Ancient and Honorable Order of Turtles

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Y.B.Y.S.A.I.A. Turtle Pin

Ancient and Honorable Order of Turtles (AHOOT) is a fraternal and social organization that originated during World War II. It was initially formed as an informal "drinking club" among pilots, aimed at promoting camaraderie and a sense of humor under the stress of war. The Order is known for its humorous motto, "Are you a Turtle?", to which the response, known only to members, is equally whimsical. Membership is purported to require a sense of humor and the ability to complete a series of riddles or answer questions with innuendos, without resorting to vulgarity.

History

The Ancient and Honorable Order of Turtles was founded in the early 1940s by World War II fighter pilots. The organization served as a means to relieve the stress of combat and bond over humor and camaraderie. The exact origins are somewhat murky, with various accounts attributing its founding to different individuals and locations within the military community. However, it is widely agreed that the Order provided a unique and secretive way for members to identify each other and share a laugh, even in the face of adversity.

Membership and Rituals

Membership to the Ancient and Honorable Order of Turtles is traditionally obtained by answering a series of riddles or questions posed by a current member. These questions are designed to be playful, with answers that are double entendres. The key to membership is maintaining a sense of humor without resorting to outright vulgarity. Once successfully answering the questions, a member is welcomed into the Order with a special greeting and may be given a membership card, which humorously certifies their status as a "Turtle."

Motto and Symbol

The motto of the Order, "Are you a Turtle?", serves as both a greeting among members and a test to confirm one's membership. The expected response, known only to members, signifies one's understanding and acceptance of the group's values of humor and fellowship. The symbol of the Order is typically a turtle, representing the group's name and its ideals of slow, steady progress with determination and resilience.

Cultural Impact

While the Ancient and Honorable Order of Turtles began within the military, its appeal has spread to various civilian sectors over the years. It has been adopted by different groups seeking to foster a sense of unity and humor, including in colleges, workplaces, and other social clubs. The Order's emphasis on lightheartedness and camaraderie has made it a unique and enduring social organization.

Contemporary Status

Today, the Ancient and Honorable Order of Turtles continues to exist as a social organization with members worldwide. It remains largely informal, with no central governing body or official chapters. The internet has facilitated a resurgence of interest in the Order, allowing for a new generation of members to connect, share jokes, and continue the traditions of the original Turtle Club members from World War II.