Exploring Military Humor: Inside Jokes and Rank-based Sketches

Humor in the military culture is a unique and often misunderstood phenomenon. Inside jokes, especially those based on rank and gender, can serve as a form of camaraderie among service members. In this article, we dive into some classic military humor while discussing the nuances and cultural significance of such humor.

Recollections from Ft. Benning in the 1980s

Fort Benning, Georgia, in the 1980s was a hub of military activity, and the camaraderie among soldiers there was palpable. After the morning run, approximately an hour and a half before morning formation, a group of enlisted men would often take their showers and gear up at the gym across the street from their company. It was during these moments that a unique brand of humor often surfaced.

Once, among the group of officers who frequented the gym, including the full bird colonel, a peculiar detail stood out. One officer had a visibly distinct organ (as mentioned by some). This detail was not lost on the enlisted men, who frequently joked about it. While the article refrains from reproducing actual names and faces, it’s a common experience in military environments where physical traits are sometimes pointed out as part of friendly banter.

Enlisted Humor and Rank-based Cartoons

The humor between enlisted men and officers can often be a source of fun. In the Navy Times, there’s a memorable cartoon depicting an enlisted man painting a head with the words "Officers" on a door. Next to it, another head is labeled "Men," with the caption over the man delivering a humorous statement: “Yes, sir, I definitely believe there should be a distinction.”

This cartoon encapsulates the disparity between the two ranks and the lighter tone with which lower ranks often view their superiors. The humor lies in the way enlisted men see officers as clumsy, overconfident, or just plain unaware of their own insignificance in the grand scheme of things (hence, why there needs to be a distinction).

Rank-based Jokes

Rank-based jokes are common in the military, reflecting the cultural dynamics and power structures. It’s not uncommon for new privates who have just finished their Basic Training to register with a sense of awe and bliss when working with sergeants who are senior in rank.

For instance, during a particularly orderly day, a junior officer (often referred to as a "butter bar" in the military) attempts to issue orders to a senior enlisted soldier. This usually leads to laughter as the enlisted soldier displays a superior knowledge of their duties and often a more seasoned approach to the job.

Humorous Real-Life Anecdote

One particularly memorable instance involved the Regimental Sergeant Major of the Glosters, a well-respected individual who, despite his gruff demeanor and strong Northern Irish brogue, had earned the trust and respect of his men. The RSM once tasked a corporal with a special job: escorting a prisoner by train. Despite the corporal’s junior rank, the RSM trusted him, and he, in turn, treated the job with the seriousness it deserved.

Insider Jokes and Cultural Significance

Humor in the military, especially inside jokes, serves multiple purposes. It can be a bonding mechanism among soldiers, allowing them to connect and share common experiences. It can also be a form of subversion, where lower-ranked individuals can joke about or lampoon those in higher positions.

The following is a humorous scenario that illustrates a rank-based joke:

Imagine a full colonel flying a transport airplane to Greenland for a layover. They need someone to pump shit out of the onboard toilet, but nobody volunteers. An hour passes, then two, and eventually three. The colonel, clearly irritated, is ready to take action. Finally, an E-1 (the lowest enlisted rank) shows up. The E-1, half-heartedly, begins the task. The colonel, expecting humiliation, prepares to rant. Instead, the E-1 calmly turns to the colonel and says, "Sir, I'm an E-1 in Greenland whose job it is to pump out toilets. Just what is it that you think you can do to punish me?"

This story, while playful and humorous, draws a line between the colonel and the lowest rank. It’s a reminder of the often skyrocketing expectations placed on ranks and the humble reality of their day-to-day duties.

Conclusion

The humor found within military ranks is rich and diverse, reflecting the complex social dynamics and shared experiences of soldiers. While some might see it as a light-hearted way to cope with the stresses and challenges of military life, others may view it as a reflection of prevalent power structures. Regardless, the humor in military culture continues to be a significant part of the everyday experience for many service members.