Catchword: semper Gumby

Filed Under: English, Latin, Military

Part of Speech: n.

Quotation: Coasties have one other unofficial motto, borrowed from the Marines—semper Gumby, a reference to the pliant green claymation figure. Semper Gumby is semper paratus reflected off of a funhouse mirror. It’s confidence, professionalism, politeness, adaptability, efficiency and bravery, all warped by resigned frustration. Gumby is flexible, and also bent by other people. Semper Gumby has been notoriously translated by Coast Guard search-and-rescuers as “We have to go out, but we don’t have to come back.”

Article or Document Title:
“Same Ship, Different Day” (URL)

Author:
Scott Berinato

Article, Document, Publication, Web Site:
CSO Magazine

Date of Publication:
May, 2004

This catchword has yet to be researched.