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If you skip wearing underwear, you’re said to be going commando. This bit of slang originated during the Vietnam War, when U.S. commandos had compelling reasons to do without that particular piece of clothing. Plus, Watergate salad is a...
shaky Pete syndrome n.— «Frank said that also cigarettes were used in place of marijuana at times because they too calmed the men down from the reality that faced them each day. Even with these so-called “stabilities,” some...
double veteran n.— «During the Vietnam War, American soldiers earned the title of double veterans when they raped civilian women before murdering them.» —“Is the US fighting for women’s liberation?” by Elizabeth...
liberal lion n.— «When last seen on the House floor, Rep. Pete McCloskey could be found demanding the impeachment of President Nixon, helping write the Endangered Species Act and denouncing the Vietnam War. It’s been a few years since the...
alive day n. the anniversary of a close escape from death, especially one involving permanent injury. Editorial Note: Jim Mayer and former senator Max Cleland (D-Ga.) have been celebrating their “alive days” for decades, since receiving...
thunder run n. a high-speed military convoy using offensive tactics and heavy weaponry to reach a destination; generally, a route or trip involving extreme effort or danger. Editorial Note: This term dates from at least as early as the Vietnam War...