What Information is on a Military Dog Tag?
Military dog tags are essential identification tools, primarily containing vital personal and medical information about the service member. These two small, metal plates, typically worn around the neck, serve a crucial role in identification, especially in combat zones or emergencies.
The information stamped onto military dog tags is standardized to ensure quick and accurate identification and facilitate immediate medical care if a service member is wounded or incapacitated. This critical data helps military personnel, medical staff, and commanding officers identify an individual and access necessary details without delay.
Key Information Stamped on Military Dog Tags
The specific details found on a military dog tag include personal identifiers and essential medical information. While the exact format and number of lines can vary slightly between military branches and over time, the core information remains consistent.
Here is a breakdown of the standard information typically found:
| Information Category | Details Stamped on Tag | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Personal Identity | Full Name | Ensures accurate identification of the individual. |
| Identification Number | Service Number, Military ID Number, or Social Security Number | Provides a unique identifier for military records and personnel tracking. The type of number used has evolved over time. |
| Medical Information | Blood Type | Crucial for immediate blood transfusions or other medical procedures in emergency situations. |
| Religious Preference | Religion | Indicates religious preference, which can be important for last rites or respectful handling of remains according to beliefs. |
This concise set of data ensures that military personnel can be quickly identified and that their immediate medical and personal needs can be addressed, even under challenging circumstances. The simplicity and durability of dog tags make them an invaluable piece of equipment for every service member.
