COMBAT MilTerms: D

M I L T E R M S :

D : DELTA

DA :

Department of the Army; see USA, AUS. Also, Defense Attaché assigned to a military mission at an embassy in a foreign country; see USDAO, L&L. Also, abbreviation for Direct Action in SPECIAL FORCES and SPECIAL OPERATIONS; see DOOR KICKING, UW, FID, PSYOPS, CA, SF, SOF.

DAGGER THRUST :

joint USN/USMC landing force assaults on coastal enemy redoubts and sanctuaries, being brief SEARCH AND DESTROY INCURSIONs as part of MARKET TIME from 1965.

DAILY DOZEN :

twelve standard Physical Training (PT) exercises performed each day in a PT formation by everyone not on PROFILE or SICK CALL. Exercise has evolved with the modern military, changing the emphasis from strength to endurance, by replacing exertion with kinetics, and isotonics with aerobics (cf: jazzercise, dancercise). Physical fitness training is sometimes demotically expressed as "kalleyhoops" or "kalleyhooptics" for calisthenics. The DAILY DOZEN series of exercises were originally devised by Walter C. Camp for the U.S. Navy after WWI. See PT, PCPT, FRONT LEANING REST.

DAISY CHAIN :

a sequence of explosives designed to fire in series; used most often to create or expose a defense. Also, any series of interconnected things or events, such as a garland of flowers or a sex orgy.

DAISY CUTTER :

indirect or aerial munitions which detonate prior to impact, exploding above ground level, and which may also be used for clearing an LZ; was later called "Blue Lady II" during the second GULF WAR. See LZ CUT, PROXIMITY FUZE, VT.

DAKOTA :

USAF C-47 twin-engine, piston-driven light transport based on the Douglas DC-3, which revolutionized air travel in the late 1930s; also called GOONEY BIRD, Night Train, and Sky Train. The C-47 flew AIRDROP, medical evacuation, and transport-type missions in the VIETNAM WAR. It also served as a FLARESHIP, and was modified into the AC-47 GUNSHIP. See SPOOKY, PUFF, PUFF THE MAGIC DRAGON, DRAGON, JOLLY GREEN GIANT, SMOKY BEAR, DIRTY THIRTY, SACRED COW.

DAME :

Defense Against Methods of Entry, methods and techniques practiced by MI and CIC agents.

DANCE CARD :

an abridged mission schedule posted by Operations (S-/G-/J-3) giving DTG, AO, and CODENAME of activities; allusion is probably due to the limited number of missions that can be supported at any particular time without interference (ie: make music and serve refreshments while X-number dance with the enemy on the ballroom floor). See WARNING ORDER, FRAG ORDER, OPLAN, COURSE OF ACTION, CAPABILITY, STAND-TO.

DANCING PONY :

11th ACR

NICKNAME for the 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment (ACR), as derived from the "rearing horse" design of its shoulder PATCH; also called "Frightened Pony" and SCARED HORSE. See DARK HORSE.

DAN CONG :

a civilian laborer drafted by the Vietnamese to serve as a porter of military materiel, or as a litter bearer for the wounded; although Asian peasants have traditionally used DUMMY STICK yokes to transport goods, the DAN CONG porters used reinforced bicycles to push loads averaging 600# over rough terrain on concealed narrow trails (eg: 1954 Dien Bien Phu). The corps of DAN CONG porters worked for the VC/NVA/PAVN, and included female (LONG HAIR) laborers. Compare CHIGGIE BEAR; see LITTER. [nb: according to the international LAWS OF WAR, a civilian compelled to act as a military porter by transporting weapons or munitions and materiel becomes a bona-fide combatant, subject to treatment as a de-facto soldier, and forfeits the protection of civilian noncombatant status]

DANGLE :

an operative or intelligence datum ("bait") used to entice or entrap the opposition, such as a "honey pot" or "honey trap". See CAMPAIGN WIFE, PROVOCATEUR, DECOY, THROW-AWAY, LEGEND, NOC, CLEAN, LIFTED SKIRT, TRADECRAFT. [v: WWII deception Operation Mincemeat, "the man who never was"]

DAO :

Defense Attaché Office, convenient shortening of USDAO (qv); see DA.

DAP :

a Department of the Army Pamphlet, or DA Pam. Also, a stylized, ritualized manner of shaking hands, started by African-American troops, sometimes called "hand-jive"; compare WIGWAG, DITTY-BOP. [nb: the slapping of hands above the head in celebration, called "high five", is falsely credited to Derek Smith, a 1979 University of Louisville basketball player; it actually derives from the ritualized "give me five" DAP that Black Power "brothers" would exchange when greeting in Vietnam from 1965 onward, including hand slides, thumb pivots, knuckle bumps, "high five" and "low five" slaps, often so elaborately choreographed that it formed a brief dance, then a strutting departure]

DAPSONE :

small pill taken periodically by U.S. troops, ostensibly to prevent MALARIA, but actually to prevent leprosy; compare HORSE PILL, "acedapsone" @MALARIA. [cf: lazaretto

DARK HORSE :

any unknown or unsuspected entity that performs unexpectedly well or is surprisingly successful, as inexperienced troops winning a victory; also as "dark-horse". Compare STALKING HORSE, TROJAN HORSE, CAT'S-PAW.

DARPA :

abbreviation for Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency, being an agency of the Department of Defense (DOD) responsible for the research and development of new technologies for military and national security applications. Established in February 1958 in response to the Soviet launching of the Sputnik satellite, it revived the WWII Office of Scientific Research and Development, was originally named ARPA, was renamed DARPA in 1972, reverting to ARPA in 1993, and again reverting to DARPA on 11 March 1996. It was responsible for establishing the ARPANET, which developed into the InterNet, as well as engendering the Berkeley version of Unix (BSD) operating system and the TCP/IP messaging protocol. DARPA is responsible for transformative innovation beyond any proposed doctrinal requirement or anticipated military need; thus the Twentieth Century inventions of the airplane, tank, jet engine, RADAR, helicopter, electronic computer, and atomic energy would be augmented by hypertext (NLS), hypermedia (Aspen Movie Media), BURST communication, sensor detection, stealth technology, global positioning system (GPS), and unmanned systems. Other DARPA programs have included Project Defender (defense against ballistic missiles), Project Vela (nuclear test detection), and Project Agile (counterinsurgency R&D). DARPA continues to work on STAND-OFF weapons, high-energy LASER technology, space-based surveillance, automatic target recognition, integrated circuit and submicron electronic research, artificial intelligence (AI), and other behavioral or material science projects. DARPA comprises eight program offices, including the Advanced Technology Office, Defense Sciences Office, Tactical Technology Office, Joint Unmanned Combat Air Systems, Information Processing Technology Office, Information Exploitation Office, Microsystems Technology Office, and Special Projects Office. Although some programs are considered too radical (eg: "Combat Zones That See"), most of these technologies have civilian applications (eg: NVG used to aid night blindness) resulting in greater efficiency and improved lifestyle. See SOTA, PEACE DIVIDEND. [nb: adaptations or extensions of technological invention have traditionally passed through three phases: gadget creation, improved accommodation, and streamlined production; or, in other words, from the simple to the complex and on to the simplified; "Everything that can be invented has been invented." by Charles H. Duell (Commissioner of US Office of Patents, 1899)]

DASC :

Direct Air Support Center; see HORN.

DASH :

Drone Anti-Submarine Helicopter; a remote-controlled miniature helicopter used to detect and track submarines at a distance; see ASW. Also, a short sudden scurrying movement, as a swift rush along a direct line or course; compare ZIGZAG, SCUTTLE; see BUTTERFLY, CLOVERLEAF, CHECKERBOARD, HOPSCOTCH, LEAP FROG, BUTTONHOOK. Also, to violently strike, smash, throw, thrust, splash, or splatter.

DATE LINE :

a theoretical line at approximately the 180 meridian, with the calendar date of the regions to its east counting as one day earlier than regions to its west; formally identified as the International Date Line. For seafarers, the part of the ocean across this 180 meridian is called the "Realm of the Golden Dragon". See TIME.

DAU TRANH :

the Vietnamese term for "struggle", being the key concept of "people's war" or "wars of liberation"; see INSURGENCY, GUERRILLA WARFARE; compare CHINH HUA.

DAVIT :

any of various crane-like devices used on ships for moving or supporting boats, anchors, and other objects; see BOOM.

DAYROOM :

a separate room or building with facilities for leisure activities; often used by troops as a semi-private "living room" when meeting guests, since the ORDERLY ROOM is not an appropriate place for visiting.

DAZZLE :

a harlequin patterned camouflage introduced in 1916 for large objects that could not be hidden, such as WARSHIPs and TANKs; composed of brilliant colors (ie: orange, blue, yellow, etc) in both irregular and lozenge patterns, the camouflage effect was intended to distort the object's shape, size, and movement ... disrupting perception and perspective. DAZZLE was so effective (receiving less than one-tenth as many strikes as normal) that it promoted a survivor's superstition, making crews unwilling to serve in vehicles or vessels without a DAZZLE treatment. See CAMO, JUDAS GOAT; compare COUNTERSHADING, GRAYBACK. [cf: parti-colored, mottle, variegate, pied/piebald]

DB :

Daily Bulletin, being the post/base newsletter. Also, Disciplinary Barracks.

DCA :

Defense Communications Agency; see DCS.

DCI :

Director of Central Intelligence; see CIA.

DCIS :

Defense Criminal Investigative Service, or Defense Criminal Investigation Service, being the DoD section subordinate to DIS that specializes in criminal investigations and prosecutions; see CID, NIS, OSI, FBI, BUTTON, POLICE.

DCO :

Deputy Commanding Officer; compare XO, see COMMAND ELEMENT.

DCS :

Defense Communications System; see DCA. Also, Deputy Chief of Staff; see JCS.

DD :

destroyer; see TIN CAN. Also, abbreviated designator for Department of Defense (DoD), as form "DD-214"; compare AGO. Also, Dishonorable Discharge; see DISCHARGE. [nb: during the 19th century, a "bobtail" discharge was slang for both a curtailed term of service, and for a certificate with its character cutoff so as to obscure or conceal the type of discharge ... always "other than honorable"]

D-DAY :

the term used to designate the unnamed day scheduled for the commencement, execution, implementation, or initiation of a particular operation; designation originally created by repetition, but since re-defined as "deployment-day". See H-HOUR, TIME.

DDG :

destroyer with guided MISSILES; see TIN CAN.

DDIIR :

Department of Defense Intelligence Information Report.

DDO :

Deputy Director of Operations for the Central Intelligence Agency; see CIA.

DD-214 / DD214 :

a Department of Defense document that summarizes and characterizes the service of anyone who's completed a tour of duty in the military; entitled the "Armed Forces of the United States Report of Transfer or Separation" after WWII, it was renamed the "Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty" after the VIETNAM WAR. A preliminary worksheet (DD214WS) is prepared for approval; and if substantive omissions or errors (not typographical) are discovered, an application (DD-149) for correction of military record (under the provisions of Title 10 US Code, section 1552) is submitted, and a supplemental DD-215 ("Correction to DD Form 214, Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty") is issued. Both the DD-214 and DD-215 are not "letter sized" to help prevent forgeries. See DISCHARGE. [nb: because a separate DD-214 is issued for each period of service, the DD-149 is used by active duty personnel and the SF-180 is used by retirees and veterans when requesting a corrected DD-215]

DE :

destroyer escort; see DESOTO.

DEA :

(dee-ee-ay) Drug Enforcement Administration [not "Agency"], which has jurisdiction on federal installations, also shares concurrent jurisdiction with the FBI for domestic enforcement of controlled substance laws, and bears sole responsibility for investigating illegal drugs abroad. The Drug Enforcement Administration was re-organized in the Department of Justice on 1 July 1973 from its predecessor, the Bureau of Narcotics and Dangerous Drugs, which had been formed as a subsidiary agency of the Department of Justice in 1968 by merging the Federal Bureau of Narcotics, an agency of the Treasury Department, with the Bureau of Drug Abuse Control, an agency of the Food and Drug Administration under the Department of Health, Education, and Welfare. The Federal Bureau of Narcotics had been established in June 1930, and maintained foreign offices in France, Italy, Turkey, Lebanon, and Thailand. The DEA has grown to encompass 21 domestic Field Divisions and 80 Foreign Offices in 58 countries. Although the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center is a separate facility, the DEA Academy is colocated with the Marine installation at Quantico Virginia. See POLICE, CID, BABY 007, STICK, CAN SA, DOPE, STONED, SMACK, HOT SHOT, CHINA WHITE, GOLDEN TRIANGLE, SILVER TRIANGLE, GOLDEN CRESCENT; compare FBI, REVENUER, DIS, DHS.

DEACTIVATE :

to withdraw all personnel and transfer all assets of a duly constituted or commissioned unit, and retire it to the inactive list; also called "inactivate", "disband", "demobilize", "dissolve", "decommission", or "retire"; compare ACTIVATE, ORGANIZE, RECONSTITUTED; see STAND-DOWN, ACTOV, VIETNAMIZATION, PROVN, CRIMP, CSMO, KEYSTONE [nb: the U.S. Navy, established 1775, was disbanded from 1786 to 1794]. Also, to render a bomb, shell, or other EXPLOSIVE inoperative, especially by disconnecting, removing, or otherwise interfering with the action of its FUZE or trigger mechanism, as when interrupting a catalytic process; see EOD, UXO.

DEAD AIR :

the interruption, suspension,or loss of an audio or video broadcast, leaving the recipient without content. Also, the absence of speech during a meeting or gathering, which may be either a pause for thought or a shocked silence; this phrase never refers to a meditative or companionable quiescence; compare HOT AIR.

DEAD DROP :

(forthcoming); DEAD LETTER, LETTER BOX, FLAPS 'n' SEALS

DEADEYE :

two-holed disk rove with LINE or LANYARD, used for tightening YARDARM, SPAR, or other attachment; compare EYE, see BELAY [cf: turnbuckle]. Also, an expert marksman, an "eagle eye" or "hawkeye"; see SHARPSHOOTER, KISS THE MISTRESS, KNOCK THEIR SPOTS OFF, SNIPER, AIMPOINT, BULL'S-EYE, POINT-BLANK.

DEADHEAD :

a vehicle, craft, or vessel returning without cargo or passengers; see POB, SPACE A. Also, a sunken, semisubmerged, or floating object that's a hazard to navigation. Also, a person using a free PASS or complimentary ticket; compare STRAP-HANGER, BLOB. Also, a dull or stupid person, a dolt or dummkopf; see DOPE, PUKE, DUD, SOS, TURD, YARDBIRD. Also, by analogy to horticultural pruning, the removal by transfer or termination of marginal and dysfunctional personnel, so as to revitalize an operation or to reform an organization; also called HOUSECLEANING.

DEAD HORSE :

an issue or question already settled, resolved, or made moot, which is being raised, broached, or revived for further discussion or examination, as to "beat a dead horse" or to "flog a dead horse", and is also called "flogged to death" and "Monday morning quarterbacking" or "second-guessing" ... which are favorite pursuits of "armchair experts" and other know-it-all theoreticians, which is a waste of time and energy, except for the education or edification of students. Also, in the U.S. Navy, the period of time that was required for a sailor to pay-off, to payback, or to recoup an advance payment; being that span when a sailor does not receive money, but credit toward his indebtedness; also called "beating a dead horse" with regard to the work, labor, or effort involved in the repayment schedule. Compare CHARGE, CHARGE SHEET, CHIT. [nb: the "horse latitudes", a calm region situated about thirty degrees north and south of the equator (also called the "doldrums"), may derive from the "beating a dead horse" repayment schedule, since sailors on sailing ships were usually out of debt when the vessel arrived in this region; an alternative explanation of this ascription has livestock being cast overboard in this becalmed area due to an inadequate supply of drinking water]

DEAD IN THE WATER :

adrift without motive, power or propulsion; also called HULL.

DEAD LETTER :

a moot point, or an unenforced regulation; being an issue not worth pursuing, as derived from "undeliverable mail". Compare DEAD DROP, LETTER BOX, FLAPS 'n' SEALS.

DEADLINE :

a line or limit that must not be passed or yielded, as a battle line; compare FRONT LINE, LINE OF BATTLE, FEBA, FLOT, HARD-AND-FAST. Also, at one time, the boundary outside a military prison beyond which a prisoner could not venture without risk of being shot by the guards; see STOCKADE, GUARDHOUSE, CROSSBAR HOTEL, HOT HOUSE, LBJ, CHL, BRIG, THE CASTLE. Also, the latest time by which something must be finished or submitted; see NLT, SUSPENSE DATE, UNDER THE GUN.

DEAD-RECKONING :

estimated calculation of one's present position based upon compass readings, speed, and distance traveled from the last known point, with allowances for drift (LEEWAY) from terrain, wind, or currents; also known as "guesstimate" or "by guess and by God". See AZIMUTH, GRID COORDINATES, CONTOUR LINES, SLANT DISTANCE, AIMPOINT, HEADING, LORAN, GPS, UTM, DOUBLE DRIFT, WAG, COMICS. [nb: an analog wrist-/pocket-watch (or simulated clock face) may serve as an improvised compass; when the hour hand is pointed at the sun, south is between the hour hand and 12 o'clock]

DEAD-SOLDIER :

slang since WWI for an empty wine or liquor bottle; see STONED, BREW, HOOCH, JUICE, DUTCH COURAGE, SPLICE THE MAINBRACE, HOIST, HATCH, BYOB, CLASS SIX, THE DRINK, TOAST, WASH, SAIGON TEA.

DEAD SPACE :

area which cannot be covered by observation or fire due to the nature of the terrain; compare KILL ZONE, ZONE OF FIRE.

DEAD-TIME :

extended active-duty service period in repayment for time spent in jail; also called BAD TIME. See CHL, PAIN, STOCKADE, BRIG, THE CASTLE, GUARDHOUSE, UCMJ.

DEATH CARD :

novelty calling card, often depicting a unit's motto or insignia, and making some sardonic or wry announcement in English or English/Vietnamese (such as"This BELIEVER converted courtesy of ..."); as derived from the earlier practice of leaving a unit PATCH (official or unofficial) on the corpse. The PSYOPS and INTEL sections developed this concept, in conjunction with the CHIEU HOI program, by printing "skull and crossed bones" Ace of Spades cards, which is purportedly an evil omen in Asia, with a Vietnamese message stating that PAVN troops should surrender or be killed. A wide variety of novelty cards were produced during the war. This practice probably originated during WWII beginning with the Anzio campaign (Feb 1944), when the FSSF "Black Devils" left German-text "The worst is yet to come." DEATH CARDs on corpses to enhance their mystique. After the 9/11 2001 TERRORIST attack, the U.S. Army Counter-Terrorist Task Force made an arrangement with the New York city Police Department to supply the JSOTF operatives with NYPD shoulder patches to leave on Taliban or al-Qaida corpses and HARD TARGET wreckage as retributive DEATH CARDs. Compare TS CARD; see KISS THE MISTRESS, TURN THE JACK, KNOCK THEIR SPOTS OFF, WAR GAMES. [nb: according to classic military lore, carrying playing cards (also called a "California prayer book" or the "Devil's calling cards") into combat is bad luck, so the deck must be left behind in camp or buried in bivouac upon departure for the battlefield] [nb: the deuce of clubs, from underworld lingo, was popularized as a DEATH CARD by the publication of hard-boiled stories in pulp media]

DEATH OF A THOUSAND CUTS :

a catch-phrase for the slow death of the condemned by the torture of many small wounds, none lethal in itself, but fatal in their cumulative effect; also expressed as "death by a thousand cuts", "lingering death", and "slow slicing", from a classical allusion to the slow ascent of a mountain. This traditional form of execution in China, employed from 900 to 1905 (when it was abolished), was reserved for the most heinous crimes; transliterated as "one thousand knives and ten thousand pieces", which gruesomeness was believed to serve as a deterrence against villainy. This agonizing practice has captured the imagination of many sensationalists over the years until its precise methodology is too confused by fantasy and legend to be accurately revealed. Despite its mythic reputation, this form of torture was probably no "worse" than Occidental forms, as eviscerate, impale, press, rack, draw and quarter. Compare GARROTE, KEELHAUL, GAUNTLET, OVER A BARREL, PAIN, TWIST IN THE WIND, TORTURE, COUP DE GRACE. Also, metaphorically representative of excruciating suspense, agonized delay, or exaggerated prolongation; describing the gradual destruction of an idea or procedure, program or institution by a multitude of minor changes; see BACK CHANNEL, RED TAPE, BAYONET SHEET, MILICRAT.

DEBARKATION NET :

a specially prepared type of General Purpose net, CARGO NET, or other similar mesh employed when scaling, as during INSERTION or EXTRACTION, but especially during debarkation from or embarkation of a transport ship; see JACOB'S LADDER, RATLINE, GP, NET, SKYHOOK, STABO, RAPPEL. [v: escalade] [v: Climbing Terms]

DEBRIEF :

an after-action interrogation, often conversational, of operational leaders and select participants, in order to assess the conduct and results of a mission; to systematically inquire in order to obtain useful information or intelligence; see AAR, FLUTTER, SWEAT; compare BRIEF-BACK, BRIEFING. Also, to subject a former participant to precautions and prohibitions against disclosing or discussing classified information, as upon separation from a position of military sensitivity. [nb: a so-called "back brief" must be rendered when an intermediate-level officer or NCO, acting on his own initiative, launches an operation or commences a series of events which develop in unpredicted ways or expand beyond their original scope, necessitating a combined BRIEFING and DEBRIEFing to the next higher echelon]

DECAMP :

to pack up equipment and leave a campground, to disassemble, dismantle, break-down, take-down and remove; being the opposite of "encamp". Also, to depart hastily and often secretly, as to escape or evacuate, to flee or SPLIT; see BEAT FEET, CUT AND RUN, BAILOUT, HAUL-ASS, BUSTER, PULL PITCH, SCRAMBLE, JUICE, GOYA, ASAP, PDQ, STAT, CHOGI, FORTHWITH.

DECAPITATION :

the tactic of targeting political leaders, military commanders, and/or their headquarters (HQ) in an attempt to effect a strategic result. Although it is considered immoral to assassinate the head of state or national leaders of the opposing or enemy forces, it is not illegal to target the director(s) of INSURGENT, GUERRILLA, or TERRORIST groups. This concept probably derives from WAR GAMES theory, such as winning chess by checkmating the king, but it is impractical in any hierarchical organization with a CHAIN-OF-COMMAND, and may inspire even greater resistance, as with STRATEGIC BOMBING. In the cases where it has the greatest potential to be most effective, such as a "cult of personality" dictatorship, the tactic has been declared illegal, so a surrogate must be induced to execute what a purportedly law-abiding nation will not do for itself! ... the moral contradiction in deniably abetting a criminal conspiracy is reprehensibly fraudulent and cowardly. It is always better to intelligently attack the structure of the opposition in order to effect permanent change, than the DECAPITATION of its figurehead, a practice also known as HEADHUNTING. Compare COUP D'ETAT. [cf: malum prohibitum, malum in se; v: bounty, reward, head price, recompense, premium] [v: Executive Orders prohibiting assassination include: EO11905(5g) Gerald R. Ford (18 Feb 1976), EO12036(2-305) James E. Carter (24 Jan 1978), EO12333(2.11) Ronald W. Reagan (4 Dec 1981); cf: Barbary pirates (1804-1805), Pancho Villa (1916), Augusto Cesar Sandino (1928-1932), Ernesto "Che" Guevara (1967), Achille Lauro hijackers (1985), Muammar al-Qaddafi / Kaddafi (1986), Osama Bin Laden (2001)] [v: Operation Gaff attempted the assassination of Erwin Rommel; Operation Valkyrie attempted the assassination of Adolf Hitler (20 July 1944)] [nb: Salome, the daughter of Herod Antipas, was granted the head of John the Baptist; Abraham Lincoln declared that the CIVIL WAR could not be won until Longstreet was killed, and pleaded for someone to bring him Longstreet's head on a platter; and the CIA director in Afghanistan during 2001 declared that his primary goal was to place a burlap bag containing Osama Bin Laden's head on Rumsfeld's desk] [nb: Mozart's Idomeneo opera, first performed in 1781, tells the story of this Cretan king, but the 2006 rendition by Hans Neuenfels adds a scene depicting the severed heads of the prophets Mohammad, Buddha, and Jesus]

DECATHLON :

an athletic competition comprising ten consecutive events, primarily track and field; compare BIATHLON, TRIATHLON, PENTATHLON; see PT, PFT, AIRBORNE SHUFFLE, TRUSCOTT TROT, WAR GAMES.

DECCA :

low-level radio navigational aid chain installed and maintained by the Army, but rarely used due to mistrust by senior Army officers, and due to nonacceptance by the Air Force.

DECENT INTERVAL :

the period between US/SEATO abandonment of RVN and the eventual collapse of RVN, together with the Cambodian HOLOCAUST and the Laotian usurpation. The POLITICIANs who betrayed the trust of all participants by arranging this "indecent interval" were awarded Nobel Peace Prizes. Compare the US commitment to Korea. See DOMINO THEORY, BOAT PEOPLE, REEDUCATION, APOCALYPSE, WISE MEN, VIETNAM SYNDROME.

DECEPTION :

those single, serial, or collective measures designed to mislead the enemy by manipulation, distortion, or falsification of evidence so as to induce the enemy to act or react in a manner prejudicial to its own interests; also called ruse, ploy, feint, artifice, stratagem, subterfuge, wile, gambit, imposture, machination. A deception course of action will identify the deception objective, the deception target, the desired perception, the deception story, and the tentative deception means. The deception target may be influenced or affected by physical, technical, or administrative methods and means, resources and techniques, including the use of dummy equipment and devices, notional assets and organizations, and the emission, suppression, alteration, absorption, or reflection of data, radiation, sound, odor (chemical or biological), or other energy sources. A deception event or operation must be coordinated and integrated with conventional actions or operations so as to effectively concentrate available resources on the objective, and not to confuse allied assets with misleading information. Military deceptions are tactical and strategic actions executed to deliberately mislead adversaries as to allied capabilities, intentions, and operations, thereby causing the adversary to take specific actions (or inactions) that will contribute to the accomplishment of the allied mission. See CONTROLLED INFORMATION, COUNTERDECEPTION, INTEL, PSYOPS, CONCEALMENT, CAMO, GHOST UNIT, PHANTOM OPERATIONS, TRICK, FALSE FLAG, HINKY, DECOY, RED HERRING, TROJAN HORSE, STALKING HORSE, DARK HORSE, CAT SKINNER, CAT'S-PAW, NIGHTINGALE, PROPAGANDA, OODLES, BIG LIE, DISINFORMATION, RUMOR, GHOST WALK, Q-SHIP, CLOAK-AND-DAGGER, TRADECRAFT, WHITE PROPAGANDA, TRUTH. [nb: artists and technicians served in special units during WWI (ie: Camouflage Corps) and WWII (ie: 603rd Engr Camo Bn, 3132nd Sonic Sig Co, 23rd HQ Special Troops, Beach Jumpers, 12th Army Gp Special Plans Branch) which were responsible for creating and implementing deception operations by use of camouflage, spoof transmissions, false movements, fake organizations, decoy constructions, dummy vehicles, imitation troops, simulated weapon discharges, artificial representations, illusions and other special effects; then during the GULF WAR, these deception operations were conducted by "Ambiguity Forces" under Task Force Troy, and used a "wheeled camel" symbol] [nb: under the Double Cross system of Operation Fortitude preliminary to the WWII D-Day INVASION, a procedure similar to CPX was used to create "ghost" and "phantom" units as a deception] [nb: CSA Fort Humbug near Shreveport was defended against MG Nathaniel P. Banks with faux cannons; likewise Quaker cannon were used on the Peninsula campaign to resist MG George B. McClellan's invasion ... also used false cookfires, bugle calls to missing troops, marching remaining soldiers in a circle to multiply their apparent strength] [nb: "All warfare is based on deception. Hence, when able to attack, we must seem unable; when using our forces, we must seem inactive; when we are near, we must make the enemy believe we are far away; when far away, we must make him believe we are near. Hold out baits to entice the enemy. Feign disorder, and crush him. If he is secure at all points, be prepared for him. If he is in superior strength, evade him. If your opponent is of choleric temper, seek to irritate him. Pretend to be weak, that he may grow arrogant. If he is taking his ease, give him no rest. If his forces are united, separate them. Attack him where he is unprepared, appear where you are not expected. These military devices, leading to victory, must not be divulged beforehand. In war, practice dissimulation, and you will succeed." by Sun-Tzu]

DECK :

a floor-like surface occupying all or most of one level in a superstructure or HULL; see BELOW DECK, TOPSIDE, FANTAIL, QUARTERDECK, POOP DECK, ORLOP, PLANK, LADDERWELL, GANGWAY, HATCH, BULKHEAD, OVERHEAD, SPONSON, BOARD, ABOVE BOARD.

DECODE :

to decipher or DECRYPT. See ALPHABET SOUP, ENCRYPT, CIPHER, KAK, SHACKLE, SCRAMBLE, NULLITY, BURST, RTO, RADIO, TAP CODE, DUNGEON, CRYPER, INTEL, ASA, MI, CIC, ICAP, IR, COMICS.

DECOY :

an imitation of people or objects, or simulated occurrences or phenomena, which are intended to deceive enemy surveillance or to mislead enemy evaluations; also called "dummy"; see Q-SHIP, RED HERRING, TROJAN HORSE, STALKING HORSE, DARK HORSE, CAT'S-PAW, CAMO, DECEPTION. Also, someone, usually a military intelligence or political officer, disguised as an ordinary soldier and inserted into a combat unit for the purpose of being captured, so as to surrender false information. These DECOYs, also called "plant" or "dispatched agent", are specially trained to render 'false positives' while misdirecting their captors. DECOYs are often older, better educated, and more physically fit than other troops, and may exhibit better medical or dental care than their alleged peers; which battlefield assessments may avert a disasterous trap. A military (eg: HOI CHANH) or political defector may also be a DECOY agent. See SECRET AGENT, SPOOK, CRYPTO, PROVOCATEUR, THROW-AWAY, DANGLE, RABBIT, SWEEPER, STOOGE, CLEAN, LIFTED SKIRT, TRADECRAFT; compare BORDEN. [v: WWII deception Operation Mincemeat, "the man who never was"]

DECRYPT :

to decipher or DECODE. See ALPHABET SOUP, CODE TALKER, ENCRYPT, CIPHER, KAK, SHACKLE, SCRAMBLE, NULLITY, BURST, RTO, RADIO, TAP CODE, DUNGEON, CRYPER, INTEL, ASA, MI, CIC, ICAP, IR, COMICS.

DEEP DIP :

slang meaning to be promoted before becoming regularly eligible due to excellence of merit or performance, being advanced ahead of the "above the zone" FAST MOVERs for cause; the modern equivalent of a BREVET for achievement or valor. See HARD CHARGER, SWEAT HOG, SUPER-TROOPER, BOOMER, HOT DOG, HOT SHOT, BOY WONDER, GOLDEN BOY, BALLS TO THE WALL, VULCANIZE; compare BRASS HAT, UP OR OUT.

DEEP SHIT :

the worst possible position, such as being nearly overrun, being a crisis on the verge of disaster; sometimes called "deep doo-doo", "deep serious", or a "shit storm". See TAR BABY, BITTER END, SNOWBALL, DOG'S CHANCE, SHIT HIT THE FAN, SHIT.

DEEP SIX :

the rejection or abandonment, suppression or concealment of something; derived from soundings by fathom (6feet), expressed as "by the deep six" (36feet), and not from a "six feet under" grave or gravesite. Also, to cast an object over the side, or to jettison something from a vessel or vehicle. Also, burial at sea. [nb: refers only to objects; people fall "overboard"]

DEERS :

Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System, the database of servicemembers, retirees, and their dependents.

DEFCON :

DEFense CONdition; a graduated security alert system. See SACON, ESP, FOOTBALL, TOCSIN, STAND-TO, STAND-DOWN.

DEFEAT :

a downfall or setback, a destruction or ruin; to conquer, foil, beat, subdue, check, repulse, quell, crush, trounce, vanquish, overpower, overwhelm, overthrow, overturn, overcome, thwart, deprive, or ROUT. See THROW IN THE TOWEL, CHANGING TUNE, RETROGRADE, BEAT FEET, HAUL-ASS, RETREAT.

DEFERMENT :

a temporary exemption from induction into military service, as based upon educational enrollment, marital status, and the like, until the status changes, the regulations change, or manpower needs change; not a total and permanent exemption; see MILITIA, STRIKER, WEEKEND WARRIOR, PARAMILITARY. Also, a temporary postponement of obligation, such as the payment of taxes while serving in a combat zone; see TOUR BABY, COMBAT BUM, LIFER.

DEFILADE :

protection from frontal fire or ground observation, as provided by any natural or artificial barrier; including rampart, parapet, bulwark, bastion, redan/redent, battlement, lunette/lunet, barbette, salient, countergarde. See REVETMENT, EMPLACEMENT, BERM, REDOUBT, CATWALK, BANQUETTE, COVER, CONCEALMENT, FACE. [cf: escarp, scarp/escarpment, counterscarp]

DEFILE :

a narrow passage; also, to march in line of file(s).

DEFLAGRATION :

to burn, especially in a sudden and violent manner; see DET CORD, EXPLOSIVE.

DEFLECTION :

the amount of lateral deviation between the point of aim (AIMPOINT) and the POINT OF IMPACT on the target, or the mean error of a SALVO. Making a DEFLECTION shot entails adjustments for distance and movement, so the round launched by empirical calculus will coincide with the arrival of the target. See SIGHT PICTURE, ZERO, BORESIGHT, BULL'S-EYE, POINT-BLANK, TRAIN.

DEGAUSS :

(forthcoming) also expressed as "degaussing", eponymous derivation from Karl Friedrich Gauss.

DELAWARE :

combined US/SVN operation in A SHAU VALLEY during 1968.

DELEGATE :

the commitment of powers and functions to someone, as being deputed to act on another's behalf, as an agent or representative; term derives from "assign as envoy", an emissary or legate. [nb: only authority can be delegated to subordinates, while responsibility cannot be transferred]

DELTA DAGGER :

the Convair / General Dynamics F-102 supersonic, all-weather, delta-wing, single-place, interceptor aircraft, powered by a turbojet engine. See BIRD.

DELTA DART :

F-106A aircraft; see SHARPSHOOTER, BIRD.

DELTA FORCE :

informal name of the U.S. Army's 1st Special Forces Operational Detachment - Delta (1SFOD-D), being a Direct Action (DA) component of the Joint Special Operations Command (JSOC); it was activated in November 1977 by COL Charles Beckwith, who was also the first commander of its namesake entity Project Delta (DET B-52, 5th SFGA). DELTA FORCE operatives are sometimes called "D-boys". See LEAPING LENA, THE GREEKS, KILL HOUSE, DOUBLE TAP, AT CLOSE QUARTERS, SPECIAL OPERATIONS.

DEMILITARIZE :

to denature or render safe, as when made inert, inactive, inoperable, non-lethal, non-toxic, or otherwise harmless (eg: removal of explosives from munitions), including neutralization of HAZMAT, disposal of CBR ingredients, and destruction of classified design components. Also, to prohibit a military presence; to banish military organizations or operations, armaments or munitions from a designated area. Also, to deprive of military influence by placing under civil authority and control.

DEMO :

contraction of DEMOlition, referring to the specialist, the techniques, and/or the munitions, being an artful MIL-CRAFT of inverse architecture or reverse engineering; see EXPLOSIVE, CHARGE, BOOBY-TRAP, IED, COCKTAIL, SOUP, TRIGGER, FIRE IN THE HOLE.

DENTCAP :

Dental Civic Action Program; military dentists and dental assistants provided oral hygiene treatment in many remote VILLEs. See CA, CAP, MEDCAP, ICAP. and hygiene of the locals.

DEP :

Delayed Entry Program, which allows a delay of one year from enlistment before reporting for duty. The Reserve component calls this the Delayed Training Program (DTP), and assigns participants to a Troop Program Unit (TPU) for accountability. See CONAP, ACASP, NESEP, BOOTSTRAP, USAFI, SOC, ROTC.

DEPOT :

a station, terminal, or way-station; see REPL' DEPOT, ANNEX, COMFORT STATION. Also, a depository or repository; see DUMP, NSD, DRMO, PRE-POS, GODOWN, LOG, QM.

DEPUY FOXHOLE :

defensive positions set so as to ensure interlocking fields of fire; as advocated by MG William E. DePuy, 1966 CG of 1st Inf Div. See FOXHOLE, SPIDER HOLE, HASTY TRENCH, BUNKER.

DEROS :

Date Eligible for Return from OverSeas; the estimated date a person's tour in Vietnam was scheduled to end. See WAKE-UP. [nb: civilians go 'abroad' while soldiers go 'overseas']

DESEGREGATION :

(forthcoming); Executive Order 9981 (1948); OCS during WWII was the first training course to be racially desegregated. see BEANER, BLACK, CHINK, RICE BALL, BASKET HEAD, BUDDHAHEAD, PURPLE HEART BATTALION, NIP, FLIP, LITTLE BROWN BROTHER, WOG, WOP.

DESERT :

desert camo

a three-/six-tone camouflage patterned uniform worn for concealment in an arid region; originating as a subdued KHAKI tan uniform in the British Army, the artificial mottling of such clothing has extended to CHOCOLATE CHIP and TIGER STRIPE versions, and has since been extended to pixelated DIGITALS. See CAMMIES, CAMO, DRESS.

DESERTER :

to leave military service, or to abandon one's oath and duty, without authorization, and with the intention of never returning; being grounds for punishment and dishonorable discharge; see FIRING SQUAD. Also, to fail one's associates, or to forsake one's obligations. Also, to abandon the responsibilities of the law, as a renegade outlier or recreant outlaw, rogue, fugitive, rebel, apostate, reaver / reiver. See MERCENARY, TERRORIST, MUTINEER, RIOT ACT, UCMJ; compare AWOL, UA, DRAFT DODGER, TRAITOR, TURNCOAT, WHITE VC. [v: Riley and other USArmy deserters who fought against their former units during the Mexican War (1846-8)]

DESK MAPPING :

the process of securing, in proper order and placement, all documents and effects on the desk of a senior official by his AIDE or Executive Assistant (EA), in accordance with regulations requiring that all sensitive materials be protected when not in actual use; in effect, the complete clearing and later complete restoration of the contents of a superior's desk top by his trusted DOG ROBBER; see LMD, BUCK SLIP, CHAIRBORNE, ORIFICE, HEADQUARTERISM. Also, to surveil a cluttered desk or working surface so as to glean useful information without disturbing the layout or leaving detectable clues of intrusion; see TRADECRAFT, INTEL.

DESOTO :

US Navy patrols by destroyers and escorts in the Gulf of Tonkin. See TONKIN GULF INCIDENT.

DET :

DETachment; any organic unit separated for operational independence, or any integral element assigned to a separate duty or mission; see HHD, AAD, NAD, MID, TDY, DETAIL, FIRING SQUAD, CORPORAL'S GUARD, AD HOC.

DETAIL :

an assignment, to be assigned a DUTY. Also, a temporary or special duty, such as CQ, KP, POLICE CALL, guard mount, as a provisional detachment; see DET, TDY, FIRING SQUAD, CORPORAL'S GUARD, AD HOC. Also, a work party, which, in the case of an onerous or unpleasant assignment, was sometimes characterized as a "shit detail" or "lifer's revenge"; see GI PARTY, SHORE PARTY, FATIGUE, BITCH.

DETAIL STRIP :

to disassemble a weapon beyond its major components or housings for maintenance or repair, as performed by ARMORERS; compare FIELD STRIP. [nb: despite the allusive sexual metaphor, there is no "quick and easy solution" to total exposure; it must be done slowly and painfully, one incremental part at a time ... and reassembled in the same exacting manner]

DETAINEE :

any person, usually an INDIGenous civilian, held in custody for questioning, especially for a political transgression or a violation of martial law.

DET CORD :

detonating cord; being an "instantaneous fuse" in the form of a long, thin, waterproof, flexible fabric tube loaded with explosive (PETN) designed to carry a detonation wave, with an explosive transmission chain rate of 25,000 feet per second. Used to obtain the (nearly) simultaneous explosion from widely spaced demolitions, such as multiple CLAYMOREs. Also used to "cut" objects and obstacles, as when constructing tank-traps (ABATIS, FRAISE, BOLLARD) by felling trees, with the formula of wrapping three turns per foot of trunk diameter around the tree, and then igniting.

DETENTE :

a relaxing of tension [v: detent], especially between nations, as by negotiations or agreements; also spelled "détente". See TRUCE, CARTE BLANCHE, RAPPROCHEMENT, RAISON D'ETAT, COUP D'ETAT, APPEASE, PEACE; compare ENTENTE.

DETONATOR :

a mechanism, such as a switch or TRIGGER, or a device, such as a percussion cap or blasting cap, that's used to make another substance explode; compare FUSE, FUZE, WAR NOSE; see EXPLOSIVE.

DEUCE :

two. Also, a mild oath meaning devil or dickens. [v: deuce of clubs note at DEATH CARD]

DEUCE-AND-A-HALF :

M-35 2.5-ton truck; Marines call this vehicle a "six-by". See GUN TRUCK, WAR PIG, DUCK, TRUCK.

DEUCE GEAR :

Marine term for the WEB GEAR or LBE issued to troops; named for the gear's Requisition Form 782, or "Seven-Eighty-Deuce".

DEVIATION :

the angle of error of a magnetic compass on a given heading as a result of local magnetism; the declination from true north. See AZIMUTH, HEADING, DEAD-RECKONING.

DEVICE :

an emblematic representation or heraldic charge; also known as "ribbon devices". Such distinctive ornaments include stars (eg: bronze, silver), leaves (eg: oak, palmette), letters (eg: E, V), numerals, date bars, and other representative symbols. Common DEVICEs on medals include stars for service, leaves and numerals for multiple awards, a letter for achievement or valor, and an arrowhead for a combat parachute jump. Common DEVICEs on skill badges include pendant skill bars, silver stars for multiple awards, and a bronze star for each combat parachute jump. The proper placement of authorized DEVICEs is strictly regulated by each separate branch of service. See GONG, FRUIT SALAD, OLC, V-DEVICE, WINGS, BRASS, TRASH, GREEN TAB. [nb: an insignia emblematic of the honors and lineage of a military organization, unlike familial "coats of arms", may be individually enhanced but not personally heritable; v: Heraldry]

DEVIL'S GARDEN :

slang for a MINEFIELD; see BOOBY-TRAP, MINE, COCKTAIL, BOMB, FISH, EXPLOSIVE.

DEW LINE :

Distant Early Warning Line of RADAR stations forming a 3,000 mile surveillance network positioned north of the Artic Circle that's been jointly maintained since 1955 by the USA and Canada to provide advance warning of the approach of hostile planes or missiles. See GROUND OBSERVER CORPS; compare STAR WARS, MAGINOT LINE, SMEZ, IRON CURTAIN, BAMBOO CURTAIN, BAR LEV LINE, CACTUS CURTAIN, McNAMARA'S WALL, McNAMARA LINE, CHINESE WALL, PHASE LINE. [cf: Hadrian's Wall, Antonine Wall, Great Wall of China] [nb: "The strength of a wall is neither greater nor less than the men who defend it." by Genghis Khan]

DF :

Distribution Form, the military format for a narrative to be circulated; see FORM. Also, Direction Finding, as in RDF.

DFS :

Defense Forces Support; see SDF, SSDF, PSDF.

DHS :

Department of Homeland Security, organized after the 9/11 2001 TERRORIST attack from the Terrorist Incident Working Group (TIWG) as an interagency organization with ANTI-TERRORISM being its primary mission; it is the supervening agency for federal law enforcement, Transportation Security Administration, U.S. Border Patrol, Bureau of Citizenship and Immigration, Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), and Coast Guard (USCG). See CIA, FBI, DEA, REVENUER, DIS, NSC, NSPG.

DI :

(dee-eye) Drill Instructor, formerly called "drill master", and also known as "drill major" [nb: not "drum major"]; synonymous with "Drill Sergeant" as a duty assignment, not a RANK [cf: FIRST SHIRT, CHIEF] [nb: it's a well established fact that a good Drill Sergeant will take the raw material of a civilian and turn him into a soldier in the same way that he would take a tangled mess of steel wool and knit it into a tank!]. Also, abbreviation for "distinctive insignia", properly known as Distinctive Unit Insignia (DUI); see CREST, BEERCAN, GREEN TAB.

DIA :

Defense Intelligence Agency.

DID :

Defense Intelligence Digest.

DIDDLY :

the least amount or degree, next to nothing, being of little import or value; sometimes called "diddly-squat" or "doodly-squat", which are euphemistic variants of diddleshit or diddlyshit; see WASTED, ZAP, CANNON FODDER, SNOWBALL, compare SHIT LOAD. Also, being of no import or value, worthless, naught, CIPHER, rush, zilch; see ZERO, ZIP, NULLITY, SQUAT. Also, a flaw or malfunction, as from cheat, swindle, or hoax, as to "diddle". Also, to squander or dawdle; as from toy, fiddle, manipulate, or maneuver, as to "diddle". Also, to copulate or masturbate with, as to "diddle"; see FUCK, CHURNING BUTTER, TRICK, BOOM-BOOM, SHORT-TIME, DU, STEAM 'n' CREAM, HOOKUP, HELL ON WHEELS, ACT OF CONGRESS, CHOWING DOWN, HEAD, HUMMER, BUSH PILOT, MUFF DIVER.

DI DI MAU :

(dee dee mow) Vietnamese phrase for move quickly, move out, go away, get out of here; also shortened to "di di".

DIEHARD :

a fiercely tenacious and resilient person, as derived from the British BATTLE CRY of "Die hard, my lads, die hard!" by Colonel Inglis at the Battle of Albuera in 1811 against the French; see V-DEVICE, BRAGGING RIGHTS, COUNT COUP, WATCH MY SMOKE, root hog or die, BITE THE BULLET, BEARING, ONIONS, MOXIE, GUTS, PAIN. Also, to be stubborn, resistant, reluctant, obdurate, or unyielding, as unwilling to change, being more inflexible than immobile; also spelled "die-hard"; compare HARD-AND-FAST.

DIGITALS :

digital
camouflage

informal designation of the high-tech field uniform or work UTILITIES that has an integrated dispersion pattern, incorporated Identification Friend or Foe (IFF) indicators, and even includes tracking or locator sensors for the recovery of wounded or dead servicemembers. These rugged and sophisticated uniforms replace the earlier FATIGUES, DUNGAREES, and BDUs. See DRESS.

DImE :

interagency acronym for Diplomacy, Information, military, and Economics, which are considered to be the most effective elements of modern COUNTERINSURGENCY, which de-emphasizes the function of military intervention, as currently taught in all advanced coursework. This is the latest buzzword in the new vocabulary promoting the Army's most profound restructuring in half a century, but is an unproven theoretical stopgap to the shrinking military budget and downsized Armed Forces. See WAR COLLEGE; compare GUNBOAT DIPLOMACY, BIG STICK DIPLOMACY.

DIME-NICKEL :

a 105mm HOWITZER; may be spelled "dime nickel", and is also called "penny nickel" and ONE-OH-DEUCE. See TOWED, SP, KILLER JUNIOR, ARTY.

DINAR :

the basic monetary unit of currency in Algeria, Bahrain, Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, Libya, Tunisia, and Yugoslavia. Also, a monetary unit of currency in Iran that's equal to 1/100 of a RIAL. See LEGAL TENDER.

DINGLEBERRY :

a gear bag or equipment pack that's released for suspension by a tether or GUY rope, called a "lowering line", from the harness of a paratrooper after the canopy has properly deployed; also called "dangleberry" or "dillberry". Just as the retaining straps on weapons are released from the jumper's leg, likewise this KIT BAG is let down so as not to injure or interfere with the paratrooper executing a PLF. See FLIGHT BAG, STABO, LBE, WEB GEAR, ABN, PARACHUTE.

DINING-IN :

a unit banquet or ceremonial feast, which included officers, men, and their spouses in formal DRESS MESS attire, often held at the unit MESS / GALLEY, FIELD HOUSE, HANGAR, or other suitably sized facility (as opposed to "dining-out" at a restaurant or hall). A DINING-IN, as distinguished from holiday gatherings or promotion parties, often celebrated a reunion of elements, mission accomplishment, unit achievement, or personnel rotation; also called "Grip an' Grin", "Meet an' Greet", "Hail an' Farewell". Compare SIGG; see ANNEX, CANTEEN, DIRTY SHIRT, SLOP CHUTE, O CLUB. [aka: occasion, gathering, get-together, celebration, festivity, gala, shindig, reception, banquet, soirée, festal, mixer, fete, fête champêtre, garden party, open house, house party, housewarming, splore, potlatch, frolic, gaiety, frisk, gambol, revel, funfest, wingding, corroboree, bash, blast, blowout, orgy]

DINK :

derogatory term for an Asian; see SLOPE, GOOK, RICE BALL, ZIP, NIP, JAPE, CHINK, WOG, LITTLE PEOPLE; compare BUDDHAHEAD, LITTLE BROWN BROTHER, INDIG.

DINKY DAU :

Americanized version of Vietnamese phrase ("dien cai dau") for "crazy" or "acting crazy".

DINOSAUR :

an experienced senior sergeant (NCO) or warrant officer (WO), principally soldiers and PARATROOPERs; tone of voice and attitude will convey approbation or derogation, as of an "old timer" with valuable knowledge and skills, or an anachronistic behemoth that's unable to adapt. In the best sense, these remarkable specimens are excellent role models, leaving deep footprints that others may follow. These DINOSAURs have more dedication than ambition or aspiration; they care more about the job than about promotion or reward ... they always spread the credit and take the blame. They are sometimes humorously depicted as "Fossils From Above" when AIRBORNE. See OLD BREED, BROWN SHOE / BOOT, OLD SALT, MOSSBACK, MAVERICK, RAINMAKER, SILENT MAJORITY. [nb: The Iguanodon, discovered in 1822 by the English geologist Gideon Mantell, was the first dinosaur species to be identified, and dinosaur fossils were first found in the western hemisphere in 1855, which spawned an exploratory craze of competitive expeditions and scientific hucksterism lasting decades ... dinosaur tracks in the Connecticut Valley were alleged to belong to enormous ravens, freed from Noah's Ark after the Great Flood. The genus 'dinosauria', meaning "terrible lizard", was named by British scientist Richard Owen in 1841; this class of land animals and aquatic birds specifically excludes flying reptiles (pterosaurs) and marine reptiles (ichthyosaurs, plesiosaurs, and mosasaurs), which lived separately in the same geologic period ... in other words, DINOSAURs are not aviators or sailors]

DIPPER :

slang for a submariner, for behavioral similarity to the small diving bird (water ouzel) that frequents rapid streams to feed underwater; also known as BOOMER, DOLPHIN, BUBBLEHEAD. Compare SKIMMER, AIRDALE, SHELLBACK; see GUPPY, SUBMARINE.

DIRHAM :

the basic monetary unit of currency in Morocco and the United Arab Emirates; having the same root as the Greek drachma, meaning "handful". Also, a monetary unit of currency in Libya that's equal to 1/100 of the DINAR. Also, a monetary unit of currency in Qatar that's equal to 1/100 of the RIYAL. See LEGAL TENDER.

DIRTY :

aviation slang for operating or maneuvering an aircraft in its least aerodynamic configuration, as with FLAPs down, speed brakes activated, landing gear deployed, arresting TAILHOOK extended, and so forth; usually done for dramatic effect in air shows or other demonstrations of "trick flying". Compare CHRISTMAS TREE; see AEROBATICS.

DIRTY BIRD :

NICKNAME for Nha May Dien Yen Phu (the Yen Phu Electric Plant) (geo: 21 02 33N 105 50 53E; UTM: 48QWJ88102689), site of major NVN prison camp for captive allied population; also known as Hanoi Thermal Power Plant, TPP. Dates US POWs present: 25 Jun 67 to 25 Oct 67. According to a mural on the wall outside the main entrance, an AAA gun crew defending the Yen Phu power plant shot down Senator McCain. A separate monument on the shore of Truc Bach Lake, a short distance west of the power plant, commemorates the persons who pulled him from the lake and captured him. In 1992, a former deputy director of the Enemy Proselyting Department told American interviewers that after the U.S. announced plans to bomb the Yen Phu power plant and the nearby Doumier Bridge, PAVN decided to place American POWs in the power plant and publicize the fact to prevent the U.S. from bombing the plant. Two American POWs escaped from the camp, but were recaptured as they tried to make their way down the Red River to the coast. The power plant stopped generating power sometime before 1991. See POW.

DIRTY RAIN :

slang for the friable earth, clastic tuff, and other debris thrown into the air by an explosion, which then falls like an irregular nuisance after the SHRAPNEL has passed; also called "solid rain" "heavy rain", and "dirty hail". Compare ALUMINUM RAIN.

DIRTY SHIRT :

slang for a work uniform, such as FLIGHT SUIT or FATIGUES; see DRESS. Also, a specific area, such as a club ANNEX or CANTEEN, where informal attire is appropriate; the Navy/Marine version of this refuge was SLOP CHUTE (qv); compare CAMMIES, DIGITALS, MUFTI, CIVVIES, PARTY SUIT.

DIRTY THIRTY :

C-47 copilots to Viet fliers out of Tan San Nhut; see FARMGATE, SANDBAG.

DIS :

Defense Investigative Service, or Defense Investigation Service, being the DoD headquarters for administrative and criminal investigations and prosecutions; see DCIS, CID, NIS, OSI, FBI, POLICE.

DISCHARGE :

to relieve of a charge. Also, to perform a duty or execute a charge. Also, to remove, unload, or send forth. Also, to shoot a firearm or MISSILE. Also, to eject or emit something. Also, to release from position or dismiss from service [nb: five types of military discharge: Honorable, General (incl COG), Other Than Honorable (incl UD), Bad Conduct, and Dishonorable Discharge]; see GD, COG, BCD, UD, DD, CHL, ADRB, ABCMR, AFBCMR, AFDRB, CORB, DRB, EDP, OCB, RUPTURED DUCK, RIF, KICKSTANDED, DUMP, FIELD REJECT, CASHIER, TITLE TEN, SECTION EIGHT, FACE THE MUSIC. [nb: the military has an involuntary "stop-loss" authority, which allows each branch to compel soldiers who reach the end of their enlistment to remain in uniform for "the good of the service"] Also, a certificate documenting the release or separation of a MIL-PERS from military service [nb: the DD-214 was formally known as the "Armed Forces of the United States Report of Transfer or Separation" until after the VIETNAM WAR, when it was renamed the "Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty"]. [nb: just as the actual DD-214/-5 is not "letter sized" to help prevent forgeries, so the various DISCHARGE certificates are colored, textured, or watermarked to help prevent counterfeiting; during the WWII-era, the only "white discharge" was Honorable, a "blue discharge" was medically unfit, and a "yellow discharge" was Dishonorable] [nb: during the 19th century, a "bobtail" discharge was slang for both a curtailed term of service, and for a certificate with its character cutoff so as to obscure or conceal the type of discharge ... always "other than honorable"]

DISINFORMATION :

false and misleading information that's released by a government, publicly or secretly, to rival intelligence agencies or the news media; from the Russian word for misinformation. See BORDEN, ELDEST SON, PARADISE ISLAND, THE EDGE, FALSE FLAG, DECEPTION, RUMOR, BIG LIE, CONTROLLED INFORMATION, PROPAGANDA, PSYOPS; compare WHITE PROPAGANDA. [nb: the neologism "pollaganda" / "polloganda" (poll + propaganda) has been coined to identify the representation of biased samples, slanted surveys, special pleading arguments, and ex-parte news depicted as authentic or authoritative] [v: Myths of the Vietnam War]

DISMISS :

the command directing any collected individuals or assembled units to depart; may be conversationally expressed as "That's all." or "That'll be all.", which is nonetheless an order for being politely rendered. Also, to discharge someone from office or service, as when relieved or replaced. Also, to reject or remove from consideration; as derived from "send away".

DISPENSARY :

the place where minor medical care is practiced and medicines are dispensed to ambulatory patients; a medical clinic or AID STATION. See ASA, APC, BAND-AID, SICK CALL, COMFORT STATION.

DISTAFF :

"woman's work" or the female perspective, as the female side of the family; also called "spindle side", and contrasted with "spear side". The military spouse or dependent is at best an asset, and at worst a deterrent to the career of a MIL-PERS; "They also serve who only stand and wait" (John Milton). See SKIRT, SQUEAK, DRAG, SHACK-JOB, CLASS-B DEPENDENT, CAMPAIGN WIFE, CAMP FOLLOWER, SLEEPING DICTIONARY, BITCH, FLYING BRAVO, BRAT, ARMY SOUP. [nb: "If the military wanted you to have a wife, they'd have issued you one." serviceman's adage]

DISTINGUISHED FLYING CROSS / DFC :

awarded for exceptional achievement or valor in aerial flight. See DEVICE, V-DEVICE, GONG.

DFC medal

DSC medal

DSMedal

DISTINGUISHED SERVICE CROSS / DSC :

the nation's second highest award for valor; instituted during WWI, and equivalent to the Air Force Cross and Navy Cross. Due to its resemblance to the BSA award, a recipient of the DSC is sarcastically called an "Eagle Scout", and given the three-finger Boy Scout salute. See GONG.

DISTINGUISHED SERVICE MEDAL / DSM :

the highest award for non-combat service, including command or staff positions in a combat zone, and regarded as the FLAG OFFICER's version of the "Good Conduct" medal (ie: the "General's Weenie"), since withholding it would imply censure. See GONG, TICKET-PUNCHER, LOM, MSM, AAM, GREEN WEENIE. [nb: in the U.S. Maritime Service (USMS), commonly known as the MERCHANT MARINEs, this is a valor medal for "service above and beyond the call of duty", equivalent to the MEDAL OF HONOR (MOH) for the Armed Forces]

DISUM :

Daily Intelligence Summary.

DITTY BAG :

a small container for personal sundries or toiletries, as carried by travelers; also called a "ditty box", and originally a sailor's sewing kit. See HOUSEWIFE, DOPP KIT, DUNNAGE. [nb: "rucksack" = back-sack; "knapsack" = bite/snap-up/eat, food sack; "kit-bag" = soldier's small bag/knapsack; "haversack" = single strap over one shoulder / musette] [cf: bundle, bindle/bindlea, swag, bluey, dilly bag, tucker-bag, bag, pouch, tote, sack, pack, grip, gripsack, overnighter, weekender, carpetbag, suitcase, portmanteau, Gladstone bag, traveling case, garment bag, Val-Pack, luggage; v: "scrip" wayfarer's bag or wallet; "viaticum" traveler's money and necessities]

DITTY-BOP :

slang for the communications specialist (COMM OP) who monitors RADIO transmissions for COMSEC and SIGINT, typically situated in a COMM SHACK (eg: RRD) at some headquarters (HQ) COMPOUND; compare RTO, RUNNER; see EARS, RDF, COMMO. Also, an unmilitary style of walking wherein the head bounces and the torso sways, being indicative of an untrained individual desirous of "standing out in a crowd"; a civilian trait abjured by all MIL-PERS, who automatically walk in step with each other, moving forward in a gliding motion by swiveling their hips; see WALK LIKE A PUSSY, MARCH, QUICK TIME, DOUBLE TIME, FUNERAL PACE, PARADE, MARCH, MARK TIME, HEP, CADENCE, ROUTE STEP, STUTTER-STEP, DUCK-WALK, FROGMARCH, GAGGLE.

DIV :

abbreviation for a division; which is a nearly universal military organization consisting of about 10-20,000 troops commanded by a major general. The following U.S. divisions or elements thereof participated in the VIETNAM WAR: 1st Cavalry; 1st, 4th, 5th, 9th, 23rd, and 25th Infantry; 82nd and 101st Airborne; 1st, 3rd, and 5th Marine; 2nd, 7th, and 834th Air. The so-called "square division" organizational structure, consisting of two brigades with two regiments and supporting elements each, was changed in 1942 during WWII to a "triangular" arrangement, consisting of three regiments with supporting elements each, which eliminated an intervening command echelon, thus reducing the number of officers while keeping an equivalent number of operational soldiers, making the divisions more responsive and effective in combat. After WWII, in the transition to the "atomic military", divisions were restructured as PENTAGONAL; but during the reorganization of the counterinsurgency era of the VIETNAM WAR, the military reverted to its traditional "square" divisional setup. Regular Army (RA) divisions are numbered 1-9, National Guard (NG) divisions are numbered 26-59, and all other numbers denote the Organized Reserve divisions, except divisions numbered 10-22, which are reserved for specialty units (ie: odd numbers indicate AIRBORNE, and 10th Mountain Division), and the 82nd / 101st Airborne Divisions, which were converted from extant units, and the 23rd Infantry Division, which was constituted on the battlefield from separate elements, and the 24th / 25th Infantry Divisions, which were organized from the 100th Hawaiian National Guard Division. See TO&E, OB, CARS.

DIVER :

a skill qualification of progressive proficiency gradated into SCUBA, Salvage, Second Class, First Class, and Master; originally differentiated by regulations dated 15 February 1944, the SCUBA rating was authorized on 1 May 1969. All classes of DIVERs work with explosives, especially Salvage to Master, but UDT and EOD training are separate qualifications. See HARD HAT, HARD SUIT, DRY SUIT, WET SUIT, SNORKEL, SCUBA, BUDWEISER, Q-COURSE, TRASH, BLOODING. [v: Diving Terms]

DIVETOSS :

(dive-toss) the computerized bomb-release aiming device used by F-4 PHANTOM aircraft.

DIXIE CUP :

slang reference to a sailor's traditional cap, also called a WHITE CAP or "white hat"; a "flotation device" and improvised bucket, worn brim down in tropics as sun shield and Jones-style for visor, both unauthorized. See JARHEAD, BLUE JACKET, SQUID, SWABBY, DOGFACE, ZOOMIE, GI. [nb: Dixie Cup c1906] [nb: sailors used to also have "undress blues" (and "undress whites") as a semi-work uniform without neckerchief or piping; but in 2006 the Navy exchanged its service dress blues and whites for a year around tan, and its DUNGAREES for digitized multicolor work utilities with an 8-point COVER, abolishing their traditional bell-bottoms and DIXIE CUPs]

DIXIE STATION :

the designated patrol area situated south of the DMZ off-shore in the South China Sea for Naval ships supporting air and ground operations in North and South Vietnam. Compare YANKEE STATION.

DLA :

Defense Logistics Agency, formerly designated the Defense Supply Agency (DSA); see LOGISTICS.

DLAB :

(dee-lab) Defense Language Aptitude Battery, the placement test for admission to one of the 25 foreign language courses taught at the Defense Language Institute (DLI).

DLI :

DLI

Defense Language Institute, established at the Presidio of Monterey in 1963 to teach 25 foreign languages for military applications by a thousand instructors using accelerated methods. Originated during WWII as the Defense Language School in San Francisco to instruct Japanese translators in military subjects; later moved to Fort Snelling MN, and redesignated the Military Intelligence Language School under MIS and CIC. DLI remedies the inconsistency of foreign language instruction in military schools. During the Second Indochina War, the South Vietnamese regime prevented the US from including ethnic dialects in DLI's course offerings; thus ADVISORs had to use translators for languages other than VN, Thai, French, and Chinese, or learn to speak them on the job (OJT). The ten core foreign languages of strategic significance are Spanish (8 wks), French (8 wks), German (8 wks), Indonesian (8 wks), Persian-Farsi (12 wks), Russian (12 wks), Tagalog (12 wks), Arabic (12 wks), Korean (12 wks), and Mandarin Chinese (12 wks). See SEATIC, POINTIE TALKIE.

DMZ :

DeMilitarized Zone, being a border, boundary, or ambit that shall be free of all military forces and equipment, such as the band established by the Geneva Accords dividing North and South Korea at the 38th Parallel or North and South Vietnam at the 17th Parallel; also known as "No Man's Land"; see McNAMARA'S WALL, OVER THE FENCE, DEMILITARIZE, compare TALLY-HO. Also, a DeMarcation Zone or line, that's also spelled "demarkation"; see CHOP LINE.

DNI :

Director [of] Naval Intelligence; see CNO, NIS.

DOB :

Date of Birth; see POB.

DOC :

affectionate title for enlisted medical aidman and CORPSMEN; also called MEDIC. See BAND-AID, BAC SI, Y SI, BONE CUTTER, ANGEL, ORDERLY, HOSPITAL, LUGGAGE TAG, STRETCHER, COMPRESS, DOG BITE, MED BAG, ASA, APC, SYRETTE, ABO, BLOOD EXPANDER, TRIAGE. [nb: a separate medical department was established in the U.S. Army in 1818, and in the U.S. Navy (BuMed) in 1842; the Army established a corps for nurses (ANC) in 1901, and the Navy accepted nurses in 1908] [nb: the field occupations most often targeted in combat, because their loss so immediately influences unit effectiveness and morale, are the leader, signalman, machinegunner, and medic]

DOC EX :

DOCument EXploitation, being the collection and examination of enemy papers, files, books, manuals, and other recorded material.

DOCH-AN-DORIS :

a Scottish term for a final drink at the door before departing; being Gaelic for a 'drink at the door' ("deoch-an-dorius"). Popularized in an English song by Sir Harry Lauder, and Bride of Lammermoor [ch xviii (1819)] by Sir Walter Scott: "After the lord keeper, the Master, and the domestics, had drunk doch-an-dorroch, or the stirrup cup ... the cavalcade resumed its progress." See STIRRUP CUP, TOAST. [nb: it is considered bad luck or evil omen to TOAST with non-alcoholic (ie: catlap) beverages; military toasts are most often tributes to fortitude and loyalty, while civilian toasts (grace cup) are tributes to benefaction or longevity, such as: l'chaim, prosit / prost, skoal, slàin te mhath, wassail, cheers] [v: gemütlichkeit/gemuetlichkeit]

DOC LAP VA TU DO :

Vietnamese slogan attributed to HO CHI MINH, expressing the wartime goals of both sides, meaning "independence and freedom".

DOD :

DoD seal

Department of Defense, and commonly called the PENTAGON; it was renamed from the "War Department" (WD) after the unconditional victories of WWII, and America hasn't won a war since! ... this mindset is probably symptomatic of later limited wars. [nb: there is a persistent but unrealized (to date) advocacy for creating a Cabinet-level "Department of Peace" by some effete poltroons; see DOS]

DODGE CITY :

any secure military installation or Americanized urban area, offering modern blandishments and convenient amenities; see BASE CAMP, FOB, FSB, CP, JUMP CP, BIVOUAC, LITTLE AMERICA. [nb: following the Wild West motif prevalent in LBJ's "little pissant war", numerous allusions to a mythic frontier adventurism were utilized; including COWBOY, INDIAN COUNTRY, and GUNSLINGER.] Also, slang designation for the USN base on Diego Garcia Island, a British possession in the Indian Ocean, used for military resupply, staging, and surveillance.

DODGE THE BULLET :

to miss contact or avoid notice, as escaped by luck rather than skill. Partly shirking and malingering, as working hard at not working, and never being tested. Includes "hedging your bets" and "cutting your losses" as self-protection. Ultimately unable to evade or elude ("in the hot seat") is worse than win or lose. See HOT, GHOST, SHOOT YOURSELF IN THE FOOT, CYA, PING-PONG, SMOKE 'n' MIRRORS, LOOSE CANNON, FIELD REJECT, BOLT HOLE, KICKSTANDED, STACK ARMS, SHOOTING WAR.

DODO :

acronym for Dead Object Drifting Obstacle (or "Dead Or Drifting Object") indicating inert debris or incidental hazards to navigation; since such FLOTSAM is not underway, the craft or vessel must maneuver to avoid damage. This acronym is a play on words referring to the extinct flightless bird, and the class includes unidentified aerial objects that may collide with aloft aircraft.

DOE :

Date Of Enlistment; compare DRAFTEE, ETS.

DOG 'n' PONY SHOW :

any elaborate or grandiose presentation that's intended to impress its audience, such as the precisely stage-managed FIVE O'CLOCK FOLLIES; this catch-phrase ostensibly originated with the mediocre or tawdry acts of a middling or substandard circus, but is actually derived from some sexually-explicit burlesque performances that featured women copulating with animals. See UP-CLOSE 'n' PERSONAL, SMOKE 'n' MIRRORS, TAP-DANCER, BLIVET.

DOG BITE :

slang for the characteristic appearance of wire stitches or metal clamps used to suture a large or severe wound for better edge apposition; see MEDIC, DOC, BONE CUTTER, ANGEL, HOSPITAL, LUGGAGE TAG, STRETCHER, COMPRESS, MED BAG, SYRETTE, ABO, BLOOD EXPANDER, TRIAGE.

DOGFACE :

derogatory reference to any soldier. See GI, JARHEAD, HORSE MARINE, SQUID, SWABBY, ZOOMIE.

DOGFIGHT :

any rough-and-tumble fight or battle of great turmoil, especially aerial combat; also called "fur ball". See KNOCK IT OFF, JINK, ATTITUDE ADJUSTMENT, YANK 'n' BANK, CQB, BATTLE ROYAL.

DOGGIE :

an infantryman; also called "line-doggie". See GRUNT, DOGS.

DOGPATCH :

NICKNAME for Bo Giuong and Dong Khe (geo: 22 28 27N 106 24 40E; UTM: 48QXK45168581), site of major NVN prison camp reserved for technical experts culled from captive allied populations; also known as Luong Lang, That Khe. Dates US POWs present: 14 May 72 to 31 Jan 73. More than 200 American POWs were moved to this site in Cao Bang Province, about 190 kilometers north of Hanoi, after Group 875 assumed responsibility for the increased numbers of American and Republic of Vietnam Armed Forces (RVNAF) POWs in North Vietnam, around April 1972. Office 22, Group 875 was responsible for American POWs, and Office 23, Group 875 was responsible for RVNAF POWs. American POWs were relocated to this remote buffer zone near the China (PRC) border, because foreign policy prohibited US operations in that sensitive area. see POW.

DOG ROBBER :

any AIDE or other HEADSHED REMF, so-called for their practice of taking from the field soldier to provide for the COMMANDER and STAFF, also called "braider" as a result of the distinctive aiguillette or shoulder CORD worn by such AIDEs [cf: British "bulldog" assistant to proctor]; see HEADQUARTERISM. Also, a Naval officer in CIVVIES while ashore on leave; compare MUFTI.

DOGS :

(dawgs) slang for feet, which are the infantryman's Cadillac; also called "doggies". See BOOT, FOOTWEAR, LINE-DOGGIE.

DOGSBODY :

any menial worker, derived from sailor's term for soaked sea biscuits or pease pudding; as a functionary, ORDERLY, factotum, AIDE, assistant, comprador, MAN FRIDAY, horse-holder, jack-of-all-trades, drudge, foil, pawn, surrogate, substitute, second, doupe; see GOFER, FACE TIME. [cf: origin of SLUSH FUND] Also, originally a junior Naval officer, but later became a disparaging term for an officer trainee; see CADET, SNOTTY.

DOG'S CHANCE :

little likelihood or small chance, as a predictor of negative results; also known as "Chinaman's chance" or "a cat in hell's chance". See SNOWBALL, PRAYER. [v: enfants perdus, forlorn hope; cf: "when hell freezes over", "when pigs fly", "when frogs grow hair", "when pigs whistle", "when fish climb trees", "when chickens have teeth", "when the sun rises in the west", "in a month of Sundays", "in a blue moon", "when there're three Saturdays in every week", "not in this lifetime", "not a chance"]

DOG'S FACE :

distinctive Cambodia/SVN border feature near Prek Klok; see PARROT'S BEAK, FISHHOOK, ELEPHANT'S FOOT, ANGEL'S WING, BLACK LADY MOUNTAIN.

DOG TAGS :

slang for the 'identity disk' worn by MIL-PERS; an armed and uniformed individual captured on the battlefield without such may be summarily executed as a spy. Available as a private purchase identification plate engraved with personal particulars since the American CIVIL WAR, they originated as a mandatory item of issue after the SPANISH-AMERICAN WAR as an identity disc for both proof of status and recognition of casualties [GO#24 dtd 20 Dec 1906, being "an aluminum Identification Tag, the size of a silver Half Dollar, stamped with the name, rank, company, regiment, or corps of the wearer; it will be worn by each officer and enlisted man of the Army whenever the field kit is worn; it will be suspended from the neck, underneath the clothing by means of a cord or thong passed through a small hole in the tag ... this tag will be issued by the Quartermaster Corps gratuitously to enlisted men and at cost price to the officers"]. The soldier's individual identification tag, changed from single to duplicate pair on 6 July 1916, was embossed with his personal specifics, which initially included immunization and Next of Kin but was later altered to religion and blood type. The SERVICE NUMBER was added on 12 Feb 1918. The necklace was initially cotton or synthetic (nylon, rayon, or plastic), was replaced by "hook-and-catch" type metal in 1943, and the "bead" type in 1944, with sterling silver available for private purchase. During WWII, the M-1940 oblong tag, made of brass or stainless steel, was augmented by photo / finger-print identification cards [v: AGO] after the attack on Pearl Harbor due to counterfeiting of DOG TAGS. Several specialized groups had specific prefixes on their identification tags, such as 1 or RA for Regular Army, 20 or NG for National Guard, and 3 or US for draftees. The so-called "tooth notch" in the edge of the oblong tag opposite the thong hole existed solely for embossing stability. During Vietnam, clear plastic covers and rubber-bumper "silencers" were added to the tags, and many troops separated the pair (lacing one onto a boot) for positive identification of body parts [cf: MEAT MARKER]. The protocol for authenticating a reported KIA, whose body could not be immediately recovered during an operation, was to remove one DOG TAG and leave the other with the corpse. Although license tags for domestic animals had existed since 1824, the term DOG TAG derives from the same source as "dog-soldier" and "dogface". See STERILE, ID CARD. [v: Index of Social Security Numbers (eg: AFSN, ASSN, SSAN)]

DOGWATCH :

the night shift, usually extending until midnight; also known as "dog shift", "lobster shift", or "lobster trick". Compare MIDWATCH, see TIME, O-DARK-THIRTY, WHITE NIGHT.

DOI MOI :

renovation; "New Life Hamlet" as Ap Doi Moi.

DOLPHIN :

qualification BADGE for submariners, showing a WWII "diesel boat" flanked by a pair of DOLPHINS (marine mammals, related to porpoise, whale, and other cetaceans; compare "dolphin fish"); issued in silver for enlisted and gold for officers, this qualification badge is also known as "twin tunas", "tin fish", "puking fish", and "Flipper's friend"; see DOLPHIN DIVE, Q-COURSE, TRASH, BOLO BADGE, WINGS. Also, a submariner, especially one qualified on "pig boats", as opposed to a BOOMER; see BUBBLEHEAD, DIPPER, compare SKIMMER, AIRDALE, SHELLBACK. Also, USCG heavy helicopter (HH-65). Also, a buoy, pile, or cluster of piles used as a fender or mooring; see BOLLARD. Also, a rope or strap round a mast to support the puddening, where the lower yards rest in the slings.

DOLPHIN DIVE :

the induction ceremony for newly qualified submariners on their first assignment; "diving for the DOLPHIN" derives from the obligation to dive to the bottom of an alcoholic beverage to retrieve the DOLPHIN badge lying there (frequently stuck fast to ensure that the whole drink is consumed!). See GUPPY, BOOMER, SUBMARINE; compare PROP BLAST, SHELLBACK, WINGING, SALTING, EARRING, BLOODING.

DOMINO THEORY :

the idea that if one country fell to Communist hegemony then the other countries in Southeast Asia would follow in turn, which originated in Truman's State Department, was promulgated by the Eisenhower Administration, disregarded by the WISE MEN and brain-trust advisers, ridiculed by antiwar PROTESTORS and Counter-Culture activists, and was finally proven to be correct after the Second and Third Indochina Wars ended. See WHIZ KID, BEST AND BRIGHTEST, PING-PONG DIPLOMACY, DECENT INTERVAL.

DONG :

(d-aw-ng) basic monetary unit of currency in Vietnam, subdivided into tenth and hundredth parts, and introduced after the French INDOCHINA piastre, with North Vietnam and South Vietnam each producing a distinct form; derived from the term for copper or bronze. On 2 September 1975, after the fall of Saigon, a "Liberation DONG" was circulated in the South until conversions could be completed [cf: North and South Korea "won"]. The North Vietnamese currency was a common SOUVENIR from corpses. See XU, HAO, BENSON SILK, PIASTER, MPC, LEGAL TENDER.

DON'T DO NOTHING :

an ungrammatical and ambiguous dictum of the U.S. Army's Infantry School, which means "do something" ... "don't just sit there" ... when in the field, either act or react, even if its wrong! Because every leader fears making mistakes, not just because he'll look stupid but because he'll get good men killed, it is essential that he be forced out of the contemplative mode and into the active mobility that will enable training to overcome fear of failure. Furthermore, every leader must learn that "right action" depends on "right timing" and "right opportunity", which are not intellectual, but instinctual acquisitions, and are extremely difficult to learn. Finally, every leader must understand that failure is a better teacher than success, so it's always better to get bruised in training than killed in combat. See TRAIN HARD - FIGHT EASY, WAR GAMES.

DON'T SWEAT THE SMALL STUFF :

a proverbial military catch-phrase, more fully expressed as a Murphy Law of Combat: "If you don't sweat the small stuff, then the big stuff will take care of itself ... but it's all small stuff!", which is related to another Murphy Law of Combat: "The important things are always simple; and the simple things are always hard!". These dicta admonish troops to be nitpickingly "detail oriented" because inattention in the combat zone will get people killed. See COMBAT EFFECTIVE, LDR, TRAIN HARD - FIGHT EASY, WAR GAMES, DON'T DO NOTHING. [nb: "The events of life are mainly small events – they only seem large when we are close to them." by Mark Twain/Samuel Langhorne Clemens, Autobiography (1924)]

DOODLEBUG :

NICKNAME for the V-1 pilotless aircraft (DRONE) bomb or rocket bomb; also called "buzz bomb", "bumble bomb", and "robot bomb" during WWII; derived from "foolish + small". See MISSILE, ROCKET.

DOOR KICKING :

slang for the aggressively active and overt role called Direct Action (DA), practiced by Special Forces (SF) and Special Operations Forces (SOF) in particular situations, also known as "ass-kicking" and "shock and awe". Direct Action engagements, such as intervention, hostage rescue, sabotage, prisoner snatch, and manhunting, constitute only a small proportion of the principal missions of SF/SOF, including Unconventional Warfare (UW), Foreign Internal Defense (FID), Psychological Operations (PSYOPS), and Civil Affairs (CA), and should therefore not be over-emphasized.

DOPE :

Marine term for the windage/elevation adjustments made to weapon sights. Also, information, facts, news, a true account; aka: POOP, scoop, skinny, GOUGE, THE WORD, GREEN GREASE, HOT-SHIT, BULLETIN. Also, any liquid coating or paste preparation, as for sealing or reinforcing. Also, a stupid person, as a dolt, dummkopf, or fool; see DUD, YARDBIRD, HORSE MARINE. Also, any narcotic taken to induce euphoria or satisfy addiction, as a term for marijuana and other illicit drugs; see COLORS, JUNK, CAN SA, GRASS, HAY, SMACK, HOT SHOT, CHINA WHITE, STICK, STONED, TAR, HUBBLE-BUBBLE. [nb: a widely circulated but spurious WAR STORY alleges that post-war criminal violence and other antisocial nonconformity by crazed veterans is the direct result of unauthorized drug experimentation that was secretly conducted by medical personnel, many of whom were ignorant of this classified test, which was designed to increase combat aggressivity in soldiers, hence the fictitious "Rambo" account that allegedly attempted to disclose the purported "truth" behind the CODENAME of the program; actually, LRRP teams were only issued amphetamines, and Special Forces teams were also issued kits containing: 12 Darvon, 24 codeine, 6 dextroamphetamines, and 4 SYRETTEs of morphine sulfate.]

DOPP KIT :

a small portable container of personal toiletries ("toilet set") and sundries, especially shaving articles and grooming supplies; also called "shaving kit" or "sponge bag", but not "dop", "dob", "dobs", or "daub" kit. See DITTY BAG, KIT, DUNNAGE, HOUSEWIFE. [nb: Dopp, a registered trademark of the Charles Doppelt Company, a Chicago leather goods manufacturer before WWI; with rights to the name and design procured by Samsonite at the end of the VIETNAM WAR, and later acquired by Buxton. This man's toiletry kit, designed by Jerome Harris, achieved renown as an issue item during WWII, and thereafter became a generic reference for all similar cases. (courtesy of American Dialect Society)]

DOR :

Date Of Rank; determines primacy and succession for command authority in any temporary (eg: training class) or unstructured (eg: POW) assemblage. See CHAIN-OF-COMMAND, COMMAND ELEMENT, TOP DOG, BLUE BOOK.

DORA :

designation given to Phitsanulik CRP

DOS :

Department of State; see AID, USAID, CORDS, CT, FSO, USDAO, PEACE CORPS, ADV, CSVN, L/FE, PRT, PNG, ICCS, RIG, BIG STICK DIPLOMACY, PING-PONG DIPLOMACY, GUNBOAT DIPLOMACY, CONTAINMENT, HOT PURSUIT, RULES OF ENGAGEMENT (ROE), VIETNAM SYNDROME, SIGG, FOGGY BOTTOM. [nb: "On the whole our armed services have been doing pretty well in the way of keeping us defended, but I hope our State Department will remember that it is really the department of achieving peace." by Eleanor Roosevelt]

DOUBLE-DIP :

the practice of "rolling-over" the skills and experience acquired on military service into civilian employment with the government, as the transference of Armed Forces expertise into Civil Service (eg: MP to FBI, INTEL to CIA, COMMO to NSA, MEDIC to PHS, etc); see LIFER, MILICRAT, TICKET-PUNCHER, HOMESTEADER, TOUR BABY. [cf: apparatchik, nomenklatura, nabob, nibs] Also, to earn a government salary while also receiving military retirement pay or veteran's disability compensation; see GI BILL, THE EAGLE SHITS.

DOUBLE DRIFT :

in aerial navigation, a method of calculating wind direction and velocity by observing the direction of drift of an aircraft on two or more HEADINGs; compare DEAD-RECKONING, see LEEWAY.

DOUBLE FORCE :

designations for combined US/ARVN operations.

DOUBLE-O :

(double-oh) slang for closely examine, carefully scrutinize, intently inspect, look it over, CHECK IT OUT, as "give it the ol' double-o"; ostensibly from the leading letters in once-over, but more probably derived as a metonym for eyes or spectacles. See HAIRY EYEBALL, EYE-BALL, STACKING SWIVEL, BIRTH CONTROL DEVICE.

DOUBLE TAP :

informal reference to the tactical firing technique wherein the shooter quickly discharges his weapon twice at the same AIMPOINT so as to strike the target more effectively; this method of controlled rapid-fire is used with SMALL ARMS in semi-automatic mode (instead of full-auto fire) principally by ANTI-TERRORISM and hostage rescue teams operating AT CLOSE QUARTERS. Originally taught by W.E. Fairbairn at Special Operations Executive (SOE) training from 1944, it was then incorporated into the Special Air Service (SAS) curriculum, and was later introduced to DELTA FORCE by its first commander, COL Charles Beckwith, who'd once toured with the British SAS. Extensive testing of auto-fire accuracy after the VIETNAM WAR has shown that the point of aim and target impact diverge sharply after the third round of sustained fire due to recoil effect; which research prompted a redesign in the primary assault rifle (m-16A2), and inspired wider adoption of the DOUBLE TAP firing method. By quickly triggering his weapon twice on the same target, the shooter maintains fire discipline while ensuring a terminal impact, through kinetic energy or hydrostatic shock; which method speeds the assault, advances the objective, and saves time on clearing or securing the area, including use against soft or hard body armor, where the follow-on shot will penetrate what the initial shot could not. This technique has been falsely attributed to SNIPERs ("one shot, one kill"), and also misapplied to a "through-and-through" shooting that has both an entry and exit wound. When this concept is used by regular combat elements, who lack such specialized training, the expression usually means "killing the corpse" with a "sure shot" ("coup de grâce") to the enemy's head; which was a practice employed during both WWII and GULF WAR II to prevent surprise attacks from the rear by the fanatical "dead" coming back to life or by suicide assassins faining death so as to murderously martyr themselves. Compare BURST, ROCK 'n' ROLL, SPRAY, HOSE, FLOCK SHOOT, BLIND FIRE, BUSTING CAPS; see OVERKILL, BOUNCE THE RUBBLE, JAPE.

DOUBLE TIME :

the command to increase the march tempo of a formation, set at the rate of 180 steps per minute; formerly "double quick". Compare QUICK TIME, FUNERAL PACE; see CADENCE, PARADE.

DOUBTFULS :

INDIGenous personnel whose allegiance cannot be ascertained or whose affiliation cannot be ensured even after civil offender and enemy screening, and who are therefore categorized as 'unknown' personnel. This attribution by field troops or aircrew surveillance also designates 'suspect' personnel, who are neither hostile nor friendly. See SQUIRTER.

DOUCHE BAG :

slang for an improvised outdoor shower using either a LISTER BAG or 55-gallon drum, as derived from an "hygienic jet of cleansing water"; see COMFORT STATION, LATRINE, HEAD. Also, slang for a stupid or worthless person, a "doofus" or "flubadub", "numb nuts" or "scrot" (shortening of 'scrotum'); see DUD, DOPE, PUKE, POGUE, YARDBIRD, MAGGOT, SMACK, FIELD REJECT, DEADHEAD, SHIT MAGNET, TURD, FUCK-UP.

DOUGHBOY :

an American infantryman, used since the 1846-8 Mexican-American War; derived from "adobe boy" for both the type of soldier housing and the color of his uniform, and sometimes called "dough-foot" or "dough-belly". See GI JOE, GRUNT, YANKEE, RECONDO. [nb: alternative origin alleges the similarity of uniform buttons to the shape of a doughnut; as a contraction of "doughnut-boy"] [cf: derivation of "gringo" as foreign-speaking vs song lyric; v: NINE-YARDS]

DOUGHNUT :

slang for the ring-like (toroid) operational military formation formed when establishing either a defensive or offensive PERIMETER around a central objective, as a surround or encirclement.

DOUGHNUT DOLLY :

female American Red Cross volunteer; also spelled "donut dollie", and sometimes called "doughnut hole". Namesake of World War I volunteer; who helped the morale of the troops by dispensing food, organizing games, and visiting clinics or wards. Headed by "Doughnut Six"! See SALLY, ROUND EYE; compare CAMP FOLLOWER, SKIRT. [nb: before the parameters of nursing were well defined, the civilian women who volunteered to serve as nurses on battlefields in various 19th century wars were expected to function as physician assistants and midwives, dieticians and pharmacists, handmaidens and charwomen; the Red Cross (and other organizations) was established to enable workers to provide food and supplies (especially medical) to people who were injured or displaced by wars and natural disasters ... only in the mid-20th century did professional altruism become banal and insipid] [nb: "There's a rose that grows on no man's land, / And it's wonderful to see. / Tho� it's spray�d with tears, it will live for years, / In my garden of memories. / It's the one red rose the soldier knows. / It's the work of the master hand. / 'Mid the war's great curse, stands the Red Cross nurse. / She's the rose of no man's land." by Jack Caddigan & James Brennan, The Rose of No Man�s Land]

DOVER DOG :

the Mk-19 40mm grenade-launching blowback-operated machinegun used by ground forces; see CREW-SERVED WEAPONS.

DOW :

Died Of Wounds, administrative classification for a battle casualty who expires after medical evacuation; compare KIA, WIA, GSW-TTH, PH, DUSTOFF, MEDEVAC, MILLION DOLLAR WOUND, PROFILE, LINE OF DUTY, SIW, TRIAGE, ZERO WARD.

DOWN RANGE :

to be assigned or directed, to advance or deploy to a combat zone, especially to move from a secure base area to an insecure or hazardous field area, by extension from the impact area on a firing range; also called "the bush", "the sticks", "the woods", "the barrens", "the brush", "the weeds", "the veg", "the rough", "the dirt", "the field", SANDBOX, BOONIES, BOONDOCKS, THULE, INDIAN COUNTRY, "the bad lands", "bandit country", "the front", FEBA, MLR, FRONT LINE, and the like.

DOZER INFANTRY :

an operations team or task force (TF) of tank-dozers, ROME PLOWs, and infantry, which used jungle-busting techniques to advance into difficult terrain; see MECH, TRACK.

DP :

Displaced Person; being a civilian involuntarily made homeless (or stateless) by the vicissitudes of war, or a refugee (now called "asylum seeker") dislocated by the violence of battle; also designated as "dislocated civilian". Responsibility for the shelter and humane treatment of these civilians, after passing one or more security checks, falls upon the Civil Affairs (CA / S-5) section of the allied military, with the assistance of relief agencies and the host government, as long as martial law prevails. See SAFE, E&E, BLOOD CHIT, IRC, CARE, BOAT PEOPLE, YELLOW BIRD.

DPB :

Deployable Pursuit Boat; a high-speed 38ft patrol craft used by USN and USCG. See BOAT.

DPICM :

Dual-Purpose Improved Conventional Munition, an armor piercing HOWITZER round; see AP.

DPM :

Dispersion Pattern Material, being the British/UK phrase for a camouflage design on fabric or other materials; see CAMO, CAMMIES, DIGITALS, DAZZLE, COUNTERSHADING, WAR PAINT. [cf: parti-colored, mottle, variegate, pied/piebald]

DPSC :

the Defense Personnel Support Center, a consolidation of Subsistence, Textile, and Medical supply procurements was centralized in 1965, and was renamed the Defense Supply Center Philadelphia in 1998; see LOGISTICS.

DR :

Delinquency Report, being an official notice of deficiency or dereliction, which may involve remedial action or summary punishment; whenever a servicemember's dependent is involved, the DR is sent to the servicemember's commander. See CALL ON THE CARPET, GIG.

DRACO :

Direct Range Air Consuming Ordnance, a thermobaric 40mm round of AMMO developed by Martin Electronics, and fired from an M-79, M-203, or M-32 grenade launcher.

DRAFT :

a selection, as by lot, of persons for military service; see DRAFTEE, DRAFT LOTTERY, PRESS-GANG, SHANGHAI, McNAMARA'S HUNDRED THOUSAND, DRAFT DODGER, AFEES, MUSTER, CALL TO THE COLORS, TOTAL FORCE. Also, the preliminary form of a writing or drawing. Also, the taking of supplies, money, or the like from a given source. Also, the depth to which a vessel is immersed when bearing a given load; see LOAD-LINE MARK, PLIMSOLL MARK, FREEBOARD. Also, beer or ale drawn from a cask or keg; see BREW, BA MUOI BA, GUSTO, LAAGER.

DRAFTEE :

conscript; a man drafted into the Armed Forces under the authority of the 1948 Selective Service Act (Congress rejected the Universal Military Training Bill in 1946, and again in 2004). The first national conscription act was passed 3 Mar 1863 providing only 6% of military manpower despite all the resistance and exemptions; and the first peacetime draft in American history was authorized by the 1940 Selective Service Act as preparation for U.S. involvement in WWII. Compare VOLUNTEER; see DRAFT, DRAFT LOTTERY, McNAMARA'S HUNDRED THOUSAND, MUSTER, COMMANDEER, SHANGHAI, PRESS-GANG, DRAGOON, DRAFT DODGER. [nb: One of the many myths about the VIETNAM WAR is the profile of the servicemen sent into combat: 66% serving in military during VIETNAM WAR were volunteers, and 73% of VIETNAM WAR KIA were volunteers (balance draftees); 12.6% of US military population during VIETNAM WAR was Afro-American from 13.1% of Afro-American age-eligible for draft in the total US population, and 12.2% of casualties were Afro-American. According to 1980 Harris survey of VIETNAM WAR combat vets: 91% were "glad they served their country", 74% "enjoyed their time in the military", 89% agreed that "our troops were asked to fight in a war which our political leaders in Washington would not let them win". Men who enlist before age 18 are still required to register for the draft after being discharged from military service; and combat disabled vets were insulted when Selective Service classified them as "unfit", instead of "prior service". See JODY, AFEES, HORS DE COMBAT] [v: Myths of the Vietnam War] [nb: the military has an involuntary "stop-loss" authority, which allows each branch to compel soldiers who reach the end of their enlistment to remain in uniform for "the good of the service"]

DRAFT DODGER :

someone who evades or rejects the responsibility of compulsory military service, especially during wartime, usually by DEFERMENT but may involve reclusion, expatriation, self-mutilation, falsification, or alternative service. See DRAFT, DRAFT LOTTERY, McNAMARA'S HUNDRED THOUSAND, MUSTER, VOLUNTEER, MILITIA, WEEKEND WARRIOR, SHANGHAI, PRESS-GANG, DRAGOON, THEY'LL GIVE A WAR AN' NOBODY'LL COME, SHOOT YOURSELF IN THE FOOT, WHITE FEATHER, PROTESTOR, PACIFIST, BEST AND BRIGHTEST, JODY; compare DESERTER, TRAITOR, TURNCOAT. [cf: the rabbit-like character called "Cuthbert" was invented by Poy, the cartoonist for the "Evening News", to represent all the eligible DRAFT DODGERs avoiding combat during WWI with sinecures and deferments; not to be confused with Saint Cuthbert] [nb: during the World Wars, earnest and ardent patriots, as an expression of contempt, presented a WHITE FEATHER to seemingly fit men who were suspected of avoiding military service; the police also checked the draft status of such men as a further inducement to social conformity] [nb: on 16 September 1974, President Gerald R. Ford offered amnesty to Vietnam draft evaders and military deserters in exchange for an oath of allegiance and a period of alternate service; then on 21 January 1977, President James Earl Carter pardoned certain civilians convicted of Selective Service Act omissions and crimes committed during the period of the VIETNAM WAR (4 Aug 1964 - 28 March 1973), but military and government persons were exempt from this proclamation] [v: Knights of the Golden Circle, Order of American Knights, Order of the Sons of Liberty, and other anti-federal "copperheads" during the CIVIL WAR]

DRAFT LOTTERY :

a practice instituted by the Selective Service System based upon randomly selected birth dates, which replaced the supposedly unfair or discriminatory Draft Board system whereby local community leaders, based upon personal knowledge, chose eligible young men to fill a mandated quota. The Draft Lottery made government more impersonal without altering the draft exemptions, so it embodied the worst of both options. America instituted its first wartime draft in 1863 ("Enrollment Act"), which provided for substitutes, and generated riots; then instituted its first peacetime draft in 1940, and resumed it after WWII, through both the Korean and VIETNAM WARs, as a public expression of "compulsory national service". Both the PEACE CORPS and Volunteers In Service To America (VISTA) were created as popular alternatives to military service for loyal citizens. See McNAMARA'S HUNDRED THOUSAND, AFEES, IVS, AMERICAN FRIENDS SERVICE COMMITTEE, COMMANDEER, PRESS-GANG, SHANGHAI, DRAFT DODGER.

DRAG :

tail man, trail element, or rear guard behind the main maneuver force to ensure rear security, as a SQUAD following a COMPANY; also called TRAIL or "sweep". Compare POINT, SLACK, TAIL-END CHARLIE; see ZERO, BUTTONHOOK [nb: the follow-up TRAIL or DRAG element is not only responsible for guarding the back of the unit (ie: tailgunner), but in obscuring its passage (eg: scrub, scour, "dry clean", "Hoover") and detecting pursuit (eg: double-check, double-back, back-check) so as to preserve unit integrity and enable accomplishment of its mission]. Also, slang for girlfriend, fiancée, or wife who is literally "dragged" around after her sweetheart or husband from assignment to assignment, post to post, base to base; see DISTAFF, CAMPAIGN WIFE, CLASS-B DEPENDENT, SHACK-JOB, CAMP FOLLOWER, BITCH, BRAT, ARMY SOUP.

DRAGON :

a man-portable wire-guided ROCKET (M-47); see JAVELIN, LOSAT, TOW. Also, short form of DRAGON SHIP or PUFF THE MAGIC DRAGON; also called SPOOKY. Also, a folkloric creature of the sky or forest or mountains, a fire-breathing winged-serpent, that's representative of the class of non-existent monsters, of mythic animals or legendary beasts, also known as MERMAID; including glacier snake, sea serpent, sea monster, triton, kraken, siren, centaur, hydra, cerberus, firedrake, wyvern, griffin, chimera, cockatrice, basilisk, manticore, ogre, afreet, satyr, lamia, sphinx, unicorn, werewolf, sasquatch/yeti, or other teratoid. Compare PROP WASH and other SNIPE HUNT objectives.

DRAGONFLY :

Cessna A-37 aircraft; modified version of two-engine TRAINER used for counterinsurgency Close Air Support (CAS).

DRAGON LADY :

designation for U-2 surveillance aircraft, which began USSR flight operations on 4 July 1956; see DREAMLAND.

DRAGON SHIP :

AC-47 gunship outfitted with electrically-fired machineguns and illumination, also called "dragon"; see PUFF (THE MAGIC DRAGON), SPOOKY; compare DAKOTA.

DRAGON'S TEETH :

slang for an anti-tank (AT) barrier consisting of short trapezoidal or wedge-shaped concrete posts implanted in the ground as obstacles to predicted avenues of assault by TRACKed vehicles, as used since WWII; phrase originated in the Greek mythology of Cadmus and Jason, where they produced fully armed warriors whenever they were sown in the ground. See CALTROP, PUNJI STAKE, FRAISE, ABATIS, HEDGEHOG, BOLLARD.

DRAGOON :

a member of a unit of cavalry, originating as mounted infantry armed with short muskets, of a type common in Western armies from about 1600 through the early 1900s, where they'd traditionally ride to battle, then fight dismounted with SMALL ARMS. The word 'dragoon' originally identified the curved shape of the hammer of a pistol, was then applied to the pistol as a whole, then to the pistoleer using these saddle-mounted guns, and finally to the oppression or persecution effected by such an armed force. [re: CARBINE cf: derivation of carabiner at SNAP-LINK] See CAV, ACR, AIR CAV, YELLOWLEG, PONY SOLDIER, LONG KNIFE, MECH. Also, to persecute or oppress by armed force. Also, to coerce or force by oppressive measures; see COMMANDEER, PRESS-GANG, SHANGHAI.

DRB :

Discharge Review Board; see DISCHARGE.

DREAMLAND :

designation for "Area 51", as the USAF experimental test flight region near Roswell Nevada for classified aircraft, such as the U-2 DRAGON LADY and the SR-71 BLACKBIRD implemented during the VN era. It is alleged that these classified test flights account for the reported UFO sightings. Compare HAWC, TOP GUN, RED FLAG.

DREAM SHEET :

assignment preference declaration form filed routinely every PCS, also called "wish list" or "fantasy form"; considered by most to be a waste of time at best, and a cruel torment at worst, since preferences are almost always ignored. MIL-PERS have the most success with assignments and transfers by BACK CHANNEL traffic to their RABBI, PATRON SAINT, or SEA DADDY. See RED TAPE, FORM, REPORT.

DRESS :

military attire or apparel, raiment or array/arrayment; regalia, regimentals, or uniforms; see FATIGUES, UTILITIES, CAMMIES, LEOPARD, TIGER STRIPE, ERDL, WOODLAND, GILLIE SUIT, BDU, DESERT, CHOCOLATE CHIP, ACU, DIGITALS, DUNGAREES, BELLS, DIRTY SHIRT, SLOP, FIELD JACKET, BATTLE JACKET, FLIGHT JACKET, FLIGHT SUIT, G-SUIT, POOPIE SUIT, KHAKIS, BLOUSE, CLASS-A, CHOKER, DRESS WHITES, ICE-CREAM SUIT, MESS DRESS, PARTY SUIT, FEATHERS, COLORS, MOURNING BAND, SAM BROWNE BELT, WEB BELT, MILITARY PRESS, GIG LINE, MILITARY TUCK, SPIT 'n' POLISH, BRASS, TOY SOLDIER, WAR PAINT, HAPPY SUIT, FLAK JACKET, T-SHIRT, SKIVVIES, PATCH, CREST, PIP, ENSIGN, CHOP, BRASS, FRUIT SALAD, HERSHEY BAR, EPAULET, CORD, LANYARD, BRASSARD, GREEN TAB, HEADGEAR, FOOTWEAR, CAP-A-PIE; compare MUFTI, CIVVIES, CHEONGSAM, AO DAI, KIMONO, HANBOK.

DRESS RIGHT :

the directive to align RANKS at proper interval. It is a two part command performed from the position of "attention", commencing to line abreast at set distance upon "Dress Right, Dress", which is held until returned to "attention" by "ready, front". [nb: civilians have perpetrated a fiendish canard that this is the military order for adjusting one's genitals, which is absolutely untrue! The proper command for the coordinated maneuver of genitals is, of course, LOCK 'n' LOAD!]

DRESS WHITES :

a light-weight summer uniform worn by USN and USCG, and formerly worn by US Army (Tropic Whites), as the "Service Dress Whites" or CLASS-A uniform. Also identifies the formal attire worn by all service branches as being the military equivalent of a white dinner jacket or tuxedo, commonly called an ICE-CREAM SUIT; see MESS DRESS, DRESS.

DRESSY LADY :

designation given to Green Hill CRC

THE DRINK :

any large body of water, as a lake, sea, or ocean, also called the POND; see SPLASH, FEET WET. Also, a swallow of liquid or a draft of potion; see GI JOE, TOAST, WASH, BUG JUICE, SAIGON TEA. Also, any liquoror alcoholic beverage, especially excessive indulgence in same; see DUTCH COURAGE, MOONSHINE, HOOCH, BREW, JUICE, SPLICE THE MAINBRACE, DEAD-SOLDIER, MOJO, GUSTO, SUNDOWNER, HOIST, HATCH, BYOB, CLASS SIX, STONED. Also, any liquid that is swallowed for nourishment or to quench thirst, as a beverage; see JUICE, BUG JUICE, GI JOE, BULLY SOUP, SOUP, WASH, NUOC, CANTEEN, WATER PURIFICATION TABLET.

DRMO :

Defense Reutilization and Marketing Office, a department in the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) that serves as a DEPOT for surplus, defective, and obsolete items or parts that are either recycled (to other agencies or organizations), or are auctioned to the public for disposal after DEMILITARIZation (made inert or inoperable) of potentially harmful materials or products. See DX, LOGISTICS

DRO :

abbreviation for Dining Room Orderly, being an enlisted KP detailed as a waiter or servant for senior NCOs and OFFICERs eating in the MESSHALL; equivalent to a Navy steward. Although OFFICERs are required to pay for their meals, RHIP table service is not normally practiced by junior OFFICERs who are closer in age and have more direct contact with troops, especially in combat arms units.

DROGUE :

a bucket or canvas bag used as a vessel's "sea anchor". Also, a "pilot parachute" to extract the main parachute from its container after the STATIC LINE or rip-cord has opened the pack. Also, a cone or funnel-shaped device on the end of a Tanker's hose to assist engagement for mid-air refueling. Deriv: drag.

DRONE :

a remotely controlled or programmed guidance vehicle, vessel, or craft, such as a pilotless airplane; see UAV, DASH, PIONEER, PREDATOR, FIRE SCOUT, DOODLEBUG, compare MISSILE, MIL-CRAFT. Also, any "noncombatant" MIL-PERS who's essentially functioning as a "civilian in uniform" (who dons CLASS-As instead of a three-piece suit, but acts identically) when performing administrative, support, medical, or humanitarian work (eg: disaster relief or peacekeeping); as derived from the male bumblebee, which does not make honey and lacks a stinger; see CA, CAP, MILICRAT. Also, a drudge or parasite; see PUKE, DEADHEAD, POGUE, FIELD REJECT, YARDBIRD, GOLDBRICK, FEATHER MERCHANT.

DROP :

air delivery of men or materiel, usually by PARACHUTE, onto a designated location; also called AIRDROP or HEAVY DROP; see DZ, LZ, CLZ, AIRHEAD. Also, the unofficial injunction to assume the FRONT LEANING REST position preparatory to doing PUSH-UPs, especially for punishment; also expressed as "hit it" or "push earth"; see SQUAT, PAIN. [nb: another common but unofficial order used to motivate MIL-PERS is "Drop yer cocks 'n' grab yer socks!".]

DROPMASTER :

an individual qualified to prepare, perform acceptance inspection, load, lash, and eject material for AIRDROP; also known as KICKER; compare LOADMASTER. Also, an aircrew member who, during parachute operations, will relay any required information between PILOT and JUMPMASTER; compare CREW CHIEF, CREW DOG, see BAILOUT.

DROP-TANK :

a wing- or belly-mounted auxiliary PETROL container, made of metal or plastic or papier-mâché, which dispenses additional fuel so as to extend the attack or search range of RACK equipped aircraft, which temporary containers are jettisoned when no longer needed; see POD, compare DROGUE, TANKER, BINGO, JOKER, ENDURANCE. Also, an enclosed housing or container, usually streamlined and detachable, for use on an aircraft, on watercraft or other vehicle, for the resupply of food, equipment, munitions, or materiel to troops in the field; see POD, DROP, HEAVY DROP, PAYLOAD, AIMPOINT.

DRUM :

Thompson 1927 with drum

a cylindrical magazine (MAG) that holds CARTRIDGEs until ready to mount on the weapon and "feed" the AMMO; see CLIP, BANANA CLIP, C-CLIP, BANDOLEER; compare LINK AMMO, SPONSON. Also, any cylindrical container for storage or transporting of contents, especially a 55-gallon metal receptacle for fuel; see POL. Also, a percussion musical instrument played by hand or stick, symbolic of public announcements, including bass, kettledrum/timpani, snare/side, and tambourine; also called "trap" or "traps"; see TAMPON, TAPS, RUFFLES 'n' FLOURISHES, BEATERS 'n' BLEATERS, TOOTER.

DRUMFIRE :

gunfire so heavy and continuous as to resemble the sound of incessantly beating drums; compare SALVO, FUSILLADE, BROADSIDE, ENFILADE, VOLLEY, AT CLOSE QUARTERS.

DRUMHEAD :

slang for impromptu or expedient, as summary justice [nb: image is to abruptly mete out or to readily beat out decisions, but is more likely to be from the flat surface employed as a field desk]; see BLANKET PARTY, GIG, ARTICLE 31, ARTICLE 15, RIOT ACT, CAPTAIN'S MAST, ROCKS 'n' SHOALS, UCMJ, TREASON [cf: kangaroo court, tribunal, sanhedrim]. Also, the reverberant membrane stretched upon a drum. Also, the top of a capstan; see HOOK.

DRV :

Democratic Republic of Vietnam, but commonly known as North Vietnam (NVN); declared 29 September 1945, and established by the Geneva Accords of July 1954. After the end of the Second INDOCHINA War on 7 May 1975, the country was reunified in November 1975 with the capitol at Hanoi, and renamed the Socialist Republic of Vietnam (SRV) under a newly ratified constitution on 2 July 1976. The national flag was adopted on 30 Nov 1955, and the state crest on 21 July 1956. The northern half of the NVN flag was blue for "peace", the southern half was red for "sacrifice", and the halves were joined by a yellow star symbolic of the Oriental people (each point of the star representing the farmers, workers, scholars, youths, and fighters).

DRY FIRE :

to practice shooting a SMALL ARMS weapon at a target but without firing any ammunition, being a DRY RUN familiarization process preliminary to actual live-fire shooting on a KD RANGE; called "snap-in" or "snapping-in" by Marines. See BASS, SIGHT PICTURE, TRAIN. [v: Firearms Glossary]

DRY RUN :

a rehearsal or preparation session, as a "walk through" before the "wet work" begins. Also, operational practice, as to DRY FIRE or "snap shoot" a weapon at a target without using AMMO.

DRY SUIT :

a close-fitting, double-layered synthetic garment worn by a deep sea diver in very cold environments, that's designed to protect the diver's body from the water or pressure by circulating a warming layer of air internally, which also serves to equalize descent pressures. Compare WET SUIT, HARD SUIT; see HARD HAT, DIVER. [v: Diving Terms]

DSA :

Defense Supply Agency, later renamed Defense Logistics Agency (DLA); see LOGISTICS.

DSCS :

Defense Satellite Communications System; see IDCSS.

DSN :

Digital Switch Network or Digitally Switched Network; being a completely digital version of the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN), which supersedes AUTOVON and WATTS. Also, a Data Source Name which encodes identifiers for database connectivity. Also, a Digital Subscriber Network for broadband access.

DSO :

Defense Support Office, or more fully Defense Manpower Data Center Support Office.

DSTE :

Digital Subscriber Terminal Equipment; see DSN, PSTN.

DTG :

Date Time Group, arranged hour/day/month/year/zone (eg: 240001JAN1969Z); see TIME. [nb: military time is expressed in four-digits, from 0001 to 2400, representing each minute in all 24-hours of the day, without designating ante- or post-meridiem; there is no 0000 hour]

DU :

Depleted Uranium, being a non-explosive inertial round/bullet used to penetrate vehicles and structures, including TRACKs and BUNKERs; see STABALLOY. Also, Vietnamese for "fuck"; "Du Me" = motherfucker, "Du Ma Nhieu" = go fuck yourself, "Du Ong My" = fuck the American; see FUCK, CHURNING BUTTER, TRICK, BOOM-BOOM, SHORT-TIME, HOOKUP, ACT OF CONGRESS.

DUC :

Distinguished Unit Citation, authorized and explicated in War Department Circular 333.4 dated 22 Dec 1943; being a laurel wreath, which crown or garland is a symbol of victory and distinction, worn on the right sleeve of the CLASS-A uniform above the HERSHEY BARs, on the same side as the combat shoulder PATCH (SSI). The Distinguished Unit Citation may be presented as an emblematic BAY to any unit that performs better than other units in the same combat action, exhibiting esprit when accomplishing its challenges, and valor when executing its hazardous duties. See UNIT CITATION, GONG.

DUCK :

NICKNAME for the DUKW, introduced in 1942 as a 2.5-ton amphibious utility TRUCK having all-wheel-drive and dual rear axles; which was later replaced by the GAMMA GOAT, both of which were prone to mechanical failure, so were operationally unreliable. Compare AMTRACK, ELSIE.

DUCKBOARDS :

boards forming a track or floor over wet or muddy ground; as plank sidewalks (BANQUETTE) or palletized BUNKER floors. See GANGWAY.

DUCK ON DRAKE :

a children's game in which one player stands guard over a stone on a rock while the other players attempt to knock the stone off by throwing another stone in turn; if the thrower is tagged by the guard while trying to recover the throwing stone, the two players then exchange positions; also called "duck on a rock" and "duck on the rock". Compare DUCKS AND DRAKES, KING OF THE HILL, TUG OF WAR, WAR GAMES.

DUCKS AND DRAKES :

a pastime in which flat stones or shells are thrown across water so as to scale or skip over the surface several times before sinking, in a fancied likeness to a waterfowl's movements; also called "duck and drake" or "sinkers and skimmers". Also, used metaphorically to imply recklessness or heedlessness, carelessness or irresponsibility, as being rash or imprudent by "playing DUCKS AND DRAKES" with military assets; to squander lives and dissipate resources. Compare DUCK ON DRAKE, KING OF THE HILL, TUG OF WAR, WAR GAMES.

DUCK SOUP :

something that's easily accomplished, as military slang since WWI; see CAKEWALK, PIECE OF CAKE, LAUGH A MINUTE, WALK IN THE PARK, NO SWEAT, TURKEY SHOOT, compare STONE SOUP.

DUCK-WALK :

to walk like a duck, as to scurry, scuttle, or waddle when squatting with legs apart and feet turned outward, which posture and gait is quite appropriate for some movements while under fire on the battlefield; also called "crab-walk". See SQUAT, TAKE A KNEE; compare FROGMARCH, LOW-CRAWL, DITTY-BOP.

DUD :

unexploded ordnance due to mishap or malfunction. Physical duds are a liability to both friend and foe, hence metaphoric use applied to incompetent or incapable soldiers who may get good men killed and cause missions to fail; also called "slug", "short round", "flubadub", "doofus", "numb nuts", "scrot" (shortening of 'scrotum'), or FUCK-UP. See PUKE, DEADHEAD, TRIGGER-HAPPY, LOOSE CANNON, YARDBIRD, MAGGOT, PYHOOYA, TURD, SOS, SMACK, SHIT MAGNET, DOUCHE BAG, FIELD REJECT.

DUEL :

a form of ritual combat between two persons that's fought with deadly weapons, as arranged and supervised in accordance with a code of accepted procedures, which has been declared illegal (eg: Article 114 UCMJ) in all civilized societies of the modern era. Before its degeneration into a contest to settle a private quarrel, the DUEL was a consecrated ordeal representing the spiritual embodiment of metaethical forces engaged in "trial by combat", wherein divine judgement would decide the "single combat" issue, and "God's Will" would be represented by victory. Term derived from 'duellum' (duo + bellum = two + war). See GANTLET. [v: ordeal] [nb: a "gage" is something, such as a glove, that was thrown down by a medieval knight in token of his challenge to personal combat]

DUES PAID :

see PAY DUES.

DUFFEL :

outdoor clothing and equipment, especially for BIVOUAC or camping; see KIT, WEB GEAR, LBE, ALICE, LBV, MOLLE, DEUCE GEAR. Also, a DUFFEL BAG. Also, a coarse woolen cloth with a thick nap used for making blankets and coats ("duffel coat").

DUFFEL BAG :

the unwieldy, oblong, cylindrical bag in which troops stored all their gear, usually shortened to DUFFEL, but also called BARRACK's BAG or "sea bag"; compare DUNNAGE, AWOL BAG, FLIGHT BAG, WAR BAG, MUSETTE BAG, BIVY. [nb: "rucksack" = back-sack; "knapsack" = bite/snap-up/eat, food sack; "kit-bag" = soldier's small bag/knapsack; "haversack" = single strap over one shoulder / musette] [cf: bundle, bindle/bindlea, swag, bluey, dilly bag, tucker-bag, bag, pouch, tote, sack, pack, grip, gripsack, overnighter, weekender, carpetbag, suitcase, portmanteau, Gladstone bag, traveling case, garment bag, Val-Pack, luggage; v: "scrip" wayfarer's bag or wallet; "viaticum" traveler's money and necessities] Also, an artillery term for motion/sound/seismic sensors placed along suspected enemy trails or areas. These "duffelbag" sensors contained small radio transmitters which sent a signal to a monitoring intelligence unit when triggered. An artillery fire mission was then called on the "duffelbag" target to intercept or interdict the enemy.

A DUFFEL BAG DRAG AND A BOWL OF CORN FLAKES :

the final departure at Ton Son Nhut Air Force Base prior to boarding the FREEDOM BIRD for return to THE WORLD or the LAND OF THE BIG PX; see WAKE-UP.

DUGOUT :

a rough shelter formed by an excavation in the ground, or in the side of a hill; also spelled "dug-out"; see HIDE, BOLT HOLE, SHROUD, HUT, BOHIO, SHEBANG, BUNKER, REDOUBT, FOXHOLE, SPIDER HOLE. Also, a primitive BOAT made from a hollowed-out log; compare GIG, SKIMMER, SCOW, SAMPAN. [v: canoe, dugout, pirogue, kayak / kaiak / kyak, bateau / batteau, coracle, wherry, cockleshell, jolly boat, skiff, shell, scull, johnboat, punt, pontoon, dory, gondola, flatboat, skipjack, rowboat, whaleboat, longboat, umiak, pram, launch, faltboat / foldboat, keelboat, pinnace, cockboat, caique / caïque, catboat, yawl, dinghy, bark, tub]

DUI :

Distinctive Unit Insignia, being the formal designation for a unit CREST; also called "distinctive insignia" (DI). See BEERCAN, GREEN TAB.

DUMBO :

NICKNAME of Boeing CATALINA PBY seaplane, used for observation and transport; from its resemblance to the 1942 Walt Disney animated film caricature. See FLYING BOAT, BIRD.

DUMDUM / DUMDUM BULLET :