At sunset every day, soldiers posted at garrisons and barracks are given a two-part passphrase that is changed each night as a precautionary measure to prevent unauthorized persons from infiltrating the premises and as a means for soldiers to be able to confirm one another’s identities in the dark. The passphrase system is of critical importance, as it can prevent accidents and harm to soldiers. Usually, the passphrases are innocuous -- one soldier calls out the first half of a passphrase to an approaching individual, such as “portakal” (orange), and the approaching soldier calls back with the correct matching word, such as “ağacı” (tree).
 The passphrases are prepared monthly, and the passphrase in Balıkesir last night was set to be “adi” (lowlife) followed by “başbakan” (prime minister). |
The passphrases are prepared monthly, and the passphrase in Balıkesir last night was set to be “adi” (lowlife) followed by “başbakan” (prime minister).
The Garrison Command Intelligence Unit sets the passphrase each month. Signed off by Erdek Naval Base Commander Col. Bülent Keçeci and Administrative Base Sgt. Çağrı Güler, the passphrase is being investigated by the Turkish General Staff, an announcement posted yesterday on the General Staff’s Web site said.
It was expected that following the publication of this information in the Taraf daily yesterday, the passphrase was changed before the evening. According to Taraf’s report, in addition to political combinations, the passphrases designated included references to soccer teams, such as “Galata” and “Saray;” cities, such as “Çanak” and “Kale;” and brand names, such as “Yeni” and “Rakı.”
