History of the phrase "taking names"?

[sdk87to91]

I remember hearing the DI's and others using the phrase "kicking a.. and taking names" and I could pretty much figure out that it meant killing people, but I am wondering if there is a history or an origination of that phrase. I guess when we kill someone we effectively take their ability to use their name, however they are still remembered by it.
Does anyone know anything interesting about that phrase?

[SlingerDun]

I considered that but what i always visioned was some old pot bellied high school coach in a polo shirt and tight shorts struttin around with a whistle and clipboard scratching down names. These days what comes to mind is identity theft

--->Dave