Boot camp has a (deserved) reputation for being structured and rigid. But not everyone excels at following rules.

Like in this story, when a young navy cadet can’t hold his tongue. Lucky for him, at least his backtalk gets some smiles.

Let’s march along and see what happens…

Boot camp orders

Many years ago, when I was in Navy boot camp, one of the division leaders decided that because I was the heaviest member of the group, I was going to get special attention.

Seems unfair, but I guess that’s life, as they say. What kind of attention are we talking?

He told me, in front of everyone, “Every time you see my smiling face, I want you to drop and give me 20 push ups.” I’m a natural born smart aleck, so malicious compliance was definitely in my wheelhouse.

Great, a glutton for punishment. How’s he gonna get in trouble now?

The next day, he walked out and I stood still at attention like everyone else. He walked up to me and asked if I remembered what he told me. I told him I did and repeated it back to him.

Good memory, but will it matter to the man in charge?

“Then why aren’t you doing push ups?”

“You’re not smiling!”

He broke a smile and I immediately dropped and did the push ups.

Well I guess in some ways that’s a happy ending?

Let’s check the comments.

This person says, take it to the limit!

Another person says, OOORAH!

This user thinks it’s brilliant MC.

Another poster says, drop and give me another 40, soldier!

Push the limit? Do 20 push ups.

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