Behind the Code: The Secret Names of U.S. Presidents
When you’re the President of the US, there are definitely some perks you need to embrace as you’re leading the free world. Living in the white house and flying around in a plane is not necessarily the coolest part.
The most exciting part must be getting their own Secret Service code name. And that’s not all—so does their family.
Let’s check the list of past presidential code names.
And why not? You can’t think about what yours would be if you were a president.
1. Lancer
John F. Kennedy’s Secret Service code name was incredibly fitting. His presidency is often linked to Camelot, which is the legendary court of King Arthur. Lancer likely refers to Sir Lancelot, one of the most famous knights of the Royal Table. He was known for his charisma, bravery, and deep (even though complicated) loyalty.
The Kennedy era was filled with youthful energy, a sense of noble purpose, and idealism, profoundly resonating with the romanticized version of Camelot. Moreover, First Lady Jackie Kennedy’s code name was Lace, which complemented his. Their names evoked both elegance and strength, these being the qualities they were widely admired for.
2. Searchlight
If you wondered about Richard Nixon’s Secret Service code name, it was one of the most ironic ones if we think about his role in the Watergate scandal, plus the subsequent attempts to cover it up. A searchlight’s purpose is to illuminate the truth and expose the hidden, while Nixon’s presidency became an era of secrecy, surveillance, and political deception.
We can call that the name feels almost prophetic, considering his administration’s actions were ultimately brought to light, his resignation following in 1974.
3. Passkey
Considering Gerald Ford’s most controversial decision as president, his Secret Service name carried an ironic twist. By granting Richard Nixon a full, free, and absolute pardon for any crime he may have committed during the Watergate scandal, we can see “Passkey,” his code name, as the universal key unlocking all doors. Ford’s pardon offered Nixon a route to escape, locking all doors for any potential prosecution.
Ford argued that his decision was meant to help the nation move forward, but it sparked loud and intense debate over justice, accountability, and ultimately, what are the limits of presidential power.
4. Deacon
Considering his deep religious faith and lifelong dedication to the Baptist church, Jimmy Carter’s Secret Service code name was a direct nod to his affiliation.
Long before his presidency and even after, he was an active church member. Carter used to teach Sunday at school, a tradition he continued into his 90s. The title “Deacon” mirrors his commitment to service, humility, and moral leadership. These qualities shaped his approach to politics and humanitarian efforts. Carter remained devoted to public service long after he left office, focusing on human rights, diplomacy, and charitable work through different organizations.
5. Rawhide
Drawing inspiration from his extensive career in Hollywood, particularly from his Western film roles, Ronald Reagan’s Secret Service code echoes his on-screen persona.
Before stepping into politics, Reagan was known for playing in movies and TV shows, and one of his most famous roles comes from the TV series Rawhide, where he played a moral, tough cowboy. Rawhide as a code name doesn’t only speak about his acting career but symbolizes his strong, rugged image as a leader, resonating with his political identity as a staunch conservative and advocating for American strength.
6. Timberwolf
The reason behind this choice of a secret service code name for George H.W. Bush remains unknown. Timberwolf is a mysterious name referring to the largest member of the dog’s family. The wolf is known for strength, loyalty, and resilience. Some traits might have been chosen to reflect Bush’s character as a steadfast and determined leader. The name could also be allusive to his reputation for quiet strength and his time spent in the CIA. He was known here for his calm and strategic approach to global issues.
Even if there is uncertainty around the name’s origin, Timberwolf as a name conveys power, intelligence, and dependability.
7. Eagle
Eagle was Bill Clinton’s Secret Service code name, carrying mystery and speculations that suggest it may be linked to his association with the Boy Scouts. Eagle Scout is the highest rank one can achieve in the Scouts, so it symbolizes leadership, commitment, and dedication to service. These are qualities that align well with the US president’s responsibilities.
Moreover, the eagle is a symbol of strength and freedom, so it may have been a fitting choice for Clinton, considering his youth in the Scouts and his role in leading the nation. No matter the intention, Eagle is a powerful name, a fitting moniker for the 42nd president.
8. Trailblazer
Trailblazer was George W. Bush’s Secret Service code name, a great tribute to his time in office. The name reflects his leadership style and his bold decisions, especially considering the wake of the 9/11 attacks.
The name has a sense of pioneering and forging new paths, mirroring his presidency in many ways. Interestingly, his code name as the president’s son was Tumbler, and some believe this one was linked to his reputation for partying and misadventures as a youngster. It’s a huge contrast considering the actual name as a president, reflecting the transformation he experienced from his wild early years to the years of leadership he displayed as president.
9. Renegade
Barack Obama’s Secret Service code name was Renegade. Apparently, it was chosen from a list of names starting with R. It’s unclear what other options were on the list, but Renegade carries a certain edge and it implies someone who’s not afraid to break the norm and challenge the status quo. These are traits that resonated well with Obama as a transformative figure in American politics.
The name reflects his spirit of independence and defiance, embracing his approach to leadership that often sought to challenge traditional political boundaries and pave the way for change.
10. Mogul
Donald Trump’s code name captures his larger-than-life persona, as well as his business empire. Trump once jokingly stated he’d choose his own code name as “Humble,” but the Secret Service opted for something more fitting.
Mogul is a nod to his status as a real estate icon and a media magnate. It evokes power, wealth, and influence, and these are the central characteristics of his identity, both before and during his presidency. This moniker aligns with his high-profile, ambitious brand, and it signals his dominant presence in politics and business.
11. Celtic
Joe Biden’s Secret Service code name is a nod to his Irish heritage which he often spoke proudly of. “Celtic is a reflection of his deep connection with his roots, as his family traces their ancestry to Ireland.
It holds the strength, resilience, and spirit associated with the Celtic culture, qualities that Biden embodies personally and professionally. Interestingly, this was his code name as a vice president as well, showing his consistency to his heritage throughout his political career.
Presidential code names aren’t just for security. They offer a hint into each leader’s legacy, personality, and even a touch of irony. Whether strategic, symbolic or simply cool, these names tell a story.
So, if you were in the Oval Office, what would your code name say about you?
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