Why 'Crayon-Eater' is actually just a bad joke
The rivalry between branches can best be described as a sibling rivalry. We're always making fun of each other whenever we can, calling the Air Force the Chair Force, the Coast Guard a bunch of puddle pirates — the list goes on. One thing that branches can't seem to figure out, though, is a good, slightly insulting nickname for Marines.
It seems like the other branches tried to find some kind of insult for Marines but, instead, we've turned those monikers into sources of pride. We like being called names like Jarhead. It's kind of cool, really. You're saying our hair regulations are so disciplined it's stupid? Maybe it's your attitude toward discipline that has us always on the delivery side of insults. Think about it.
But one thing that's sorta caught on and is becoming popular is calling Marines, "Crayon-Eaters."
Well, here's why that nickname just won't hold water: