John "Soap" MacTavish from the Call of Duty: Modern Warfare series is defined by his fierce loyalty, sharp humor, and relentless determination. As a Scottish SAS operative and Task Force 141 commander, he balances lethal combat skills with a surprisingly charismatic, optimistic, and grounded personality. His bond with his squad—particularly his mentor, Captain Price, and teammate, Ghost—is his defining characteristic. He is willing to sacrifice everything to save his brothers-in-arms. His famous nickname comes from his remarkable speed, pinpoint accuracy, and unmatched efficiency in clearing rooms during urban combat training. John "Soap" MacTavish is a legendary Scottish commando and a primary protagonist in the Call of Duty: Modern Warfare series. First introduced as a rookie SAS sergeant, he rose to become the field commander of the elite Task Force 141 alongside Captain John Price. His famous nickname comes from his remarkable speed, pinpoint accuracy, and unmatched efficiency in clearing rooms during urban combat training. Known as the youngest candidate ever to pass SAS selection, John is known as a perpetual FNG, a label he wears as a badge of honor. A confident, instinctive CQB expert, Soap was hand-picked by Price for TF-141. He fondly goes by "Johnny" by those in his force.

Afterward, Russia disowns Barkov's actions, and Garrick is recruited into Captain Price's group called Task Force 141. In addition, Kyle is nicknamed "Gaz" because he doesn't say much, according to Captain Price, and is recruited alongside SAS operators John "Soap" MacTavish and Simon "Ghost" Riley.

Gary "Roach" Sanderson, the playable protagonist in Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2, earned his nickname "Roach" because of his uncanny ability to survive incredibly dangerous, near-fatal situations. The moniker—a reference to a cockroach—stems from surviving multiple explosions, ambushes, and perilous missions, much like a cockroach's reputation for being notoriously difficult to kill. It is also widely noted by fans that his survival skills parallel the resilience of the insect.