Though the number of soldiers has reduced since the war ended, there is still a significant large number of them still in service. This is one of the most honorable professions currently and it is based on three core things, which are sacrifice, service and discipline. There are a lot of traditions that have been developed in the military, some of which you may not even know of. This article seeks to help the reader learn the basics of some these traditions.
Firstly, we have the tradition of challenge coins. The history of the challenge coin dates back to World War 1, where an American fighter pilot had to prove his identity to the French, which he did using a coin that had the American unit insignia on it. Challenge coin collection is common in the military as soldiers collect and swap coins with different backstories. Challenge coins are also gifted by the president to show his appreciation for special guests.
Another tradition we seek to learn the basics of is that of the Marine Amtrac crews not eating apricots. A lot of soldiers believe in superstitions. The tradition of not eating apricots started out in Vietnam when soldiers believed that there was an enemy attack every time somebody opened and ate apricots.
Thirdly, we will learn the basics of blood pinning, yet another tradition. This is one of the most brutal traditions in the military. This tradition is practised each time a soldier is promoted, as other soldiers take turns punching in his new badge into his chest, to the point of bleeding. Blood pinning is rarely practiced today because of bad press which is why soldiers have come up with other les brutal traditions.
Fourthly, we will learn the basics of military traditions before weddings. If you intend to marry anyone in the military, then you should be ready for a light spanking, with a sword. This tradition is practised to welcome a new member into the family because all soldiers are part of one big family.
We will also learn the basics of military soaking. This tradition is practised each time a soldier comes to the end of his or her service. Your service will be celebrated by other soldiers as they drench you in water. You can also be soaked in other drinks such as champagne.
Next, we learn the basics of lard covered monument climbing. Midshipmen are required to climb a monument and replace their first-year hats with upperclassmen hats. This tradition is kept interesting by having a thick coat of lard cover the monument and then asking the midshipmen to climb all at once.