Beetle Bailey's pal ZERO is a private in the United States Army and is a main character in the comic strip Beetle Bailey. He is a loyal friend to Beetle Bailey and is often seen as a foil to Beetle's antics. Plato is another main character in the comic strip Beetle Bailey. He is a sergeant in the United States Army and is often seen as a mentor to Beetle Bailey. He is a wise and experienced soldier who often provides guidance to Beetle.