Deserter' (4 letters) The term 'Army Truant' can be summarized by two crossword solutions: AWOL and 'DESERTER'. AWOL stands for 'Absent Without Leave' and is a military term used to describe a soldier who has left their post without permission or authorization. A 'DESERTER' is someone who has abandoned their military duties and responsibilities without any intention of returning. Both terms are used to describe a person who has gone absent from their military duties without permission.