The Devil Dog Dictionary unlocks the colorful, raw and salty language of the Corps — from classic slang like “pogey bait” and “scuttlebutt” to combat-tested acronyms and phrases only a Marine could love (or survive).
Whether you’re a Devil Dog looking to relive your days in the fleet, a family member trying to decode Marine-speak, or a history buff fascinated by military culture, this compact guide is your pass to the barracks, the field, and beyond.
Inside you'll find:
Hundreds of authentic Marine Corps terms and expressions, from salty to sacred
Historical notes and insider context that show how these words were forged
A tribute to the unmatched esprit de corps of the United States Marine Corps
Perfect for:
Marines, old and new, who want to keep the traditions alive
Marine families trying to figure out what their Devil Dog is talking about
Veterans’ reunions, birthdays or boot camp graduations
Anyone who wants to own a small but powerful piece of Marine Corps heritage
Paperback & ebook available.
Carry it in your go-bag, keep it on your coffee table or gift it to your favorite Jarhead.
John Burke served in the United States Marine Corps from 1983 to 1989. As an Intelligence Specialist (0231) he served with 1st Marine Regiment and 1st Battalion, 9th Marines at Camp Pendleton, California, before guarding U.S. Embassies as a Marine Security Guard (MSG, 8151) in Guatemala City, Guatemala; Prague, Czechoslovakia; and Helsinki, Finland. After MSG duty, he served with VMFA-235 (The Death Angels) at MCAS Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii.
Following his time in uniform, John earned a B.A. in English (Summa Cum Laude) from the University of Southern Maine in his hometown of Portland, Maine, and went on to build a career in journalism, writing and corporate communications after relocating to Florida.
Semper Fidelis remains more than a motto for John — it’s been the guiding compass of his life, and the spirit behind preserving the rich language and legacy of the Corps in The Devil Dog Dictionary.