Monty Python Sergeant Major Sketch

[Ticklishchap]

I was going to post this sketch from the Monty Python team on my thread about the Woolly Pully (commando sweater): you will see from it why I am such an aficionado of this item of clothing. However I thought it deserved a thread in its own right because it's so good - and so true (if just slightly exaggerated) for anyone who has experienced this type of parade. It should be enjoyed by those of you who like British humour (humor to Americans of course) or have military experience/interests.

 

[MisterCairo]

Gentlemen,
I posted this brilliant clip on 'The Golden Era' but got no response - I think it more properly belongs here because although it is not WWII, many of the traditions/attitudes will be recognisable from that time.

Some of you might know it already, but it's a must for anyone who likes British humo(u)r and/or has military interests.

One of my favourites.

And while not "pc", there is a skit from the original show showing some, ahem, unique drilling...

"SQUAD! Camp it... UP"!

 

[Stearmen]

 

[Ticklishchap]

One of my favourites.

And while not "pc", there is a skit from the original show showing some, ahem, unique drilling...

"SQUAD! Camp it... UP"!

Yes, this is one of my favourite sketches. I nearly posted it on the thread I started on the Woolly Pully commando sweater because it's easy to see from this why I like wearing them. The camp sketch is marvellous too but as you say un-PC. It was made during the interlude between old-fashioned censorship and political correctness!

 

[Ticklishchap]

Brilliant. It reminds me of the old graffito "Military Intelligence is a contradiction in terms."

 

[Ticklishchap]

The Real Thing. ...

 

[Stearmen]

No body, but no body, will ever beat these guys in the silly march department! Or facial hair.

 

[Ticklishchap]

No body, but no body, will ever beat these guys in the silly march department! Or facial hair.

It's marvellous. The Pakistan Army doesn't get enough credit. It's up against ruthless fundamentalists and does very well considering: it has also maintained many of the better traditions of the British Army and, sensibly, remained all-male and so no pc stuff. The facial hair is, as you say unbeatable, as is the 'Ministry of Silly Walks'-imposed marching.

 

[Worf]

Hilarious! Great stuff, didn't remember that bit from the film. Which brand of the Commando do you recommend?

Worf

 

[Ticklishchap]

I strongly recommend Outdoor Knitwear. www.outdoorknitwear.com

 

[Stearmen]

It's marvellous. The Pakistan Army doesn't get enough credit. It's up against ruthless fundamentalists and does very well considering: it has also maintained many of the better traditions of the British Army and, sensibly, remained all-male and so no pc stuff. The facial hair is, as you say unbeatable, as is the 'Ministry of Silly Walks'-imposed marching.

As much as we joke about this ceremony, it is far nicer then the alternative, two country's launching nuclear tipped missiles at each other!

 

[Ticklishchap]

As much as we joke about this ceremony, it is far nicer then the alternative, two country's launching nuclear tipped missiles at each other!

At least they are still 'real' armies. I agree with you that the silly walks best nuclear confrontation - and conventional war - any day. The arms race between the two countries is a tragic waste of resources and ultimately, I suppose, a legacy of Partition and the chaos surrounding it.

 

[Stearmen]

At least they are still 'real' armies. I agree with you that the silly walks best nuclear confrontation - and conventional war - any day. The arms race between the two countries is a tragic waste of resources and ultimately, I suppose, a legacy of Partition and the chaos surrounding it.

Neither army has fought a major war in a long time. Military strength based on conventional power, India does come out as number 4, Pakistan 11th. Of course number one on every list hands down, is the one you belittle. Then again, we spend more then the top seven countries combined! Not necessarily a big honer.

 

[Ticklishchap]

Neither army has fought a major war in a long time. Military strength based on conventional power, India does come out as number 4, Pakistan 11th. Of course number one on every list hands down, is the one you belittle. Then again, we spend more then the top seven countries combined! Not necessarily a big honer.

I'm a bit confused by this as you seem to be reproaching me for belittling someone or something: that's not something I usually do and so I'd really like to know what you mean so that I can either apologise or explain (or possibly both?).

 

[MisterCairo]

Well, this is getting a bit heavy. I think it's time for some precision drilling:

 

[Ticklishchap]

Love it! Love it! Love it!

 

[Ticklishchap]

Well, this is getting a bit heavy. I think it's time for some precision drilling:

I think you'd enjoy 'Round the Horne'.

 

[galopede]

Hello Mr Horne. I'm Julian and this is my friend Sandy. Oooh hello Mr Horne...

I think you'd enjoy 'Round the Horne'.

 

[MisterCairo]

The RAF will not be out done!

Fighter-pilot banter!

 

[Ticklishchap]

The RAF will not be out done!

Fighter-pilot banter!

Very good. It's bringing back happy memories.

"How's your father" is an expression I remember as a boy and young man but is never used now.