vojín

Vojín is the lowest rank of enlisted personnel in the armed forces, primarily in Czech and Slovak contexts, and corresponds to the English term private. The word is derived from the Slavic root related to war (vojna) and reflects the status of a recruit who has begun military service.

In most forces that use this term, a vojín has completed initial basic training and is assigned to a unit to perform entry-level duties. Duties include basic infantry tasks, equipment maintenance, drill and discipline, guard duties, and support roles within a squad or platoon. They learn core skills under supervision and may rotate through different tasks to gain experience. Insignia for the rank varies by country and service; some use a simple chevron or other minimal markings, while others may not display an insignia until promoted.

Career progression typically involves time in service, satisfactory performance, and completion of further training or examinations. Promotion from vojín leads to higher enlisted ranks or to specialized tracks, depending on national regulations and whether the army relies on conscripts, volunteers, or professional soldiers.

Historically, the term has been used in Czech and Slovak military traditions and has appeared in older military literature and historiography. In modern practice, the status of vojín reflects entry-level service and the transition from civilian to military life.