More than an insult, goldbrick was a condemnation of character
More than an insult, goldbrick was a condemnation of character. A brick painted gold appears valuable but is actually worthless. The term referred to a soldier who dodged responsibility, slacked off, or manipulated the system to avoid work.
Army life in the barracks and in rear echelon stations involved boredom, hardship, and senseless orders (aka chickenshit), but most GIs accepted it as part of the deal. A soldier who chose not to pull his weight earned the resentment of those doing the actual work.
How to break a “Goldbrick”
Goldbricks were mocked, “Look at Hard Charger over there — resting up for his next nap.” And “Sick Bay Commando strikes again — sprained his finger opening a can of peaches.” Noncoms — Sergeants and Corporals — often made it their mission to “break” a goldbrick. Goldbricks could be thrown a blanket party.
Annoying in the rear echelon, a goldbrick was dangerous at the front. In combat, men’s lives depend on mutual effort and trust. Shirking was betrayal, and dealt with promptly.
The counterpart: A “Rogue”
The Loveable Rogue was not a goldbrick. He often boosted morale by outwitting the brass. He liberated liquor from the officer’s club and shared it. He kept a spare pair of boots permanently polished for inspections. He forged requisition forms to get a Jeep from the motor pool and drive his buddies to town. He wasn’t lazy — he was clever. He was Beetle Bailey. He was Corporal Klinger. He was the anti-hero in a world of absurd military bureaucracy.
Critical Acclaim for Jeep Show
“A compelling glimpse into a little-known aspect of WWIl military service … His meticulous research shines through in historical details about Army life in WWII.” — Purple Heart Magazine
“Although a work of fiction, Jeep Show: A Trouper at the Battle of the Bulge brilliantly draws upon real people, places, and events drawn from the European theatre of World War II. A fun and fascinating read from start to finish, one that rises to an impressive level of literary excellence.” — Midwest Book Review
“This refreshing take on military fiction masterfully balances the gravity of war with unexpected moments of fun and camaraderie.” — BookLife Editor’s Pick
“I couldn’t put it down.” — Dale Throneberry, Veterans’ Radio Podcast
“A very entertaining read.” — Richard Killblane, U.S. Department of the Army Historian (Ret.)
“Carefully researched, punctuated by the cornball humor of the time Jeep Show puts the reader squarely in the action … It is an incredible story, well told, a must-read for historical fiction buffs.” — Will Sonnet, author, Duck Hunting in Quicksand