Hurry Up and Wait, explained for civilians:
Colonel: “XO, I want the battalion in formation at 0930 so we can go over the new training changes.”
Lieutenant Colonel (XO): “Company Commanders, The C.O. said he wants everyone in formation on the parade deck at 0900.”
Company Commander (Captain): “1stSgt, I need you to get the company in formation by 0830 on the parade deck.”
1stSgt: “Gunny, get these got-damned clowns on the parade deck by 0800 or I’ll fuck you up.”
Gunny: “Sergeants, make sure your platoons of drooling idiots are standing tall at 0730.”
Sergeant: “Listen up you shitbirds, the C.O. wants you all in formation by 0700, so you assholes better be there by 0630 or so help me….”
Anyway. That’s how that shit happens.