Have You Ever Wondered How Military Dog Tags Engraved Became a Tradition?

The tradition of wearing identification tags, commonly known as 'dog tags,' has been a part of military culture for over a century. These small oval disks are engraved with vital information such as name, rank, and serial number, and are worn on a chain around the neck by service members. But have you ever wondered how and when this tradition started?

The concept of identification tags originated long before World War I, but it was during that war that they became a standardized practice in the military. Prior to then, soldiers had found various ways to identify themselves, such as carving their names into wood or using old coins. But with the outbreak of war, there was a pressing need for a more efficient and reliable method of identification.

The outcome of World War I showed that concerns about identification were valid, and the practice of making identification disks caught on. In fact, according to historical resources, by the end of the war, over 40 percent of the Union Army's dead were unidentified. To prevent this from happening again, soldiers began buying engraved metal tags from nongovernment sellers and sutlers.

The term 'dog tag' is believed to have been coined by newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearst in 1936. According to the Army Historical Foundation, Hearst referred to them as 'dog tags' because they looked similar to those used on a dog's collar. Another rumor suggests that World War II draftees called them dog tags because they felt they were being treated like dogs.

Regardless of where the nickname started, one thing is clear: identification tags have been an essential part of military protocol for over 100 years. They not only serve as a means of identifying fallen soldiers but also provide comfort to families and loved ones during times of crisis.

In conclusion, the tradition of wearing military dog tags engraved with vital information has its roots in World War I. While the origin of the nickname 'dog tag' may be unclear, it is clear that these small oval disks have played a significant role in military history and will continue to do so for generations to come.

Military dog tags engraved