"awkward squad"/ sayings

Posted by ESC January 19, 2005In 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.