Armed Services Arts Partnership (ASAP) showcases the power of comedy to unite veterans and civilians through laughter and shared experiences.
In the military, the art of waiting is a familiar concept. Whether it’s waiting to deploy or waiting in line, humor has long been a coping mechanism for service members. The Armed Services Arts Partnership (ASAP) recognizes the therapeutic power of comedy and recently organized a comedy show featuring military veteran comedians. Through their performances, these veterans used humor to connect with audiences on a range of topics, from war and patriotism to race and religion. This article explores how comedy can bridge divides and foster understanding among veterans and civilians alike.
1: The Special Brand of Military Comedy
Humor in the military is unique. It must cater to a diverse audience, appealing to various sensibilities. It takes the mundane and the mistakes and finds the funny in them, providing a much-needed respite from the challenges of deployment. One example involves an officer on a guided missile destroyer who, after injuring his hands during a night exercise, became the subject of classic dad jokes and mummy puns from his crew. These shared laughs not only eased the tension but also created a sense of belonging and camaraderie among the service members.
2: Comedy as a Means of Connection
The comedy show organized by ASAP brought together military veteran comedians who fearlessly tackled challenging topics. War, race, reparations, patriotism, sex, sexual orientation, healthcare, and religion were all fair game for discussion. By addressing these subjects through comedy, the veterans created a space for open dialogue and reflection. The show provided an opportunity for both veterans and civilians to come together, laugh, and explore complex issues in a lighthearted yet meaningful way.
3: The Power of Shared Experiences
The military is a melting pot, bringing together individuals from diverse backgrounds and walks of life. Serving side by side, these individuals form bonds of trust and friendship. The shared experiences of training, waiting, and taking risks together foster a deep understanding and appreciation for one another. This diversity is a defining aspect of American culture, as demonstrated by the camaraderie between Vietnam veterans and Gen Z women at the comedy show. Through comedy, veterans were able to showcase the beauty of this cultural diversity and bridge generational divides.
4: Comedy as a Tool for Reflection and Critique
Veteran comedians often use self-deprecating humor, making themselves the butt of the joke, to model how to offer both praise and critique for the country. By being vulnerable on stage, they create a safe space for discussions about difficult topics. After the show, a conversation ensued between the comedians and the audience, allowing for unpacking of jokes that may have landed awkwardly or fallen flat. This dialogue led to a deeper exploration of race, safety, perceptions of police, patriotism, and the role of comedy in addressing these issues.
5: Know Your Audience to Humor Them
The key to effective comedy, as emphasized during the post-show conversation, is understanding your audience. This advice applies not only to comedians but also to military personnel sharing stories during the waiting periods. In a time when dialogue is often challenging, the ability to connect through humor requires sensitivity and awareness. By knowing their audience, veterans can use comedy to bridge divides and foster understanding.
Conclusion:
The Armed Services Arts Partnership’s comedy show demonstrated the power of humor to bring people together, regardless of their backgrounds or experiences. Through comedy, veterans were able to address challenging topics, create a safe space for dialogue, and foster understanding between military and civilian communities. As we commemorate Veterans Day, let us appreciate the humanity of those who serve and recognize the importance of laughter in navigating the complexities of military life.
Leave a Reply