Cadence calling is also a good yardstick to measure the progress and potential of young soldiers and a way for specialists to stand out from their peers.
Wikipdeia.org defines a military cadence or cadence call, “as a traditional call-and-response work song sung by military personnel while running or marching.”
Running will build lung capacity, while singing while running will improve diaphragm control. With additional diaphragm control Soldiers can improve their command voice. Developing a command voice is important for young soldiers as is getting out front and leading a formation. Many new troops are shy or scared they might be embarrassed when they inevitably mess up a cadence call. We rarely march in my unit but we run most every day.
My favorite running cadences are, Bo Diddley, Drip Drop, Drippity Drop Drop and I Feel All Right Now.
There are dozens if not hundreds of military cadences out there. Units, regiments and individuals will tailor a call to their audience to personalize the experience. I added another verse to Drip Drop to stretch it out and draw upon my deployment experience.
The 50 Cal gunner is asleep up in the turret
Drip Drop, Drippity Drop Drop
The 50 Cal gunner is asleep up in the turret
Drip Drop, Drippity Drop Drop
I punched him in the goonies and told him get back to work
Drip Drop, Drippity Drop Drop
Note: The hackneyed cadence, “C-130 Rollin’ Down the Strip” should be banned except at BCT. I mentally mock anyone over E-4 who pulls out that overused call during company run.
