Gun fire

From The Great War 1914-1918

Gun fire: The usual term for the early cup of tea served out to troops in the morning before going on first parade, whenever possible. In the War recruits in training always had a "Gun fire" supplied to them, the work before breakfast being found particularly trying. The morning gun in a garrison town suggested the name probably.[1]

References / notes

  1. Edward Fraser and John Gibbons (1925). Soldier and Sailor Words and Phrases. Routledge, London p.113.

Glossary of words and phrases

The above term is listed in our glossary of words and phrases of the Armed Forces of Great Britain during the Great War. Included are trench slang, service terms, expressions in everyday use, nicknames, the titles and origins of British and Commonwealth Regiments, and warfare in general. These words and phrases are contemporary to the war, which is reflected in the language used. They have been transcribed from three primary sources (see Contents). Feel free to expand upon and improve this content.
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