WWII - Band of Brothers - Why are the Germans called . . .

“Jerry” or “Jerries”? That’s what I thought I heard during the show, and now it has come up a few times while reading the book so I know it is “Jerry” being used as a generic term for the German soldier, but what is the origin or meaning?

Have a look here:

http://boards.straightdope.com/sdmb/showthread.php?threadid=86348

Thanks Gary, I didn’t see the previous thread from last week.

I have a co-worker named Jerry who is watching the show also and I’d like to be able to use his name as an insult if at all possible.

You’re welcome.