Why Do Soldiers Wear 2 Dog Tags?
When it comes to military attire, soldiers wear a variety of gear to identify themselves and stay safe on the battlefield. One of the most recognizable pieces of equipment is the dog tag, a small metal identification tag that hangs around the neck of soldiers. But have you ever wondered why soldiers wear two dog tags? In this article, we’ll explore the history and purpose behind this common military practice.
Direct Answer: Why Do Soldiers Wear 2 Dog Tags?
The primary reason soldiers wear two dog tags is to ensure that critical identification information is always available, even in the event of a medical emergency or casualty. The first dog tag typically carries the soldier’s name, rank, and Social Security number, while the second dog tag contains their blood type and emergency contact information.
History of Dog Tags
The use of dog tags in the military dates back to the early 20th century. During World War I, soldiers were issued metal identity tags that hung around their necks to identify them in case they were killed or injured. These early dog tags were made of brass and featured the soldier’s name, rank, and regimental number.
Types of Dog Tags
Over the years, dog tags have evolved to include various types of information. There are two main types of dog tags:
- Type 1 Dog Tag: This dog tag is usually worn on the left side of the neck and contains the soldier’s name, rank, and Social Security number.
- Type 2 Dog Tag: This dog tag is worn on the right side of the neck and contains the soldier’s blood type, emergency contact information, and sometimes medical allergies or special needs.
Why Two Dog Tags? The Safety Benefits
Wearing two dog tags provides several safety benefits for soldiers:
- Double the chances of identification: If one dog tag is lost or damaged, the second tag ensures that critical information is still available to identify the soldier.
- Easy access to emergency contact information: In the event of a medical emergency, the second dog tag provides quick access to the soldier’s emergency contact information, allowing medical personnel to reach their next of kin or emergency contacts.
- Reduced risk of mistaken identity: Wearing two dog tags reduces the risk of mistaken identity, as each tag contains different information.
Modern Day Applications
While dog tags are still an essential part of military attire, modern technology has led to some changes in their design and function. Today, dog tags are often made of durable plastic or metal and feature additional information such as:
- Biometric data: Some dog tags contain biometric data, such as fingerprints or DNA information, to aid in identification.
- RFID tags: Some modern dog tags incorporate RFID (Radio-Frequency Identification) technology, allowing for quick scanning and identification.
Table: Comparison of Old and New Dog Tags
| Old Dog Tags | New Dog Tags | |
|---|---|---|
| Material | Brass or metal | Plastic or metal |
| Information | Name, rank, and SSN | Name, rank, SSN, blood type, emergency contact, biometric data, RFID |
| Function | Identification only | Identification and emergency contact |
Conclusion
In conclusion, soldiers wear two dog tags to ensure that critical identification information is always available, even in the event of a medical emergency or casualty. The first dog tag contains the soldier’s name, rank, and Social Security number, while the second dog tag carries their blood type and emergency contact information. The use of dog tags has evolved over the years, incorporating new technologies and designs to enhance their functionality and safety benefits.
