Actual

Actual is a wireless term for the principal officer in command.

A real-world communications term signifying that the officer-in-charge (e.g. the commander of a military vessel, task force or unit) is speaking or required on-air.

It is used to distinguish the commanding officer from other personnel who may use the communications channel, without recourse to code names or other means of identification, and frequently used when sensitive information needs to be communicated directly to the officer-in-charge, or when a direct and urgent order must be rendered.

Example: Assume pilot call sign Joker, based on battlestar Pacifica, is required to engage in a dangerous maneuver.

Pacifica: Joker, Pacifica. Engage the unidentified craft, weapons free. Pilot: Pacifica, Joker. Confirm order. Pacifica: Joker, Pacifica Actual. Execute order.

William Adama is known as Galactica's actual.