G is for Geronimo

Yesterday’s post was on the subject of writing humour under a pseudonym. Today here’s an example of humour, but it’s not mine. In fact, I think this gag is actually older than me.

It’s 1944 and a team of young, allied paratroopers are on the point of jumping into enemy territory. Sergeant-Major Stalwart, a veteran of World War One, is giving them last minute orders.

“Remember lads. When the light turns green, I’ll open the door. You jump out, shout ‘Geronimo’ and pull the ripcord.”

The light turns from red to green and one by one the nervous young men jump from the aircraft.

Smiffy is the shakiest of the lot. Stalwart reassures him. “You’ll be all right, Smiffy. Remember. Jump, shout ‘Geronimo’ and pull the ripcord. Just like in training.”

Smiffy swallows hard, and jumps. Stalwart shuts the door radios the pilot that everyone is clear, sits down and lights his pipe. As he smokes, he says a silent prayer for his lads.

The aircraft turns for home. There is a tapping coming from somewhere. Stalwart looks around for loose nuts and bolts, but cannot find any. The tapping continues. Listening closely, his ear pressed to the fuselage, Stalwart tracks it down to the door. Someone is knocking on the door.

Puzzled and not a little worried, Stalwart opens the door and finds Smiffy clinging on for grim death.

Smiffy looks up, his eyes pleading. “What was the name of that Indian?”