User:Geonimay

Donkey on a waffle
Navy Jargon. To engage in work at your own pace while giving the impression of assigning it the highest priorities. Due to the vague nature of the statement, once the true meaning is discovered, it is neither questioned or criticized.

Beginning in the 1830's donkeys were used to pull large pieces of lumber to the shipyard. Due to the frequent use of Belgian migrant labor different slang terminology instilled itself into the naval vocabulary. During the winter months when shipbuilding was less active the migrant workers would take their pack animals home with them to save money on stabling. As well as lend their home to sailors during the holidays. In the mornings breakfast would usually be laid out on the table until everyone finished their morning chores. Occassionally one of the donkeys would meander in to the dining area and devour the breakfast.

Originally this statement was used as a positive affirmation of a sailor's intent to do a specific task. "I'm on that like a donkey on a waffle, sir." was a common turn of phrase in the shipyard. As tensions were building up prior to the Civil War migrant workers fled the east and traveled to the pacific coast.