Why Do Marines Call Each Other “Pork”?

The United States Marine Corps has many unique traditions and its own language that sets it apart from other military branches. One unusual aspect of Marine culture is the practice of calling fellow Marines by the nickname “pork.”

This odd moniker can be perplexing to those outside the Marines. So why do Marines call each other pork? Let’s explore the possible origins and meanings behind this quirky terminology.

Possible Meanings Behind “Pork”

There are a few different theories about how the term “pork” came to be used among Marines. Here are some of the most common explanations:

Overweight Marines

One idea is that “pork” refers to heavier or overweight Marines The term may have originally been used for Marines who struggled to meet the Corps’ strict physical fitness and weight standards Calling someone “pork” was a way to tease Marines carrying extra pounds.

The nickname may come from “pork chop,” military slang dating back to WWII for plump or overweight service members. Pork chop was also used to describe overweight recruits in Marine Corps boot camp.

So referring to fellow Marines as “pork” may have roots as a dig at the overweight However, it has evolved into a more general term used even between Marines of all body types.

Marine Swine Mascot

Another theory involves the Marine Corps mascot, which happens to be a bulldog. The classic recruiting poster shows a bulldog wearing a Marine drill instructor hat.

The Marine mascot is meant to represent the toughness and tenacity of the Corps. But some posit Marines may have referred to each other as “pork” as a joking reference to pigs or hogs as the animal mascot instead of a dog.

This explanation is less plausible, since the bulldog mascot wasn’t officially adopted until 1922 and the term “pork” was around earlier. But it remains a possibility.

Pejorative Meaning

There’s also speculation that “pork” was originally used among Marines as a pejorative term, insult, or nasty nickname for a subpar Marine.

In the way “squid” is used in a derogatory manner in the Navy, pork may have started as a means for Marines to make fun of their less-impressive counterparts by comparing them to swine.

However, most Marines do not today use “pork” in a clearly insulting or derisive manner. It appears to have lost any strongly negative connotations.

Fond Shortening of “Porcupine”

A more lighthearted explanation involves “pork” coming from a shortening of the nickname “porcupine.”

“Porcupine” was old Marine slang used for green recruits just starting out in the Corps, implying their prickly attitude. Supposedly the name was later shortened to simply “pork.”

This is a plausible origin theory, since “pork” is applied to Marines regardless of their weight or prowess, and “porcupine” suited novice Marines joining the ranks. The shortened version caught on as a universal moniker.

When and How Marines Use “Pork”

While the root of “pork” is murky, its use in the Corps is clear. Here’s when and how you’ll hear it:

• Marine drill instructors may use it with recruits, as in “Listen up, pork!”

• Higher-ranking Marines may call subordinates “pork” in an informal way, like “Get over here, pork.”

• Marines use “pork” as a term of endearment and camaraderie with their fellow Marines. For example, “Have a good weekend, pork!”

• “Pork” is yelled enthusiastically in situations like greeting fellow Marines on base or cheering at Marine Corps events.

• Recruits embrace the nickname “pork” affectionately as a sign of belonging to the Marines.

Today, “pork” is rarely, if ever, used in a negative or insulting manner. Rather, it signifies the unique brotherhood and bond between Marines.

Other Marine Corps Nicknames

“Pork” isn’t the only special moniker used by Marines. They have many colorful nicknames for each other that reinforce the close-knit Marine culture, including:

Jarhead – Slang for a Marine’s short, high-and-tight haircut style. Also refers to Marines being hard-headed.

Devil Dog – Originated from WWI trench warfare and signifies Marines’ toughness.

Grunt – Slang for infantry Marines.

Tampon – Derogatory term for non-combat Marines like admin personnel.

Boot – Refers to new recruits fresh out of boot camp.

Hollywood Marine – Marines who don’t act tough when it counts.

Pogue – Anyone not in a combat military occupational specialty (MOS).

As with “pork,” these nicknames are embraced by Marines as terms of endearment, pride and camaraderie. The Marine lexicon highlights the strong sense of belonging and community within the Corps.

Why the Marine Brotherhood Matters

The Marine Corps functions as an extremely close-knit, cohesive unit. This high level of morale, mutual support and devotion is key to their effectiveness and success.

Unique Marine traditions like calling each other “pork” may seem silly or strange to outsiders. But these rituals serve an important purpose. They help create critical bonds, identity and solidarity among Marines.

So while civilians may never fully understand terms like “pork,” their ability to foster a strong Marine connection make them very meaningful. The next time you hear Marines shouting “Pork!” at each other, you’ll understand it’s no insult. For Marines, “pork” signifies belonging to their proud brotherhood.