How Soldiers Address Each Other: A Comprehensive Guide

When discussing the terminology soldiers use to address each other, a lot of confusion can arise due to the different military cultures and practices around the world. Drawing from my experience in the Canadian Military during the late 1970s, I will delve into how my fellow soldiers and I referred to one another, and compare it to other practices worldwide.

Introduction to Soldier Terminology

In the military, the relationship and level of hierarchy between soldiers can significantly influence how they address each other. This can range from the familiar 'first name' to the more formal 'rank and last name.' Each branch and era has its own unique slang and informal terms, making military life a rich tapestry of linguistic diversity.

Canadian Military Context

In my experience with the Canadian Military, the relationship dynamics often set the tone for addressing fellow soldiers. Typically, within an E-5 rank or below, the most common forms of address are simply the last name (e.g., "Hey Smith, what the heck is up with you?"). However, if the relationship was closer and the soldiers were on friendly terms, nicknames could be used (e.g., "Novacaine for the slow speech problem").

For those bearing the role of NCOs (Non-Commissioned Officers) and below, it's common to use their rank and last name (e.g., "Sergeant Smith" or "Sarge"). This level of formality shows respect and acknowledges their position within the chain of command. In contrast, officers were usually addressed by rank and name ("Major Smith").

International Comparisons and Variations

Assuming a similar approach to other military branches, for enlisted personnel, the use of last names or nicknames predominates, reflecting a level of familiarity and camaraderie. However, this can vary based on cultural and professional contexts. For example, some units might allow more casual address, while others maintain a stricter formalism.

In countries where military units are closely knit, such as the Swedish military, it is customary to use the last three digits of a soldier's birth date followed by their last name (e.g., Karlsson str 91, where 91 represents 1991). This tradition helps distinguish individuals with the same names. Despite these customs, each unit and even each soldier may have their own unique slang and forms of address.

Types of Address and Hierarchical Influence

The address style can change significantly with rank. For instance, at a higher rank such as E-6 (Staff Sergeant), soldiers are often referred to with a combination of rank and name. For more senior NCOs and officers, address can be purely rank-based. This formality helps maintain discipline and respect for authority.

Some phrases might sound rough, but these terms are often used as a badge of belonging or to test the bonds of friendship. However, the use of offensive language is generally discouraged in formal settings and can conflict with the professional image the military aims to project.

Formal vs. Informal Address in Different Military Settings

Within the military, the level of formality can vary. For example, some soldiers might address friends by first name, while workmates might use the last name or a combination of rank and last name for those with higher ranks. In civilian contexts, terms like 'Bro' or 'Dude' might be used, but within the military, these terms are typically reserved for informal settings and used by friends or close colleagues.

For those who worked solely with each other, the chain of command often determines the address. If the relationship was purely professional, one might refer to a superior as 'Sarge' (Sergeant) if they outranked, or simply use the last name if the name was difficult to pronounce.

At the same rank, addressing each other by name is common, reflecting the close cooperation and trust that forms at this level. However, the standard practice is to use last names, as it helps soldiers stand out even in civilian clothes. This adherence to last names ensures that visitors or those outside the unit can quickly identify the soldiers and their status, contributing to the unique identity of military personnel.

Conclusion

Understanding how soldiers address each other is crucial for those navigating military culture. Whether it's the use of last names, nicknames, or titles, the approach can vary widely. These conventions serve to maintain professionalism, respect for authority, and the camaraderie that is so vital in military life.

Whether you are a veteran, a current serving member, or someone interested in the military world, grasping these subtleties in address can enhance your understanding and respect for the complexities of military interactions.