Gunfire (drink) facts for kids
| Cocktail | |
|---|---|
| Type | Mixed drink |
| Served | stirred |
| Standard drinkware |
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| Commonly used ingredients | 1 cup of black tea 1 shot of rum |
| Preparation | Pour the tea into a cup. Pour the rum in and stir. |
Gunfire is a special British drink. It is a mix of black tea and rum. This drink started in the British Army. It is also a name for the early morning tea served in the army.
Contents
History of Gunfire
British Army Tradition
No one knows exactly when Gunfire was first made. But we do know that British Army soldiers were mixing it in the 1890s. Officers and non-commissioned officers (NCOs) would serve Gunfire to soldiers. This happened before a morning attack, to help them feel brave. It was also a way to celebrate before a Passing out parade. A Passing out parade is a special ceremony. It marks the end of a soldier's training.
Soldiers also get Gunfire on Christmas Day. If they are away from home, their officers bring it to them in bed. This happens at reveille, which is the time soldiers wake up.
Australian and New Zealand Armies
In Australia and New Zealand, there is a similar tradition. On ANZAC Day, a special day to remember soldiers, they have a "gunfire breakfast." This version uses black coffee instead of tea. Soldiers drink it before dawn services.
How to Make Gunfire
Making Gunfire is simple. You need one cup of black tea. Then, you add one shot of rum. Stir it all together in the cup, and it's ready!
