FML is USMC humor of a Marine in a foxhole on a Forward Operating Base (FOB). Whether in the Air Force, Marines, Navy or Army FML living on the military FOB. Long deployments can at times be rough, routine, or just rats. No rats are not a funny joke.

According to the world-renown Dr. Knowitall the origins of the phrase F**K MY LIFE (FML) date back pretty far. Here is his explanation:

The Legendary Military Origin of “FML”

In a time not so long ago, during the Great War of Frustrations (circa anytime in military history), there was a valiant soldier named Private First Class Bill Murphy, affectionately known as PFC Murphy. Now, Murphy had a unique talent: he was a magnet for mishaps, misfortunes, and military blunders. His name eventually became synonymous with Murphy’s Law – you know, the one that states, “Anything that can go wrong, will go wrong.”

One particularly fateful day, during the infamously botched Operation FUBAR (Fouled Up Beyond All Recognition), PFC Murphy found himself in the most ridiculous of predicaments. The sun had barely risen when his day started unraveling like a poorly packed parachute. First, his alarm clock failed to go off, thanks to a battery that mysteriously vanished during the night. In a mad rush, Murphy accidentally put on mismatched boots and grabbed the wrong rifle – one that shot blanks.

As he sprinted to the mess hall for a quick breakfast, he tripped over a conveniently placed mop bucket, sending himself and the bucket sprawling across the floor. Murphy’s toast, which he had clutched in his mouth during the sprint, fell butter-side down onto his clean uniform. But there was no time to clean up, so off he went, half-toast and all.

Morning Briefing

During the morning briefing, he discovered that his squad was scheduled for a grueling training exercise in the swamps – an area affectionately dubbed “The Green Hell” by the seasoned soldiers. Murphy’s bad luck continued as he was the first to sink waist-deep in the swamp, losing a boot in the process. The sergeant, known for his lack of empathy, barked, “Suck it up, Murphy!”

By midday, the swamps had claimed not only Murphy’s other boot but also his dignity, as he got entangled in a thorny bush while trying to retrieve his lost gear. Covered in mud, scratches, and bug bites, Murphy became a living, breathing example of how everything could go wrong in the military.

The breaking point came during the night’s camp setup. Exhausted and demoralized, Murphy was tasked with digging the latrine. As he dug, his shovel struck an old, buried beehive. Out swarmed the angry bees, sending Murphy running and flailing through the camp, much to the amusement of his fellow soldiers.

Finally wrapping this story up…

Finally, collapsing by the campfire, nursing stings and a bruised ego, Murphy looked around at his bemused comrades and uttered the immortal words: “Fuck my life.” The phrase resonated with his battle-weary companions, who had their fair share of military mishaps. Laughter erupted around the campfire as they recounted their own “FML” moments, finding solace in shared suffering and the universal truth of Murphy’s Law.

Word of Murphy’s phrase spread like wildfire through the ranks. Soldiers found it perfectly captured those moments of sheer exasperation and comedic misfortune that seemed to plague military life. From forgotten passwords to failed missions, “FML” became the go-to expression for every soldier facing the absurdities and frustrations of service life.

Today, “FML” remains a beloved part of military vernacular, a testament to the enduring spirit of soldiers who face adversity with humor and resilience. So, the next time you hear a service member mutter “FML,” remember PFC Murphy and the legendary day that turned his misfortune into a phrase for the ages.

The Frontlines

It is hard to believe but they published some of the comics I drew during my 20 year military career! These humorous musings may make you laugh or offend others, but are the result of awesome mentors, great buddies and a deep appreciation for sarcastic humor. Check it out here on Amazon The Frontlines

The Frontlines uses Amazon referral links and sales from The Frontlines Shop to cover web hosting, research, and the gathering of stories to preserve military history and humor.

Popular Products