UNDERSTANDING MILITARY CULTURE

An iceberg is a common analogy used when explaining culture. Like an iceberg, culture has components that are fully visible to others (above the surface). Language, etiquette, food, and dress are the tangible aspects of culture that are easily identifiable to others, but don't tell the whole story of a culture.

There are parts of a culture that lie just below the surface and can be exposed with minimal effort or explanation. One example might be differences in words or phrases such as regions that say soda versus pop, sprinkles instead of jimmies, or first floor versus second floor.

The majority of a culture's components lie below surface. These are the deeper aspects of a culture that are understood after considerable time and effort. Examples of these hidden elements are child-rearing beliefs, collectivism versus individualism, and female/male roles in society.

Here is a visual depiction of the Cultural Iceberg.

Individuals within a cultural group are diverse and unique. Sharing cultural values and characteristics does not allow us to predict an individual member's behavior or beliefs, but cultural understanding does give us a broader understanding of cultural differences and provides us an entry point for our interactions. Culture should not be used to stereotype a group or an individual.

Now that we've explored culture, watch this short video that includes examples of visible and invisible aspects of military culture. 

One of the best ways to learn about another's culture is through our interactions. As opportunities to interact with service members and veterans is often limited, please watch the video below to learn about what veterans want you to know about military culture.

The military also has subcultures. For example, Marine Corps culture varies from Army culture and Air Force culture. It is not necessary for you to know the specifics of each branch of the military and its subculture. As shared in the video you just watched, if you'd like to learn more about a branch, ask your student and their family about what makes their branch of the military different from the others. They will probably include many jokes about the other branches in their answer (almost a requirement of military culture), as each branch has a deep-seated respect for the other branches while declaring theirs as "the best branch." They will be honored that you are taking the time to learn about their branch and their culture. 

For the general public one key take away to remember is that "soldier" is not an overarching term for servicemember. See the list below for the appropriate terms for each branch.

Air Force: Airman

Navy: Corpsman

Marine Corps: Marine

Coast Guard: Sailor

Space Force: Guardians

There are additional resources provided below should you wish to delve a little deeper into the different branches. 

Finally, being a Military Brat is its own subculture. While those outside the military community may see the term "Brat" as derogatory, most military children do not. Brat is a term worn proudly. There are Brat pins, hats, t-shirts, social groups, and museums. As with most identities, it is up to the child whether they like to be called a military brat. You can find more about the the term Military Brat here: Brats Without Borders  and here: 10 Things to Know 

Additional Resources 

• Air Force Quick Facts  

• Army Quick Facts  

• Coast Guard Quick Facts  

• Marine Corps Quick Facts  

• Navy Quick Facts  

• Enlisted Rank Insignia US Armed Forces  

• Officer Rank Insignia US Armed Forces  

• Active Duty Reserve Comparison  

• A Walk in My Shoes: Military Life Full-Length Documentary (37 minutes)