In the first episode of The Rum Ration, we take you on a journey through the origins and legacy of the naval tradition that inspired our podcast’s name. As retired Army Reserve officers, we’ve always been fascinated by how a simple daily "tot" of rum brought warmth, camaraderie, and even a sense of safety to sailors starting in 1655.

We also explore how this tradition extended to the British and Canadian Armies during World War I. From freezing trenches to moments of respite amidst chaos, the rum ration wasn’t just a drink—it was a lifeline. Sharing those stories reminds us how soldiers, like sailors before them, found resilience and connection through small comforts.

Join us as we relive the logistics, rituals, and iconic moments, like “Black Tot Day,” while reflecting on why these traditions mattered. Together, let’s raise a cup to history, camaraderie, and the human side of military life.