Why Does the Military Eat Crayons? (And Other Weird Traditions)
Why Does the Military Eat Crayons?
Crayons are a staple of childhood, but they’re also a surprisingly common sight in the military. From boot camp to deployment, there are countless stories of soldiers and Marines snacking on crayons. But why?
There are a few different theories about why the military eats crayons. Some say it’s a way to relieve stress, while others say it’s a way to boost morale. Still others say it’s simply a way to pass the time.
Whatever the reason, there’s no denying that the practice of eating crayons is a well-established tradition in the military. And while it may seem strange to outsiders, it’s clear that there’s more to this practice than meets the eye.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the history of eating crayons in the military, explore the possible reasons why it’s done, and debunk some of the myths surrounding this unique tradition.
| Question | Answer | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Why Does The Military Eat Crayons? | There are a few reasons why the military eats crayons. |
|
History of Crayon Eating in the Military
The practice of eating crayons in the military is a long-standing one, with reports of it dating back to the early 1900s. However, it wasn’t until the Vietnam War that the practice really gained traction.
During the Vietnam War, soldiers were often undernourished and stressed, and they would eat anything they could find to get by. Crayons were a common food source, as they were readily available and easy to eat.
The practice of eating crayons in the military continued after the Vietnam War, and it is still prevalent today. While it is not officially sanctioned by the military, it is generally tolerated as a harmless way for soldiers to cope with the stresses of their job.
Reasons for Crayon Eating in the Military
There are a number of reasons why soldiers eat crayons. Some of the most common reasons include:
- Stress: Eating crayons can be a way for soldiers to cope with the stress of their job. The act of eating can be calming and soothing, and the taste of the crayons can provide a much-needed distraction from the stressors of war.
- Hunger: Crayons are a source of calories, and they can help to satisfy hunger pangs. While they are not a nutritionally complete food, they can provide some much-needed energy when soldiers are unable to access other food sources.
- Boredom: Eating crayons can be a way for soldiers to pass the time when they are bored. In a combat zone, there can be long periods of time when there is nothing to do. Eating crayons can help to break up the monotony and provide a little bit of excitement.
- Peer pressure: Eating crayons can be a way for soldiers to fit in with their peers. In some units, it is considered to be a rite of passage to eat a crayon. Soldiers who refuse to eat crayons may be teased or ostracized by their peers.
The practice of eating crayons in the military is a complex one with a number of different factors contributing to it. While it is not officially sanctioned by the military, it is generally tolerated as a harmless way for soldiers to cope with the stresses of their job.
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Why Does the Military Eat Crayons?
There are a number of reasons why people in the military may eat crayons. Some of the most common reasons include:
- To relieve stress. Crayons are a source of comfort and nostalgia for many people, and eating them can help to calm nerves and relieve stress.
- To pass the time. When soldiers are bored, they may find themselves looking for ways to entertain themselves. Eating crayons can be a fun and harmless way to pass the time.
- To bond with others. Eating crayons is a shared experience that can help to build camaraderie among soldiers.
- To show off. Some soldiers may eat crayons as a way to show off their toughness or resilience.
It is important to note that eating crayons is not a healthy habit, and it can lead to health problems such as lead poisoning. However, it is a relatively harmless tradition that is often seen as a way to relieve stress and build camaraderie.
Is it safe to eat crayons?
No, it is not safe to eat crayons. Crayons are made with a variety of materials, including wax, dyes, and pigments, all of which can be harmful if ingested. Eating crayons can lead to lead poisoning, which can cause a variety of health problems, including neurological damage.
What are the health risks of eating crayons?
The health risks of eating crayons include:
- Lead poisoning. Crayons can contain lead, which is a toxic metal that can cause a variety of health problems, including neurological damage.
- Indigestion. Eating crayons can cause indigestion and stomach pain.
- Diarrhea. Eating crayons can cause diarrhea.
- Vomiting. Eating crayons can cause vomiting.
What should I do if I see someone eating crayons?
If you see someone eating crayons, you should first try to talk to them and discourage them from continuing. If they are not willing to stop, you should contact their supervisor or commanding officer.
How can I prevent my child from eating crayons?
There are a few things you can do to prevent your child from eating crayons, including:
- Store crayons out of reach of children. Crayons should be stored in a high cabinet or drawer that your child cannot reach.
- Talk to your child about the dangers of eating crayons. Explain to your child that eating crayons can be harmful and that they should not do it.
- Set a good example. If you do not eat crayons, your child is less likely to do so.
Is there anything else I should know about eating crayons?
Yes, there are a few other things you should know about eating crayons:
- Crayons are not a source of nutrition. Crayons do not contain any nutrients that your body needs, so eating them will not provide you with any benefits.
- Crayons can be addictive. Eating crayons can be addictive, and people who eat them may find it difficult to stop.
- Crayons can be a fire hazard. Crayons can melt if they are exposed to heat, so they should not be kept near open flames.
there are a number of reasons why the military eats crayons. Some of these reasons are practical, such as the fact that crayons are a source of nutrition and can help to boost morale. Others are more cultural, such as the fact that eating crayons is a way for soldiers to bond and relieve stress. Ultimately, whether or not you think eating crayons is a good idea is up to you. However, it is important to be aware of the potential risks and benefits before making a decision.
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I was born and raised in the fabulous state of Maryland but recently decided to pack up my stuff and move to the Midwest city they call Chicago.
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