Definition

Fragmentary Order—a quick modification to existing operation orders that changes specific details without rewriting the entire plan. For when your carefully crafted strategy meets reality's complete indifference.

Example Usage

We just received a FRAGO moving our jump-off time up by two hours—pass it down to the squad leaders.

Origin

Abbreviated from 'fragmentary order,' standard military planning terminology formalized mid-20th century

Fun Fact

Some operations generate so many FRAGOs that troops joke they're making up the plan as they go—which is often uncomfortably accurate.

Source: Military Decision Making Process (MDMP) documentation

Related Terms

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retrograde

Movement or progression backward, which in military terms means strategic withdrawal and in everyday terms means things are getting worse. In astronomy, describes planets appearing to move backward in the sky, which astrology enthusiasts blame for everything. Generally indicates reversal, regression, or the tactical retreat your manager calls 'pivoting.'

🎖️ Military / Defense
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expeditionary

Military-speak for forces designed to be deployed abroad for operations, as opposed to troops who stay home defending the homeland. It's the difference between soldiers who pack their bags for foreign adventures and those who already know where the good coffee shop near base is.

🎖️ Military / Defense
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extirpated

When something is so thoroughly destroyed or removed that it's basically been deleted from existence in that area. More intense than just 'eliminated,' this term suggests roots and all—whether we're talking about literal stumps, enemy positions, or unfortunately, entire populations. It's the scorched-earth version of 'getting rid of something.'

🎖️ Military / Defense
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promulgated

The official act of announcing a new law or regulation to the world, usually with great ceremony and even greater paperwork. It's the government's way of saying 'this is the rule now, whether you like it or not.' Think of it as the legal system's version of hitting 'publish' on a very important blog post.

🎖️ Military / Defense
Beginner

cherry

A new and inexperienced service member who hasn't seen combat or completed their first deployment. Still believes the stories about military intelligence not being an oxymoron.

🎖️ Military / Defense
Intermediate

six actual

Radio call sign suffix indicating the commander themselves rather than their radioman or staff. 'Six' designates the commander's station, 'actual' means the boss is personally on the radio.

🎖️ Military / Defense

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