What Does 86 Mean in Military?
The military is a world of its own, with its own language, jargon, and terminology. One of the most common and misunderstood terms in the military is "86." So, what does 86 mean in military?
Direct Answer: What Does 86 Mean in Military?
In the military, "86" is a term used to indicate that something is not available or is no longer in stock. It can also be used to signal that a request or order has been cancelled or rejected. For example, if a soldier asks for a specific type of ammunition and is told "86," it means that the ammunition is not available.
History of the Term
The origin of the term "86" is unclear, but it is believed to have originated in the 1940s or 1950s. One theory is that it came from the practice of using the number 86 as a code to indicate that a particular item was no longer available. For example, if a soldier asked for a specific type of food and was told "86," it meant that the food was no longer in stock.
Meaning in Different Branches
While the term "86" is widely used in the military, its meaning can vary slightly from branch to branch. Here are some examples:
- Army: In the Army, "86" is used to indicate that a request or order has been cancelled or rejected. For example, if a soldier asks for a specific type of equipment and is told "86," it means that the equipment is no longer available.
- Navy: In the Navy, "86" is used to indicate that a ship or aircraft is no longer available for a particular mission. For example, if a sailor asks to use a specific ship for a mission and is told "86," it means that the ship is no longer available.
- Air Force: In the Air Force, "86" is used to indicate that a specific aircraft or equipment is no longer available. For example, if a pilot asks to use a specific aircraft for a mission and is told "86," it means that the aircraft is no longer available.
Examples of 86 in Military Situations
Here are some examples of how "86" might be used in different military situations:
- Request for ammunition: A soldier asks for a specific type of ammunition and is told "86." This means that the ammunition is no longer available.
- Request for equipment: A soldier asks for a specific type of equipment and is told "86." This means that the equipment is no longer available.
- Request for transportation: A soldier asks to use a specific ship or aircraft for a mission and is told "86." This means that the ship or aircraft is no longer available.
- Request for personnel: A soldier asks for a specific type of personnel and is told "86." This means that the personnel are no longer available.
Table: Examples of 86 in Military Situations
| Situation | Example | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Request for ammunition | "We’re 86 on 5.56mm ammo." | The ammunition is no longer available. |
| Request for equipment | "We’re 86 on the MREs." | The equipment (MREs) is no longer available. |
| Request for transportation | "We’re 86 on the helicopter." | The helicopter is no longer available. |
| Request for personnel | "We’re 86 on the linguist." | The personnel (linguist) are no longer available. |
Conclusion
In conclusion, "86" is a term used in the military to indicate that something is not available or is no longer in stock. Its meaning can vary slightly from branch to branch, but it is generally used to signal that a request or order has been cancelled or rejected. By understanding the meaning of "86" in military, soldiers can better communicate and navigate the complexities of military operations.
