George Mansford

SOME STARK REALITIES OF SERVICE LIFE

May I have a glass of water please and don’t forget the ice
Gawd, I’m thirsty: a drink of water would be nice

The Grand Final this weekend so if works calls, I’m not here
Right, you blokes, here’s the weekend roster, get ya gear

Blast, I need an umbrella or I will get wet
Anyone got a match, mine are soaking wet

It’s going to be a very long drive, so please be on time
It will be a forced march all night, but the weather’s fine

Could we please have a look at the menu?
We can share this last tin of meat, me and you

Thank you driver, these are my bags, I’ll carry this one
Rations, ammo and other items; my pack weighs a ton

A king size bed and extra pillows will be just right
Keep digging; mate, cos that’s gunna be our bed tonight

What a long day. It’s going to be very early to bed for me tonight
Attacked at first light, objective secure, ambushing commences last light

Honey, could you turn up the heater before we watch this TV show
Two diggers huddled together to share body warmth in the freezing snow

Darling, I think the dog wants to go out. Turn on the light
God, they’re on the wire, fire a flare and give us some light

Snuggled in bed warm and secure, watching a TV hero so bold.
A sentry at night, scared, weary, and shivering with the cold

What dessert would you like before coffee or tea?
The airdrop’s been cancelled so it’s half rations for you and me

I’m feeling crook, tell the boss I won’t be in for a few days
You better not be bludging or I’ll have something to say

The tiles are still wet so watch your step or you will fall.
Be careful, there’s mines and booby traps on the track for all

You will be met by the host at the door. The dress for the evening is suit
Halt, who goes there? Stop or I shoot

No problem, I will be back tomorrow morning, never fear
Darling, our battalion will be away for at least a year

It was him, certainly not me
I accept full responsibility

I injured my back riding the exercise bike in the gym
He lost both legs in the mine blast. There’s others as well as him

Don’t wake daddy he’s had a big day
Wake ‘em up Sergeant, we are moving now without delay

Get a plumber the toilets not flushing through
I want two volunteers to dig the latrine, you and you

Waiter, could I see the menu please
Wouldn’t it… Not again, bloody ham and cheese

I cannot make up my mind what delicious food to eat
Wanna swap your mars bar for jam and bickies so sweet?

As well as your overtime, here is your annual bonus. Have a good holiday
They’re pulling us out of the front line for couple of days to rest. Hooray

Hello little one, give me a cuddle and look what I got you today
Don’t cry sweetheart, he’s your daddy who has been far away

There is a lot more I could add to hopefully stir the debate
Such as schools postings and the strains on devoted wives
But we are fast growing old and our pensions erode at a rapid rate
All we seek is a fair go for being soldiers most of our lives

Author’s Note: The purpose of this verse is to remind our elected representatives of the stark realities of military life in both preparing and conducting war. Many of those who have, are, or will wear the uniforms of our nation bear the status of Regulars which in simple terms implies they have dedicated much or all of their life to service of country. History clearly records their professionalism and dedication, more often than not without recognition other than the support and devotion of their loved ones.