In civilian life, it is normal to blow off some steam whenever we’re annoyed or stressed. On the other hand, if there is one thing you can count on in the military, it’s discipline and order. But sometimes, blowing off steam comes in the form of a prank that could only exist in the military.

There is so much to military humor, and over the years, service members have used it to keep morale high, bond with their units, and endure the long waits that come with military life.

7 Pranks in the Military That Became Legendary

Some pranks in the military are harmless, and others? Legendary. Now, sit back, and let’s take a look at the 7 pranks in the military that we scouted the internet for, and who knows, maybe you can also pull it off (don’t dare to try!).

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1. The Dummy Paratrooper Drop That Fooled Everyone

On D-Day in June 1944, the Allies used a fake paratrooper, whom they called “Rupert,” to confuse the Germans. The fake paratroopers were just hundreds of burlap and sand dummies with cotton parachutes. And mind you, these dummies were just a third the size of a person, and they looked larger in the air.

The main purpose of dropping the dummies was to confuse German troops so that when Rupert landed in the wrong area, they had to defend, of course, the wrong area, while the real Allied paratroopers landed in the right area with fewer enemies.

2. The “Painted Jeep” Surprise

Military vehicles are sacred. Yes, let’s start with that. They are cared for, checked daily, and treated like members of the team. And so, just imagine coming back from a holiday and seeing your Jeep all bright pink.

This became a legend after a group of bored mechanics decided to “upgrade” their commander’s jeep by painting it. After all, how do you punish creativity like that?

3. The Great Barracks Switcheroo

Ever lived in shared housing? Were you tempted to mess with your roommate’s stuff? Don’t be shy; there’s no judgment here.

One of the most effective pranks in the military is one that happens in the barracks, involving swapping the entire room setup while the occupants are away. Yes, the entire room. So not just the basic stuff, but everything you can see from that room.

The goal here was to get service members to walk into their room, thinking it’s their own, only to find it isn’t.

4. New Recruits Promotion

Some Army units like to play a joke on new recruits by promoting them. What are they being promoted to? Sandbag platoon.

The troop victim will receive a fake letter and might even have a mock ceremony, just to find out that their new assignment after being promoted is to guard a pile of sandbags for hours. Harmless and a good laugh—that’s their way to go.

5. Classic Maintenance Shop Prank

One of the classic military pranks is the “go find a left-handed wrench” or a “chem-light battery.” You now have to find and run around the base, looking for something… that doesn’t exist.

While you run, the rest of the troops struggle to hold back laughter because those are just imaginary items used to make a fool out of you.

6. Alexa, Start Engine

Today, technology plays a significant role in modern military operations. A coffee maker, gate, or vehicle plays a role in this voice-activated prank.

Imagine saying “open,” “start engine,” or “make coffee” to a motionless object. Turns out, they are not really voice-activated. It’s one of the best ways to crack up the whole unit.

7. Toilets Dropping Out of the Sky

Finally, the granddaddy of all military pranks! A toilet dropping out of the sky! Yes, you read that right, and we’re not pranking you.

In 1965, the U.S. Navy’s Attack Squadron dropped a toilet bomb from an A-1 Skyraider over North Vietnam. It was not a toilet filled with bombs, just to be clear.

The purpose of the toilet bomb was to have a good laugh. It was dropped in the middle of the ocean, so no one was hurt. And at the time, they made jokes about germ warfare. This was one of the most legendary military pranks that was ever pulled off, and nope, you can’t try it!

There’s Always Room for Laughter

In an environment built on discipline and order, it doesn’t hurt to have a little humor. It strengthens bonds, helps relieve stress, and especially reminds us that even in the most serious job, there’s always room for laughter!

These pranks in the military prove that creativity and mischief will always find their way in, because when boredom meets brotherhood, you never expect what kind of prank might be pulled off!

Read next:

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• Navy and New Zealand's Project Seal: WWII Tsunami Bomb

Sources:

• Paratrooper Dummy
• What Are the Best Pranks You Pulled Off with New Guys at Your Unit?
• 7 Pranks That Can Only Be Done in the Military
• Navy's Unusual Vietnam Toilet Bombing Mission Unveiled
• Best Army Pranks and Practical Jokes Ever
• 9 More Hilarious Military Pranks