THE SHORT-TIMER’S CODE OF CONDUCT
Anonymous
Article I. I am an American short-timer. I serve in the forces into which I was so carelessly drafted. I am prepared to leave them at the time so designated by the Department of the Army, or sooner if at all possible.
Article II. I will never extend or re-enlist of my own free will. If I am in command, I will never allow my fellow short-timers to fraternize with the lifers.
Article III. If I am called before the Commanding Officer, I will continue to resist his re-enlistment talks by all means available. I will make every effort to escape.
Article IV. If I should become the victim of an involuntary extension, I will keep the faith with my fellow short-timers. If I am the shortest, I will assume command; if not, I will obey the shortest.
Article V. When questioned, should I become the object of a re-enlistment interview, I am bound to give only my name, rank, service number, date of birth and date I am due to be discharged.
Article VI. I will never forget that I am an American short-timer, responsible for my actions, and dedicated to the principles which have made carefree, happy civilians out of thousands of short-timers before me.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------