Marines frequently use a variety of terms to address one another, ranging from formal titles to informal nicknames that often reflect their camaraderie and specific roles within the Corps. While "Marine" is the most common and overarching term, they also use specific slang, particularly "Grunts" and "POGs," to distinguish between infantry and non-infantry roles.
Common Terms of Address Among Marines
Marines share a unique culture, and their informal terms of address are a testament to their close bonds and shared experiences.
- Marine: The most fundamental and respectful way for any Marine to refer to another. It emphasizes their shared identity and elite status within the U.S. armed forces.
- Devil Dog (or "Devil Dogs"): A popular and historic nickname for Marines, originating from German soldiers during World War I who supposedly called them "Teufelshunde" due to their fierce fighting spirit. Marines often use this affectionately among themselves or to refer to the collective body of Marines.
- Leatherneck: Another traditional nickname, dating back to the 18th century when Marines wore stiff leather collars to protect their necks from saber slashes and to help them maintain an upright posture. This term is more historical but still recognized and sometimes used.
Grunts and POGs: Distinguishing Roles
Within the Marine Corps, specific terms emerged to differentiate between infantry and non-infantry personnel, reflecting a unique internal dynamic.
- Grunts: This term is used by non-infantry Marines to refer to their infantry brothers and sisters. Infantry Marines, identified by their 03XX Military Occupational Specialties (MOS), are considered the backbone of the Corps' combat readiness.
- POGs: Standing for Personnel Other than Grunts, this is a term infantry Marines use, often "lovingly," to describe their non-infantry counterparts. These Marines fulfill crucial support roles that enable the infantry to operate effectively, even though every Marine is trained as a rifleman.
The distinction between Grunts and POGs highlights the diverse specializations within the Marine Corps, while also emphasizing their collective purpose.
Understanding the Internal Jargon
The use of terms like "Grunt" and "POG" is a form of internal shorthand that reinforces the bonds and understanding unique to the Marine Corps. It's a way Marines acknowledge each other's contributions and roles within the complex structure of the organization.
| Term | Used By | Refers To | Meaning/Context |
|---|---|---|---|
| Grunt | Non-infantry Marines (POGs) | Infantry Marines (03XX MOS) | Acknowledges their primary combat role, often carrying a connotation of respect for their frontline duties. |
| POG | Infantry Marines (Grunts) | Non-infantry Marines (support roles) | An acronym for "Personnel Other than Grunts," often used affectionately, recognizing their essential support functions. |
| Marine | All Marines | Any member of the U.S. Marine Corps | The most common and formal way to address each other, emphasizing shared identity, discipline, and pride. |
| Devil Dog | All Marines | Fellow Marines or the Corps collectively | An affectionate and historic nickname symbolizing ferocity and unwavering spirit, a point of shared pride. |
| Leatherneck | All Marines | Fellow Marines | A traditional, historical term referring to the stiff leather neckwear worn by Marines in earlier centuries, symbolizing heritage. |
These terms underscore the deep camaraderie and shared identity among all who earn the title of Marine, regardless of their specific job or MOS. They reflect a culture where every member, whether a "Grunt" or a "POG," contributes to the overall mission.
