Military Terminology Guide
Understanding common military language is a small but meaningful step toward building trust with student veterans and service members. Familiarity with the terms below helps Green Zone allies communicate with confidence and respect.
Service Member
A general term for currently serving personnel — Active Duty, National Guard, and Reserve components — across all branches: Army, Air Force, Navy, Marines, and Coast Guard.
Veteran
Any individual who served in the U.S. military, regardless of the length, time, or location of their service.
Dependents (Family Members)
A child or spouse of a veteran or service member.
OIF — Operation Iraqi Freedom
The U.S. military engagement in Iraq.
OEF — Operation Enduring Freedom
The U.S. military engagement in Afghanistan.
MOS / AFSC — Military Occupational Specialty
A service member's job or role while serving in the military.
Hooah / Hoorah / Oorah
A phrase with many uses — expressing excitement, acknowledging an order, or showing agreement and compliance. Think of it as the military equivalent of "yes" or "understood."
DFAC / Chow Hall / Mess Hall
Military terms for the dining facility or cafeteria.
PCS — Permanent Change of Station
Refers to a service member relocating to a new duty assignment.
ETS — Expiration Term of Service
Used when a service member completes their contracted time with the military and separates from active service.
Police Call
A directive to pick up trash from a designated area — including gum, cigarette butts, and other debris.
Ate-Up
Informal term used to describe a situation that isn't going well, or a person who lacks military bearing (professional conduct and social awareness).
Roger
Denotes understanding or compliance. The military equivalent of "okay" or "understood."
For more information, visit the Green Zone program page or contact the Newton Military Family Resource Center at 931-221-1685 or NMFRC@apsu.edu.
