What does the term "cowboy" mean in regards to the Marine Corps?

Question

I called my fiance's unit's family readiness hotline regarding some homecoming dates, and they used the term "cowboys." Does this term apply to a select group of Marines, Charlie Co. perhaps? Or is it applicable to the whole battalion? Thanks!

Answer 1

It means that they are amateurs, relying too heavily on air power.

Answer 2

It could mean any number of things as Marine Corps units frequently give themselves call signs or nicknames. Vehicle mounted infantry or tank groups usually favor names centered around the cavalry or cowboys. For example, our vehicle mounted anti-armor platoon's nickname was Kahn's Cowboys because our battalion commander's name was Kahn and frequently he referred to us as cowboy like because we'd do something that displeased him.