Mail Call Season 3 Episode 2 Super Stallion Helicopter; Flying Banana; Navy Hazing; Seabees; GI Jargon; Tank Ammo
- July 13, 2003
- 21 min
Mail Call is a military-themed show that answers viewers' questions about military history, equipment, and protocol. In season 3 episode 2, the host R. Lee Ermey tackles questions about the Super Stallion Helicopter, Flying Banana, Navy Hazing, Seabees, GI Jargon, and Tank Ammo.
The first topic, the Super Stallion Helicopter, is a mighty machine that can carry heavy loads and transport troops across battlefields. Ermey gives a brief history lesson on the helicopter and talks about its many uses, from humanitarian missions to combat operations. He shows clips of the helicopter in action and interviews military personnel who have worked with it. Viewers learn about its specifications, features, and capabilities.
The next question is about the Flying Banana, a nickname for a unique and unusual helicopter used during the Vietnam War. Ermey explains that the Flying Banana was actually an experimental aircraft called the Piasecki H-16, which had a unique tandem-rotor design. He shares stories of its use in the war and interviews veterans who flew or supported the Flying Banana. Viewers also learn about the challenges and benefits of the tandem-rotor design.
The third topic is Navy Hazing, which Ermey addresses with his usual no-nonsense attitude. He explains the difference between hazing and training, and emphasizes that hazing is never acceptable. He shares stories of hazing incidents and their consequences, and interviews Navy veterans who share their opinions on the matter. Viewers learn about the Navy's policies on hazing and how they have evolved over time.
The fourth topic is the Seabees, a nickname for the United States Navy's Construction Battalions. Ermey talks about the history of the Seabees and their role in building and maintaining Navy bases and facilities around the world. He shows clips of Seabees in action and interviews current and former members of the unit. Viewers learn about the Seabees' motto, "We build, we fight," and how it reflects their dedication to both construction and combat operations.
The fifth topic is GI Jargon, which Ermey explains with his trademark humor and bluntness. He defines common military acronyms and phrases like FUBAR, AWOL, and BOHICA, and shares stories of how they originated and how they are used. Viewers learn about the importance of communication in the military and how jargon can sometimes be a hindrance to that communication.
The final topic is Tank Ammo, which Ermey examines with the help of a military expert. They discuss the different types of tank ammunition, from high explosive to armor-piercing, and their uses in combat. They also talk about the challenges of designing and producing effective tank ammunition, and how it has evolved over time. Viewers learn about the importance of ammunition in tank warfare and how it can make the difference between victory and defeat.
Overall, Mail Call season 3 episode 2 offers an informative and entertaining look at a wide range of military topics. From helicopters to hazing, from Seabees to tank ammo, viewers learn about the many facets of military life and history. With R. Lee Ermey as the engaging and knowledgeable host, the show is a must-watch for anyone interested in the military and its culture.