Camouflage is the nickname of the titular marine from the Stan Ridgway song of the same name. Camouflage served during the Vietnam War, where he would pass before the events of the song took place, his spirit appearing to guide a young marine back to headquarters.
History[]
Little is known of Camouflage's past, prior to the events of the song. All that's known is that he joined the US military, where he would at least fight in Vietnam. His death would come some time in 1965, though an exact date isn't given, nor is a cause. Whether by illness or a mortal injury, what is known is that his last words were "Semper Fi," and that his dying wish was to save a young marine caught in a barrage.
The young marine in question, who's telling the story which the song depicts, held the rank of Private First Class (PFC), and had ended up separated from his patrol during a search and destroy mission. Alone and afraid, he starts to think he's surrounded by the enemy, only for a mysterious marine calling himself Camouflage to appear at his side. Throughout the events of the song, the two fight side by side, with the PFC noticing several superhuman abilities his companion seems to have, such as his ability to uproot a tree, and how bullets seem to pass through him as if he isn't there.
When the two finally make it back to HQ, the PFC turns to thank Camouflage for his help, waving goodbye as the marine disappears into the trees. After relaying his story to several soldiers, a medic leads him to Camouflage's tent, telling him that the marine passed away the night before. After telling the PFC Camouflage's last words, the medic then gives him the deceased marine's dog tags, telling the PFC "I'd know he'd want you to have them now."