An Irish rebel song. The lyrics address concerns of a young man reconsidering the decisions that caused him to volunteer for the British army. From verse to verse, examples are given as to why the young man wants to leave the British Army.

This song of Irish origin has circulated both inside and outside the army since Victorian times. Singers/Chanters would insert at appropriate points the names of those NCO's they disliked.

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When I was young I used to be
As fine a man as ever you'd see
And the Prince of Wales he said to me
'Come And Join The British Army'

Toora loora loora loo
They're looking for monkeys up in the zoo
And says one if I had a face like you
I'd join the British army

Sarrah came and baked the cake
And sold for poor old Stafely's sake
So I'll throw myself into the lake
Pretending I was barmy

Toora loora loora loo
What make me mind up what to do?
Now I'll work me ticket home to you
And ... the British army

Sergeant Healy went away
And his wife got in the family way
And the only words that she could say
Was 'Blame the British army'

Toora loora loora loo
Me curse upon the Labour too
That took me darling boy from me
To join the British army

Corporal Sheane has a terrible mouth
Just give him a couple o' jars of stout
And he'll ate the enemy with his mouth
And save the British army

Toora loora loora loo
What made me mind up what to do?
Now I'll work me ticket home to you
And ... the British army