[Editor: A humourous look at some abbreviations used by Australian soldiers during World War One. Published in Aussie: The Australian Soldiers’ Magazine, no. 3, 8 March 1918.]
Some abbreviations explained.
“M.B.,” French Interpreter on Corps H.Q., sends this:—
Of course, all Australian soldiers know that they are A.I.F., that is, “Admired in France,” but a good number of them, I guess, are still unaware of the actual meaning of Y.M.C.A., though it simply signifies: “You Must Cherish Australia.”
When you want money you should not apply to the A.P.M. He is not the Australian Pay-Master, and in most cases it is better for you not to interfere with his business.
Some motor-lorry drivers put a board on their lorries with the inscription G.S.M.L., supposed to mean: “Give Soldiers More Leave!”
Source:
Aussie: The Australian Soldiers’ Magazine, no. 3, 8 March 1918, page 7
Editor’s notes:
A.I.F. = Australian Imperial Force; the First Australian Imperial Force was created in 1914 to fight in World War One, the Second Australian Imperial Force was created in 1939 to fight in World War Two
A.P.M. = Assistant Provost Marshal
Y.M.C.A. = Young Men’s Christian Association
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