FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

The Devil Dog Dictionary Preserves the Language, Humor and Traditions of the United States Marine Corps

JUPITER, Fla., Oct. 8, 2025 — The United States Marine Corps has a language all its own—a colorful blend of tradition, humor, history and hard-earned experience passed from one generation of Marines to the next. Former Marine Security Guard and intelligence specialist John Burke captures that living heritage in The Devil Dog Dictionary: An Unofficial Guide to Words and Expressions of the United States Marine Corps.

More than a glossary of military slang, The Devil Dog Dictionary explores the words, phrases and expressions that define Marine Corps culture, from boot camp to the fleet, from the barracks to the battlefield. Each entry explains the meaning, origin and context behind the language that has shaped generations of Marines.

"The language of the Corps is alive and always evolving," Burke said. "Every generation of Marines adds its own voice. This dictionary preserves the humor, history and traditions I experienced while serving and invites Marines past and present to help preserve that legacy for future generations."

Burke served in the Marine Corps from 1983 to 1989, with assignments to 1st Battalion, 9th Marines; 1st Marine Regiment; Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 235 (VMFA-235); and Marine Security Guard duty at U.S. embassies in Guatemala City, Prague and Helsinki. Following his military service, he built a career in journalism and corporate communications before returning to his passion for documenting Marine Corps history and culture.

Published in advance of the Marine Corps' 250th anniversary, The Devil Dog Dictionary is intended for Marines, veterans, military families, historians and anyone interested in understanding the unique language and traditions of the Corps.

The book is available in hardcover, paperback and Kindle editions through Amazon and at www.devildogdictionary.com.

About the Author

John Burke served in the United States Marine Corps from 1983 to 1989 as an intelligence specialist and Marine Security Guard. His assignments included service with 1st Battalion, 9th Marines; 1st Marine Regiment; Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 235; and Marine Security Guard detachments at U.S. embassies in Guatemala, Czechoslovakia and Finland. An award-winning communications professional and former journalist, Burke is dedicated to preserving the language, traditions and heritage of the United States Marine Corps.

Media Contact

John Burke
Email: jtburke.writes@gmail.com
Phone: (561) 308-3177
Website: www.devildogdictionary.com