Mary Allen
Introduction: What are Army Dog Tags?
Army dog tags, also known as identification tags, are small metal tags that are worn by military personnel to identify them in case of death, injury, or capture. These tags are worn around the neck and are made of metal, usually aluminum or stainless steel. The tags contain important information such as the soldier’s name, blood type, and religion.
History of Army Dog Tags
The use of dog tags dates back to the American Civil War, when soldiers used them to identify their bodies on the battlefield. The tags were made of various materials, including wood and paper, and were tied around the neck or wrist. In 1906, the U.S. Army began issuing aluminum tags that were stamped with the soldier’s name, rank, and unit. During World War II, the tags were issued in pairs, with one tag being left with the body and the other being retained by the military.
Purpose of Army Dog Tags
The primary purpose of army dog tags is to identify soldiers in case of death, injury, or capture. The tags contain important information such as the soldier’s name, blood type, and religion, which can be used to identify the soldier and notify family members. In addition, the tags are used to track medical records and equipment issued to the soldier. The tags also serve as a means of identification for soldiers who are killed in action, providing closure for their families and ensuring that they are properly honored and remembered.
Information on Army Dog Tags
Army dog tags contain a variety of information about the soldier, including their name, branch of service, and blood type. Additional information may include the soldier’s religion, social security number, and medical information. The tags may also include a silhouette of the soldier’s branch of service, such as an eagle for the Air Force or an anchor for the Navy. The information on the tags is essential for identifying soldiers in case of injury or death, and for ensuring that they receive proper medical treatment and equipment.
Structure of Army Dog Tags
Army dog tags are typically made of metal, usually aluminum or stainless steel. The tags are rectangular in shape and measure approximately 2 inches by 1 inch. They are typically worn around the neck on a chain, but may also be attached to a bag or other equipment. The tags are stamped with the soldier’s information using a machine that imprints the letters and numbers onto the metal.
Types of Army Dog Tags
There are two types of army dog tags: the identification tag (ID tag) and the medical tag. The ID tag contains the soldier’s name, branch of service, and other identifying information. The medical tag contains information about the soldier’s blood type, allergies, and other medical conditions. Both tags are worn together on the same chain, with the ID tag in front of the medical tag.
Who Receives Army Dog Tags
All military personnel are issued dog tags, including active duty, reserve, and National Guard members. The tags are also issued to civilian employees of the Department of Defense who are deployed overseas. In addition, cadets at military academies and members of ROTC programs may be issued dog tags as part of their training.
Dog Tags in Combat
Army dog tags are an essential part of a soldier’s gear in combat. The tags are worn at all times, even while sleeping, and are used to identify soldiers who are injured or killed in action. In some cases, soldiers may write additional information on their tags, such as their blood type or allergies, to ensure that they receive proper medical treatment.
Importance of Army Dog Tags
Army dog tags are an important symbol of military service and sacrifice. They serve as a reminder of the risks that soldiers take in defending their country, and as a way to honor those who have made the ultimate sacrifice. The tags also provide a sense of security to soldiers, knowing that their identity can be quickly and easily established in case of injury or death.
Changes in Army Dog Tags
Over the years, the design and information on army dog tags have changed to reflect advances in technology and changes in military operations. In 1967, the army began issuing plastic tags instead of metal, and in 1985, the tags were changed again to include a barcode that could be scanned to access the soldier’s medical information. Today, some soldiers may also be issued electronic dog tags that can be read using a smartphone or other device.
Conclusion: Army Dog Tags as a Symbol
Army dog tags are an important symbol of military service and sacrifice. They serve as a reminder of the risks that soldiers take in defending their country, and as a way to honor those who have made the ultimate sacrifice. The tags also provide a sense of security to soldiers, knowing that their identity can be quickly and easily established in case of injury or death.
Frequently Asked Questions about Army Dog Tags
Q: Can soldiers customize their dog tags?
A: Soldiers are not allowed to customize their dog tags, as the information on the tags must be standardized to ensure that it can be quickly and easily understood by medical personnel.
Q: Do soldiers wear their dog tags at all times?
A: Yes, soldiers are required to wear their dog tags at all times, even while sleeping.
Q: What should I do if I find a lost dog tag?
A: If you find a lost dog tag, you should turn it in to the nearest military installation or contact the soldier’s unit. The tag may contain important information that can be used to identify the soldier and notify their family.