), ‘Headquarters’ is Refers to an effort by nonprofit organizations to Gulf War spelled out before ‘Company.’ transport veterans to see the memorials of their Properly, it is the Persian Gulf War, referring specifically respective wars, often in Washington, D.C., at no cost to to Operation Desert Shield and Operation Desert Storm hail and farewell here the veterans. in 1990-1991. Use Gulf War advisedly in headlines. Do A social event that welcomes new members of a military Do not use as a reference to dateline. Use name of not use the term to refer to the 2003 invasion of Iraq unit and honors departing ones. location (i.e., “at Fort Bragg”). Watch wire copy carefully hooah and subsequent conflict. Use Iraq War or war in Iraq in and change as needed. The Army’s all-purpose term of determination and spirit, that case. hash marks hollered during rallies, sporting events, runs, etc. Also Army, Navy and Marine Corps personnel wear longevity hero, heroes used as an acknowledgement of a statement, order gun stripes, informally called hash marks, on dress uniforms. These are terms that should be used sparingly and not and so forth. Use quote marks around the term. Do not In the military, not an acceptable term for hand-held Army personnel wear gold stripes, awarded for each without careful consideration with regards to our service confuse with the similar Marine Corps term “oorah.” weapons such as rifles or pistols. Gun refers to large- three years of service, on their lower left sleeves. Navy members. While we thing of them in these terms, they bore weapons such as artillery, tank main weaponry and hash marks, awarded for each four years of service, are don’t always appreciate the sentiment because, as we’ve hooch shipboard main weaponry (In other words, a weapon worn on lower left sleeves. The first two hash marks are often heard, “I’m just doing my job.” Informal term for military housing in a combat area. It that cannot be carried by humans). Do not use gun in red. The third and subsequent marks can be either red can be a tent, a bunker, a CHU or any other permanent/ place of weapon, pistol, rifle or cannon. However, it can or yellow depending upon the person’s conduct. Yellow Hesco barriers semi-permanent structure. Try to use only in direct be used in the term machine gun. hash marks are awarded for service with good behavior. Collapsible, metal-framed and fabric-lined blast barriers quotes, with explanation if needed. See CHU. Marine Corps personnel wear their hash marks, awarded that are opened and filled with dirt to provide protection GWOT for each four years of service, as sets on both sleeves. of buildings and other facilities from IEDs, suicide hospital corpsman Abbreviation for Global War on Terrorism, which began Only use in direct quotes, with explanation. bombs and other attacks. Name taken from Hercules Enlisted Navy medical personnel. The Marine Corps after Sept. 11, 2001. Use GWOT only in headlines, and Engineering Solutions Consortium of Dubai. Extensively does not have its own medical facilities or personnel, spell it out in copy on first reference. head used in Iraq, Afghanistan and other places where attacks so male hospital corpsmen are assigned to Marine U.S. Navy jargon for toilet. Avoid using the word in print on buildings are common. Hesco barriers is acceptable fighting units as field medics. Hospital corpsmen GWOT Expeditionary Medal without explanation. in direct quotes, but refer to them as blast barriers assigned to Marine Corps combat units wear the same Awarded to members of the armed forces who otherwise. battle uniforms (MARPAT) as Marines. Use hospital participated in an expeditionary force outside of the corpsman/hospital corpsmen on first reference, United States to combat terrorism on or after Sept. corpsman/corpsmen thereafter. 11, 2001. The requirement for the award is active

44 45 I International Red Cross and Red Crescent Society medical care, college benefits and resources for of Shipping. Use Jane’s materials as first reference for all Do not confuse with the American Red Cross. The veterans. Abbreviation can be used in a headline and military ships/planes/equipment/weapons questions. International Federation comprises a Secretariat in on second reference in copy. Do not confuse this group IG Geneva, delegations in many countries around the world with Iraq Veterans Against the War (IVAW). http:// jarhead See inspector general. and 170 National Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies. www.iava.org Slang term for a Marine. Do not use except in direct Built largely on the principles of the American Red quotes, and with appropriate context. improvised explosive device Cross, this organization bills itself as the world’s largest Iraq War An improvised explosive device (IED) is a type of humanitarian organization and claims to serve the most Capitalize as part of the name of a specific conflict. Also, JASDF unconventional explosive weapon that can take any vulnerable nations in the world. http://www.ifrc.org/ Afghanistan War, Vietnam War, etc. Japan Air Self-Defense Force. The aviation branch of form and be activated in a variety of ways. They Japan’s military. Do not abbreviate. “Japanese air forces” target soldiers and civilians alike. The IED acronym is Iraqi geographical names International Security Assistance Force is acceptable. acceptable on second reference and in headlines. USO style on Iraq city (town, village, etc.) spellings The NATO command of all allied forces in Afghanistan is to follow AP style. Most of the time the spellings from 2001 to 2014, often led by a U.S. four-star general JCS inactivate, deactivate are consistent, but every once in a while an alternate who reported to U.S. Central Command. Use ISAF Acronym for Joint Chiefs of Staff. Do not use. The terms are not synonymous. To deactivate a unit spelling crops up. This is a list of the Iraqi geographical only on second reference in a story, and sparingly in means it is forever retired. To inactivate means the unit names that the AP uses, and some entries list alternate headlines. http://www.isaf.nato.int/ J.D. Crouch II may be activated again. spellings you might see. But please go with the first J.D. Crouch II is his proper name. In documents, entry. This style rule also applies to local copy. A: Ad J he should be referred to as J.D. Crouch II, CEO and indirect fire Dawr; Adhamiyah (seen as Azamiyah); Aitha; Anbar President of the USO. He also has a doctorate, and that Projectiles fired at a target in a high, curved trajectory (province); Amarah; Amariyah B: Bagara; Baghdad; can be used in specific instances usually at his request – from distances usually greater than a kilometer. Most Balad; Balad Ruz (not the same as Balad); Baqouba; J-1 to J-6 but not for USO press releases or our provided quotes. commonly used to describe artillery, rocket or mortar Basra; Beiji (also seen as Bayji) D: Diwaniyah; Diyala Do not use the military codes for offices at a joint fire. See direct fire. (province); Dora (Baghdad district); Dujail; Duluiyah; command headquarters. Use these titles: personnel joint F: Fallujah; G: Ghazaliya (also seen as Ghazaliyah); H: directorate instead of J-1 is personnel directorate; Refers to operations and other groupings comprised of In Session Habbaniyah; Haditha; Haswa; Hawijah; Hillah; Hindiyah; intelligence directorate instead of J-2; operations instead two or more military branches from the same country. In Session was a quarterly printed USO newsletter Hit; Hurriyah (Baghdad neighborhood); Husaybah; of J-3; logistics instead of J-4; plans and policy instead For example, the invasion of Iraq was a joint operation designed to inform all members of Congress and I: Irbil (also seen as Arbil or Erbil); Iskandariyah; J: of J-5; and communications and electronics instead of in which all branches of the military took part. See all congressional committees and key Capitol Hill Jadiriyah (Baghdad district); K: Kadasia; Kan’an; J-6. combined. influencers about the good works of the USO in order Karabilah; Karbala; Karmah; Khadamiyah; Khalidiyah; to foster stronger relationships. It was discontinued in Khalis; Kirkuk; Kufa; Kut; L: Latifiyah; M: Mahmudiyah JAG joint base 2016 (seen as Mahmoudiyah); Mosul; Muqdadiyah; N: See judge advocate general. Abbreviation acceptable in Under the Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) plan Najaf; Nasariyah; Ninevah (province); O: Obeidi (also headlines and second reference. of 2005, a number of adjoining military bases were inspector general, inspectors general seen as Ubaydi); Ouja (Saddam’s hometown; also combined to form a single complex. An example is Joint Each military service and brigade-level or higher unit has seen as Owja); P: Penjwin; Q: Qaim; R: Ramadi; Rawah; jail Base Lewis-McChord, Wash., formed by the merger an inspector general system that determines the state of Rustamiyah; S: Sadr City (Shiite district in Baghdad); The military does not have “jails.” It has confinement of Fort Lewis and McChord Air Force Base. Uppercase economy, efficiency, discipline, morale, esprit de corps Samarra; Samawah; Sulaymaniyah; Saqlawiyah; T: Tal facilities for prisoners awaiting trial, also known as a brig when referring to a specific base. and readiness through inspections and investigations. Abtha; Tal Afar; Tallil; Taqaddum; Tikrit; Tuz Khormato in Navy/Coast Guard/Marine Corps lingo. Do not abbreviate as “IG” except headlines or direct (several variations of this); U: Umm Qasr; Y: Yusufiyah JROTC quotes. Jane’s Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps. Basic military Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America A series of military reference books, such as Jane’s education for high school students. Abbreviation is Founded in 2004 to provide support to veterans of the All the World’s Aircraft or Jane’s Fighting Ships. The acceptable in headlines and on second reference. When post-Sept. 11 conflicts, as well as lobby for increased reference book for nonmilitary ships is Lloyd’s Register

46 47 referring to a branch-specific (Army, Air Force, etc.) kilometer context, and only use lowercase. Can be used in Sometimes referred to with suffixes (e.g., M16A4) JROTC program, be sure to indicate as such. See ROTC. Metric system term for 1,000 meters. In many areas, headlines for feature stories with appropriate context. indicating improvements to the design over the years. distances and speeds are measured in kilometers. Although the M16 series rifle is capable of three-round judge Convert distances to feet and miles in copy. Multiply Legion of Merit bursts (and older versions full automatic fire), it is not a For a military officer serving as a court-martial judge, kilometers by .62 to convert to miles. Where wire copy A medal awarded for exceptionally meritorious service. machine gun. Do not use a dash. See weapon. use “Lt. Col. Jane Jones, the military judge,” or “the gives both measures, remove the metric distances. See Rarely presented to anyone other than a senior officer. military judge, Lt. Col. Jane Jones.” metric measurements. Exception: in military-specific There are several degrees of the Legion of Merit: Chief machine gun stories, use the metric measurement and also convert to Commander, Commander, Officer and Legionnaire. A fully automatic weapon capable of firing hundreds, judge advocate general miles as needed. Do not use the military term click for http://www.foxfall.com/fmd-common-lom.htm even thousands, of rounds per minute. In most cases, The senior military legal officer responsible for kilometer unless in a quote, with explanation. it’s a crew-served weapon, meaning one person is the administering military justice throughout a service. Liberty Bells gunner while the other carries and feeds ammunition. Abbreviation JAG acceptable in headlines and on knot See USO Show Troupe. Most machine guns fire a 7.62 mm round or larger. second reference. A measure of nautical movement. One knot equals one Examples of American machine guns are the M2 nautical mile, the equivalent of 6,076.10 feet, or 1.15 land M (.50-caliber) and the M240 (7.62 mm). Not to be junior officer miles per hour. Ship speeds are measured in knots. See confused with rifles such as the M16 or AK-47. See rifle, An Army, Air Force or Marine Corps lieutenant or nautical mile. weapon, gun, small arms, cannon. captain; a Navy or Coast Guard ensign, lieutenant junior M designations (e.g., M16) grade or lieutenant. Ranks equivalent to the O-1 through Korea No dashes. The services do not use dashes in official Manual for Courts-Martial O-3 pay grades. See company grade. Peninsula of Asia jutting into Sea of Japan and the descriptions of weapons, such as the M16 series rifles or Contains the full text of the U.S. Constitution, the South China Sea. Divided into nations of North Korea the M998 HMMWV (or “Humvee”). However, aircraft Uniform Code of Military Justice and a text on the Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps and South Korea, officially called, respectively, the designators (B-52, F/A-18) are hyphenated. authority, composition and procedures of courts-martial. Basic military education for high school students. Democratic People’s Republic of Korea and the Republic It also contains information on rules of evidence, Abbreviation is acceptable in headlines and on second of Korea. Do not use either “Korea” or “Korean” unless M1 tank punitive articles and guides for writing most charges and reference. When referring to a branch-specific (Army, referring to the Korean peninsula as a whole, or to its Use M1A1 Abrams tank or M1A2 Abrams tank, specifications. http://www.apd.army.mil/pdffiles/mcm. Air Force, etc.) JROTC program, be sure to indicate as culture or language. In other instances, use North Korea, depending on the model specifically cited in the story. pdf such. See ROTC. North Korean, South Korea or South Korean, as the Tank will suffice on second and subsequent references. case may require. N. Korea or S. Korea can be used in Do not confuse other tracked vehicles, such as Marine K headlines, but not “NK” or “SK.” howitzers and armored personnel carriers, with a tank. 1) Any member of the U.S. Marine Corps. Do not refer Do not use a dash. See M designations. to a U.S. Marine as a “jarhead,” except within a direct K-town quote, with explanation. Marines are NOT soldiers. Kabul Slang for Kaiserslautern, Germany. Do not use except M2, M3 (vehicles) Leatherneck (lowercase) is permitted in feature stories Capital of Afghanistan. Stands alone in datelines. in direct quotes (with explanation if needed) or sports See Bradley Fighting Vehicles. See M designations. or in direct quotes, also with explanation. Uppercase headlines. when referring to U.S. Marines, lowercase when Kaiserslautern, Germany M4 referring to marines of other nations. 2) Marine is the Kaiserslautern is the largest American military L Carbine version of the M16 series rifle. Although the M4 name of the German navy. Use “German navy.” Marine community outside the United States and includes series rifle is capable of three-round bursts or automatic is also always capitalized when referring to a U.S. Ramstein, the only large American air base in Germany. fire (depending on version), it is not a machine gun. Do Marine. leatherneck not use a dash. See M designations. KIA Nickname for a member of the U.S. Marine Corps. It Marine Corps Killed in action. KIA acceptable in headlines and on is derived from the leather lining that used to be part M16 The amphibious arm of the Department of the Navy; second reference. of the collar on the Marine uniform. If used, provide Military service rifle developed in the 1950s and put into primary role is invasion from the sea. Formed as the service during the Vietnam War. Fires a 5.56 mm round. Continental Marines at Tun Tavern in Philadelphia in

48 49 1775. Individual members of the Marine Corps are and numbers about 45,000 Marine Corps and all other decorations and medals. It is the highest honor MIA Marines. Never refer to Marines as soldiers. In headlines Navy personnel. Marine Expeditionary Forces use that can be conferred on a member of the armed forces. Missing in action. Abbreviation acceptable in headlines and copy, Marines can be shorthand for the Corps Roman numerals, as in I MEF, II MEF and III MEF (but http://www.history.army.mil/moh/ and on second reference in copy. itself, but make all attempts to use Marine Corps when pronounced “First MEF” and so on). Only use the referring to an organization-wide issue. (Example acronym on second reference and in headlines, provided Medals midshipman headline: Marine Corps to expand by 10,000). USMC is it is spelled out in copy. See also military decorations. Military decorations An undergraduate enrolled in the U.S. Naval Academy acceptable in a headline. worn on uniforms consist of medals and/or ribbons for at Annapolis, Maryland. Undergraduates at the U.S. Marine One heroism, meritorious service, longevity and campaign Coast Guard Academy in Connecticut are called Marine Corps Air Station (name) The call sign of any Marine Corps helicopter carrying participation. The terms “medal” and “ribbon” are not cadets. “Middies” acceptable only in quotes or sports Use the full name on first reference, then MCAS (name) the U.S. president. Any Air Force plane carrying the interchangeable. Medals are worn on dress uniforms. references. subsequently and in headlines. president is called Air Force One. Service ribbons (e.g., for longevity of service or good conduct) and ribbons representing awarded medals military birthdays Marine Corps birthday materiel are worn on other uniforms. No ribbons or medals The Air Force birthday is September 18, 1947. The Marine Corps birthday is November 10, 1775. Military weapons and supplies. Not “material.” are worn on work uniforms such as fatigues, battle dress uniforms, dungarees or medical, food service or The Army birthday is June 14, 1775. Marine Corps Exchange M device maintenance uniforms. Note that military decorations Retail stores operated by the Marine Corps. Similar to The M device is a bronze block letter, M, 1/4 inch in are never “won,” they are earned, presented or awarded. The Marine Corps birthday is November 10, 1775 AAFES (Army and Air Force Exchange Service) and NEX height. It is worn on the Armed Forces Reserve Medal http://www.tioh.hqda.pentagon.mil/default.aspx (Navy Exchange). to indicate mobilization in support of U.S. military The Navy birthday is October 13, 1775. operations or contingencies designated by the Secretary Meritorious Service Medal Marine Expeditionary Unit, MEU of Defense. Usage: Cpl. Smith’s awards include the Awarded by the military services for outstanding Military Bowl A Marine Corps force of roughly 2,200 Marines, Armed Forces Reserve Medal with M device for noncombat meritorious achievement or service to The Military Bowl is a postseason NCAA football game. designed to act as a rapid-reaction force. Components mobilization. http://foxfall.com/gcrm-dod-afrm.htm the United States. Do not confuse with the Defense Presented by Northrop Grumman, it has been held in include a reinforced infantry battalion, air assets and a Meritorious Service Medal, which is awarded by the Washington, D.C.’s RFK Stadium since 2008. Organized support element. Such units are usually commanded by Meals, Ready to Eat Defense Department. http://foxfall.com/fmd-common- by the DC Bowl Committee & Events DC, the Military a colonel. MEU is OK in a headline, but spell it out on MREs are individual, single-meal rations with a very msm.htm Bowl serves as a premier regional event benefiting first reference in copy: “Elements of the 22nd Marine long shelf life, packaged in foil containers and designed the USO. With first-rate participants and events, the Expeditionary Unit, based at Camp Lejeune, N.C. ...” to be prepared and eaten by field service members. mess dress uniform Military Bowl seeks to generate broad support for the Abbreviation MRE is acceptable in headlines and on Military uniform for occasions of the highest formality. USO, positively impact the regional economy, honor the Marine Expeditionary Brigade, MEB second reference. Essentially a military tuxedo. U.S. military and solidify the nation’s capital as a leading A Marine air-ground task force that is constructed college football destination. around a reinforced infantry regiment, a composite Medal of Honor mess hall Marine aircraft group and a combat logistics regiment. The Medal of Honor is awarded – never won – for Generally an outdated term; correct/modern term is military decorations Consists of about 15,000 Marine Corps and Navy conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of dining facility. “Mess” still may be used by sailors aboard Military decorations worn on uniforms consist of personnel. Usually commanded by a major general, one’s life, above and beyond the call of duty. This ship. See chow hall. “Mess hall” can be used in direct medals and/or ribbons for heroism, meritorious though sometimes a brigadier general. Use MEB very gallantry must be performed either while engaged in quotes. service, longevity and campaign participation. The sparingly, and spell it out on first reference. action against an enemy of the United States; while terms “medal” and “ribbon” are not interchangeable. engaged in military operations involving conflict with messmen Medals are worn on dress uniforms. Service ribbons Marine Expeditionary Force, MEF an opposing foreign force; or, while serving with friendly Use only to refer to those on Navy kitchen duty, with (e.g., for longevity of service or good conduct) and The Marine Corps’ principal warfighting unit, a Marine foreign forces engaged in an armed conflict against an explanation. ribbons representing awarded medals are worn on Expeditionary Force typically consists of a Marine opposing armed force in which the United States is not other uniforms. No ribbons or medals are worn on division, with an air wing and support elements, a belligerent party. The Medal of Honor is worn before work uniforms such as fatigues, battle dress uniforms,

50 51 dungarees or medical, food service or maintenance Mobile Entertainment Gaming System (MEGS) angles. Generally used as an anti-personnel weapon. subsequently (and in headlines). Other terms such as uniforms. Note that military decorations are never Mobile Entertainment Gaming System on first reference, Common American mortar systems are the 60 mm, base or installation are fine as well. “won,” they are earned, presented, awarded or received. MEGS on second and subsequent references. MEGS is a 81 mm and 120 mm. Mortar systems are crew-served http://www.tioh.hqda.pentagon.mil/Awards/dec_ portable, self-contained and highly durable multimedia weapons, in that it takes more than one person to carry Naval Air Facility awards_military.aspx platform created to provide service members with the weapon and ammunition as well as employing the Spell out on first reference. Use the abbreviation NAF various entertainment options. For more about system. only in headlines (with a specific facility name, such as military exercises MEGS, visit: https://www.uso.org/programs/mobile- NAF Atsugi) and on second reference. Uppercase when Military exercises that occur regularly in the Pacific entertainment-gaming-system-megs MOS referring to a specific installation. theater include Cobra Gold, Cope North, Foal Eagle, See military occupational specialty. Keen Edge, Keen Sword, North Wind, Orient Shield, Mobile USO Naval Criminal Investigative Service, NCIS Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC), Tandem Thrust and Ulchi This “USO on wheels” is designed to support service MRE Acronym is acceptable in headlines and on second Freedom Guardian. members serving in remote areas and locations See Meals, Ready to Eat. Acronym is acceptable in reference, but spell it out on first reference in copy. This throughout the U.S. not served by a USO center. The headlines and on second reference. command, with headquarters at Marine Corps Base, military occupational specialty Mobile USOs provide a comfortable place for men and Quantico, Virginia, provides criminal investigation, Army job code. Do not abbreviate as MOS, unless women in uniform to relax and connect online with MultiCam counterintelligence, law enforcement and physical in a quote, with full explanation. Use skill, code or family and friends during downtime. Each Mobile USO A new camouflage pattern issued to soldiers deploying security, as well as information and personnel security specialty on second reference. An example MOS is 11B, offers laptops, large screen televisions, video game to Afghanistan beginning in early 2010. The uniform support to the Navy and Marine Corps, both ashore and Infantryman. consoles, Wi-Fi access, casual seating, refrigerators, itself is very similar to the Army Combat Uniform, but afloat. http://www.ncis.navy.mil/Pages/publicdefault. coffee makers and microwaves. For more about Mobile with some improvements in its construction as well as aspx military police USO, visit: https://www.uso.org/programs/mobile-uso different boots. MultiCam is a commercial product, and MP is acceptable in headlines and on second reference is capitalized. See also ACU. naval district in stories referring to Army military police in general. Month of the Military Child Geographically defined area established by the secretary However, in the name of specific units (i.e., 3rd Military A Defense Department-sponsored observance in April N of the Navy. Each is headed by a commandant under the Police Company), spell it out and capitalize. The Air that focuses on issues affecting children of service command of the chief of naval operations. Each district Force equivalent unit is security police. The Navy members. Do not abbreviate. is responsible for Naval Reserve training, area defense counterpart is shore patrol. Do not use “MP” when National Military Family Association and control of local disasters or emergencies. referring to non-Army police. MOPP An unofficial organization promoting the needs and An acronym standing for Mission-Oriented Protective views of U.S. military families. Headquarters are in Naval Oceanography Office military reserve forces Posture, referring generally to special clothing used to Alexandria, Virginia. Do not abbreviate. This office, part of the Naval Meteorology and Capitalize when referring to the specific reserve shield military personnel from chemical or biological Oceanography Command, is responsible for the science, branches of the five military services (Army Reserve, weapons. Rather than “MOPP gear,” use protective suits nautical mile technology, engineering and operations necessary to etc.). When used to refer collectively to the reserve or protective clothing. One nautical mile equals approximately 1.15 land miles. explore the ocean and the atmosphere. It also provides forces or reserve personnel (reservists), it is lowercase. A nautical mile is based on a minute of an arc (1/60 of a astronomical data and time for naval and related Morale, Welfare and Recreation degree) of a great circle on a globe of the earth. Nautical national objectives. The office is located at Stennis military time Self-sustaining welfare and recreation programs such miles are used for measuring distances in sea and air Space Center, Bay St. Louis, Mississippi. The military’s 24-hour clock, which does not use a.m. or as bowling alleys, golf courses, gyms, crafts shops and navigation. A knot is one nautical mile per hour. p.m. Midnight is 0000 hours, noon is 1200 hours, 3 p.m. libraries. Can be abbreviated as MWR in headlines, with naval station is 1500 hours and so on. To figure out military time after full name used on first reference in copy. Naval Air Station A land-based naval installation that has no aviation noon, take the time expressed in p.m. and add 12 hours A U.S. Navy installation with an aviation mission. Naval mission. Example: Naval Station Rota, Spain. to it. Therefore, 7:30 p.m. becomes 1930 hours. Only use mortar air stations are large enough to warrant their own military time in a direct quote. A portable short-range (less than five miles, in most datelines. When referring to a specific naval air station: cases) artillery system that fires small projectiles at high Naval Air Station (name) on first reference, NAS (name)

52 53 naval, Naval NCIS nonappropriated funds North Korea Lowercase when used as an adjective, such as “naval See Naval Criminal Investigative Service. Abbreviation Funds generated by Defense Department personnel and A totalitarian country occupying the northern half of officer.” Capitalize when used as a proper noun, such as acceptable in headlines and second reference. their families and used to augment funds appropriated the Korean peninsula, bounded by China on the north, “Naval Air Systems Command.” by Congress. Bowling centers, golf courses, craft Russia in the extreme northeast, South Korea to the NCO shops and the military club system are examples south and by water on the east and west. See Korea. Navy birthday See noncommissioned officer, staff noncommissioned of nonappropriated fund activities. Do not use the The Navy birthday is October 13, 1775. officer. Abbreviation acceptable in headlines and second abbreviation, as it can be confused with Naval Air Northern Command reference. Do NOT use simply “officer” to refer to NCOs Facility. See U.S. Northern Command. NORTHCOM is Navy Cross under any circumstances. acceptable in a headline and on second reference. Awarded to Navy, Coast Guard or Marine Corps noncombatant evacuation order personnel for extraordinary heroism in combat. Ranks NCOIC The State Department-directed evacuation of all O second in precedence below the Medal of Honor. Noncommissioned officer in charge. Do not abbreviate nonmilitary U.S. citizens from a foreign hostile area. Do Equivalent to the Distinguished Service Cross and Air except within direct quotes and with explanation. not abbreviate. Force Cross. http://www.public.navy.mil/ia/Pages/ OCS ncdes.aspx NEO noncommissioned officer See Officer Candidate School. Abbreviation is See noncombatant evacuation order. Do not abbreviate. An enlisted Army, Navy or Marine Corps member acceptable in headlines and on second reference. Do not Navy enlisted classification in pay grades E-4 through E-9, or E-5 through E-9 in confuse with the Air Force’s Officer Training School. Job codes for sailors. Do not abbreviate. Use job or skill newspapers the Air Force. (NOTE: Army Specialist E-4s are not on second reference. Corresponds to Army military Make sure you are using the full name of a newspaper NCOs. Army Corporal E-4s are.) NCO permissible on Office of Personnel Management occupational specialty and Air Force specialty code. in bylines and text; paper names in stories are often second reference and in headlines. Do not use “non- Only abbreviate on second reference in copy. This office missing a preceding article that is part of the paper’s com” except within direct quotes. Do NOT refer to a administers a merit system for federal employment, Navy Exchange name. If the name of the newspaper’s city is not noncommissioned officer as simply “officer.” ensures that the federal government provides personnel The Navy’s equivalent of the base exchange or the post included in the paper name, include the city name using services to applicants and employees and provides exchange. Often abbreviated NEX, which should be parenthesis, e.g., The (Norfolk, Virginia) Virginian-Pilot. nonjudicial punishment benefits to employees. Headquarters are in Washington, used with caution in headlines and quotations. NEX Punishment not imposed by a court of justice. Article D.C. http://www.opm.gov/ is acceptable in headlines if it’s clear the story refers NEX 15 of the Uniform Code of Military Justice authorizes to the Navy Exchange. Use “the exchange” or simply Acronym for Navy Exchange. Avoid using in print, except commanders to impose punishment for minor offenses Office of Special Investigations “exchange” in second reference. in headlines and quotations. Use the exchange or the upon military members under their command. An Air Force agency, with headquarters at Andrews Air exchange service as a second reference. Common forms of nonjudicial punishment include loss Force Base, Maryland, that investigates crimes, fraud, Navy Federal Credit Union of rank and pay, extra duties for a set period of time, counterintelligence and conducts other investigations Only abbreviate on second reference in copy. NMFA restriction to quarters, and in certain circumstances a requested by the commander of any Air Force activity. See National Military Family Association. short period of confinement with reduced rations. Use OSI permitted on second reference, but Air Force Navy Working Uniform nonjudicial punishment rather than the service-related investigators, USAF investigators or just investigators is The Navy’s newest camouflage uniform, with a no-fly zone common terms of Article 15 (Army/USAF), office hours preferred. dominant blue digital pattern, replacing the Battle Dress Generally used to describe areas of Iraq after the Persian (Marine Corps) or captain’s mast (Navy/Coast Guard). Uniform. The Navy intends to have it fully phased in Gulf War and before the Iraq War that Iraqi military For example, “Spc. Joe Snuffy received nonjudicial Officer Candidate School by the end of 2010. NOTE: Navy hospital corpsmen aircraft were prohibited from flying over. Also a slang punishment, including reduction to private first class, for A program of initial training for Army, Navy and Marine assigned to Marine Corps units wear the Marine Corps term for something that a person has been prohibited missing a formation.” Corps commissioned officers drawn from the enlisted MARPAT uniform. http://www.new-navy-uniform.com/ from doing, or just should not do in general. Only use in ranks or the civilian world. The Air Force equivalent is picture-nwu.html a historical context or in direct quotes. North Atlantic Treaty Organization Officer Training School. Army OCS is at Fort Benning, Abbreviation NATO is universally acceptable. Georgia.; Navy OCS is at Naval Station Newport, Rhode Island; Marine Corps OCS is at Quantico, Virginia.

54 55 Acceptable in a headline, but spell it out on first etc., etc. Can also be used as an affirmative answer to a OTS behind the small of the back, with thumbs interlocked reference. questions, as in “Oorah, sir!” Use quote marks around See Officer Training School. Specifically an Air Force so that the palm of the right hand is exposed. Salutes the term. Do not confuse “oorah” with the Army’s term. See also Officer Candidate School. and marching movements are not executed from this officer hooah. position; the service member must be commanded A service member in the pay grades of O-1 through O-10 overfly, overflight back to attention before doing so. See attention http:// (commissioned officer) or W-1 through W-5 (warrant Operation Enduring Care Generally used to describe an operational flight over usmilitary.about.com/od/theorderlyroom/l/blrest.htm officer). These personnel can be referred to as officers. The USO initiated Operation Enduring Care, a a specific targeted area, usually for reconnaissance Do not refer to noncommissioned officers (sergeants fundraising effort to raise money to dedicate to non- purposes. Not to be confused with flyover, a term used paraservice member, paraservice member and petty officers) as simply “officers.” See commission, medical care from the time of the injury through to describe a ceremonial flight of one or more military Army Airborne soldiers. See service member, service warrant the journey to recovery. The effort resulted in the aircraft over a funeral, sporting event or other public members for clarification of singular and plural forms. construction of two Warrior and Family Centers – one display. officer in charge at Fort Belvoir, Virginia, the second at Naval Support parentheses Do not abbreviate as “OIC” except in direct quotes. Activity Bethesda, Maryland – which offer wounded, P Brackets are used when words of the quote are missing: ill and injured service members and their families a “Bush said [Cheney] was at an undisclosed location.” Officer Training School place to relax while receiving treatment as well as Parentheses are used to add explanatory words to the A program of initial training for Air Force commissioned programming to help them plan for the future. Also Pacific Command quote: “Bush said Cheney (the vice president) was at an officers drawn from the enlisted ranks or the civilian referred to as OEC, but no longer and active campaign. See U.S. Pacific Command. PACOM acceptable in a undisclosed location.” world. Air Force OTS is at Air University, Maxwell Air headline and on second reference in copy. Force Base, Montgomery, Alabama. Acceptable in a Operation Phone Home partner headline as long as it’s clear it’s Air Force (Air Force OTS Operation Phone home delivers prepaid international Pacific Fleet See also USO partner. The USO relies on the generosity or USAF OTS). Spell out on first reference in copy. phone cards to deployed service members free of This organization’s headquarters are at Joint Base of its partner corporations, clubs and organizations. The charge. The phone cards are distributed through USO Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii. Use Pacific Fleet unless contributions of such partners are vital to advancing the officers’ clubs centers overseas and, most often, are delivered directly confusion with other nations’ navies may arise. In such mission of the USO. For more about USO partners, visit: Facilities that usually include a bar and restaurant, to military units abroad. For more on Operation Phone cases, use U.S. Pacific Fleet. Do not use the acronym http://www.uso.org/become-a-partner.aspx rooms for private parties and musical entertainment. Home, visit: https://www.uso.org/programs/operation- PACFLEET. http://www.cpf.navy.mil/ They are part of a club system. Government funds are phone-home pay grade appropriated for their construction but not for their Pacific Rim This is more of an administrative/personnel term. The operation. OPM Acceptable on first reference for all nations, in some term pay grade does not necessarily refer to one’s actual See Office of Personnel Management. Only abbreviate context (e.g., vulcanology) including the United States, rank. For example, a Navy E-1 is a Seaman Recruit, while Officers’ Wives Club on second reference in copy. that have a coast on the Pacific Ocean, but used more an Army E-1 is a Private. Furthermore, a pay grade within Use carefully. Many clubs are now called Officers’ frequently and popularly to designate developing a service can have more than one rank. For example, Spouses Clubs. An unofficial club that has traditionally ordnance nations of Asia with a coast on the Pacific Ocean. See a soldier in the E-4 pay grade can be a Corporal or a focused on charitable work. Many clubs have formal Usually used to refer to military weapons, explosives, Asian regions. Specialist. Both are paid the same, but the Corporal programs to help the disabled, hospitals and youth artillery and other things that go boom. Do not is considered senior. In all cases, use a person’s rank organizations. Some offer scholarships for service abbreviate ordnance in units. Note spelling of O-R-D-N- PAO instead of pay grade, unless in a quote. Only use pay members’ children. When dealing with stories about A-N-C-E, which deals with ammunition and artillery, as Public affairs officer. Abbreviation acceptable in grades in headlines when it’s necessary for clarity and such clubs at a specific installation, be sure to verify the opposed to ordinance, which is a statute or regulation. headlines and second reference. space (example: “Air Force needs more E-5s”). Pay official name. grades are hyphenated. See rank, rating OSI parade rest oorah See Office of Special Investigations. A service member at the position of parade rest, which The Marine Corps’ all-purpose term of determination is only executed from the position of attention, stands and spirit, hollered during rallies, sporting events, runs, with his/her feet about 10-12 inches apart and hands

56 57 PCS include: U.S. = 1; Japan = 81; Germany = 49; South Korea from society. PTSD is acceptable in headlines. Do not swiftest and most heavily armed warship per pound in See permanent change of station. Abbreviation = 82; United Kingdom = 44; Italy = 39. For a list of use outdated terms like “battle fatigue” or “shell shock.” the military. Similar boats used by other navies should acceptable in headlines and on second reference. Avoid country codes: http://www.countrycodes.com/ simply be called “patrol boats.” using the acronym as a verb (EG: PCSed, PCSing). POW-MIA platoon Prisoner of war - missing in action. POW-MIA can PTSD peacetime Capitalize in unit names. Lowercase when not in a unit be used in headlines and copy when referring to the See post-traumatic stress disorder. One word. This refers specifically to the time when a name. Do not abbreviate. movement to recover American prisoners and missing in nation is not at war. Distinguish carefully from peaceful combat, or the black flag associated with the movement. Purple Heart times. platoon leader A U.S. military decoration awarded for wounds or death A commissioned officer, usually a 2nd or 1st lieutenant, POW Network as a direct result of combat action. The Purple Heart per diem directly responsible for one of the subordinate units of a An organization run by Chuck and Mary Schantag in is not an award for valor. https://www.hrc.army.mil/ A daily allowance to cover costs of food and lodging company. The platoon is the smallest unit commanded Skidmore, Missouri, dedicated to exposing phony claims TAGD/Purple%20Heart for government employees and service members on by a commissioned officer. Not to be confused with of combat decorations, veteran status, POW status and temporary duty. platoon sergeant. the like. One of the leading players in the fight against PX Stolen Valor. http://www.pownetwork.org Use PX only in headlines or direct quotes. Use post permanent change of station platoon sergeant exchange or exchange for an AAFES department store A reassignment (by location) in the military. Do not use A noncommissioned officer, usually Sergeant First provost marshal at Army installation. BX, or base exchange, is used on the acronym as a verb, as in “PCSed” or “PCSing,” except Class (Army) or Staff Sergeant (Marine Corps), who The supervising officer of a command’s or installation’s Air Force installations. NEX, or Navy Exchange, is found in direct quotations. is the highest ranking enlisted person in one of the military police. Plural form is provost marshals. Either on naval facilities; MCX, or Marine Corps Exchange, is subordinate units of a company. He/she reports directly Office of the Provost Marshal or Provost Marshal’s found on Marine facilities. “Exchange” is acceptable on Persian Gulf War to the platoon leader, and is generally entrusted with Office are correct. subsequent references. See also ship’s store. Refers to Operation Desert Shield and Operation Desert ensuring the platoon’s members are ready to perform Storm (1990-1991), and is acceptable in headlines and their mission. Squad leaders report directly to the PSYOP Q copy. platoon sergeant. Psychological Operations. Renamed MISO (Military Information Support Operations) in June 2010. The petty officer port, starboard use of various media to influence or change a target quartermaster General term for a Navy or Coast Guard Nautical terms for left and right, respectively. audience’s attitudes. PSYOP can be used in a headline, Do not abbreviate in unit names. NOTE: In the noncommissioned officer in the pay grades of E-4 but spell it out in copy, except in a direct quote. NOTE: Army, “quartermaster” refers to units or individuals through E-9, inclusive. When referring to individuals, be post allowance Always PSYOP, not “PSYOPS.” As the military transitions who process and distribute supplies. In the Navy, a sure to include their specific rank or rating. This term should refer only to adjustments to civilian to the new MISO moniker, be certain that the new term quartermaster is a sailor trained in navigation and other U.S. government employees’ pay to compensate them is used, along with a brief explanation of the concept. functions associated with the bridge of a ship. phone numbers for the difference between the local cost of living and Never allow mnemonic phone numbers (such as that of the United States. Do not use this wording to PT query 1-800-FLOWERS) to appear without interpreting the refer to similar alterations to military pay, referred to Physical training. PT can be used in headlines and on Often used by public affairs officers in response word into numbers. Our style for phone numbers in officially as a cost-of-living adjustment (COLA). second reference. to questions from reporters and editors. Reporters text: For German commercial numbers, use: civilian are asked to provide written queries, to which the 06155-601255. Japanese commercial numbers put a city post-traumatic stress disorder PT boat PAO office will respond. Generally viewed as a code in front of the number; thus for Tokyo: 03-3404- The term used to describe an anxiety disorder caused by Spell out on first reference within a story. A small, delaying tactic, but can sometimes provide legitimate 9442 or 0421-5555. (Note: The 0 in the city code is the psychological wounds of war, traumatic experiences speedy, armed patrol craft capable of launching background information. Reporters and editors should dropped when calling Japan from overseas.) For Defense and/or long-term exposure to highly stressful situations. torpedoes (PT stands for “patrol torpedo”), especially not disregard such requests out of hand. Switched Network numbers, use: DSN 348-8355. For The symptoms of PTSD are widely varied, including - but associated with World War II. A PT boat typically stateside numbers, use: (703) 697-6695. Country codes not limited to - anger, paranoia, anxiety and withdrawal carried a crew of 14 and was distinguished as the

58 59 R rating the return of units in the field to their home base. Avoid rifle Navy and Coast Guard term describing an enlisted in favor of “return” or similar non-jargon terms when A hand-held individual battle firearm, generally firing person’s occupational specialty. Not to be confused possible. a round 7.62 mm or smaller. Some rifles are capable RAF with rate, which is used to describe rank for enlisted of automatic fire, but that does not qualify them as Royal Air Force, the military air arm of the United personnel. For example, you have a Navy E-6 who holds reduction in force machine guns. The term rifle is commonly used to Kingdom. RAF is acceptable in headlines and first the rating of Boatswain’s Mate. However, a person’s Government term for layoffs, generally because of the refer to small arms such as the M16, M4 or AK-47. See reference; also use RAF before the name of a British air rate describes his/her hierarchical status within the elimination or consolidation of forces, commands or weapon, machine gun. base (i.e. RAF Mildenhall). Never use the abbreviation organization. If that Boatswain’s Mate holds the rate of facilities. Do not use RIF in headlines; second reference in a story or headline for Red Army Faction, a former Petty Officer 1st Class, he/she would be referred to as a is permitted. “Reductions” or “drawdown” is always a ROTC terrorist group in Germany. Spell out Red Army Faction. Boatswain’s Mate 1st Class. A more in-depth reference good alternative. Reserve Officers Training Corps. A program of can be found at http://bluejacket.com/usn_ratings.html military officer training for college and university Ramstein Air Base, Germany regiment undergraduates. The Army, Air Force and Navy have A USAFE airlift base about eight miles west of re-enlist, re-enlistment In unit names, capitalize and do not abbreviate. See also ROTC programs (The Navy program also trains Marine Kaiserslautern. http://www.usafe.af.mil/ Hyphenate. Do not use informal “re-up,” unless in a regimental system. Corps officers). Those who complete the program serve direct quote with context. in the armed forces for a specified number of years. Ranger, ranger regimental system ROTC is acceptable in all references. See JROTC. Uppercase in reference to an Army Ranger. Use reconnaissance 1) While the Army still uses the word “Regiment” in unit lowercase for forest ranger. Uppercase and spelled out in unit names. Do not names and history, there are (with very few, specific RPG abbreviate. Lowercase when referring to the action of exceptions) no more “regimental commanders.” Specific Rocket-propelled grenade. Specifically used to describe rank conducting reconnaissance, or to equipment used in battalions, formerly subordinate to a regiment, are now Soviet-designed, tube-fired portable rockets with a Term used in the military services to describe a service reconnaissance. subordinate to a brigade (again, in almost all cases). For variety of warhead types. The term is usually used to member’s status within the overall organization. example, the 1st Battalion, 120th Infantry Regiment is a describe the most common variant in use, the RPG-7. Generally synonymous with a particular pay grade. Navy recruit training part of the 30th Heavy Brigade Combat Team. (NOTE: Use RPG in headlines and copy, but spell it out on first and Coast Guard enlisted personnel also use rate and Initial military training for enlisted service members. There are several combat outfits that still adhere to the reference in copy. rating to describe their hierarchical status as well as The length of training varies, depending upon the regimental system in name and practice. 75th Ranger their job description. http://fortsillgraduations.com/wp- service. Army recruit training centers (nine weeks, 14 Regiment and 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment are prime S content/uploads/2014/02/rank-chart.png for infantry): Fort Jackson, South Carolina; Fort Knox, examples.) 2) The Marine Corps very much still uses Kentucky; Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri; Fort Sill, the regimental system, with regimental commanders rate Oklahoma; Fort Benning, Georgia. Navy recruit training (usually a colonel). S-1 - S-5 Navy and Coast Guard term used to describe rank for center (eight weeks): Great Lakes, Illinois. Marine Corps Do not use these Army codes for staff sections at enlisted personnel. For example, a Navy E-6 holds the recruit training centers (13 weeks): Parris Island, South Reserve brigade or battalion level. Use their titles: S-1 is adjutant; rank of Petty Officer 1st Class. However, a person’s Carolina; San Diego. Air Force recruit training center Capitalize when referring to U.S. armed forces, as in S-2 is intelligence; S-3 is operations and training; S-4 is rating describes his/her occupational specialty. If that (eight weeks): Lackland Air Force Base, Texas. Army Reserve. Lowercase in reference to members of supply; S-5 is civil affairs and S-6 is signal. Petty Officer 1st Class holds the rating of Boatswain’s these backup forces: reserves, or reservists. Mate, he/she would be referred to as a Boatswain’s Red Cross said, says Mate 1st Class. Navy/Coast Guard personnel in the Use American Red Cross on first reference (when retired service member News copy normally is cast in the past tense, but E-1 to E-3 pay grades are referred to as undesignated; dealing specifically with the American Red Cross); Red Do not include a person’s rank unless it has some headlines in the present. In attributing information, however, they are referred to by their major field of Cross permitted on second reference. bearing on the story. Example: “Watson, a retired Air the past said is preferred in news copy, but use says training (seaman, airman, fireman or constructionman). Force colonel, told Congress that defense contracts in headlines. Use says in news copy only for axiomatic A more in-depth reference can be found at http:// redeployment should be padded.” In quote attributions (such as statements that the speaker could be expected to bluejacket.com/usn_ratings.html The transfer of a unit, individuals or supplies deployed in a pullout quote), Jim Jones, Army Lt. Col. (ret.) is utter at every opportunity. Thus: “China’s premier says in one area to another area. Typically used to refer to permitted. Taiwan is an integral part of China.” Remember, too,

60 61 readers cannot know or understand what a person in a unclassified (U). There are levels beyond top secret The United States Merchant Marine Academy is located Silver Star story thinks, believes or feels unless that person said it. that receive special category assignment. Documents in Kings Point, New York. A medal awarded for gallantry in combat. Ranks third Thus, attribution is required, and the attribution should classified above NOFORN also are distributed on a in precedence below the Medal of Honor and the be something similar to: “He said he believes the world need-to-know basis. Top secret: Applied to information service member Distinguished Service Cross, Navy Cross and Air Force is flat.” See verb tenses. that could cause grave damage to national security if Always two words and lowercase in copy. This is Cross. http://www.afpc.af.mil/library/factsheets/ publicly disseminated. Secret: Applied to information the USO’s preferred generic term for members of factsheet_print.asp?fsID=7729 scouts that could cause serious damage to national security the military, as it is inclusive of all military branches. Army personnel who act as reconnaissance elements if publicly disseminated. Confidential: Applied to All troops are service members, but not all service small arms, small-arms fire for a battalion-size or larger combat arms unit. Scouts information that could cause damage to national members are troops. Refers to handguns, assault rifles, shotguns and machine operate ahead of a main element to gather intelligence security if publicly disseminated. No foreign distribution: guns, .50-caliber/12.7 mm or less, generally used by an on enemy capabilities and composition, and sometimes Applied to information that could cause damage to Sesame Street infantry squad. The term is often used when describing destroy enemy equipment ahead of a battle. Also national security if publicly disseminated in other See Sesame Workshop. an attack. Usage: “The platoon received small-arms fire referred to as cavalry scouts. Explain briefly what they countries. from behind a berm 100 meters away.” do. Sesame Workshop selective re-enlistment bonus The USO partners with Sesame Workshop to provide soldier Seabee, Seabees To keep some highly skilled service members in uniform, support and valuable resources for our service members Usually used to refer to enlisted Army personnel, but A Navy nickname derived from the acronym CB, which the military can offer bonuses. The bonus is calculated with children who are experiencing the effects of can be used collectively to describe Army personnel of stands for construction battalion. Acceptable on first by taking into account pay grade, length of re- deployment, multiple deployments, combat-related all ranks. Do not use as a generic term for all enlisted reference and headlines, although the Seabee unit’s enlistment, time in service and the criticality of the skill. injuries and, unfortunately, the loss of a loved one. members of the armed forces. Use service members mission should be explained elsewhere in the copy. Use bonus in headlines and on second reference. Do not For more about the USO’s partnership with Sesame or service men and service women. The Air Force http://www.navy.mil/navydata/personnel/seabees/ abbreviate as SREB or SRB unless in a direct quote. Workshop, visit: https://www.uso.org/programs/the- has airmen, the Navy has sailors and members of the seabee1.html sesame-street-uso-experience-for-military-families Marine Corps are Marines. Note: USO style for soldier is senior NCO lowercase, unless at the beginning of a sentence. Army SEAL An enlisted service member in pay grades E-7, E-8 and she style is to always uppercase the word. The Navy’s Sea, Air, Land teams, commonly known as E-9. Do not use this pronoun to refer to ships, vehicles or SEALs, are the service’s principal special operations nations. Use “it” instead (unless in a direct quote). Soldier’s Medal force. sergeants major An Army medal awarded for heroism that involves Plural form of sergeant major. ships voluntary risk of life under other than combat situations. seaman Identify ships as “the aircraft carrier USS George The Army’s highest non-combat decoration for valor. A sailor who specializes in seafaring-related duties. service academies Washington” or “the USS Port Royal, a cruiser.” Do http://www.foxfall.com/fmd-army-sm.htm Not synonymous with sailor, the generic term for The United States Air Force Academy is located in not use hull numbers (ie, CVN-70) unless it’s crucial all Navy personnel. Also, one of four base groups Colorado Springs, Colorado. to the story itself. This conforms to The Associated Soldiers’ Home (seaman, airman, fireman and constructionman) from Press style on ship identification. Ships are considered See U.S. Armed Forces Retirement Home. http://www. which the different Navy enlisted ratings come. When The United States Military Academy is located in West neuter nouns. Do not assign gender, such as calling a afrh.gov/ using as part of an actual rank followed by a person’s Point, New York. ship “she.” Submarines are boats, as are PT boats and name (Seaman Recruit, Seaman Apprentice, Seaman), lifeboats. For the proper description of U.S. Navy and SOP capitalize and use AP style. The United States Naval Academy is located in Coast Guard ships not listed in this stylebook, refer Standard operating procedure. Do not abbreviate except Annapolis, Maryland. to “Jane’s Fighting Ships.” http://www.nvr.navy.mil/ in direct quotes, and only with an explanation. security classifications nvrships/index.htm In descending order of importance, they are: top secret The United States Coast Guard Academy is located in Southern Command (TS), secret (S), confidential (C), no foreign distribution New London, Connecticut. See U.S. Southern Command. SOUTHCOM is (NOFORN or N), for official use only (FOUO) and acceptable in a headline.

62 63 Space Command squad Status of Forces Agreement Survivor Benefit Plan See U.S. Air Force Space Command. http://www.afspc. Capitalize and do not abbreviate in unit names. A Status of Forces Agreement defines the legal status Do not use abbreviation in headlines or first reference. af.mil/ of the U.S. armed forces stationed in host countries. It A voluntary program that permits military retirees squadron establishes the rights, privileges and responsibilities of to guarantee an annuity to their surviving spouses or Space-A In all cases, spell it out. Capitalize if part of a unit name. U.S. forces and of individual U.S. service members. The dependents. Otherwise, retired pay stops when retirees See space-available travel. 1) An Army cavalry unit equivalent to a battalion, usually agreement also covers civilian employees and families die. Retirees pay a certain amount each month, based commanded by a lieutenant colonel. A cavalry squadron of both military and civilian personnel. The agreement on the benefits they want their survivors to get. The space-available travel normally has three or four service members subordinate governs the relationship between the United States maximum a survivor can collect is 55 percent of the An Air Force Air Mobility Command program that to it and is subordinate to a regiment or brigade. 2) A and foreign countries in matters of criminal jurisdiction, retiree’s monthly government pay. allows military personnel and civilian employees of the Navy or Marine Corps aviation unit. 3) An Air Force unit passports, visa regulations and other civil and legal U.S. government to fly on military aircraft to selected (aviation or otherwise) roughly equivalent to an Army matters. SOFA is acceptable in headlines and on second swabbie airfields on a stand-by basis. Space-A permitted on battalion, usually commanded by a lieutenant colonel, reference. Slang term for a sailor. Do not use except in direct second reference. An especially important means and comprised of subordinate units called flights. 4) A quotes, and with explanation. of travel for U.S. personnel stationed in the Far East. Naval grouping of several ships that is subordinate to a Strategic Command Commonly still referred to as “MAC flight,” a leftover task force. See U.S. Strategic Command. STRATCOM is acceptable T from the long-obsolete Military Airlift Command; only in a headline. use that term in a direct quote, with explanation. SSN 1) Abbreviation for social security number. Only use on supply tactical special operations second reference if absolutely necessary. 2) Navy hull In unit names, capitalize and do not abbreviate. In unit names, capitalize and do not abbreviate. A term applied to unconventional warfare units, such designation for a nuclear submarine. as Army Special Forces, Marine Force Reconnaissance, supply classes tank Military Information Support Operations (MISO) and staff judge advocate The military supply class designations are: I - A heavily armored and armed combat vehicle that other elements that fall under the umbrella of the The ranking legal officer on an installation or in a unit. subsistence (food); II - clothing, tools and household moves on tracks instead of wheels. Generally, tanks U.S. Special Operations Command, based at MacDill Do not use the SJA abbreviation except on second cleaning supplies; III - petroleum (fuel); IV – employ a large-bore (100 mm-plus) direct fire weapon Air Force Base, Florida. The terms Special Forces and reference. construction; V – ammunition; VII - major end items as it main armament; it may have other weaponry such special operations are not interchangeable. Also, special (tanks, tents, etc.); VIII - medical supplies; IX - repair as machine guns mounted as well. The United States operations is uppercase when referring to a specific staff noncommissioned officer parts; X - material for support of nonmilitary programs, has one main battle tank, the M1 Abrams series. NOTE: command. Do not use the shorthand “spec ops.” Marines holding rank of staff sergeant through sergeant such as agriculture. Not all tracked vehicles are tanks. Armored personnel major (pay grades E-6 through E-9). While the Marines carriers, Self-Propelled Howitzers and Infantry Fighting Special Operations Command tend to differentiate staff NCOs from more junior support Vehicles, among other things, are not tanks. See tracked See U.S. Special Operations Command. SOCOM is NCOs, the best approach is to use the Marine’s rank In unit names, capitalize and do not abbreviate. vehicles. acceptable in a headline. on first reference. In headlines, the term “Marine” usually will suffice. However, use the full name of the Supreme Allied Commander Europe task force Spirit of the USO Award Staff Noncommissioned Officer Academy at Quantico, Traditionally, a U.S. Army four-star general who Capitalize if part of an official grouping of elements, The Spirit of the USO Award is given each year at Virginia commands all NATO forces from Supreme Headquarters such as “Task Force Eagle.” 1) A task-organized grouping the USO Gala to an individual or individuals whose Allied Powers Europe (SHAPE) in Casteau, Belgium. He of several units or subordinate parts of units, particularly work exemplifies the USO’s mission to strengthen starboard, port also commands the U.S. European Command, which has in the Army. For example, the 1st Battalion, 120th America’s military service members by maintaining their Nautical terms for right and left, respectively. its headquarters in Stuttgart, Germany. Only use the Infantry Regiment was temporarily reorganized as “Task connections to family, home and country, throughout acronym on second reference. Force 120” in Iraq in 2004. Some permanent units of their service to the nation. stateside the 1-120th temporarily fell under other commands, but Do not capitalize. surgeon general, surgeons general other subordinate-level units were attached to 1-120th. The top-ranking medical officer in each service. 2) A Special Forces/Special Operations grouping of

64 65 various assets organized for a specific mission. Usually explanation. Also acceptable in headlines, with If in doubt and referring specifically to Army personnel, up-armored with a code name such as “Task Force Dagger.” 3) A explanation in copy. soldier is always acceptable. A system of bolted- and welded-on steel doors, plates naval grouping of ships smaller than a fleet but larger and other attachments in an effort to make a vehicle than a squadron. Generally assigned to patrol a specific titles U IED- and mine-resistant. Also includes very thick, area of ocean. Usually has a numeric designation, such Shorten and simplify titles when possible. For example, projectile-resistant glass for the windshields and all as “Task Force 60.” Maj. Gen. Joe Smith is the U.S. Army Europe deputy windows. The system became very common in Iraq and chief of staff for personnel, but use “Maj. Gen. Joe Smith, UCMJ Afghanistan in 2004. Usage: The soldiers drove through TDY USAREUR’s top personnel officer.” Never use “Maj. Gen. See Uniform Code of Military Justice. UCMJ is Baghdad in an up-armored Humvee. Acronym for temporary duty is acceptable in a headline, Joe Smith, USAREUR DCSPER.” Capt. Susan James is a acceptable in headlines and on second reference. but spell it out on first reference. drug and alcohol abuse specialist within an office at the U.S. Africa Command USAREUR deputy chief of staff for personnel division. Uniform Code of Military Justice Established in 2007 and currently based at Kelly telephone numbers Use “Capt. Susan James, a USAREUR drug and alcohol UCMJ is acceptable in headlines and on second Barracks in Stuttgart, Germany, U.S. Africa Command’s For DSN (Defense Switched Network) use: DSN 555- specialist.” reference. The code of U.S. military law, approved in responsibility includes all of Africa with the exception of 5555. For stateside numbers use (202)-555-5555. 1950, that consolidated the Army Articles of War, Egypt (which falls under Central Command). AFRICOM Tomb of the Unknown Soldier the Articles of the Government of the Navy and the and Africa Command are acceptable in headlines, but temporary duty Monument perpetually guarded by soldiers of the 3rd Disciplinary Laws of the Coast Guard. It applies equally use the full name on first reference. http://www.africom. A short-duration (usually less than two months) Infantry Regiment (“Old Guard”) in Arlington National to all members of the military. Use code on second mil assignment requiring an individual to travel away Cemetery near Washington, D.C. http://www.oldguard. reference. Note it is Uniform, not “uniformed.” http:// from his/her regular duty station. Usually it involves mdw.army.mil/regiment www.au.af.mil/au/awc/awcgate/ucmj.htm U.S. Armed Forces Retirement Home schooling, conferences, or participation in an exercise Formerly known as the U.S. Naval Home and the U.S. or operation. In most cases, the individual receives per Training and Doctrine Command unit abbreviations Soldiers’ and Airmens’ Home, which were combined diem. The abbreviation TDY is acceptable in headlines The Army command with headquarters at Fort Monroe, In unit names, capitalize and do not abbreviate words. in 1991. Each active-duty Army and Air Force enlisted and on second reference. Virginia, that trains the individual soldier, develops member and each Army warrant officer involuntarily training doctrine, develops and conducts officer and unit nicknames contributes 50 cents a month for the operation of this Thunderbirds noncommissioned-officer professional development Service members often refer to their unit by its Washington, D.C., facility for retired soldiers and airmen. The Air Force’s precision-flying demonstration team. education programs and conducts officer procurement nickname, such as “Chaos Company.” While it’s fine to Additional funding comes from the proceeds of service The team flies the F-16 Fighting Falcon, and is assigned and pre-commissioning training programs such as ROTC add that into a story for some color, use the actual name members’ pay that is forfeited as a result of UCMJ to Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada, an Air Combat and Officer Candidate School. Abbreviation TRADOC of the unit, such as Company C, 999th Latrine Cleaning action. https://www.afrh.gov/ Command asset. “Thunderbirds” is acceptable in all acceptable in headlines and on second reference. http:// Battalion, on first reference. cases. http://www.afthunderbirds.com/site/ www.tradoc.army.mil/ U.S. Central Command United Through Reading’s Military Program Established in 1983, Central Command’s area of Thunderbolt II Transportation Command Spell out on first reference. UTR is acceptable on second responsibility covers 20 nations in the Middle The official nickname of the Air Force’s A-10/OA-10 See U.S. Transportation Command. TRANSCOM is and subsequent references. The USO partnership East, Central Asia and northeast Africa (Egypt). Thunderbolt II ground support aircraft. Service members acceptable in a headline and on second reference. with United Through Reading allows deployed service Headquartered at MacDill Air Force Base, Florida, almost universally refer to the A-10 as the Warthog. members to read their kids a bedtime story and be CENTCOM handed responsibility for the remainder of On first reference, use A-10 Warthog. Use Warthog troop, troops, trooper there, virtually, when they can’t be there in person. For Africa to the U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) in 2008. thereafter. Do not abbreviate. An individual cavalry soldier is a more on United Through Reading’s Military Program, CENTCOM is leading the conflicts in Afghanistan and trooper, not troop. A troop is a cavalry unit equivalent visit: https://www.uso.org/programs/united-through- Iraq. CENTCOM can be used in a headline, but spell it tiger team in size to an infantry company. Troop should not be reading-s-military-program out as “U.S. Central Command” on first reference. http:// Military slang term for an ad hoc committee with used to describe service members in general, as it is not www.centcom.mil/ a mission-specific task. Only use in copy with full inclusive of all military service branches, particularly the Navy, Air Force and Coast Guard. See service member.

66 67 U.S. Cyber Command and South America, including Cuba. It is one of six sealift activities of the Army, Navy and Air Force for For more on USO2GO, visit: https://www.uso.org/ A command created in 2010 to defend American unified commands with a regional rather than an the strategic mobilization of forces. TRANSCOM programs/uso2go computer networks as well as launch cyberattacks operational responsibility; the others are European, is acceptable in a headline, but spell it out on first on the networks of enemy nations/forces. Cyber Pacific, Northern, Central and Africa. Joint Task Force reference. http://www.transcom.mil/ USO Care Package Command, under the direction of a four-star officer, Guantanamo is also under SOUTHCOM. SOUTHCOM Always spell out. Care packages are distributed at falls under the umbrella of U.S. Strategic Command. is acceptable in a headline, but spell it out on first USAA USO airport centers, special send-off celebrations for Subordinate commands include Army Forces Cyber reference. http://www.southcom.mil/ An insurance and financial services company, founded military personnel deploying overseas and to service Command; 24th Air Force; Fleet Cyber Command; by military officers in 1922, which insures 90 percent of members returning to overseas locations from rest and and Marine Forces Cyber Command. CYBERCOM U.S. Space Command all active-duty officers (and their dependents) and offers recuperation (R&R). For more on USO Care Package, is acceptable in a headline, but spell it out on first Inactivated in 2002. See U.S. Air Force Space Command, insurance to enlisted service members. USAA stands for visit: http://www.uso.org/operation-uso-care-package. reference in copy. https://www.stratcom.mil/ a component of U.S. Strategic Command. https://www. United Services Automobile Association, but USAA is aspx factsheets/2/Cyber_Command/ stratcom.mil/factsheets/7/JFCC_Space/ acceptable on all references. USO center U.S. European Command U.S. Special Operations Command USAF Note “center” is lowercased. At more than 180 locations The top U.S. command in Europe is EUCOM, located One of the unified service commands, its responsibilities Abbreviation for U.S. Air Force, not “U.S. armed forces.” around the world, thousands of U.S. service members at Patch Barracks in Stuttgart, Germany. EUCOM is include coordinating U.S. special operations around the Permissible only in headlines. Air Force is acceptable in and their families walk through the doors of the USO acceptable in headlines, but spell out on first reference. world. Headquarters are at MacDill Air Force Base, near all cases. every day. Inside the USO, they’ll find a place to relax, http://www.eucom.mil Tampa, Florida. Component commands include the U.S. ways to connect with loved ones back home, snacks to Army Special Operations Command (Fort Bragg, North USMC enjoy and a wide range of USO programs and services. U.S. Northern Command Carolina), U.S. Air Force Special Operations Command Abbreviation for the U.S. Marine Corps. Acceptable in a To locate a center, visit: https://www.uso.org/centers Based at Peterson Air Force Base, Colorado, this unified (Hurlburt Field, Florida), U.S. Naval Special Warfare headline, but spell it out or use Marines or Marine Corps command was established in 2002 to coordinate the Command (Coronado, California) and the U.S. Marine on first reference in copy. USO chartered center military’s Homeland Security missions. Its geographic Corps Forces Special Operations Command (Camp A chartered center receives a USO charter from responsibilities include all of the U.S. (except Hawaii), Lejeune, North Carolina). SOCOM is acceptable in a USO USO, Inc. to operate under the USO’s brand. USO Inc. Canada, Mexico, some portions of the Caribbean (not headline, but not on first reference. http://www.socom. A nonprofit, congressionally chartered, private conducts periodic reviews of chartered centers to ensure including Cuba) and oceans/seas surrounding those mil organization, the USO relies on the generosity of that their operations are in keeping with USO’s Standard areas. NORTHCOM is acceptable in a headline, but spell individuals, organizations and corporations to support of Excellence (SOE). Chartered centers are independent it out on first reference. http://www.northcom.mil U.S. Strategic Command its mission to strengthen America’s military service organizations and receive the majority of their funding One of the unified service commands, it places members by maintaining their connections to family, through their local community. U.S. Pacific Command the planning, targeting and wartime employment home and country, throughout their service to the With headquarters at Camp H.M. Smith, Hawaii, U.S. of strategic forces under the control of a single nation. The USO is not part of the U.S. government, but USO Congressional Caucus Pacific Command (USPACOM) is the unified command commander, while the day-to-day training, equipping is recognized by the Department of Defense, Congress The USO Congressional Caucus was formed in 2003 to with responsibility for Asia, Australia, all of the Pacific and maintenance responsibilities for its forces — the and the president of the United States, who serves as enhance the outreach efforts of the American people and Indian Oceans. Its components include the Navy’s ballistic submarine fleet and the Air Force’s honorary chairman of the USO. to U.S. service members and their families, providing Pacific forces of each service, as well as multiservice bombers and ICBMs — remained with the services. another critical link between service men and women commands in Japan, Korea and Alaska. PACOM is Headquarters are at Offutt Air Force Base, near Omaha, USO2GO and their representatives. Bipartisan and bicameral, the acceptable in a headline, but use full name on first Nebraska. STRATCOM is acceptable in a headline, but USO2GO bundles deliver the USO’s most popular caucus brings together members from the U.S. Senate reference. http://www.pacom.mil spell out on first reference. http://www.stratcom.mil/ services to service members in remote locations. They and U.S. House of Representatives who have a mutually can include beanbag chairs, snacks, coffee and toiletries shared interest in supporting and improving the quality U.S. Southern Command U.S. Transportation Command to phone cards, electronic entertainment laptops, of life for our service members and their families around The U.S. Southern Command, based in Miami, is A unified command, with headquarters at Scott musical instruments, art supplies and sports equipment. the world. For more on the USO Congressional Caucus, charged with defending U.S. interests in all of Central Air Force Base, Illinois, consolidating air, land and visit: https://www.uso.org/about/congressional-caucus

68 69 USO direct report center USO partner V device a result of the Base Realignment and Closure Act, which Direct report centers are directly owned and operated See also partner. The USO relies on the generosity of The V device is a bronze block letter, V, 1/4 inch in consolidated National Naval Medical Center and Walter by USO, Inc., and are financially funded by their local its partner corporations, clubs and organizations. The height. It is worn on certain medals (Bronze Star, Reed Army Medical Center on the grounds of the former community, where available, in addition to funds raised contributions of such partners are vital to advancing the Commendation Medals, Air Medal) to denote NNMC campus in Bethesda, Maryland. through USO, Inc. mission of the USO. For more about USO partners, visit: participation in acts of heroism involving conflict with an https://www.uso.org/take-action/become-a-partner armed enemy. Combat awards higher than the Bronze warrant officer USO Gala Star would not get a V-device, as valor is implicit in the An officer, senior to noncommissioned officers and This annual event celebrates the USO and features well- USO tour award of such decoration. Usage: Sgt. Jones earned a junior to commissioned officers, who derives his or her known entertainers from USO celebrity entertainment Note lowercase “tour.” USO entertainers are essential Bronze Star Medal with V device for valor. authority from a warrant issued by the secretaries of the tours and recognizes special volunteers, as well as to boosting the morale of service members and their services. Warrant officers are considered the hands- honorees selected by the senior enlisted representatives families. The USO’s long-standing tradition of sending vehicles on experts in their job fields. The Air Force is the only from each branch of the armed forces for their entertainers around the globe will carry on as long as Use numbers for military trucks identified by capacity: service that has no warrant officers. Use the appropriate extraordinary bravery, loyalty and heroism. military men and women are stationed far from home. three quarter-ton truck, 2½ ton truck (sometimes called AP style for all warrant officer ranks. When referring to For more on USO tours, visit: https://www.uso.org/ a “deuce and a half”), etc. Use names or acronyms for warrant officers in general, use lowercase. USO Leadership Council entertainment others: Humvee, MRAP, M2A1, M113. The USO Leadership Council is a giving society Warrior Centers comprised of individuals and organizations that USO tour veteran verb tenses When wounded, ill and injured service members begin provide transformational support to the USO’s mission. Anyone who has participated in a USO tour aimed at In general, use the past tense in news copy and the their journey home, USO centers, especially those Members of the council serve as goodwill ambassadors raising the morale of service members stationed around present tense in headlines. In headlines, when the near major military medical facilities, are often the for the USO, encouraging and inspiring staff, volunteers, the world. present tense may imply that an activity is continuing first support stop for service men and women and friends and family to join them in supporting life- when in fact it is not, use the past tense. their families. In April 2003, the USO opened a center changing moments for our military and their families. USS, USNS embedded in the Contingency Aeromedical Staging Navy designations for United States Ships (USS) and Vietnam Veterans Memorial Facility (CASF) at Ramstein Air Base in Germany. USO 1941 Legacy Society United States Naval Ships (USNS). Use as part of A black granite, wedge-shaped, sunken wall on the In 2008, the USO completed the construction of a The USO 1941 Legacy Society honors those friends a ship’s name, such as “USS George Washington.” National Mall in Washington, D.C., inscribed with the 4,000 square-foot USO Warrior Center at Landstuhl of the USO who make a gift through a will, trust or Similarly, in datelines, use all caps: ABOARD THE USS names of more than 58,000 Americans who died or are Regional Medical Center (LRMC) in Germany to extend other estate plan to continue the USO’s long tradition GEORGE WASHINGTON. USNS ships, indicated by reported missing in action in the Vietnam War. The wall supportive services to a greater number of servicemen of connecting service members to family, home and the blue and gold bands on their stack, are part of the was built in 1982 and, with the Washington, Jefferson and women and their families. The success of these country. Military Sealift Command. The command operates and Lincoln memorials, is among the most visited sites facilities helped initiate Operation Enduring Care. ships manned by civilian crews under the command of in the city. Can be referred to as the Vietnam Wall. USO Show Troupe a civilian master. Note that naval hospital ships receive http://www.vvmf.org/ Warrior and Family Center The only official chartered USO performance group, the USNS designation. Commissioned ships, warships in The name for two new centers built by the USO using USO Show Troupe is an entertainment production that particular, bear the USS designation. W funding from Operation Enduring Care. The Warrior and features music and dance performances evoking the Family Centers—at Fort Belvoir, Virginia, and Walter historical style and themes of USO Camp Shows dating V Reed National Military Medical Center in Bethesda, back to USO’s 1940s origins. It also raises funds for Walter Reed National Military Medical Center Maryland—will provide a home away from home for the USO while raising public awareness about the USO Walter Reed National Military Medical Center is the wounded, ill and injured service members and their and its mission, as well as America’s military service V Corps Nation’s Medical Center, proudly serving military families as the service members recover at nearby members and their families. The chief tactical unit in the U.S. Army Europe. beneficiaries in the Washington, D.C. area as well military hospitals. For more on Warrior and Family Headquarters are at Campbell Barracks in Heidelberg, as those from across the country and around the Centers, visit: https://www.uso.org/programs/uso- Germany. http://www.eur.army.mil/VCorps/ globe. Walter Reed National Military Medical Center warrior-and-family-centers (WRNMMC) was established on November 10, 2011, as

70 71 weapon Y The term used by soldiers and Marines to refer to rifles, CONTACT INFORMATION pistols and other small arms. The term gun is not used. Your USO at Work women in the military Your USO at Work is a bi-monthly email publication Women in uniform also are soldiers, airmen, sailors, to inform USO donors, potential donors, the military, The USO’s Brand Advancement department is a resource for the organization and can assist with the Marines and Coast Guardsmen. Enlisted females USO staff and volunteers and other interested parties development of materials for external and internal distribution. Although these guidelines address the or female officers are the most definitive terms for about how the USO is carrying out its mission to most commonly asked questions, it is not exhaustive so please e-mail questions to: [email protected]. referring to one category of military women. Since keep America’s service members and their families airman (or airmen) is a generic term, it is appropriate to connected. use for enlisted women. In second references to women, use last names only. win, winner, won Military decorations are never, ever “won” or “given.” They are awarded, presented, received or earned. A person receiving a medal can be said to have been decorated. A recipient of a decoration is not, under any circumstances, a “winner.”

Wounded Warrior Battalion A collection of units whose focus is taking care of wounded, ill and injured Marines and their families as they proceed through the Integrated Disability Evaluation System process. X

XO Military shorthand for executive officer. The executive officer is a commander’s key staff member and responsible for seeing that the command’s policies, as applied to day-to-day operations, are carried out. The executive officer in lower echelons is equivalent to the chief of staff in higher ones. Do not use “XO” or “exec” except in direct quotes.

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