I've always felt particularly in the case of the song "Sam Hall", that the phrase damn your eyes was closer to f@$k you that go to hell. Although I sing SAm Hall at re-enactments sometimes, it is indeed a very hatefull song. The "sentimental" phrase was used in both the British and American armed forces in the last century but it is chiefly a British phrase. I don't know if it helps but I hope so. HAppy New Year everyone, Kindest reguards, Neil