"Semper Paratus" ("Always Ready" in Latin) is a song that
proclaims the discipline and valor of the United States Coast Guard. In peaceful or stormy seas, this group of brave men are
always ready to overcome and conquer whatever obstacle that comes their way.
The original words and music were composed by Captain Francis Saltus van Boskerck in 1927;
these words have since been modified several times. Semper Paratus is sung here by the Arrowhead Chorale of Duluth, Minnesota.
Listen to Semper Paratus
Lyrics:
From Aztec shore to Arctic zone,
To Europe and Far East.
The Flag is carried by our ships,
In times of war and peace.
And never have we struck it yet,
In spite of foe-men's might,
Who cheered our crews and cheered again,
For showing how to fight.
We're always ready for the call,
We place our trust in Thee.
Through surf and storm and howling gale,
High shall our purpose be. Semper Paratus is our guide,
Our fame, our glory too.
To fight to save or fight and die.
Aye! Coast Guard, we are for you.
From North and South and East and West,
The Coast Guard's in the fight.
Destroying subs and landing troops,
The Axis feels our might.
For we're the first invaders,
On every fighting field.
Afloat, ashore, on men and Spars,
You'll find the Coast Guard shield.
We're always ready for the call,
We place our trust in Thee.
Through surf and storm and howling gale,
High shall our purpose be. Semper Paratus is our guide,
Our fame, our glory too.
To fight to save or fight and die.
Aye! Coast Guard, we are for you.
We're always ready for the call,
We place our trust in Thee.
Through howling gale and shot and shell,
To win our victory. Semper Paratus is our guide,
Our pledge, our motto, too.
We're "Always Ready," do or die.
Aye! Coast Guard, we are for you.
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