It was 1971, and I was assigned to the Provost Marshal’s office at MACV HQ, in Viet Nam. My duty title was Narcotics Staff Officer. At that time there was quite a problem with soldiers using heroin. But, that is another war story. It was during this time that I was introduced to one of my favorite convivial libations, the Black Russian.
The evening was quiet at the BOQ where I was living. I’m in my skivvies, reading mail and writing letters. There came a raucous knock at the door. To my surprise, it was one of my colleagues from the office. He had just returned from a get together at the Provost Marshal’s quarters and was about three sheets to the wind. He wanted to talk. He also wanted to go to the bar for another drink. I got dressed and away we went upstairs to the bar.
It was at this time when he asked if I had ever had a Black Russian? I had not, but was willing to try. He ordered the drinks complete with a twist and we sat down to talk. Well, he talked and I listened.
If you are not familiar with the drink let me explain the intricacies of preparing one.
Black Russian
2 parts Vodka
1 part Kahlua
over ice.
I prefer a half and half mixture myself.
Some even like it with a twist. Not me.
If you put milk or cream with it, it becomes a white Russian.
Now back to the main theme. My colleague was complaining about Army officers, particularly those who were Military Police. He was the Air Force equivalent. He was not too impressed with the Provost Marshal. He then decided to tell me about his problems with his children, his wife and his girl friend. In the meantime, I had consumed about a dozen Black Russians and was just getting a slight buzz. It was a good thing I didn’t have to drive anywhere.
It was about this time when he poured a part of his drink on my leg. I told him it was time to pour him into bed. We left the bar and that is the saga of how I discovered the joy of a convivial libation, the Black Russian.
Serve well! Live fully! Enjoy a Black Russian.
9 comments:
fatty, Ugggh! Kahlua with coke. Yuk!!
The catwoman cite sounds a lot like the Jack Nicholson routine in another movie, the name of which escapes me, where he wanted an order of toast. He had to order a tuna salad sandwich on toast, but hold the tuna, the lettuce, and the mayonnaise. Just bring the toasted bread. It was funny in the film. lol
I will always associate you with Black Russians Dad. I can remember loving the smell of them growing up (not that you were always lit or drinking them, but...). I will have to get some Kahlua soon. I also remember you liked it over vanilla ice cream. Am I making that up?
Shannon, you remember correctly. Kahlua over vanilla ice cream is scrumptious.
Love, Dad
I remember that you also liked Salty Dogs, you used to put salt in your grapefruit juice. I remember the first time I ever tasted Amerreto, it was over vanilla ice cream. It is so good that way.
Adrianne, there was also some gin in the grapefruit juice. It, too, is a great hot weather drink.
okay. first of all, anything with grapefruit juice is the devil. i know, i know.. opinions are there for a reason, but I'm SURE i'm right.
2nd, white or black russians rock. 'nuff said.
3rd, my drink of choice is still the kamikazee. (straight up) for anyone not in the know:
1 shots vodka
1 shot of triplesec
2 parts lime juice (or lemon/lime)
shake with crushed ice, and serve.
coupla those will cause anyone to be poured into a bed.
well, i think I jes decided my weekend plans! woot woot!
And a giant WOOT from here on your weekend plans. I think you have earned it.
how is this for a word verification?
mfcopyr
btw, the enjoyment of grapefruit juice is a VERY personal thing. I happen to like it with a little gin and salt around the rim.
Interesting war tale, with a twist! Never had a black or white Russian--tend to take my drinks straight up or on rocks.
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