January 11, 2012   For generations of military personnel, that phrase originating in World War II was the signal to take a break or at least to cool their heels while waiting. So ingrained was tobacco use in military culture, it was reasonable to assume that cigarettes would be an integral part of relaxing or, ironically, taking a breather. After all, cigarettes were included in C-rations until 1975 and still are sold without expensive taxes at military bases throughout the world. So, persuading military personnel to give up smoking and creating a smoke-free military is, to say the least, a mammoth challenge. Paul Fitzpatrick, manager for TRICARE’S “Quit Tobacco-Make Everyone Proud” program, suggested that cultural barriers are “probably the No. 1 issue” in promoting smoking cessation.

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