Leave

Leave is effectively a military word for 'authorised absence'. In other words - a chance to Thin Out and take a Holiday.

Leave in the Army has a unique property in that it may seem to stretch ahead for ever at the start of summer, yet within minutes - seemingly - you're back in the Company or Squadron offices wondering what on earth just happened.

People who just decide to take themselves away on holiday without letting the Army know are said to be AWOL.