Nothing quite beats that rawness of military humour. It's the same the world over; an ingrained tradition for South Africans is to stand around a fire in the bright sunlight or on warm evenings of summer and barbeque, or braai, as we all say. Naturally the drink of choice is beer, drunk in copious quantities. Inevitably during the intentionally drawn out grilling phase (to enable more beer swilling) and after most of the usual topics of conversation have all but exhausted themselves, a comment or the mood, the fire or some such catalyst will spark a story with military content of such hilarity that has everyone in earshot, with or without military background, rolling on the floor.

For most of us there was never a choice, national service was compulsory. Some saw action, others didn't, but all had an encounter, either dangerous or benign, that was the cause for much mirth. These are some of those stories.

About the Author
AJ Brooks matriculated was called up to 14th Field Regiment in Potchefstroom in 1979 for his two years of compulsory national service. In mid-1979 he was transferred to the School of Artillery, and it was here that his interest in guns and later vintage artillery pieces was nurtured. In December 1980 AJ completed his national service and in 1981 was called up to the 7th Medium Regiment for his first Citizen Force duty. From then on he was called up for various tours of duty to the operational area, the townships, parades and artillery courses.