Actual

This page (like all pages on this wiki) was imported from the original English-language Battlestar Wiki based on what was available in the Wayback Machine in early 2017. You can see the archive of the original page here.

"Actual" is the wireless callsign for the commanding officer, borrowed from the real-world communications term for the officer-in-charge (e.g. the commander of a military vessel, task force or unit).

It is used to distinguish the commanding officer from other personnel who may use the communications channel, without resorting to a code name or other identification. It is frequently used when sensitive information needs to be communicated directly to the officer-in-charge or when a direct and urgent order must be rendered.

Example: A pilot from battlestar Pacifica, callsign "Joker", is ordered to engage a target.

Pacifica: Joker, Pacifica. Engage the unidentified craft, weapons free.

Pilot: Pacifica, Joker. Confirm.

Pacifica: Joker, Pacifica Actual. Execute the order.

When communicating over wireless aboard Galactica, William Adama is "Galactica actual".