 – The saying “war is months of boredom punctuated by moments of sheer terror” likely came about due to the endless trench warfare of WWI. Now on view…){kind=link}
KANSAS CITY, MO (PNAN) – The saying “war is months of boredom punctuated by moments of sheer terror” likely came about due to the endless trench warfare of WWI. Now on view at the National WWI Museum and Memorial, the exhibition, “Entertaining the Troops” gives a peek into the life of a WWI soldier beyond the battlefield, whether waiting for the enemies’ next move or partying in Paris.
Entertainment was serious business in the Great War. Keeping troops entertained was important for keeping morale high, especially when knee-deep in the muck. The soldiers needed comradery, rest which served as the reminders of who, what and why they were in this world war fight.
Soldiers of all nations and militaries turned to a wide variety of entertainment to manage the boredom and distract from the terror. Troops facing long hours in the trenches might read, draw, write a letter or play a game of cards.
When away from the front lines and the chances of enemy assault, they might organize a game of soccer, football, or baseball, play in a band or attend a theater show as well as they might be in the show if professional entertainment was scarce.
Camp canteens offered food and drinks that weren’t available on the battlefield. Additionally, there was always the opportunity to travel to nearby towns and cities, for a variety of both respectable and illicit entertainment.