Use of Terms A-Z

Military Community and Family Policy writing guidance aligns with The Associated Press Stylebook with a few exceptions. Definitions of military-specific terms appear below, along with editorial guidance for certain commonly used words for MC&FP and our programs. See additional writing guidance in the Writing Best Practices section. Find program-specific guidance in the Program Content Guides section.

B

battle group – Do not use battle group. Instead, use "carrier strike group” or “expeditionary strike group."

boot camp – Use as two words.

Boys & Girls Clubs of America – Use "&" when writing out the full name of the organization. The name may also be shortened to Boys & Girls Clubs. Lowercase club or clubs when referring to individual events or programs. For example: Each year, one exceptional club member is selected to be the National Youth of the Year.

building – Lowercase the word in running text unless referring to a specific building with "building" in the proper name. Capitalize the word or abbreviation (Bldg.) when used in addresses.

burial at sea – Do not hyphenate.