The story is told that, during World War 2 when the US had hundreds of thousands of troops stationed in Vanuatu (then known as the New Hebrides), Malekula mainlanders who lived close to this small land mass were paid by the soldiers to leave the general vicinity for the day, so that their pilots could test and practice in their aircraft, using the small island for target practice. Of course, the Americans didn't expect the locals to abide by their request without renumeration. Their offer? Ten cigarettes ("sticks" in Bislama) per adult male who took their family away from the village for the day. Thus, the target island became known as Ten-Stick Island and the associated village on the mainland is also referred to as Ten-Stick Village.
...Which reminds me of another "oh my Vanuatu" moment from several years ago. In our travels, we are constantly presented with various Bible questions, often by people who are "sizing us up" with regard to our teachings. I distinctly remember being thrown off by a questioner who inquired "wanem nao Baebol i talem long saed blong lepstik?" (i.e. what does the Bible say about 'lipstick'). Seeing my initial look of confusion, some quickly assisted my understanding by explaining that "lepstik" is a stick that one puts between their lips, i.e. cigarettes!
Live and learn. Oh my Vanuatu ;)
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