"awkward squad"/ sayings

Posted by ESC on January 19, 2005

In Reply to: "Awkward squad"/ sayings posted by ESC on January 19, 2005

: : While reading one of my old books, "Reed's Word Lessons" published by Charles E. Merrill Co. of New York in 1907, I came upon a lesson that instructs the writer to 'join the "akward squad."' Any ideas on origin and meaning?
: : The book also contains some wonderful unattributed sayings. Is anyone familiar with...
: : 'Error is not always guilt.'
: : 'Our doubts are traitors.'
: : 'Make no truce with error.'
: : Again, I appreciate your responses.
: : SR

: I looked in a youth slang book and an old college slang book and didn't find it.

Googled "slang" "awkward squad" and found several references including:

Awkward Squad: A squad of inexperienced recruits led by a non-commissioned officer for the purpose of instruction.
Glossary of Indian Wars Slang at abuffalosoldier.com/ slang.htm Accessed January 19, 2005.

AWKWARD SQUAD
Awkward squad is British slang for people who are inexperienced, clumsy or insubordinate.
www.probertencyclopaedia.com/ ZAC.HTM Accessed January 19, 2005.