Random reminder

Press, 29 July 1976, Page 22

Random reminder

SPIT AND POLISH

Curly had not taken very kindly to army life. The early rising from bed did not suit him at all, and there wasn’t much opportunity of getting time to yourself. He .was unruly. untidy. and uninterested. Then came a turning point in his military career. A new sergeant was posted to his platoon. The new sergeant did not roar or get tough, but he talked sympathetically and persuasively to Curly. Life was easier for a good soldier than a bad one, and you were respected instead of being rejected. The sergeant •

knew his stuff all right; he sowed the seed and cultivated the soil well. Curly took up the challenge, and was transformed almost overnight, fired with enthusiasm to become a top class soldier. A parade and inspection was due, and Curly made careful preparations. His rifle was cleaned and polished to jewellers’ shop standards, lie soaped and pressed his trouser seams until they were as crisp and sharp as a knife. His boots were burnished to a shining gloss. His hair was neatly cut and groomed. He was by any

standards beautifully turned out. The big moment came, and the C.O. walked slowly along the ranks. He stopped in front of Curly and with his experienced expert eye sur-< veyed the immaculate turnout. Three paces further on he turned ,came back and looked over the spotless soldier. “Do you know why I’ve come back to speak to you,” said the C.O. ‘‘Because I’m the smartest in the platoon.” beamed Curly. “Actually,” said the C. 0., "I'm wondering why you’re the only one wearing a tin hat”