Branch-Specific Terminology Guide

Army Terms
  • MOS (Military Occupational Specialty): Job classification system
  • NCO (Non-Commissioned Officer): Enlisted leadership ranks (Sergeant and above)
  • HOOAH: Army expression of enthusiasm/agreement
Navy/Coast Guard Terms
  • Rate: Navy equivalent of Army MOS (job specialty)
  • CPO (Chief Petty Officer): Senior enlisted leadership position
  • HOOYAH: Navy/Coast Guard motivational expression
  • Anchors Aweigh: Traditional Navy song, popular for retirement ceremonies
Air Force/Space Force Terms
  • AFSC (Air Force Specialty Code): Job classification system
  • SNCO (Senior Non-Commissioned Officer): Senior enlisted leadership
  • HOOAH/HOORAH: Less common in Air Force, but used
Marine Corps Terms
  • MOS (Military Occupational Specialty): Same as Army
  • SNCO (Staff Non-Commissioned Officer): Senior enlisted Marines
  • SEMPER FI: "Always Faithful" - Marine Corps motto
  • OORAH: Marine Corps battle cry
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