In the military, do they pick their own code names, or are they given a code name?

Question

I've always wondered this and find some code names very interesting and the idea behind the code name idea.

Answer 1

Whoever drafts the operations plan for the mission usually just picks whatever code names they want for the various players. Lots of times they follow some theme like names of planets, or names of sports teams, or brands of scotch whiskey.



Unless you are talking about pilot call signs. Those are basically nicknames that you pick up along the way but they are subject to change by the CO/XO in your squadron since there can be a lot of overlap. If you show up at your new squadron and introduce yourself as "Iceman", you might get told your name is now "poser" or "meathead".

Answer 2

You would only have a code name if you were high ranking, part of some sort of spec ops squad, or something more specialized and secret (under cover intelligence). For high ranking personal there is usually a set name for them already but it differs depending on what country your in. For the spec ops and undercover people, I would guess your squad leader would pick your name, but in some squads you could probably pick any name not already taken. I read somewhere that the SAS members get a code name, not sure how they get there inspiration for them though.

Answer 3

Never had a code name, units have call signs though that are assigned in a publication called JANAP 119.

Answer 4

We never got any code names in our 4 yrs.

Answer 5

Military members DO NOT use what you call code names.



What fiction have you been reading.

Answer 6

It will depend on the level where the operation comes from. If it was the Top Brass they will decide the name for it, but at a lower level it may just be a Battalion Commander etc



H-man

Answer 7

For what purpose would you have a "code name"?

Answer 8

Most of us had nicknames at one point of another. The best way to have one stick is to let it be known you don't like it.

"Call me T-bone." "Nope, how about Bobo."

"Not, Bobo. T-Bone. I hate Bobo". "Bobo it is"