COMBAT MilTerms: H

M I L T E R M S :

H : HOTEL

HACK :

the coordination and synchronization of wristwatches or other timers for the accurate commencement of a mission or operation; also called CHOP; see TIME. Also, a professional person who surrenders independence and integrity for some reward, as a hireling for ordinary hack work; see WHITE VC, MERCENARY, LETTER OF MARQUE. Also, a mediocre or incapable person; someone who is crude, harsh, insensitive, ineffective, or awkward in performance, as by maltreatment or mistreatment; see BROWN NOSER, MAN FRIDAY, GOFER, COOLIE, CAT'S-PAW, FALL GUY. Also, a general purpose vehicle, vessel, or craft used for miscellaneous functions, as a runabout or hackney [v: chariot, fiacre, jingle, tonga, gharry, hansom, gig, dogcart, palanquin/palankeen, sedan chair]; compare CYCLO, RICKSHA, LITTER, PEDICAB, RICE-BURNER.

HADRIAN'S WALL :

a wall of defense for the Roman province of Britain, constructed by Hadrian between Solway Firth and the mouth of the Tyne; see STAR WARS, MAGINOT LINE, SMEZ, BERLIN WALL, IRON CURTAIN, BAMBOO CURTAIN, BAR LEV LINE, CACTUS CURTAIN, McNAMARA'S WALL, McNAMARA LINE, CHINESE WALL, DEW LINE, PHASE LINE. [cf: 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]

HAGUE TRIBUNAL :

a world court (officially named: Permanent Court of Arbitration) established at The Hague in 1899 for the arbitration of international disputes; its jurists now nominate a list of persons from which members of the International Court of Justice (created in 1993 by the UN Security Council) are elected. See ICC, IMT, IMTFE, UNWCC, WAR CRIMES TRIAL, LAWS OF WAR, ROE; compare UCMJ. [v: mittimus]

HAIRCUT AND MANICURE :

the practice of removing the head and fingers of a corpse, as performed by Salvadoran "death squads" or other TERRORISTs, to prevent identification of "the disappeared" victims. See NECKLACE, DECAPITATION, ATROCITY.

HAIRY EYEBALL :

slang for scrutiny, as to get an "eye-full" when intently looking something or someone over; an exacting search or severe examination for compliance, as "give it the hairy eyeball". Also, a hard look or withering stare, as from a Basilisk, also called "dead eye" or "fish eye"; used to chide or chivvy anyone suspected of infraction or insubordination. Origin probably related to experience (old enough to grow hair) and difficulty (wild or dangerous hirsute beast), but not related to "harry/harrier", despite similarity of sound. See EYE-BALL, CHECK IT OUT, DOUBLE-O, STACKING SWIVEL.

HAI VAN PASS :

located in I CTZ (MR1) on the boundary between Thua Tien and Quang Nam provinces, with Highway 1 running through it; which was the main north-south highway in Vietnam, and the principal supply route from Chu Lai and Da Nang, south of the pass, to Hue, Quang Tri, and the DMZ, north of the pass. It was a particularly treacherous pass through the mountains south of Phu Bai, just before coming into Da Nang on Highway 5. Compare MANG YANG PASS, AN KHE PASS, STREET WITHOUT JOY, THUNDER ROAD.

HAJJI :

(had-gee) informal reference to any Mid-Eastern Muslim male, regardless of whether he has or has not made a pilgrimage to Mecca; also spelled "hadji" or "haji", being a generalized referent that's a little more polite than RAGHEAD. See ISAAC THE IRAQ, SCARAB THE ARAB, SANDY, ALI BABA, MUJ, BAD GUYS, INSURGENT, TERRORIST, ALLAH'S WAITING ROOM. [aka: camel jockey, camel cowboy, goat roper, snake charmer, carpet pilot, rug rider, sand flea, sand monkey, sand nigger, desert darky, dune coon, tarsh, ali baba, ahab, aladdin, habib, zalama, zol]

HALF-ASSED :

slang for doing something incompletely or improperly; with the implication of only giving partial effort. This expression is related to GOOD ENOUGH FOR GOVERNMENT WORK, since many believe a job not worth doing is not worth doing well. See MICKEY MOUSE, TAP-DANCER, SKATE, BLOW SMOKE, GUNDECKING, MIL-SPEC, HARD-ASS. [nb: obfuscation and obscurantism are widely represented by the military maxim: "Bullshit baffles brains!", sometimes called a "Well sir,..." excuse]

HALF-MAST :

to set a flag midway on its staff as a mark of respect, or a sign of distress; such a lowered flag is also called "half-staff"; compare YELLOW RIBBON, STRIKE THE FLAG, SHOW THE FLAG. Also, a non-standard indication of an informal atmosphere wherein strictures are relaxed and protocol is waived, as an alternative style promoting greater interpersonal exchange, especially in a headquarters (HQ) during meetings or councils; see BRIEFING, OFFICER'S CALL, CONFAB, EAR-BANG, CROSS-TALK, CHIN CHIN, POWWOW.

HALF-TRACK :

a lightly armored weapons and personnel carrier with front wheel steering and rear track propulsion, mounting a cannon and/or machinegun; including T-30 HMC Half-Track w/75mm howitzer, T-19 HMC Half-Track w/105mm howitzer, M-3 Half-Track w/75mm gun, M-21 Half-Track w/81mm mortar, M-16 Antiaircraft Half-Track w/QUAD 50, . Called a "Purple Heart box" by WWII troops due to its extreme vulnerability, some models were in the ARVN inventory during the VIETNAM WAR. See TRACK, ARMORED CAR, APC, LAV.

HALYARD :

any of various LINES or tackles for hoisting a flag, sail, SPAR, or other object into position. See CORD, LANYARD.

HAMMOCK :

a bed of cord or canvas that hangs between two supports; a "jungle" version, which was also used as a SLING, was originally improvised from sections of General Purpose net and Swiss-Seat ropes. See RACK, FART SACK, BILLET. Also, the system of adjustable webbing straps inside the helmet liner, to prevent injury and ensure proper fit of the STEEL POT; see HEADGEAR. Also, a tract or hillock of land elevated above the general level of marsh or swamp lands, often densely foliated; also called hummock or bayhead.

HAM 'n' MOTHERS :

C-RATION meal of 'Ham and Lima Beans', also called "Ham 'n' Motherfuckers" and "Ham 'n' Chokers", which was one of the more unpopular meal offerings [nb: the most popular was 'Beef with Spiced Sauce']. See CHOW, BEANS; compare CHOKE. [v: sample menu of C-RATIONS]

HANBOK :

(forthcoming); traditional two-piece Korean dress compare CHEONGSAM, AO DAI, KIMONO.

HAND :

the distinctive telegraphic sending style of a signalman or a morse code operator; also called "fist" or "touch". A SIGNATURE or CALL-SIGN was often unnecessary due to the distinctive style of each sender. See CW, SOS, EOT, II, GA, RADIO, TAP CODE, TWX.

HANDLER :

person who trains, manages, and audits the performance of covert or clandestine field operatives; a "controller". See SECRET AGENT, SPOOK, CRYPTO, FIX, SLEEPER, MOLE, THROW-AWAY, SWEEPER, STOOGE, PROVOCATEUR, NEED TO KNOW, COMPARTMENTALIZATION, TRADECRAFT; compare NIGHTCRAWLER.

HAND SIGN :

properly "hand and arm signal", being the "dumb-show" or pantomime used to visually communicate when quiet was essential or when noise prevented other methods of contact; including semaphor and heliography, also called "hand-jive". See WIGWAG, WAVE OFF, PADDLES, TAP CODE, BURGEE, GUIDON, PATHFINDER, MAGGIE'S DRAWERS, DAP.

HANDY :

term of approbation for capable or skillful SAILORs who are dexterous and adroit, deft and nimble; see SALTY, SQUID, SWABBY, OLD SALT, MOSSBACK, SHELLBACK; compare HORSE MARINE. Also, a craft or vessel that is easily maneuvered, responsive to controls.

HANGAR :

a shelter shed, especially one wide enough for aircraft; not 'hanger'. See APRON, BUTLER BUILDING, QUONSET HUT, BILLET, REVETMENT.

HANGAR QUEEN :

an aircraft that's chronically out of commission (ACOOC), especially one prone to malfunction or in need of persistent maintenance.

HANG LOOSE :

an informal directive to remain ready and available but expectant of a longer wait; being an indication to relax tension and anticipation in the HURRY-UP AND WAIT process. See MARK TIME; compare TWIST IN THE WIND, HANG TOUGH. [nb: derived from a constricted scrotum that should be relaxed (v: PUCKER FACTOR); but feminists now allege it connotes freedom from restriction or constraint, as being bra-less]

HANG TOUGH :

catch-phrase of encouragement and solidarity for paratroopers who must endure bad weather and malfunctions; such as having the guts to ride-out a MAE WEST; also spelled "hang tuff". See PUCKER FACTOR, AIRBORNE SHUFFLE, PROP BLAST, RED HATS. [nb: although similar sounding, this expression is not related to the proverbial mood-checker: "How they hangin'?"]

HANOI HILTON :

NICKNAME for Hoa Lo (geo: 21 01 26N 105 51 01E; UTM: 48QWJ88342483), site of major NVN prison camp for captive allied population; also known as [nb: some names only refer to sections within this prison] Camp One, Camp Unity, Heartbreak, Little Vegas, New Guy Village, West Court. Dates US POWs present: 11 Aug 64 to 28 Mar 73. The French finished building this prison in 1901, and it was located at the former site for making portable earthenware stoves (hibachi) called Hoa Lo. Following custom, the street was known by the name of the primary industry or commerce conducted there, so it became known as "Pho Hoa Lo" or "Hibachi Street". After the French built the prison, they renamed it "rue de la Prison", or "Pho Nha Tu" in Vietnamese. Vietnamese authorities changed the name of the street, after the French departed in 1954, to "Pho Hoa Lo", and the name of the prison to "Hoa Lo". Some of the aging leaders of the Communist government in Hanoi were imprisoned there during the French era, and a portion of the oldest section has been preserved in historic remembrance. See POW.

HAO :

Vietnamese unit of currency equal to one-tenth part of the DONG, or a "dime"; and further subdivided into tenth parts which are called XU, being the equivalent of a "penny". See BENSON SILK, PIASTER, MPC, LEGAL TENDER.

HAPPY FIRE :

the practice of wildly shooting into the sky in celebration or demonstration of militaristic spirit or enthusiastic exhibition, as with political statements or religious proclamations, with inauguration or resolution, with such "joy shots" being characteristic of the American Frontier (or "Wild West"), the Middle East, Latin America, and elsewhere, which enactments are indicative of amateurism or unprofessionalism ... these celebrants are seemingly unaware of the law of gravity: what goes up must come down! See HOSE, SPRAY, ROCK 'n' ROLL, BUSTING CAPS, BLIND FIRE, TRIGGER HAPPY.

HAPPY SUIT :

slang for the body armor mandated for wear in the Mid-East during GULF WAR II, including ceramic plates, kevlar drapes, shoulder and knee pads worn over fire-resistant uniforms; also called "happy gear". The increased protection of body armor must be juxtaposed by its additional weight and the loss of mobility incurred by its wear; since autopsies performed by the Armed Forces Medical Examiner show that about 23% of gunshot and shrapnel fatalities occurred despite this protection ... such postmortem studies will be used to redesign body armor for improved effectiveness. See OTV, IOTV, SAPI, ESAPI, CHICKEN PLATE, FLAK VEST, FLAK JACKET; compare WAR PAINT, PARTY SUIT, DRESS. [cf: flexible 'mail'; v: doublet]

HAPPY VALLEY :

several so called locations in the CENTRAL HIGHLANDS of Vietnam, such as one situated 17km west of DaNang in Quang Nam province, I CTZ. Also, an area in the mountains between Algeria and Tunisia that was a battle site during Operation Torch. Also, a metaphor for "heaven on earth", and synonymous with the prelapsarian paradise, eutopia (good + place), Cockaigne (land of cookies), Arcadia, Shangri-la, Xanadu/Xandu, Innisfree, Garden of Eden, Hesperides, Seventh Heaven, Pearly Gates, Celestial City, Heavenly City, New Jerusalem, Salem, Hereafter, Afterlife, Afterworld, World to Come, Kingdom Come, Pure Land, Elysium, Elysian Fields, Fiddler's Green, Hog Heaven, Happy Hunting Ground, Rainbow's End, Lyonesse, City of the Sun, Beulah, Undiscovered Country, Promised Land, Land of Milk and Honey, City of Lanterns, Bensalem, Another Country, Atlantis, Brave New World, Republic, Lemuria, Rasselas, Manoa, El Dorado, Pie in the Sky, Castles in the Air, cloudland, Cloud-Cuckoo-Land, La La Land, Never Never Land, Utopia (no + place), Erehwon (nowhere), and Nirvana (nothingness); see THE BIG PX IN THE SKY, compare NEW WORLD ORDER. [cf: And we are here as on a darkling plain / Swept with confused alarms of struggle and flight, / Where ignorant armies clash by night" by Matthew Arnold, Dover Beach] [v: "Farewell, fair queen; weep not for Mortimer, That scorns the world, and, as a traveller, Goes to discover countries yet unknown." by Christopher Marlowe Edward the Second] Also, vulgar reference to female genitalia as metanym for sex or for a woman as a sexual object; see STRANGE, SNATCH, SPLIT, CAMP FOLLOWER, CAMPAIGN WIFE, BITCH, SKIRT. [v: Hottentot apron, Nez Percé plucked pubes, Yakima thong, and Arabic nymphotomy, labial excision, or clitoral circumcision]

HARASSMENT FIRE :

indirect fire designed to persistently disturb and interrupt the enemy by prosecuting intelligence reports and persecuting guerrilla activities, such that movement and rest are subject to interruption at any time. Because this fire is not directed and adjusted, it will not curtail enemy activity, but it will probably demoralize the enemy and make him more cautious. See H&I, I&I, DUFFEL BAG. [nb: in 1864, Mosby ridiculed Stahl for "bombarding bats and owls" when ineffectively shooting artillery at "probable" night locations]

HARD-AND-FAST :

strictly enforced or strongly binding, as something unalterable or unchangeable that's not to be set aside, yielded, or compromised; see HARD-ASS, DIEHARD, DEADLINE; compare ROCK THE BOAT, APPEASE. Also, nautical description of a ship run aground. Also, a method of securing a ROPE or LINE by tying the trailing end with one or more tight knots to a strong anchorage or stable base; see BELAY, KNOT.

HARD-ASS :

tough, strict, disciplined, intractable, intolerant, principled, as "He's a HARD-ASS!" [cf: bad-ass, soft-headed]; often mistaken for uncaring, malicious, or stupid, as a martinet. See ROCK THE BOAT, HARD-AND-FAST, DIEHARD, HARD CHARGER, BALLS TO THE WALL, SWEAT HOG; compare HALF-ASSED, LITTLE PRICK, BRASS EAR. [nb: it has been alleged in the modern era that the dedicated and driven Type-A personality, or compulsive workaholic, is both self-destructive and counterproductive, and this thesis contends that the compassion and sensitivity exhibited in the Type-B Metro-Man persona are preferrable traits; despite this theory, research has shown that an invincible Man of Steel attitude, or the Super-Masculine personality (cf: MACHO), produces positive results: better healing from injury, faster recovery from trauma, increased energy and endurance, more numerous and more flexible coping mechanisms ... in short, being strong and tough makes people more confident and contented]

HARD CHARGER :

any talented and dedicated MIL-PERS in aggressive pursuit of defined goals, both mission and career. See SWEAT HOG, FAST MOVER, BOOMER, SUPER-TROOPER, BALLS TO THE WALL, HOT SHOT, HOT DOG, BOY WONDER, HARD-ASS, TOP DOG, GOLDEN BOY, DEEP DIP, UP OR OUT.

HARDEN :

to reinforce or make unyielding, as a BUNKER, REDOUBT, or other fortification; see HARD TARGET, SKIN, FORCE MULTIPLIER. Also, to shield or protect against specific conditions or circumstances; see EMP. Also, to toughen or make irresistible, as troops.

HARD HAT :

Originally conceived by Italian mathematician and physicist Giovanni Alfonzo Borelli during the 1600s, then Karl Heinrich Klingert invented the "free flow" open diving system in 1797 that used joints to regulate airflow. In 1823, John and Charles Deane patented a "smoke helmet" for firefighters that was also used underwater like a "diving bell". In 1834, Leonard Norcross invented the first "closed diving apparatus", with helmet valve and airtight dress (NICKNAMEd "submarine armor"). Augustus Siebe ("Father of Diving") attached his power-pump to supply surface air to the Deane "smoke helmet" with watertight dress, and created the first "closed suit" diving system that allowed air to freely circulate. In 1836, George Edwards split the helmet into two sections: a lower part (corselet) attached to the suit, and an upper part (bonnet) attached to the lower part for housing air and communication lines. This configuration has remained the standard HARD HAT suit configuration. The military RATEs repair and salvage dive qualification skills with graduated badges. See DRY SUIT, DIVER; compare SCUBA, SNORT, SNORKEL. [v: Diving Terms] Also, slang for a uniformed soldier of a regular army, as opposed to a GUERRILLA. Also, informal usage for any type of protective helmet, whether made of metal or plastic; see BONE DOME, K-POT, STEEL POT, HEADGEAR.

HARDSHIP TOUR :

an overseas assignment of a MIL-PERS without spouse/family or household, usually lasting one year. Only some overseas tours are non-/dependent optional, so a HARDSHIP TOUR is shorter than the same tour of duty when accompanied by dependents, which normally lasts three years. The USMC identifies this assignment as a "dependent restricted tour". See TDY, TAD, SHEEP-DIPPED, PCS. [nb: civilians go 'abroad' while soldiers go 'overseas']

HARDSPOT :

an AMBUSH set by a TRACK mounted element of ARM, ACR, or CAV; see ALL AMERICAN, compare LAAGER

HARD SUIT :

slang for the Atmospheric Diving Suit, being an articulated self-contained hard-shell protective body covering for deep underwater explorations (2000' max 6hrs); compare WET SUIT, DRY SUIT, see DIVER. [nb: not to be confused with "hard case"] [v: Diving Terms]

HARDTACK :

a hard, coarse, saltless biscuit that was formerly used aboard ships (sea biscuits) and for army rations; also known as "pilot biscuit" or "pilot bread". See PITA, SINKER, BULLY SOUP, IRON RATIONS, BEANS, CHOW, THREE SQUARES, RATIONS, SLUSH FUND. [v: biscuit, croissant, bun, roll, cracker, cracknel, pretzel, shortbread, cookie, wafer, roly-poly, shortcake, cupcake, pandowdy, cobbler / grunt, funnel cake, friedcake, doughnut (eg: beignet, bear sign, bear paw, cruller, etc)]

HARD TARGET :

any fortified, reinforced, armored, or protected object, mobile or stationary, which may require special ammunition or specific tactics (eg: sequence, approach, etc), and serves as a FORCE MULTIPLIER when attacked; see HARDEN, OBJ, COLLATERAL DAMAGE, RULES OF ENGAGEMENT (ROE), RFZ, NFZ, FREE FIRE ZONE, BDA, SKIN; compare SOFT TARGET.

HARD TIMES TOKEN :

any of a series of U.S. copper tokens, issued 1834-41, bearing a political inscription or advertising message, and serving as currency during coin shortages. Compare CHALLENGE COIN, SHORT SNORTER, CHIT, COINING; see MPC, LEGAL TENDER.

HARM :

designation for the AGM-88 Air-to-Ground MISSILE, an aircraft launched High-speed Anti-Radiation MISSILE that will continue to target an objective without a RADAR signal.

HARP :

abbreviation for High Altitude Release Point; since the flight path and jump run on High Altitude High Opening (HAHO) skydives must be different, this is the spot best calculated for PARACHUTE deployment, as factored by current wind velocity, actual jump altitude, and other variables, that will optimally attain the Drop Zone (DZ) objective with the mission specific equipment and requisite GEAR load. The HARP is the point at which FREE FALL becomes paraglide, relative to life support and other crucial considerations. Formerly an elapsed time or distance plot computed before take-off, along with supplemental oxygen and related details, but since the availability of a real-time Global Positioning System (GPS), mid-air decision making has become standard procedure (SOP).

HARRIER :

USMC AV-8B /-R vertical take-off attack jet; see VTOL, BIRD.

HASH MARK :

service stripe worn on forearm of sleeve by EM/NCO for each three-year term of honorable service; see RE-UP, compare HERSHEY BAR.

HASTY TRENCH :

a shallow and narrow body-sized depression for one man, usually scooped or dug with hands or improvised tools (eg: helmet, CANTEEN CUP, MESS KIT, knife, etc) as a firing or fighting position while under enemy fire; also called a "prone fighting position", "hasty position", "hasty hole", or "hasty grave". See FOXHOLE, SPIDER HOLE, DEPUY FOXHOLE, BUNKER, E-TOOL; compare CAT HOLE, SLIT TRENCH. [nb: the HASTY TRENCH was formerly called a SLIT TRENCH, and this citation, depending upon the period represented, may sometimes be a TELLTALE in some WAR STORY accounts; to wit: "Most people did not know the difference between a slit trench and a foxhole. You could not lie down in a foxhole and they were harder to dig and they were only for special cases. Even after digging a slit trench a man would be dripping with sweat ... On the line they never dug them any closer than five and it was often ten or fifteen or even twenty yards, when the line was too great for the number of them as it so often was in the early days of the 'Canal." by James Jones in Temper of Steel]

HAT TRICK :

any clever maneuver, adroit deception, or skillful success; as derived by sports analogy involving a triple play or three consecutive moves; compare WHIPSAW. Also, a provocative and complicated sex show, or a sex act involving three men and one woman; compare DAISY CHAIN, FUCK, TRICK, LOVE HANDLES, BUTTERFLY, CHOWING DOWN.

HATCH :

an opening in the DECK of a vessel used as a passageway, or the cover over such an opening; also called a "hatchway" (not a "watertight door" in a BULKHEAD), term derived from gate, railing; compare SCUTTLE; see BATTEN, GANGWAY, LADDERWELL, OVERHEAD, COMPARTMENT, HOLD. Also, an opening or door in an aircraft; compare PORT, EMBRASURE, POSTERN. Also, an access opening or cover in a TANK, APC, or other armored vehicle. Also, a TOAST or SALUTE: "Down the hatch"; see THE DRINK, BREW, HOOCH, JUICE, SUNDOWNER.

HAUL-ASS :

directive to rapidly expedite task, to move quickly, or to depart immediately; sometimes represented phonetically as "Hotel Alfa". See BUSTER, PULL PITCH, SCRAMBLE, JUICE, BEAT FEET, DECAMP, SPLIT, BAILOUT, GOYA, ASAP, PDQ, STAT, CHOGI, CHOP CHOP, RIKI TIK, FORTHWITH; compare TOCSIN, KLAXON, COUNTERMARCH, ROUT, RETROGRADE, DEFEAT.

HAVELOCK :

a cap cover with a cloth flap hanging over the back of the wearer's neck for protection from the sun, which may also identify similar improvised arrangements ... called a "neck curtain". A fashion formerly worn by U.S. Marines, and most commonly associated with the French "kepi"; it is derived from the British Army adaptation of the protective "pugree", and named after Sir Henry Havelock, an English general in India. See HEADGEAR.

HAWC :

(hawk) acronym for High-technology Aerospace Weapons Center, an interservice weapons development and testing facility; compare DREAMLAND, TOP GUN, RED FLAG.

HAWK :

designation for the MIM-23 (HA) mobile, Surface-to-Air guided MISSILE (SAM) system; designed to defend against lower altitude enemy aircraft, and short-range rockets/missiles. Also, slang for scold, rebuke, upbraid, censure, reproach, chastise, disparage, denounce, harass, or vehemently criticize; see FANG, CALL ON THE CARPET, ATTITUDE ADJUSTMENT, RIOT ACT, BAYONET SHEET, NASTY-GRAM, BACK CHANNEL.

HAWKS :

NICKNAME for the unit's integral reconnaissance platoon, usually the S-2 Intelligence and Reconnaissance (I&R) team, some of which specialized in ELINT or AMBUSH for some areas, also known as "scout" or "shadow walker"; see LRSP, LRP, RECON, PEEPERS. Also, a person having a positive socio-political orientation toward the military, including a desire for a strong national defense and an aggressive foreign policy, in contradistinction with "doves"; see WAR PARTY, TRIGGER-HAPPY, KILL 'EM ALL, WINNING HEARTS AND MINDS, VIETNAM IS FOREVER, BATTLE CRY, WARMONGER, RETALIATION, WAR.

HAWSEPIPE :

an iron or steel pipe situated in the STEM or BOW of a vessel through which an anchor cable passes. See UP THE HAWSEPIPE, BLUE NOSE.

HAWSER :

heavy LINE used in mooring a ship, often 4 to 6 inches or more in diameter; these CABLEs are never referred to as "rope". [nb: although the word 'line' means 'linen rope', another LINE that is never called a ROPE is a "sheet", which is a thin CORD or wire used in reeving and adjusting TACKLE, or in the rigging and securing of sails]

HAY :

slang for hash or hashish, from the flowering tops and leaves of Indian hemp, which were called "dry vegetation" by Arabs, and used as an intoxicant. Compare HUBBLE-BUBBLE, GRASS, STICK, CAN SA, PIGTAIL, DOPE, JUNK, STONED, TAR BABY.

HAZMAT :

HAZardous MATerials, such as contaminants, caustics, corrosives, or flammables; see SOUP, COCKTAIL, YELLOWCAKE, HEAVY WATER, HOT GREASE, CBR, COFFIN, TOMB, NEST, MOPP, JSLIST, CPOG, BUNNY SUIT, DEMILITARIZE. [nb: some naturally occurring hazardous materials, such as "swamp gas" or "marsh gas" (aka: "fire ice", methane hydrate), have been and are being exploited for military applications]

H-BOMB :

a bomb that derives its explosive energy from the thermonuclear fusion reaction of hydrogen isotopes, which is therefore more powerful than an atomic bomb; also known as "hydrogen bomb". Compare A-BOMB, N-BOMB; see ZERO POINT, GROUND ZERO, OVERKILL, CBR, NUKE, FOOTBALL, PENTAGONAL, DARPA, BIGGER BANG FOR THE BUCK, YELLOWCAKE, HEAVY WATER, HOT GREASE, SCRAM, CONTAINMENT, BROKEN ARROW.

HD :

Honorable Discharge; see RUPTURED DUCK, BTDT, DISCHARGE. [nb: contrary to stereotype, 97% of VN vets received Honorable Discharges]

HE :

(h-ee, not "he") High Explosive ammunition; may be called "Hotel Echo".

HEAD :

a toilet or bathroom on-board ship; see LATRINE, HEAD CALL, CAT HOLE, SLIT TRENCH, DUMP, TROTS, CORK, TRA CA, WATERWORKS, DOUCHE BAG, COMFORT STATION. [nb: Chinese archives document the use of perfumed rice-paper for use as toilet paper from the sixth century; toilet paper invented 1857; perforated roll of toilet paper (1877); 2-ply toilet paper (1942); pastel colors of toilet paper (1956)] Also, the position or place of leadership and authority; see HEADSHED, BRASS HAT, MILICRAT, FLATHEAD, WARHEAD, big head, swelled head. Also, any projecting part or advance element, as AIRHEAD, BEACHHEAD, BRIDGEHEAD. Also, any advocate or devotee, as ROTOR HEAD, prop head, JARHEAD. Also, any substance abuser or habitual user of illicit drugs, often expressed in combination as acidhead, cokehead, crackhead, hophead, pothead, juicehead. Also, a euphemism for oral sex (ie: cunnilingus or fellatio); see MUFF DIVER, BUSH PILOT, CHOWING DOWN, HUMMER, LOVE HANDLES. Also see DEADHEAD, DRUMHEAD, TURK'S HEAD, BLOCK, blockhead, meathead, fathead, chowderhead, bonehead, dunderhead, lunkhead, wooden head, muttonhead, jughead, skinhead, bullhead, hardhead, knucklehead, hot head, sorehead, softhead, BASKETHEAD, BUDDHAHEAD, HEADGEAR, HEADS-UP, egghead, OVERHEAD, BULKHEAD.

HEAD CALL :

to use the ship's toilet or bathroom, as a LATRINE visit or "pit stop" on personal time; see DUMP, SLOP CHUTE, TROTS, WATERWORKS. Also, to receive permission to use the ship's HEAD, as when excused from formation or relieved of DUTY. [nb: Chinese archives document the use of perfumed rice-paper for use as toilet paper from the sixth century; toilet paper invented 1857; perforated roll of toilet paper (1877); 2-ply toilet paper (1942); pastel colors of toilet paper (1956)]

HEADGEAR :

many and varied, since some units attempted to build esprit by such, and some persons expressed their "panache" (from the ornamentation of helmets and caps) by individualizing such headpieces. During the VIETNAM WAR, the Army changed from the flat-topped FIELD CAP, which many early ADVISORs wore (even including the protective "pugree" or HAVELOCK associated with the similar French "kepi"), to the baseball-style cap for regular troops. Marines wore traditional "utility COVERs", and sailors wore either traditional WHITE CAP / DIXIE CUPs or "fore 'n' aft" garrison caps. The STEEL POT, being a "tin hat" or "iron lid", and later changed to K-POT, helmet was mandated for field wear, but many units followed the Australian practice of "bush" hats, which became BOONIE HATs. Many LRRP elements adopted short-brim bush hats or various berets, which later became the standard headpiece. Many armored and air-cav units adopted broad brimmed Stetsons for wear when not under a BONE DOME ballistic communications (CVC) helmet. The service cap was worn with CLASS-A uniforms. The VC/NVA enemy wore sun or pith ("topi") helmets, Chinese-style soft field caps, traditional NON-LA conical hats, sweat-bands, or were bare headed. See BRASS HAT, BILLED CAP, CUNT CAP, BOONIE, FIELD CAP, JEEP CAP, WATCH CAP, BERET, GREEN BERET, BLANKET HEAD, RED HATS, BLACK HATS, WHITE CAP, SNOWDROP, CHROME-DOME, STEEL POT, K-POT, BONE DOME, HARD HAT, SCRAMBLED-EGGS, PIP, CORD, CAT'S-EYES, GLINT TAPE, BUD LIGHT, SHORT-TIMER PIN, CAP-A-PIE. [nb: a Balmoral hat, which somewhat resembles a beret, and is traditionally blue (from the campaigning dress of the Blue Bonnets), and is often accented with a surrounding "diced" pattern (called "checky" after an accounting process of the Stewarts or High Stewards, from which "exchequer" derives) that symbolizes guardianship and protection; the boat-shaped Glengarry hats are of 19th century military origin]

HEADHUNTING :

the practice of perverting the legitimate military mission into "keeping score" by BODY COUNT and other KILL CREDIT statistical yardsticks; see GENOCIDE, APOCALYPSE, HOLOCAUST, OVERKILL, TRIGGER-HAPPY, MASSACRE. Also, the practice of trying to destroy the power, position, or influence of the opposition or competition; compare COUP D'ETAT. Also, a metonymic allusion to the assassination of a political or military leader or figurehead; also known as DECAPITATION. [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)]

HEADING :

the course or direction of travel for a person, party, vehicle, or vessel; see AZIMUTH, AIMPOINT, DEAD-RECKONING, SLANT DISTANCE, HEADWAY. Also, the angle between the axis of an aircraft or vessel and some reference line; see LEEWAY, BEARING.

HEADQUARTERISM :

a term dating from the American CIVIL WAR to describe the remote and disengaged manner of an aloof, often centralized, COMMAND ELEMENT and its STAFF, where supervision was indirect, leadership was impersonal, and paperwork was primary ... the "creature comfort" of such a HEADSHED (HQ) was usually marked by gross contrast with the condition of the troops. These "necessary" perquisites of command appointment and privileges of authoritive careerism usually lead to abuse, incompetence, and lower morale, as has been selectively exhibited in every war since its coinage. See RHIP, ROUGHSHOD, MICROMANAGEMENT, BRASS EAR, COMMANDEER, DOG ROBBER, ACETATE COMMANDO, CHAIRBORNE, PENCIL PUSHER, TICKET-PUNCHER, RING-KNOCKER, KHAKI MAFIA, MILICRAT, OFFICER, NOSE COUNT, RUN IT UP THE FLAGPOLE, PARTY LINE, SCRIPTURES.

HEADSHED :

headquarters (HQ); also called PUZZLE PALACE, MAD HOUSE, Fort Fumble, Fudge Factory, CLOUD-CUCKOO-LAND. See SHADOW OF THE FLAGPOLE, HEADQUARTERISM.

HEADSHRINKER :

slang for a psychotherapist, psychiatrist, or psychoanalyst, also called "shrink", "wizard", or "shaman", and may be spelled "head-shrinker"; which term probably derives from the primitive headhunting practice of collecting tokens or talismans, dried and shrunken, then displayed.

HEADS-UP :

notice, pay attention, alert, caution; used in the same sense as "Now Hear This" or "For Your Information" (FYI). See BULLETIN, DOPE, POOP, THE WORD, HOT-SHIT, BOATSWAIN'S PIPE, BUGLE CALL, TOCSIN, TANNOY; compare OLD HAT. [nb: not "head-up" as in tense/anxious, nor as a sexual signal for errections!]

HEADWAY :

forward movement, advancement, or progress. Also, the interval of time or distance, relative to situation or circumstances, between two vehicles or vessels traveling in the same direction over the same route; see COMBAT SPREAD. [v: forereach]

HEAT :

(heat, not "h-e-a-t") High-Explosive Anti-Tank ammunition, being a fin-stabilized armor-defeating projectile.

HEAT TABS / HEAT TABLETS :

compressed fuel tablets or disks, usually pale-blue Trioxin, used for heating C-RATIONS, which were pre-cooked in their container.

HEAVE :

to lift or HOIST. Also, to forceably throw something, especially a weighted LINE (eg: HEAVING LINE). Also, to pull or haul on a ROPE, LINE, CABLE, or the like. Also, the rise and fall of the waves or swell of a sea. Also, the vertical rise and fall of a craft or vessel; compare ROLL, PITCH, YAW, ATHWART. Also, to halt or stop the advance of a craft or vessel ("heave to") by causing it to lose HEADWAY. Also, to move in a certain direction or into a certain position or situation, as "the ship hove into sight". Also, to vomit, retch, regurgitate, throw-up, upchuck, barf, hurl, toss cookies, ralph, disgorge, nausea, mal de mer, or PUKE.

HEAVE-HO :

an exclamatory call or chant used by sailors when hauling or working, especially used to signal that the anchor's aweigh. See HOOK, BOWER, DROGUE, CHANTEY, HOISE, HOOAH, OORAH, GUNG-HO, WETSU, BEATERS 'n' BLEATERS, TOOTER; compare AHOY.

HEAVING LINE :

a light or thin CORD or ROPE, with its trailing end weighted by a knot (ie: MONKEY FIST), that's used to toss overboard to a swimmer or small boat, or to a WHARF or MOLE, or between vessels for transferring larger CABLEs; also known as a "throw line".

HEAVY :

an enlarged reconnaissance or surveillance patrol team augmented by additional weapons, supplementary munitions, or mission-specific technical gear; see LRRP, LRSP, RECONDO. Also, two or three armed helicopters operating together in coordinated mutual support; also called "heavy team" or "heavy gun team". Also, slang for the largest or most powerful class of vehicle or vessel or craft, such as the Main Battle Tank (MBT) or heavy bomber (eg: FLYING FORTRESS, STRATOFORTRESS, etc).

HEAVY DROP :

the PARACHUTE delivery of ARMOR, ARTY, munitions and other essential supplies; see DZ, AIRHEAD, GANG-BANG; compare DROP, AIRDROP, JPADS, LOW-LEVEL EVACUATION DROP, DROP-TANK, PAYLOAD.

HEAVY MG :

an automatic weapon capable of effective fire against enemy personnel and lightly armored vehicles; particularly the 1919 Browning M-2 .5O-caliber machinegun with heavy-barrel (@84#), being a belt-fed, recoil-operated, and air-cooled automatic weapon, 65" long, tripod or pedestal mounted, firing with a "butterfly" TRIGGER from the open-bolt position at a rate of 450-555rpm at a range of 7460 yards. See QUAD 50, MG, CREW-SERVED WEAPONS. [nb: in 1983, the MK19-3 40mm grenade machinegun (@72.5#), being a belt-fed, blowback-operated, and air-cooled automatic weapon for delivering decisive firepower against enemy personnel and lightly armored vehicles to an effective range of 2200m, replaced the M-2 heavy machinegun as the primary suppressive weapon in vehicle-mounted combat support operations]

HEAVY STUFF :

heavy fire-support, such as 175mm (eg: M-107 175mm SP ranging to 32,000m) and 8-inch cannon (eg: M-110 8" SP ranging to 16,800m), including naval gunfire from battleship or cruiser fleet off-shore; compare BIG STUFF, SMOOTHBORE, see ARTY.

HEAVY WATER :

water in which hydrogen atoms have been replaced by deuterium, used chiefly as a coolant in nuclear reactors; also called "deuterium oxide". See YELLOWCAKE, HOT GREASE, SCRAM, CONTAINMENT, NUKE.

HEDGEHOG :

any of various types of defensive obstacles used to impede armored vehicles, amphibious forces, and the like; from the Old World name for the American porcupine; see DRAGON'S TEETH, CALTROP, FRAISE, ABATIS, BOLLARD. Also, a STRONGPOINT in a fortified line capable of directing fire on all sides. Also, a multi-tube mortar mounted on the FORECASTLE of a ship that launches a series of 24 anti-submarine bombs in a circular pattern ahead of the ship; this bomb-throwing gun was invented by the British in 1941 and adopted by the American Navy during WWII, being more accurate and more effective than stern-launched depth charges, and the bow didn't require reinforcement because it pair or ripple fired the 31-pound charges; see ASW.

HEDP :

High Explosive Dual Purpose, a 40mm round of AMMO developed by Martin Electronics, that's suitable for both inert and anti-personnel (AP) targets, and is fired from an M-79, M-203, or M-32 grenade launcher.

HELIBORNE :

1st Avn Bde

helicopter-borne; the AIRMOBILE or AIR ASSAULT mode for infantry or cavalry operations. Term imitative of "airborne". See AIR CAV, CHALK.

HELICOPTER :

see CHOPPER, WHIRLY BIRD, EGGBEATER, SLICK, ROTOR HEAD, PROP JOCKEY, HELIBORNE, AIRMOBILE, AIR CAV, LIFT, CHALK, LZ.

HELIOGRAPH :

a device consisting of a reflector and shutter that's used for signaling or messaging over long distance by means of sunlight, moonlight, or lantern light; adopted by the U.S. Army in 1873 from a British invention used militarily in India as the first wireless long distance (10-15wpm sent 30mi) communications device. See MORSE CODE, HAND SIGN, WIGWAG. [v: Alphabet Codes]

HELIX :

Air Force spotter

HELLCAT :

Grumman F6F-3 fighter aircraft.

HELLFIRE :

a Rockwell / Lockheed-Martin / Northrop-Grumman air-to-ground solid-fuel propulsion missile (AGM-114) launched from an aerial platform (eg: CHOPPER, UAV) against HARD TARGETs with a HEAT warhead using "fire and forget" LASER guidance at longer standoff distances than other missiles in the Army's inventory, which minimizes launch exposure. Models in series include digital autopilot, electro-optical countermeasures, target reacquisition after lost LASER lock, electronic SAD, home-on-jam anti-radiation mode, with the HELLFIRE II being the optimized version, and the Longbow HELLFIRE Modular Missile System being an air-launched, RADAR aided, inertially guided missile utilizing millimeter-wave RADAR technology. Employed since the 1990 GULF WAR, it was scheduled to be replaced by the Joint Common Missile (JCM), designed to combine the capabilities of the several HELLFIRE variants, with a tri-mode seeker and a multi-purpose warhead, but its supersession was discontinued due to budgetary restraints. The HELLFIRE system has been tested for use on the High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicle (HMMWV), the Improved TOW Vehicle (ITV), and the Hercules C-130 SPECTRE gunship.

HELL ON WHEELS :

2nd Arm Div

the BATTLE CRY of the Army's 2nd Armored Division. Also, slang for anything that's effective and fast-paced, or anyone who's aggressive and extremely demanding; sometimes expressed as "going to hell in a handcart" or "...handbasket", as derived from the handcart or pushcart used to convey corpses, often called a "hell-cart". Such HELL ON WHEELS have been allegorically representative of the delivery of damned souls into Hell by fiends or demons in both Christian and Hindu eschatology over the past millennium. This phrase was also used to refer to the itinerant saloons and brothels (ie: SIN CITY, HELL'S HALF ACRE) that followed the construction of the transcontinental railroad (1863-9); as the term "hell-cart" was also used to describe the conveyance used by prostitutes. [cf: juggernaut; v: iron horse]

HELL'S BELLS :

NICKNAME of the B-24 LIBERATOR heavy bomber used during WWII against the Axis forces, especially Nazi Germany. Also, an interjection or exclamation expressing vexation or surprise, especially over a deteriorating condition or worsening situation, as an urgent crisis or pressing problem; also represented as the "hammers of hell" or the "clappers of hell" ... the complete 19th century imprecation was "hell's bells and buckets of blood!", but its ultimate origin is unknown.

HELL'S HALF ACRE :

after its earlier usage for a slum district or rough terrain [cf: HELL ON WHEELS, SIN CITY], this phrase identified the Anzio beachhead during 1944, which was called "the only front without a rear" during WWII. [aka: hell hole, black hole, perdition]

HELMET :

sometimes called "tin hat", "tin topper", "tin-topee /-topi", "iron lid", "soup bowl", "brain bucket", or "battle bowler"; see K-POT, BONE DOME, HAMMOCK, HEADGEAR, TURN TURTLE.

HELMET FIRE :

loss of mental coordination by crewmembers at high altitude due to hypoxia. Also, by extension, any exhibition of mental confusion or scrambled thinking, often obsessive or compulsive, as when fixated on a bad idea or improper act.

HEP :

abbreviation for High Explosive Plastic, which was developed as Composition B during WWII as a powerful but sensitive ductile explosive; see C-4, COCKTAIL, SOUP, IED, EXPLOSIVE. Also, demarcation for CADENCE; see JODY CALL, HOISE, BEATERS 'n' BLEATERS, TOOTER, PARADE, MARCH, DITTY-BOP, WALK LIKE A PUSSY. Also, slang for being aware, informed, knowledgable; sometimes "hip", as hipster or HIPPIE.

HERCULES :

Lockheed C-130 four-engine, high-wing, turbo-prop, medium-capacity transport aircraft introduced to USAF inventory in 1954; NICKNAMEd "Herky Bird" or "Whisper Pig". See FLYING COW, SPECTRE, CANDLESTICK, STOL.

THE HERD :

173rd Abn Bde

NICKNAME of the 173rd Airborne Brigade, formally known as "Sky Soldiers"; being the first major US Army combat unit sent to Vietnam. This affectionate NICKNAME was probably adapted from the 3rd Infantry's "Old Guard" NICKNAME of "The Third Herd" by imitation, as "The One Seventy Third Herd".

HERMAN THE GERMAN :

dismissive reference by rhyming to any World War Two NAZI soldier, also called "Fritz", "Kraut", "Heinie" ('Heine': Heinrich; not buttocks), or "Jerry/Gerry"; without the pejorative connotations of "Boche" (blockhead) and "Hun" (barbarian) from World War One. Compare CHARLIE, GOMER, IVAN, BAD GUYS.

HERO :

conventionally, anyone who has demonstrated initiative and courage "above and beyond the call of duty", for which distinction of an "ordinary person doing an extraordinary thing", a token of recognition and esteem is bestowed in the form of a decoration or award. In actuality, medals are presented for "the good of the service", and the process is always political or fraternal. Awards are required for promotion, and promotion is required for retention. Among "real soldiers", who disdain the glorified pomp and publicized circumstance of TICKET-PUNCHING, the label is offensive. The applicable military maxim is "A HERO is a sandwich." with deliberately dismissive and derisive intent, and the implication that a "real soldier" will 'eat' a HERO ... that a HERO will get 'eaten up' by a "quiet professional"! The heroic conduct deemed noteworthy will usually get other men killed, will compromise the mission, and would deserve a court martial if not redefined for a trophy. Many honorable commanders have said that "there's no such thing as a HERO, only men doing their DUTY". See DUD, HOT SHOT, BOY WONDER, TRASH, GONG, FRUIT SALAD, DEVICE, OLC, V-DEVICE, TROPHY, WATCH MY SMOKE, BRAGGING RIGHTS, MACHO, GUTS, MOXIE, ONIONS, WINTER SOLDIER. [nb: "A nice war is a war where everybody who is heroic is a hero, and everybody more or less is a hero in a nice war. Now this war is not at all a nice war." by Gertrude Stein, Wars I Have Seen (1945)] [nb: every MILICRAT knows that the most dangerous people in the military are not HEROes, but are disgruntled MIL-PERS who are frustrated by MICKEY MOUSE and CHICKEN SHIT, by SNOW and RED TAPE, and having been passed over twice for promotion, are serving their terminal assignment, and because they are honorable men who have not STACKed ARMS, they know that there is nothing that the TICKET-PUNCHERs and RING-KNOCKERs of the KHAKI MAFIA can do to them!]

HERRINGBONE :

a tactical formation used by MECH, CAV, ARMOR, and other TRACKed units for convoy security during halts or defensive posture in FILE or COLUMN, during which the thickest armor and MAIN-GUNs are directed by alternating vehicles toward the opposite sides of the formation. This oblique placement is a compromise between maneuver and defense, since this temporary arrangement will either return to the route of march, respond to attack, or convert into LAAGER. All "thin skin" vehicles (eg: TRUCK, JEEP, etc) being escorted are sheltered in the center. Compare THUNDER RUN, REFUSE.

HERSHEY BAR :

slang for Overseas Stripe, being a small rectangular stripe, worn on the lower right sleeve of CLASS-A uniforms, with each denoting six-months of foreign service in an overseas combat assignment. HERSHEY BARS, named for their resemblance to stacked CANDY BARS, replaced the WWI overseas service chevron, which had been worn in similar fashion. See OCONUS, DEROS, DUC, PH. [nb: civilians go 'abroad' while soldiers go 'overseas']

HES :

Hamlet Evaluation System.

HESCO BARRIER :

(forthcoming); aka: "Hesco bastion"; deriv: gabion see BLAST WALL, REVETMENT, BANQUETTE

HET ROI :

Vietnamese phrase meaning "all finished" or "already done", concluded.

HF :

High Frequency; radio signal spectrum between 3 and 30 megahertz (MHz). See RADIO WAVE, RADIO. Also, abbreviation for "Hatchet Force", codename for company- and battalion-sized SOG operations.

HFDF :

High Frequency Direction-Finding, being a form of RDF, and commonly called HOT STUFF.

HHB :

Headquarters and Headquarters Battery, a company-sized element; see BATTERY/BTY, ARTY; compare HHC, HHD, HHT, HQ.

HHC :

Headquarters and Headquarters Company, a company-sized element; see COMPANY/CO, INF, ARM, ENGR; compare HHB, HHD, HHT, HQ.

HHD :

Headquarters and Headquarters Detachment, a company-sized element; see DET, compare HHB, HHC, HHT, HQ.

H-HOUR :

the term used to designate the unnamed effective time specified for the commencement, execution, implementation, or initiation of a particular D-DAY operation; designation originally created by repetition. See HACK, TIME.

HHT :

Headquarters and Headquarters Troop, a company-sized element; see TRP, SQDN, CAV, AIR CAV, ACR; compare HHB, HHC, HHD, HQ.

H&I / H & I / H-and-I FIRE :

Harassment and Interdiction Fire, nighttime artillery fire plotted to land on suspected enemy camps, caches, or travel routes, so as to interrupt or damage enemy activity. See I&I, HARASSMENT FIRE, DUFFEL BAG; compare RECON BY FIRE. [nb: during the Battle of Chancellorsville in 1863, Porter Alexander shot blindly (no FO) indirect artillery at pre-registered sites, as logical or probable targets, to great effect.]

HIC :

Head In Clouds, or Head In Concrete, as refers to stubborn or impractical authorities; also called "rectal defilade". See HOT, PYHOOYA, DODGE THE BULLET, CYA, PING-PONG, SMOKE 'n' MIRRORS, WONK. [cf: "hollow men" of T.S. Eliot and "straw man" of Guy Fawkes]

HICKORY :

CODENAME for an NSA radio intercept and SOG radio relay site, overrun by NVA attack on 4-5 June 1971. See LEGHORN, BLACK LADY MOUNTAIN, RR; compare SITE 85.

HIDE :

a lightly constructed place of CONCEALMENT, appropriately camouflaged into its setting, for hunting, observation, and related activities; also called a "blind", "hideaway", "mew", or "coverture". See SNIPER, SIGHT PICTURE, HUT, DUGOUT, BOLT HOLE, GILLIE SUIT, SHROUD, SAFE HOUSE, SAFE ROOM; compare CACHE, GLORY HOLE. Also, an activity, organization, or construction that's intended to conceal or obscure some true purpose, as a subterfuge; see BLOW SMOKE, SMOKE 'n' MIRRORS, STALKING HORSE, TROJAN HORSE, SHADOW, UNDER THE RADAR, CONCEALMENT, DECEPTION.

HIGGINS BOAT :

the eponymous LANDING CRAFT, originating as the 36-foot mahogany "Eureka" invented by Andrew Jackson Higgins, that became the prototype for all subsequent BEACHHEAD assault boats; also called Landing Craft Vehicle and Personnel (LCVP).

HIGH 'n' DRY :

originally indicating a place above the reach of a high tide, as for work or camp, but later applied to aviation being above ground activity and temporarily out of the action, as when staging for a bomb run release or awaiting clearance for an AIR STRIKE, as Close Air Support (CAS); also called "high cover". See UMBRELLA, CAP, RACETRACK, STACK, ORBIT, SPLASH, FEET WET. Also, from the same high tide allusion, someone who is stranded beyond the current of normal affairs; being disengaged or "out of it".

HIGH ANGLE HELL :

aerial bombardment from indirect enemy fire, such as MORTARs, ROCKETs, or artillery, which was usually quite accurate considering the improvised launching platforms; properly known as PLUNGING FIRE. See RPG, IN-COMING, SALVO, TURN TURTLE, WHIZ BANG. [cf: bombard as the earliest type of indirect cannon launching stones, from "noise" (bomb) and "stone-throwing engine" (bombarda)]

HIGH BALL :

slang for a snappy hand SALUTE, as "to HIGH BALL the general" or "I threw him a HIGH BALL".

HIGHER :

a superior level or echelon, referring to those remote and faceless SUPER GRADEs and OFFICERs who rule the lives of regular troops; often expressed as "HIGHER HIGHER", like a multiplier, to indicate the magnitude of pronouncements, and the total impotence of anyone to intercede (eg: "That's way beyond my skill level!" or "It's way above my pay grade!"). Although subordinates frequently cite this relationship as an "explanation" for orders, the opposite is not the case ... the expression "lower" or "lower lower" is never used to refer to assigned personnel by unit commanders. See CHAIN-OF-COMMAND, OB, TO&E, HONCHO, BRASS HAT, RHIP, ROUGHSHOD, TOP DOG, RAINMAKER, LOYALTY UP - LOYALTY DOWN, VFR DIRECT.

HIGHLINE :

a type of slackline that's suspended between two anchor points, most often ships at sea, for the expedient transfer of people or property; this simple method of conveying men or material should not be confused with an angled slide or a taut TIGHTROPE. Although the primary conveyance is a single HIGHLINE, a secondary slackline may be run parallel (inferior) as a safety LINE, while the load is advanced between the two points by a guy-line (GUY), and regulated by a BELAY. This HIGHLINE traverses the ship's superstructure, or the TOPSIDE above the HULL and main DECK, for both safety and convenience; however, a "lowline" may be rigged closer to the water surface, as from BOAT to WHARF, but with unstable anchor points, this can become difficult or dangerous. Even with solid anchors, as from rock to rock across a chasm, the transfer ROPE or CABLE is always kept "slack", relative to the load. The load transferred by HIGHLINE is always secured by SLING, BOATSWAIN'S CHAIR, or STRETCHER, as this is not a ROPE BRIDGE. This transfer mode is used with patients, medicines, spare parts, mail, and other critical items. See BRIDGE, RAPPEL, DINGLEBERRY, FOOTROPE, RATLINE. [nb: a new sport has developed since the early 1980s from the practice of balancing on chain and walking on flat webbing straps, either low ("trick-lining") or high (with safety leash), that's more informal and dynamic than high-wire walking, but such recreational "slacklining" should not be confused with this field expedient MIL-CRAFT technique]

HIGH POCKETS :

slang reference for the use of a woman's cleavage [decollete / d'collet, or decolletage / d'colletage] or her bra / brasiere as a place to put small items (eg: messages, currency, jewelry, etc); compare HANG LOOSE, PIRATE'S DREAM, MAE WEST, THE BRA. Also, the CODENAME for a WWII American spy named Claire Phillips, who, while using the nom de guerre Dorothy Fuentes, garnered enemy information at her Manila nightclub (called Tsubaki, which translates as 'camillia', and has the meaning of "hard to get" or "difficult to obtain") that was passed by courier to resistance groups from October 1942 to May 1944; although unaffiliated with any agency or organization, she was captured and imprisoned by the Imperial Japanese; she was later decorated for her clandestine efforts by both the Philippine and American governments.

HILLBILLY ARMOR :

slang for the improvised armor used on light vehicles by Coalition forces in post-invasion Iraq; also called "hajji armor" and "farmer armor". Before "up armor" remodeling could occur, vehicle crewmembers began protecting themselves against improvised explosive devices (IED) by reinforcing their vehicles with scrap metal, plywood, compromised ballistic glass, Kevlar blankets, surplus FLAK VESTs, and SANDBAGs. Lining the floor of vehicles with SANDBAGs to deaden the impact of explosions was first practiced on the M-8 Grayhound during WWII, and was continued during the VIETNAM WAR with APCs, GUN TRUCKs, and JEEPs. Armor-plate was added to escort vehicles and as shields on gun mounts from WWII through Vietnam, but only to deflect shrapnel. During WWII, some TANKs (eg: SHERMAN and STUART) were reinforced by the welding of worn TRACK blocks or used tread shoes onto their outer HULLs; a practice that evolved into SPACED ARMOR, and later into REACTIVE ARMOR. Adding supplemental protection to specific vehicles is responsive to the evolving tactical situation, when modification with built-in armor on all transports would delay operations, and be inappropriate (ie: too heavy, too expensive) for other circumstances. See SKIN, HARDEN.

HILLSBORO :

CALL-SIGN for an ABCCC "command and control" aircraft, such as during the battle at Kham Duc on 12 May 1968.

HINKY :

suspicious, strange, unusual, partially hidden or concealed; as seemingly derived from limp or hobble, perhaps in the sense of subterfuge. This word, used to identify guile or artifice, is too often confused with "kinky", meaning twisted or abnormal. See DECEPTION, TRICK, FALSE FLAG, DECOY, RED HERRING, TROJAN HORSE, STALKING HORSE, CAT SKINNER, CAT'S-PAW; compare MOJO.

HIPPIE :

peace flag

a devotee of Free Love, expanded consciousness, and other "Counter Culture" objectives, and sympathetic to the Anti-War Movement PROTESTORS; contrary to popular opinion, "hippiedom" was as conventional and conformist as the culture it rejected. See PACIFIST, HEP, YIPPIE, FIFTH COLUMN, THEY'LL GIVE A WAR AN' NOBODY'LL COME, THE PILL, PREEVERT, BULLSHITVIK; compare STRAIGHT ARROW, SILENT MAJORITY. [nb: "A hippie is someone who looks like Tarzan, walks like Jane and smells like Cheetah." by Ronald Wilson Reagan] [v: "Tortilla Flat" (1935), "The Wayward Bus" (1947), "Sweet Thursday" (1954), and other proletarian works by John E. Steinbeck]

HITCHHIKE :

to transmit a PROPAGANDA broadcast on the same FREQ, using authentic CALL-SIGN and program characteristics, in imitation of the actual enemy station, except when the genuine enemy signal is off-the-air. Compare SURF; see PUSH, RADIO.

HME :

abbreviation for HomeMade Explosive, being a form of improvised explosive (IED) using pyrotechnics or munitions, which are often oversized due to their low-yield; see BOOBY-TRAP, EXPLOSIVE.

HMMWV :

(humvee) acronym for the M-998 High Mobility Multi-purpose Wheeled Vehicle, pronounced HUMVEE, and also called "Hummer". Compare JEEP; see GAMMA GOAT, WAR PIG, DUCK/DUKW, CHAPARRAL.

HMONG :

a member of the tribal group of peoples living in scattered highland areas of Laos, northern Vietnam, northern Thailand, and southern China; sometimes disparagingly referred to as "Meo" (barbarian) by Laotians and Vietnamese. Like the MONTAGNARDs, these INDIGenous people served as STRIKERs in the Royal Laotian Army (RLA) and with American ADVISORs in special projects.

HOA HAO :

founded in 1919 by Huynh Phu So, who was assassinated by the VIET MINH in 1947, as a millenarian sect of Buddhism that opposes Confucian dominance and emphasizes good deeds more than prayers or orisons for salvation. "Phat Giao Hoa Hao" was transmitted more through the family and community, than by the scriptures or in the temple. This religio-political sect had mass peasant appeal in southwestern provinces and the Mekong Delta. (Compare the millenarian "TAIPING" movement of mosaic theology, inspired by Hung Hsiu-Ch'uan, which resulted in the 1851-1864 rebellion to begin the "Great Peace" of reigning purification.)

HOBNAIL :

a large-headed nail used to protect the soles of heavy boots and shoes, as used during WWII. Also, a small allover pattern that's tactually distinctive [cf: vair, miniver, parti-colored]. [nb: although HOBNAIL is related to hub, to "play..." or "raise hob" is to disrupt, hamper, or make mischief]

HO BO WOODS / HOBO WOODS :

(haw baw) forest area used as VC sanctuary; see U MINH FOREST, SEVEN MOUNTAINS.

HO CHI MINH SANDALS :

nearly indestructible thong sandals made from rubber tires; which could not protect the foot, like a BOOT, but didn't cause disease from poor ventilation. Compare BATA BOOTS; see FLIP-FLOP, FOOTWEAR. [cf: zori, huarache, geta] [nb: an oversized version that was used like snowshoes enabled Asian soldiers, slighter and lighter than Occidentals, to traverse swamp mud and quicksand without sinking]

HO CHI MINH TRAIL :

(forthcoming); also called "the Trail". In anticipation of future developments, the construction of the road network, vehicle parks, fuel pipeline, and troop areas began almost five years before the TONKIN GULF INCIDENT. Post-war PAVN confessions admitted that cutting The Trail, so as to stop infiltration and supply to southern insurgency, would probably have prevented victory, and ended the war with the country partitioned ... similar to the Korean stalemate. See BINH TRAM, McNAMARA LINE, YELLOW BRICK ROAD, LEAPING LENA, THE GREEKS, SOG, STEEL TIGER, TIGER HOUND, COMMANDO HUNT, WAR GAMES.

HOG :

an assault helicopter, such as UH-1B or other GUNSHIP, equipped with a nose-mounted 40mm cannon (M-5 armament subsystem) used for direct fire support; also called "hog flight". See CHOPPER, COBRA.

HOI CHANH :

any VC/NVA/PAVN defector who rallied under the CHIEU HOI "Open Arms" program to SVN/GVN; see KIT CARSON SCOUT, EARTH ANGEL, ROADRUNNER, DECOY; compare BORDEN. [nb: after the American CIVIL WAR, former Confederates enlisted in the military as "galvanized Yankees" to regain citizenship by serving in the Indian Wars; see GRAYBACK]

HOISE :

to hoist, haul, or rouse, to pull together, as derived from "hissa" and "huzzah" work chants; see CHANTEY, AHOY, HEAVE-HO, GUNG-HO, HOOAH, OORAH, BATTLE CRY, WETSU, STRAC, GUSTO, JODY CALL, HEAVE, BEATERS 'n' BLEATERS, TOOTER.

HOIST :

any lifting apparatus, such as TACKLE or BOOM; derived from HOISE; see HEAVE. Also, the vertical edge of a flag attached to the HALYARD, opposite the fly. Also, to sip, sup, drink, imbibe, quaff, as to TOAST or SALUTE with a beverage; see HOOCH, BREW, JUICE, THE DRINK, SUNDOWNER. [nb: it is considered bad luck or evil omen to TOAST with non-alcoholic beverages]

HOLD :

the cargo compartment in the BAY of an aircraft or the cargo space in the HULL of a vessel, especially between the lowermost DECK (v: ORLOP) and the bottom. Also, any individual BAY or compartment of a larger cargo space that's closed by BULKHEADs and has its own HATCH or hatchway; as a variant derived from "hole". [nb: water-tight COMPARTMENTS were first used on sea-going JUNKS as containers for adjustable liquid ballast, as well as for damage safety; such construction was inspired by imitation of bamboo]

HOLOCAUST :

a great devastation or complete destruction, as by fire; especially the reckless destruction of life. See DECENT INTERVAL, YEAR ZERO, ANGKOR WAT, APOCALYPSE, GENOCIDE; compare MASSACRE, KILL 'EM ALL, OVERKILL, HEADHUNTING. [eg: Albi, Atlanta, Beziers, Carthage, Columbia, Covington, Dresden, Glencoe, Guernica, Hiroshima, Lidice, Meroë, Nagasaki, Nanking/Nanjing, Shanghai, Sybaris, Tiananmen Square, Veii] [v: a "viaticum" is a provision or allowance of the necessary funds and supplies issued to a Roman soldier traveling to his last or final battle; which became the ecclesiastical Eucharist or Communion given to a dying person] [v: Myths of the Vietnam War]

HOMECOMING :

the 1973 operation to repatriate the prisoners of war (POW) held captive by the VC/NVA, especially those imprisoned in NVN camps; compare HOME RUN, see TORTURE, TAP CODE, MIA, POW MEDAL, POW-MIA DAY.

HOMER :

"homing" locator device or tactical beacon, a transponder; see ELT, IFF, AIS, INS, SQUAWK, PIPSQUEAK. [cf: Selective Identification Feature (SIF); Radio Frequency Identification (RFID)]

HOME RUN :

slang for a POW's successful escape from custody and repatriation, being a metaphor since WWII for a round trip using baseball imagery (ie: home plate = parent unit or native country, first base = combat or battlefield, second base = POW camp, third base = neutral nation), with each "run" between "bases" having the potential for being eternally "tagged out" of the "game". Some POWs made several escape attempts, thus "running" toward "third base" but being "short stopped" and returned to "second base"; WWI was the last time that the gentlemanly parole was tendered in lieu of imprisonment. During WWII, "third base" was usually Switzerland, Spain, Turkey, or Sweden; and during the VIETNAM WAR, it was Thailand. See E&E, SERE, SAR, CSAR, TRAP, RIT, SAFE, BRIGHT LIGHT, BLOOD CHIT, POINTIE TALKIE, CODE OF CONDUCT; compare HOMECOMING. [nb: the "human railway" was an escape network established by the Resistance (French, Belgian, Czech, and others) to rescue or conceal downed Allied aircrewmen so as to escort them to neutral nations (Switzerland, Spain, Turkey, or Sweden) for repatriation during WWII; also known as the "underground railroad"]

HOMESTEAD / HOMESTEADING / HOMESTEADER :

to secure and/or retain a good assignment or a safe BILLET, so as to maximize career options, draw extra pay, and exploit economic opportunities. Compare TOUR BABY, PLANK OWNER, LIFER, OLD BREED, PERMANENT PARTY, MILICRAT, TICKET-PUNCHER, CHAIRBORNE, DOUBLE-DIP.

HONCHO :

any supervisor, as a foreman or "straw boss", who's the MIL-PERS designated in charge; imported into English from WWII Japanese term for squad leader, which derives from chief or elder of the band. See WALLAH, GADGET, ACTING JACK, CHIEF, OLD MAN, PROFESSOR, TOP DOG, MOTHER HEN, 10, MC, OVERSIGHT, RAINMAKER, CO, LDR, COMMAND ELEMENT. [nb: a female unit commander is not called the OLD MAN nor "old lady", not "chieftain" nor "chieftess", not the HONCHO nor "honchette", not TOP DOG nor "top bitch", but is rather antonomastically identified by the generic "boss" or "boss lady", or by her designated NICKNAME or CODENAME; also see "GI Jane", "Jane Bond", "Acting Jane", "Swinging Dickless", "Dear Jane", SKIRT, ANGEL]

HONOR CODE :

an oath sworn by officer candidates and CADETs preparatory to commissioning, release from which is dependent upon resignation or discharge, and which forms the basis for an officer's word being regarded as "evidence" (rather than "hearsay"). The HONOR CODE is short and simple: "I, [name], will not lie, cheat, or steal, nor tolerate those who do." See DUTY, DELEGATE, CREED, CODE OF CONDUCT, ABOVE BOARD, PROMISE, LOYALTY UP - LOYALTY DOWN, BRASS-COLLAR, UP OR OUT. [nb: "Honor has not to be won; it must only not be lost."; "Honor knows no statute of limitations."]

HOOAH :

(who-ah) a call, out-cry, or salute by elite troopers to express enthusiasm or dedication; sometimes spelled "hoo-yah". According to "The Soldier's Guide" (FM 7-21.13, dtd 15 OCT 2003, paragraph 4-27: Traditions), "This informal but always understood sound [Hooah!] is less a word than an audible affirmation of the warrior ethos. The soldier that utters that sound understands his task and will not quit until it is completed. That sound means soldiers are ready and willing to accomplish the mission at hand." See WETSU, GUNG-HO, STRAC, HOISE, OORAH, CHANTEY, BATTLE CRY, GUSTO, SIGNATURE, AHOY, HEAVE-HO. [nb: the modern Army version is: "HUAh", and represents "Heard Understood and Acknowledged"; but it has not yet been converted into an acronym by the Marines, who pronounce it: "ouhr-rah"; these calls or salutes are often misrepresented as "whoo-yah" or "whoo-hah" by civilians and other non-veterans] [nb: "When I came here in February of 2001, it was my first -- one of my first official trips, my first visit to an Army post as Commander-in-Chief, and my first chance as President to say: Hooah!" by George Walker Bush (12 Sep 2003 speech at Ft Stewart Georgia)] [nb: the "death wind" is what witnesses called the collective sound of breathing when a score of Apaches went running past in the night on their way to or from an ambush or raid]

HOOCH :

living quarters, as a native hut or barracks; derived as a corrupt modification of the Japanese word for 'house' ("uchi"), also spelled "hootch", see BILLET, BERTH, QTRS, VILLE, TENT; compare LONG HOUSE, SHEBANG. [v: bield, bower, cabin, cottage, cabana, lodge, earth lodge, hogan] Also, refers to any alcoholic beverages, whether commercial booze or homemade grog, variously called moonshine or firewater, rotgut or pop-skull, mash-squeezings or white-lightning, jungle-juice or redeye, cheer-water or wobble-water, hair-of-the-dog or wisdom-soup; and sometimes, by extension, to other intoxicants; as derived from Tlingit "hoochinoo", literally Brown Bear's Fort, where illicit drink could be obtained. See DEAD-SOLDIER, DUTCH COURAGE, BYOB, TOAST, SUNDOWNER, GUSTO, SPLICE THE MAINBRACE, HOIST, HATCH, MOJO, JUICE, MOONSHINE, CLASS SIX, BREW, BA MUOI BA, WASH, SAIGON TEA, THE DRINK, STONED. [v: liquor, sour mash, poteen, aqua vitae, eau de vie, elixir, usquebaugh, arrack, schnapps/schnaps, kirsch/kirschwasser, aquavit, slivovitz] [v: 1794 Whiskey Rebellion from 1791 excise tax laid by Hamilton] [v: vivandière]

HOOK :

slang for an anchor of any style, also called "killick", as used as a retainer or brake; includes related terms like arm, fluke, chain, capstan. See DROGUE, BOWER, DAVIT, MAINSTAY, HEAVE-HO. [nb: the phrase "anchor's aweigh" means that the anchor is free of the bottom, that the anchor is no longer holding the vessel] Also, slang for the Boeing CH-47 CHINOOK cargo helicopter, also called "Shit Hook" or "Flying Oscar".

HOOKUP :

the command to, and the act of, securely tethering the STATIC LINE of the PARACHUTE onto an anchor (PAD EYE or LINE) in the jump plane on final approach preparatory to an AIRBORNE operation; may also be spelled "hook-up". Also, to grasp onto or link-up with other skydivers in freefall, as in building a formation; to link, dock, pin, grip, join, or connect. Also, any link, connection, or assembly that forms a network or system. Also, any cooperative association or alliance. Also, slang for sex, sexual intercourse, coitus, coition, venery, copulation, fornication, DIDDLY, BOOM-BOOM, CHURNING BUTTER; see FUCK, compare CHOWING DOWN.

HOOLIGAN :

tool brand name for a heavy duty crowbar, mounted with a perpendicular spike, used for assault entry and other jimmy or pry breaching; the crowbar derives from its resemblance to a bird's beak, jimmy from jack, and pry from prize. See BREACHER, CE, SAPPER. [nb: in an effort to control costs and reduce waste, the DoD has instituted a policy of "non-duplication" in military procurement (Military Adaptable Commercial Item {MACI}), such that a mil-spec contract will NOT be let whenever a commercial "off the shelf" (COTS) product is "close enough for government work" and does not require special features; so some name brand items are now in logistical inventory]

HOOTCH :

see HOOCH.

HOPE :

NICKNAME for POW camp at SON TAY (qv). Also, short for "Operation RESTORE HOPE" and "Operation Continue Hope", being peacekeeping assignments in Somalia, after the initial "Operation Provide Relief" aid/relief mission.

HOPSCOTCH :

a patrol or search method in AIRMOBILE or HELIBORNE operations where assault elements move or jump quickly and directly from one area to another, without having to pass through any of the intervening areas; to move in a series of short trips, as to travel erratically; also known as "jitterbug"; see LEAP FROG, CHECKERBOARD, BUTTERFLY, CLOVERLEAF, BUTTONHOOK, ZIGZAG, DASH. Also, the practice of manually changing RADIO frequencies in a prearranged sequence of alternates during a transmission to avoid interception or interference; variously known as "FREQ swapping", "switch PUSH", "skip FREQ", "skip link", "skipspot", "skip rope", and the like; this evasive technique has been superseded by a computerized automatic frequency-switching modality.

HORN :

telephone or radio, as "The CO's on the HORN."; see RTP, TELEPHONE. Also, designation given to USMC DASC in Military Region 1. Also, a device used to signal, alert, or alarm, as a "foghorn"; see KLAXON, TANNOY, BUGLE CALL, TOCSIN.

HORNET :

the McDonnell-Douglas / Boeing F/A-18 USN fighter attack aircraft, NICKNAMEd "Plastic Bug"; a single PILOT jet with a very low maintenance schedule, making it more reliable than other combat airplanes; see BIRD. Also, the DeHavilland HORNET was developed as a speculative venture based upon the MOSQUITO, being designed as a long-range fighter for use in the Pacific Theater of Operations (PTO) against Imperial Japan, especially in Malaya. Produced from 1944 until 1956 for USAAF, RAAF, and other allied air forces, it was the fastest piston-engined fighter in service, and the fastest (472mph at 22,000 alt) wooden aircraft ever built. The HORNET was powered by twin-engines (V-12 liquid-cooled 2000hp) with their propellers rotating in opposite directions, canceling the adverse effects of torque and yaw, thus providing a more stable and predictable flight behaviour. In its several variations (36ft L by 45ft W by 14ft H), the HORNET was armed with cannons, rockets, bombs, and had twice the range of the MOSQUITO (qv). See BIRD.

HORS DE COMBAT :

(or-duh-kombah) literal French for "out of the fight", meaning disabled or impaired, as unable to continue fighting. Used metaphorically in the sense of having been "bested" or disarmed by an opponent (see SALUTE), to desist or resign (see STACK ARMS, RIP), to be unfit (see WHOLE MAN, MILLION DOLLAR WOUND, DRAFTEE). Also used as an ironic sexual allusion for spent, exhausted, unable to perform further feats (see SCREW THE POOCH, TURN IN THE BARREL, HAT TRICK).

HORSE MARINE :

insulting reference to anyone aboard ship who is unhandy or lubberly, such as a seagoing infantryman mounted on a horse, but especially offensive when identifying unskilled seamen or jackleg sailors; a stupid lout or clumsy oaf. Compare SALTY, HANDY; see JARHEAD, SEAGOING MARINE, SQUID, SWABBY, DOGFACE, ZOOMIE, GI.

HORSE PILL :

the large anti-MALARIA pill (M-11), being either chloroquine or chloroquine-primaquine, taken weekly by MIL-PERS as a prophylaxis dosage, which often produced persistant diarrhea. See CORK, FUO; compare DAPSONE, THE PILL, YELLOW JACK.

HOSE / HOSE-DOWN :

massive automatic weapons fire, as from a minigun, Spooky or other high firepower GUNSHIP. BASE CAMP perimeters suspected of being infiltrated by sappers would be HOSED-DOWN by GUNSHIPS and defenders would shoot MAD MINUTE. The kill ratio to expended AMMO during the VIETNAM WAR was about 20,000 rounds per enemy kill. See FPL, ENFILADE, SPRAY, ROCK 'n' ROLL, BUSTING CAPS, FLOCK SHOOT, BLIND FIRE, HAPPY FIRE; compare DOUBLE TAP.

HOSPITAL :

see SICK CALL, AID STATION, DISPENSARY, CHOP SHOP, MASH, MUST, EVAC, FST, CSH, FIELD HOSP, DUSTOFF, MEDEVAC, AIR AMBULANCE, CRACKER BOX, BAND-AID, TRIAGE, ZERO WARD, ANGEL, BAC-SI, Y-SI, SAWBONES, BONE CUTTER, DOC, MEDIC, ORDERLY, SGO, USAMRIID, FEST.

HOSPITAL CORNER :

the 45-degree angle (octant) corner fold of bedding (ie: sheet, blanket, cover, or other SLOP) dressing a cot, RACK, bunk, or BERTH ready for inspection, as specified by regulations.

HOT :

dangerous, frantic, intense, as under enemy fire, or in an uncompromising situation ("in the hot seat"); see RED LZ, CYA, HIC, DODGE THE BULLET, DUD, LOOSE CANNON, SHOOTING WAR.

HOT AIR :

exaggerated talk or pretentious writing, as the monopolization of a presentation or discussion with empty or meaningless talk. See SNOW, CONFETTI, TALK TRASH, BLOW SMOKE, WOOF, BRAVO SIERRA, MOTOR MOUTH, VERBAL DIARRHEA, CHICKEN SHIT, SHOOT THE SHIT, GAS BAG, SCUTTLEBUTT; compare DEAD AIR. [nb: 'hooey', allegedly an Americanism used as an interjection for nonsense or tripe, is actually a corruption of the Russian vulgarity ("khuy") for penis, and is commonly used alone (eg: dick, dickhead, dick-wad) or in phrases (eg: dumber than dick; he doesn't know dick; don't dick around; don't stir your tea with your dick)] [cf: migration of "putz" from shine through ornament to penis and dolt; as sexual lure] [v: lucky stiff]

HOT DOG :

slang for a show-off or risk-taker, as someone with talent but lacking experience and judgement, being reckless and irresponsible; may be a "weenie" but not a frankfurter, wiener, or wurst. See COWBOY, TAP-DANCER, DUD, TRIGGER-HAPPY. [v: show-off, swank, coxcomb, princox, turkey cock, popinjay, sophist, nabob, nibs, stuffed-shirt, gentry, sophisticate, culture vulture, pooh-bah, panjandrum, high and mighty, hogen mogen, high-muckety-muck, high-muck-a-muck] Also, slang for penis, phallus, PRICK / CU, POGUE, POGY BAIT, SHORT ARM, and the like. [nb: 'hooey', allegedly an Americanism used as an interjection for nonsense or tripe, is actually a corruption of the Russian vulgarity ("khuy") for penis, and is commonly used alone (eg: dick, dickhead, dick-wad) or in phrases (eg: dumber than dick; he doesn't know dick; don't dick around; don't stir your tea with your dick)] [cf: migration of "putz" from shine through ornament to penis and dolt; as sexual lure] [v: lucky stiff]

HOT-FUELING :

to TOP-OFF an aircraft without shutting-down the engines, and without stopping the propellers if the situation is urgent enough, for immediate take-off and return to duty; being an emergency procedure during which nobody disembarks, which shut-down and disembarkation are normally safety requirements. If a BOMB FARM is nearby, as on an aircraft carrier, some rearmament may occur during the limited time available for refueling. This procedure is most often performed by MEDEVACs and SLICKs relaying into and out of a HOT LZ or other crisis. See POL, PETROL, JP, JUICE, BLIVET, BLADDER, POD, DROP-TANK, TANKER, ENDURANCE.

HOT GREASE :

slang for fissile/fissionable materials (eg: uranium, plutonium, etc); see YELLOWCAKE, HEAVY WATER, COCKTAIL, SOUP, CONTAINMENT, SCRAM, NEST, TOMB, HAZMAT, CBR, WMD, OVERKILL, NUKE.

HOT HOIST :

extraction while under enemy fire of ground personnel by use of a helicopter's cable hoist, due to terrain or TRIPLE CANOPY preventing a landing; see JUNGLE PENETRATOR, CHOPPER, SAR; compare McGUIRE RIG, STABO, SKYHOOK, TRAWL.

HOT HOUSE :

slang designation for the federal penitentiary at Leavenworth KS, by reference to the tension or pressure generated in the "big house" or "glasshouse" (not analogous to greenhouse, terrarium or vivarium) by serious criminals; compare THE CASTLE, see BRIG, CROSSBAR HOTEL, CHL, STOCKADE.

HOT PURSUIT :

a legal exception to inviolate boundaries, permitting an active military engagement to stray across an international border, as when repulsing an INCURSION or punishing a transgression. During the VIETNAM WAR, OPLAN 37-64 gave authorization for HOT PURSUIT across international borders or into denied areas whenever allied air or ground elements are engaged with enemy forces. The Rules of Engagement (ROE) require that affected units must return to their authorized stations as soon as hostilities cease. A viable resort for a police action, this warrant is most often employed when an aggressor lurks in a cross-border sanctuary, but action or residence beyond immediate response can widen into an international incident involving diplomatic negotiation or intervention with third parties. See OVER THE FENCE, GUNBOAT DIPLOMACY, BIG STICK DIPLOMACY, SABER-RATTLING, GUNPOINT, RULES OF ENGAGEMENT (ROE), LAWS OF WAR; compare FAIL-SAFE.

HOT-SHIT :

the most accurate INTEL, the latest information, or the current news, as the "straight skinny" or "inside scoop"; see POOP, THE WORD, HEADS-UP, FYI, DOPE, GOUGE, GREEN GREASE, BULLETIN, BOATSWAIN'S PIPE, BUGLE CALL, TANNOY, VECTOR; compare OLD HAT. [nb: at West Point and Annapolis after WWI, the courses on physics and navigation or astronomy were called "skinny" due to the intramural tutoring needed for satisfactory completion; which may be the origin of that slang term for reliably current information] Also, any wonderful thing or event, something or someone terrific, outstanding, superlative; not to be confused with "shit-hot", see SUPER-TROOPER, HARD CHARGER, FAST MOVER, BOOMER, BALLS TO THE WALL, YOUNG LIONS, BOY WONDER, COWBOY, HOT DOG, HOT SHOT, SHIT.

HOT SHOT :

incendiary cannon fire from ARTY or TANKs. Also, a conspicuous or arrogant commander, as someone who throws their weight (RANK) around; see TRIGGER-HAPPY. Also, another NICKNAME for a SWEAT HOG or BOY WONDER; probably a sexual metaphor. Also, to "mainline" or inject narcotics intravenously; see DOPE, JUNK, SMACK, CHINA WHITE.

HOT STUFF :

slang for High Frequency Direction-Finding (HFDF), being a form of RDF.

HOUSECLEANING :

the act of cleaning a work space or living area completely and thoroughly; see FATIGUE, POLICE, GI PARTY, SQUARED AWAY, SHIPSHAPE. Also, the act of improving or reforming by elimination, replacement, or revision, as of personnel or methodologies; also called DEADHEADing by analogy to horticultural pruning.

HOUSE MOUSE :

an enlisted man (EM) who is selected to assist the training CADRE, the drill instructor (DI), or company-level COMMAND ELEMENT with ERRANDS, chores, demonstrations, and other tasks; such unofficial appointment to extra duty is usually preliminary to promotion. See DOGSBODY, DOG ROBBER, STRIKER, ORDERLY, MAN FRIDAY, GOFER, DRO; compare AIDE, RUNNER.

HOUSEWARMING :

ironic reference to the artillery barrage and/or aerial bombardment of an urban target as preparation for ground assault; see MOUT, FIBUA, MOUSE HOLE.

HOUSEWIFE :

slang for a compact sewing kit; see DITTY BAG.

HOWITZER :

portable short-barreled artillery cannon; a HOWITZER fires at a higher angle, shorter range, and lower muzzle-velocity than a "gun". See ARTY, BASE PIECE, DIME-NICKEL, DPICM, FA, FUZE, KILLER JUNIOR, ONE-OH-DEUCE, PENNY-NICKEL-NICKEL, PALADIN, PINTLE, PROJOS, SP, TOWED, TOT, TRACK, TRUNNION. [nb: during WWII, a regiment (RGT) included a "Cannon Company" consisting of 105mm howitzers] [nb: "Cannon: a complex scientific instrument that is used more effectively than a theodolite in the rectification of national boundaries." paraphrase of Ambrose Bierce:]

HQ :

HeadQuarters, also abbreviated "HQs"; see NAVOP, ORIFICE, HEADSHED, PUZZLE PALACE, MAD HOUSE, IVORY TOWER, CLOUD-CUCKOO-LAND, HEADQUARTERISM.

HSAS :

Headquarters Support Activity Saigon.

HUBBLE-BUBBLE :

a simplified or improvised water-pipe (hookah/hooka or narghile/nargileh/nargiòle) which makes a characteristic bubbling sound when the tobacco and/or hashish smoke passes through the cooling water in a container; an onomatopoeic rhyming compound, as derived from the jar or vase that's used as a pipe bowl for smoking. Compare GASPER, PIGTAIL, STICK, HAY, GRASS, JUNK, DOPE, COLORS, STONED, TAR BABY. [nb: Muslim contradictory use of narcotics but prohibition of wine and other spiritous liquors (THE DRINK)]

HUD :

Heads Up Display, a luminous image of the active or critical controls projected against a transparent display or the windshield at eye-level for the PILOT or WSO, so that awareness outside the canopy or COCKPIT is maintained, especially during combat sequences; see SIGHT PICTURE.

HUDSON HIGH :

slang reference to the United States Military Academy (USMA) at West Point, NY; also called "Hudson Detention Center for Delinquents", "Hell on the Hudson", and "Union of Shitheads, Mumblers, and Assholes". See CADET, RING-KNOCKER, TRADE SCHOOL, BOAT SCHOOL, OCS, ROTC. [nb: According to Alden Partridge, the West Point academy, that "nursery of aristocracy" and "public charity school", possessed a system of education designed to produce "military pedants and military dandies", and would form the basis of a "military aristocracy" that would threaten national values and republican institutions; and as its first superintendent, he repeatedly recommended curricular reforms, and after resigning his commission, he proposed its closure and replacement by an American System of practical education, that later became ROTC.] [v: Siwash ("At Good Old Siwash" by George Helgeson Fitch (1911)] [v: Military Schools]

HUE :

First built by Emperor Gia Long early in the nineteenth century, Hue was the imperial capital of Vietnam between 1802 and 1945. It is located on Highway 1 about 420 miles south of Hanoi and 670 miles north of Saigon and was an independent municipality under the Republic of Vietnam (Rvn). For the VIET CONG and North Vietnamese, Hue was a city with tremendous historical significance. Being the former imperial capital of a united Vietnam, the center of Vietnamese cultural and religious life, and the capital of Thua Thien Province, Hue became an important symbol in the struggle for dominance of INDOCHINA. It was also a difficult city to defend. Isolated by the Annamese mountain chain and bordered by Laos to the west and the Demilitarized Zone to the north, Hue was without access to a major port for resupply. Still, before the Tet Offensive, Hue was considered secure for South Vietnam. That all ended on 31 January 1968. At 3:40 a.m. that morning North Vietnamese Army (NVA) artillery began pounding the city. Elements of the NVA 6th Regiment simultaneously attacked Military Assistance Command, Vietnam (MACV) headquarters in Hue and ARVN 1st Division headquarters. Other NVA troops blockaded Highway 1 north and south of the city and attacked several hundred other sites in the city. By daylight, the VIET CONG flag was flying atop the Imperial Citadel of the Nguyen emperors. Hue had fallen to the Communists. The American and ARVN counterattack on Hue began almost immediately with huge volumes of artillery, naval bombardment, and air strikes reducing much of Hue to rubble while elements of the First Air Cavalry Division, the 101st Airborne Division, the ARVN 1st Division, the U.S. 1st Marines, and ARVN Rangers and Marines engaged in house-to- house, hand-to-hand combat with NVA troops and VIET CONG. The Imperial Citadel was not recaptured from the Communists until February 24, 1968. Hue had been devastated. More than 50 percent of the city had been totally destroyed, and 116,000 people of a total population of 140,000 had been rendered homeless. Nearly 6,000 civilians were dead or missing, and several thousand more were assassinated outright during the VIET CONG occupation. The NVA and VIET CONG suffered 5,000 dead; the United States, 216 dead and 1,364 seriously wounded; and the ARVN, 384 dead and 1,830 seriously wounded. Like the Tet Offensive in general, the battle for Hue was a tactical defeat for the Communists as well as a strategic victory. In taking control of the city, if only for several weeks, they had proven that MACV predictions of an imminent Communist collapse were totally groundless, undermining American faith in the credibility of political and military leaders. Hue in particular, and Tet in general, was indeed the turning point in the war.

HUEY :

NICKNAME for the Bell "utility helicopter" (UH) series of CHOPPERS, formally known as IROQUOIS, and called "dipper" by the PAVN for its flight mannerisms.

HUEY TUG :

NICKNAME for the Bell special UH-1 utility helicopter, developed in 1968, with a stronger airframe and more powerful engine, that could lift loads up to three tons, which was nearly double that of a conventional HUEY.

HUFF DUFF :

slang used since WWII for High-Frequency Direction-Finding; see HF, RDF, TACAN. [v: goniometry]

HUG :

when the enemy closes or engages too near to friendly assets and elements such that artillery (ARTY) or close air support (CAS, TAC-AIR) cannot be employed to repulse or defeat them; the GUERRILLA tactic of "grabbing your opponent by his shirttail".

HULL :

the outermost and lowermost hollow portion of a ship or other vessel that floats partially submerged while supporting its infrastructure and superstructure; the "shell" or "skin" of a BOAT or amphibious craft enabling it to float; compare PRESSURE HULL, see GUNWALE, BOARD, STRAKE, DECK, OVERHEAD, BULKHEAD, GASOLINE ALLEY, HATCH, SCUTTLE, SEACOCK, GIGGLES 'n' BANGS, CAISSON, ACCOMMODATION LADDER, PORTHOLE, FIN, DRAFT, FREEBOARD, LOAD-LINE MARK, PLIMSOLL MARK, WARSHIP. Also, the boat-like portion of the fuselage of an amphibious aircraft. Also, an outer covering or envelope; a surrounding or enclosing part, as the shell of a vehicle or the HULL of a TANK. Also, to drift, as a ship or other craft, without power or propulsion; also called DEAD IN THE WATER.

HUMANITARIAN SERVICE MEDAL / HSM :

awarded to military personnel for direct meritorious participation in the humanitarian evacuation of Vietnamese refugees during the period 1-30 April 1975 at the Fall of the Saigon regime in South Vietnam (RVN); since awarded for similar non-combat service in aid of refugees and disaster victims.

HUMINT :

HUMan INTelligence, information developed from human sources.

HUMMER :

slang for the HUMVEE, or M-998 High Mobility Multi-purpose Wheeled Vehicle (HMMWV); compare JEEP; see GAMMA GOAT, DUCK/DUKW, FAV, MULE, CHAPARRAL. Also, slang for oral sex; see CHOWING DOWN, BUSH PILOT, MUFF DIVER, LOVE HANDLES, DAISY CHAIN, HAT TRICK, HEAD, WINGS, BIB, TRICK, BUTTERFLY, FUCK, DIDDLY, STEAM 'n' CREAM, HOOKUP, CHURNING BUTTER, BOOM-BOOM, SHORT-TIME, HELL ON WHEELS, SHACK-JOB.

HUMP :

to slog around through the BOONIES on foot under full COMBAT LOAD (eg: "humping the ruck"). Also, the rotation of 25% or more of a unit within a 30-day period, also known as "rotational hump"; compare INFUSION. Also, the 900 mile Himalayan mountain barrier, between the Salween and Mekong Rivers, flown over during WWII to supply Nationalist Chinese fighting Imperial Japanese, until the LEDO ROAD was connected to the Burma Road; also called the "Hump Airlift", and this route was called the "Aluminum Trail" or "Aluminum Highway" due to the number of crashed aircraft and vehicles. Also, a euphemism for sex; see SHORT-TIME, FUCK.

HUMVEE :

pronunciation of the acronym for the High Mobility Multi-purpose Wheeled Vehicle (HMMWV), M-998; also called HUMMER. Compare JEEP; see GAMMA GOAT, DUCK/DUKW, FAV, MULE, CHAPARRAL.

HUN :

the North American Rockwell F-100 SUPER SABRE aircraft. This single-place fighter-bomber has a low, thin, swept-back wing and supersonic turbojet speed. Also, derogatory reference to a German soldier during WWI, being a deliberate propaganda ploy to associate Germans with the earlier barbarian marauders ... ironically, the Germanic tribes fought with Rome against the invasion of Europe by the Huns; see HERMAN THE GERMAN.

HUNTIR :

High-Altitude Unit Navigated Tactical Imaging Round, a 40mm MUNITIONS round developed by Martin Electronics, that provides infantry elements with an enhanced battlefield awareness, and is fired from an M-79, M-203, or M-32 grenade launcher. This round consists of a cartridge case assembly, and a metal projectile body containing a first fire charge, a pyrotechnic delay column, an ejection charge, a CMOS Camera, and a parachute assembly; then upon firing, the projectile assembly is propelled to an average height of 700 feet, the first fire charge ignites the pyrotechnic delay element, which ignites an ejection charge that effectively ejects the CMOS Camera, which is attached to the parachute, and the CMOS Camera provides up to five minutes of real-time streaming video within a one mile line-of-sight range to a handheld device with a corresponding transceiver.

HURRY-UP AND WAIT :

a result of the compulsory marriage between "crisis" and "inefficiency", this purported military doctrine requires that nothing will be adequately scheduled and nothing shall be done on time. This "rush and delay" pattern is not predictable, since the first time a soldier anticipates the condition, the military will function perfectly, leaving the misguided second-guesser out of step! See MARK TIME, HANG LOOSE.

HUSKY :

Kaman HH-43 USAF single-engine helicopter with twin offset main rotors and stabilized split TAILBOOM; designed for crash-rescue operations. See CHOPPER, SAR, CSAR.

HUT :

see BILLET, SAFE HOUSE, GUARDHOUSE, BUNKER, BUTLER BUILDING, HANGAR, SEA HUT, HUTMENT, QUONSET HUT, TEAMHOUSE, BIVOUAC, PUP TENT, BOLT HOLE, HIDE, DUGOUT, BOHIO, HOOCH, SHEBANG, LONG HOUSE, VILLE. [v: bield, bower, cabin, cottage, cabana, lodge, earth lodge, hogan]

HUTMENT :

a partially prefabricated BASE CAMP building, made of tent canvas stretched over a wood frame with four-foot high wooden walls, a wood floor, and a wooden door at each end. It was impossible to keep clean or comfortable, difficult to keep dry or ventilated, heated by a primitive wood/coal stove; it was used from the SPANISH-AMERICAN WAR through WWII. Also, the grouping of such half-wood and tent structures; compare SEA HUT; see TENT, BASE CAMP, BIVOUAC, COMPANY STREET.

HYPERSONIC :

denoting or pertaining to speed that is at least five times that of sound in the same medium; see MACH, SONIC BOOM, JET PROPULSION; compare SUPERSONIC. [nb: the velocity and distance that sound travels in either air or water depends upon atmospheric pressure, medium temperature, molecular density, and turbulence; such that under equivalent conditions, sound moves faster in salt water than in fresh, faster in fresh water than in air. The audible range of sound wave frequencies for humans is 20 - 20,000 Hz; above which ultrasonic waves may be felt, instead of heard.] [cf: ultrasound]

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