What is "battle buddy"

n. (context US military English) Another servicemember assigned to mutually help another under the battle buddy system, and by extension any comrade.

A Battle Buddy is a partner assigned to a soldier in the United States Army. Each Battle Buddy is expected to assist his or her partner both in and out of combat. Most participating soldiers have reported satisfaction and have agreed that the Army should implement the system fully, although there have been cons reported as well. A Battle Buddy is not only intended for company, but also for the reduction of suicide; since each watches his partner's actions, a Battle Buddy can save their fellow soldier's life by noticing negative thoughts and feelings and intervening to provide help.