Once again, transported in time & place with your writing
Obie,
Again, another well-written piece! Maybe a collection of war-time memories could be your next project after you finish your novel set in Cairo:). Trying to patiently await its publishing...
Thanks for writing and for your service.
Your friend,
Greg
Reflections on Wartime Shaves
Hello, Oldschooltools:
Thank you for your kind words. Yes, practice always helps. Since Vietnam I have not spent a day without pen and paper. Currently I am working on my second novel, as well as articles. I write seven days a week. It's a good way to keep the creative muscles honed.
I also shave every day. Since I switch hands for the straight razor shave, I still continue to increase the dexterity in my non-dominant hand, the left, as much as possible in daily activies. I also have returned to studying my classical guitar, which means daily practice. (I am so bad I embarrass myself). So, you are right: practice, practice, practice. But I digress.
Yes, every war has its distinct characteristics. The Civil War was the last of the Napoleonic-style wars, in which, I imagine, the troops used some type of a straight razor, although beards were prevalent. In WWI (which still had elements of the Napoleonic-style wars), I assume the troops used both the straight razor and the up and coming double edge safety.
World War Two was the last of the romantic wars, I believe, and that's when the double edge safety razor reigned. In the Korean War, the forgotten war, I assume the troops still used the double edge razor. By the time Vietnam came along (sadly we, the troops, returned home to mostly sneers, criticism and a few wads of spit), the plastic disposable razors were flooding the world.
I imagine the troops these days use the disposable cartridge and multi-blade cartridge razors and canned foam.
I must say, soldiers, of any nation, are probably the most innovative creatures on earth. Somehow they find a way to do everything the best they can despite the elements. That probably is so in Iraq and Afghanistan. Yes, I think sending a willing soldier a nice double edge razor, or a straight, a brush and some good cream would be a kind gesture. You, sir, are generous, indeed, and as a former soldier, I thank you for it.
Stay well, friend.
Regards,
Obie