During World War II, service members on land, sea, and in the air developed a vivid slang that captured their experiences and forged camaraderie. SNAFU (Situation Normal All Fouled Up) delves into the colorful terminology used by soldiers, sailors, and airmen, tracing how unofficial phrases emerged alongside formal ranks and acronyms.

Organized by the major combatant powers, each section explores the origins and battlefield uses of key expressions—many of which endured beyond the war and entered everyday speech. Detailed entries explain terms from trench humor to naval lingo, offering insight into daily life at the front.

Illustrated with contemporary cartoons and images, SNAFU also includes appendices listing nicknames for surface vessels and aircraft types. Whether you’re a military history enthusiast or a language buff, this thorough glossary reveals the roots and evolution of WWII slang.

• Comprehensive slang glossary for army, navy & air force
• Origins and usage notes for each term
• Contemporary cartoons illustrating battlefield language
• Appendices of vessel and aircraft nicknames

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