Do American Soldiers Take Personal Phone Calls During Missions?

The film American Sniper has sparked a lot of debate regarding the nature of military communication during missions. This article explores the reality behind this portrayal, focusing on the security and operational constraints that govern soldier communication.

Refinements in Military Communication Policies

It is widely known in the military that personal phone calls during missions are highly discouraged and often prohibited. This stems from the critical and security-sensitive nature of operations. Unlike the dramatic portrayal in films such as American Sniper, actual combat operations typically involve limited and strictly controlled communication channels aimed at maintaining operational effectiveness and security.

Operational Security and Risk Management

Communicating through personal phones poses significant risks in military operations. These risks include compromising operational security and the potential for intercept by hostile parties. In the case of hostile forces, they might use triangulation equipment to identify and target communication signals, as highlighted in the quote 'There’s nothing like calling in a barrage on your own guys.' Military personnel are trained to understand the importance of keeping communications focused on mission-critical needs.

Rare Exceptions and Historical Context

While it is rare, there have been instances where soldiers have taken personal phone calls. In American Sniper, the depiction suggests that soldiers can use secure communication devices to contact loved ones during downtime or after operations. An example is detailed below which showcases an instance from the 1960s involving a military aircraft and amateur radio enthusiasts.

Non-Official Use of Military Resources

Military history is replete with instances where high-ranking or valuable personnel have used military resources for personal or dubious purposes. Military leaders often turn a blind eye to such practices. Consider the historical use of military transport for athletic competitions or Naval bases like Midway Island. High-profile personnel have used situations to their advantage, such as aligning deployments with personal demands or preferences. This historical context reinforces the notion that special circumstances could allow for personal comm calls.

Practical Examples and Scenarios

Given the above context, it is plausible that soldiers like those depicted in American Sniper might take personal phone calls in certain situations. Special circumstances, such as:

When on a mission and isolated (e.g., hidden in a stick or a truck) During downtime or non-mission periods When using secure communication devices or satellite phones

However, it is important to note that during active missions the use of personal phones for communications is highly unlikely. The potential risks and consequences for both the soldier and the mission are too significant to overlook.

Conclusion

In summary, while military operations prioritize security over personal communication, there are indeed rare exceptions. The film American Sniper, like many dramatizations, often exaggerates or emphasizes certain aspects for storytelling purposes. Understanding these nuances provides valuable insight into the complexities of military communication and operations.