Desertion' (4 letters) The term 'MISSING, IN THE MILITARY' can be summarized by two crossword solutions: AWOL and Desertion. AWOL stands for 'Absent Without Leave' and is a term used to describe a military personnel who has left their post without permission or authorization. Desertion is the act of abandoning one's post or duties without permission or authorization. Both AWOL and Desertion are serious offenses in the military and can result in severe punishment.