Coast Guard recruits are expected to know the following terms and the respective meanings at basic training. The US Coast Guard is one of the oldest organizations of the United States federal government. Along with the proud history of the US Coast Guard comes the terminology that continues today.
Terms to Know
Nautical and Military Terminology
Room -> COMPARTMENT
Bathroom -> HEAD
Floor -> DECK
Upstairs -> TOPSIDE
Stairs -> LADDER
Wall -> BULKHEAD
Mop -> SWAB
Downstairs -> BELOW
Bed -> RACK
Ceiling -> OVERHEAD
Flag -> COLORS
Drinking Fountain (or rumor) -> SCUTTLEBUTT
Stop -> BELAY or AVAST
I understand your order and will comply -> AYE AYE, SIR/MA’AM
An area designated by the Commanding Officer to serve for official and ceremonial functions -> QUARTERDECK
Recruit progress documentation slip -> PERFORMANCE TRACKER