The musical humorist used his Army experience as the basis for several of his songs, and in turn worked in references to his music in his work at the NSA.

Tom Lehrer songs included “Poisoning Pigeons in the Park,” “The Old Dope Peddler,” “Be Prepared” and “The Vatican Rag,” in which he poked at the rites and ceremonies of the Roman Catholic Church.

The legendary satirist who rose to fame in the ’50s and ’60s with darkly funny songs about war, politics, and society has died at 97. Learn more about him here.