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Understanding Military Traditions, Language, and Culture
This month’s podcast, “Military Traditions & Language: Decoding Your Child’s New World,” features a discussion with Ryan Bauman, Director of Community Engagement at Our Community Salutes (OCS), USA.
After a 20-year career as a Marine Corps artillery officer, Ryan transitioned into higher education and now leads OCS’s national community engagement efforts—organizing events and resources that recognize and support young men and women enlisting across all branches of the U.S. Armed Forces. His deep understanding of both military culture and family impact makes him the perfect guest to guide us through this important topic.
Click here to view Ryan’s Profile
See below for a recap from our live, group event in October
Listen Here
Here’s some helpful links discussed during our event on Wednesday, October 29
Title : Understanding Military Traditions, Language, and Culture
OCS Connect Resources 10/29/25
Military Acronyms | Military One Source:
https://www.militaryonesource.mil/military-basics/extended-family-friend/common-military-acronyms/
Fam, here are some more acronym resources!
USAF acronyms: https://www.afpc.af.mil/Career-Management/Acronyms/
USA acronyms: https://www.usmcu.edu/Portals/218/MARINE%20CORPS%20ACRONYMS.pdf
DTS is a good one to know. (Defense Travel System)
TDY (temporary duty) is pretty common as well.
Defense Security Cooperation University:
https://www.dscu.edu/sites/default/files/2024-04/21-annex-a-acronyms.pdf
Veteran.com: https://veteran.com/military-acronyms/
USMC acronyms: https://www.usmcu.edu/Portals/218/MARINE%20CORPS%20ACRONYMS.pdf
MOS List by Branch: https://www.militarymoney.com/careers/mos-lists/
MOS = AFSC in Air Force
MOS, or military occupational specialty | AFSC is an Air Force Specialty Code
Plan My Move: Create A Custom Military PCS Moving Checklist | Military OneSource
What are the Mottos of the 6 Branches of the U.S. Military? | USO
View ALL Installations: Military Installations - Military OneSource
My Base Guide: https://mybaseguide.com/
A little out-dated; however can serve as a terrific guideline: What to Bring List”(Prior to Shipping to Basic Training)
Phonetic alphabet w/ Signs & Signals: https://www.nato.int/nato_static_fl2014/assets/pdf/pdf_2018_01/20180111_nato-alphabet-sign-signal.pdf
Military Time Chart - The 24 Hour Clock
Blue Star Mothers: https://www.bluestarmothers.org/about-us
Semper Parents: Semper Parents: Supporting Your Marine and Sharing the Journey
Book Recommendation
https://www.amazon.com/Semper-Parents-Supporting-Sharing-Journey/dp/1934617644
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