“Semper Paratus” (Latin for “Always Ready”) is the official march of the United States Coast Guard. Semper Paratus is also the official Coast Guard motto. The origin of the phrase is obscure, although the Coast Guard Historian’s Office notes the first use was by the New Orleans Bee newspaper in the 1830s, in reference to the actions of the Revenue Cutter Service. (from wikipedia.org)
Current Version
Verse
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.
Chorus
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!
Play!