The Dark Ages

This writer was privileged to serve as medical officer at the U.S. Naval Academy many years ago. Did those creatures ever teach me! They spoke with their own dialect, observed their strict code of truth and honesty, and most of them grew into the fine officer corps that makes our Navy the strongest anywhere.

Like anywhere else, one had to learn the new language. One example stays with me.

"Sir, I barfed in steam!" That was the presenting complaint when Midshipman Second Class (a sophomore) Duffy braced at what attention he could muster, and sat down at my invitation, green at the gills. After much help from his senior, I was aided in translating what the youngster meant. "To barf" is to experience nausea and vomiting. "Steam" is the nickname for nautical engineering. The youngster (also a nickname for sophomores) got sick in class. (I had occasion to share a laugh with Admiral Duffy over his bout of gastroenteritis, many years later.

More apropos to this time of year, the midshipmen had their own appropriate term, "The Dark Ages." That referred not to Medieval History, but to the sadness that lingered during this time of early nightfall and inimical weather of deep winter. They came as close to depression as anyone could, and the medical department worked overtime until June week. There is an entire lexicography observed by generations of these great young men, and I love to go back and visit now and again.

"Beat Army!" "Sink the Army grey!" "Carry on, Mister!"