Beer During War

Beer During War is the topic for Profiles in Craft Beer this Memorial Day. Today and every day, please remember to honor our service members. In addition, remember the sacrifices they made for duty, honor, America, and the world.

Beer During WarIn Memory and Honor of Those Who Sacrificed for Us

The history of war is filled with stories about beer and other alcohol spirits as an important aspect of the military culture and maintaining the morale of soldiers. As noted by beer historian Gregg Smith,   “In America the Continental Congress approved ale as part of each soldiers daily ration. Although the official portions were discontinued in the mid eighteen hundreds, it continued to be held in high regard throughout the ranks. During World War One, despite the spreading prohibition at home, the doughboys’ exploits in the Brasseries of France were legendary. And, in World War Two the U.S. armed forces virtually took over breweries, such as Brand, to provide for the needs of thirsty GI’s. More recently the Gulf War caused special maneuvers, in locations where drinking is illegal, so troops could be cycled out of country for a little R&R and cold beer.”

Today’s post features five articles to pay honor to the men and women of the U.S. armed services and their sacrifices. These stories about beer during war help demonstrate the important impact beer has played throughout the history of war.

1. The Seeds for Revolutionary War and the Founding of America Were Planted in Taverns: Colonial taverns served as the major meeting places of colonial America. Beer, cider, wine, and rum were the fuel for revolutionary discourse. Taverns were so embedded in the colonial culture, that they served as the sites where groups such as the Sons of Liberty gathered to plot rebellion against English rule. A historic example is Samuel Adams’s famous haunt, The Green Dragon in Boston. Established in 1654, The Green Dragon was a favorite haunt of Paul Revere and John Hancock. Daniel Webster, famous historian and dictionary writer, stated that it was in The Green Dragon where the plans for the invasion of Lexington and Concord were overheard, thus starting the famous ride of Paul Revere. Read more about the role of the colonial Tavern as part of the American Revolution by clicking here.

Beer During WarGive me Anchor Liberty Ale, or give me Death by Coconut!

2. The Civil War Resulted in the First National Beer Tax: As the Civil War threatened our very nation, beer played a crucial role both on and off the battlefield. Once again, beer played a crucial role in the lives of both Union and Confederate soldiers – as they turned to drink to help ease the boredom of non-combat. But more importantly, as politicians realized the war would be a long conflict, they recognized the need for more money to pay for the war effort. Hence, the Lincoln administration enacted a national excise tax on “all beer, lager beer, ale, porter and other similar fermented liquors, by whatever name such liquors may be called.” Read about the Civil War’s effects on American beer by clicking here.

3. World War I and Its Anti-Beer Impact: Could it be that World War I and the resulting anti-German sentiment helped to spark the era of Prohibition? Read about the impact of World War I on American beer by clicking here.

Beer During War“Few would venture to deny the advantages of temperance in increasing the efficiency of a nation at war.” – William Lyon Mackenzie King

4. My Favorite World War II Beer Story: Did you know that the US Department of Agriculture actually ordered that 15 percent of all beer production in the United States be set aside for the troops during World War II, which amounted to a bigger ration of beer than the average citizen received? However, that is not today’s story. My favorite World War II story is about Vincent Speranza, a former infantryman machine gunner with the 501st Parachute Infantry Regiment. Learn about Vincent Speranza and his beer story by clicking here.

Beer During WarPhotograph courtesy of David Spencer

5. Beer in Vietnam and the Great Beer Strike of 1969: Read one veteran’s first-hand account about beer in Vietnam and how a beer strike in the U.S. impacted soldiers’ morale by clicking here.

Beer During WarDraft Beer, Not Students

Remember, the service members we honor today came from all walks of life, but they shared several fundamental qualities. They possessed courage, pride, determination, selflessness, and dedication to duty and integrity – all the qualities needed to serve a cause larger than one’s self. They also shared beer during war because all men and women service members must seek moments of self-preservation, reminders of our every day culture, and moments to celebrate the special comradery that exists between soldiers that have experienced the crucible of combat together.