Kilroy Was Here, edited by Charles Osgood

Kilroy Was Here: The Best American Humor from World War II, edited by Charles Osgood
Hyperion, 2001
184 pages, a few illustrations scattered throughout
Library: 940.53 KIL

Description
War is hell, but it can also be hilarious. And in no war was this more true than in World War II. While there is nothing remotely funny about the war itself, it's clear that some of the hardship endured in that conflict was made more bearable by generous doses of humor.

Now, Emmy-award winning television journalist Charles Osgood has collected an assortment of classic stories and comic tales that buoyed the spirits of Americans who served on land, at sea, and in the air. The title of the collection, Kilroy Was Here, refers to the ubiquitous piece of graffiti that US servicemen scrawled in bizarre and unlikely places.

The majority of the pieces were created during the war itself: a dictionary of military slang, poignant cartoons by Bill Mauldin, Marion Hargrove's riotously funny descriptions of army life. The topics range from the wretched food to rivalry between the service branches, from boot camp bullies to R n R. The book also inbcludes comic anecdotes from celebrities such as Bob Hope, Buddy Hackett and the Andrews Sisters, and an insightful and moving introductory essay by Osgood.

A womderful compilation of historically significant writing, this treasury of wit and humor is also a tribute to all who served and an inspiring celebration of America's indomitable spirit.

Table of Contents
Introduction by Charles Osgood
1. A Dictionary of American Military Slang, 1941-1944
2. Boot CAmp
3. Shipping Out, REady or Not
4. In the Field, Seas and Skies
5. Mess and Other GRub
6. R&R
7. Army vs Navy vs Marines vs Air Force...
8. Accidental Insubordination and Other Miscellaneous Occurrences in the Line of Duty
9. Enemies and Friends
10. Celebrities
11. Looking Ahead