I have no earthly way of verifying this. As in, not the time to trawl the internet for refs.

But – both sides of my family were/are military.

I grew up Understanding the 3rd Strike Rule.

In WW1…etc…and whatever – this refers to three men smoking in the trenches at the same time.

 

Strike One/Cigarette : Spotted.

Cigarette Two : Gun aimed.

Cigarette Three : Ooops. Gotcha. Edjit!

 

Even when I joined up – Not a single person would be the 3rd strike. ANYWHERE.

Blow that effing match out and light another one!!!

Is that an ingrained superstition?

Does this make sense ?

I understand. Sadly :o(