THE HISTORY OF MILITARY DOG TAGS & THE NICKNAME ORIGIN
Ever wonder about the history behind military dog tags? You may be surprised to learn that dog tags, also known as ID tags, have a long history. Dog tags actually began in the 1800’s. Because the military tradition of assigning identification tags to military personnel resembled that of the identification tags worn by dogs, the name stuck and a tradition was born. Today, we’re helping you understand the history of dog tags and are breaking down just how it all started. And, maybe by the end of this article, you’ll want one yourself!Suggested read: USS John L. Canley Christened in Honor of Black MOH Recipient
What Are Military Dog Tags?
A dog tag necklace is worn around the neck on a chain. William Randolph Hearst created the name “dog tag” because he wanted to show support for President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s New Deal. The name dog tag originated from World War II draftees who called them this because they were treated like dogs. However, some say the tag looks similar to a tag on a dog's collar.
How Dog Tags Made a Lasting Impact in the Military
Military dog tags were mostly used in the Civil War because Soldiers were afraid no one would be able to identify them if they died. Soldiers marked their clothing with stencils, others used coins, bits of round lead, or copper. Some even carved their name into chunks of wood and wore it around their neck. While the dog tag necklace was the most reasonable one, it wasn’t affordable to everyone. In 1862, John Kennedy, a New Yorker, offered to make thousands of metal engraved disks for those who couldn’t afford it. Unfortunately, the War Department declined it. This led to 40% of the Union Army not being identified.Related read: Air Force Recruitment Improving While Army, Navy Lag
Stamped with Honor
In 1906, the Army officially put out an order that all disc-shaped ID tags were to be worn by Soldiers. Tags were stamped with the name of the Soldier, rank, company, and regiment or corps. While the Army required Soldiers to wear military dog tags, the Navy didn’t require them until May 1917. At that time, all U.S. combat troops had to wear them. By World War II, military dog tags were considered a part of uniform. The shape has evolved into a rounded rectangle made of nickel-copper alloy. These tags included name, rank, service number, blood type, and religion. Additionally, you could add an emergency notification name.
Are Dog Tags in Use Today?
Today, tags are a representation of an individual that puts their life on the line. Even though advancements in technology have been made regarding Soldier identification, many are still wearing dog tags.Want to wear a dog tag of your own? Not only do Soldiers wear military dog tags, but others wear them as well. Military dog tags are a good way to display your information in case of an emergency. Tags can be made in any color and text. You can even order a personalized dog tag necklace that can be engraved with custom graphics, symbols, text, and even monograms.Read next: The Alabama Air National Guard Is the Home Base for F-35s