The Armed Forces Medley is a stirring musical composition that honors the various branches of the United States military. With its rich history and emotional resonance, the medley brings together songs associated with the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Marine Corps, celebrating the service and sacrifice of those who defend the nation. This article delves into the lyrics of the Armed Forces Medley, its historical background, and the significance of its continued performance at military events and national celebrations.
The Structure of the Armed Forces Medley
The Armed Forces Medley combines the official songs of the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Marine Corps. Each section of the medley features lyrics from these songs, performed in succession, creating a powerful tribute to the service members of the United States. The medley typically includes:
- The Army Goes Rolling Along
- Navy Hymn (Eternal Father, Strong to Save)
- The U.S. Air Force (Off We Go Into the Wild Blue Yonder)
- The Marines’ Hymn
Each song carries its own unique melody and lyrics, which reflect the values and spirit of the respective military branch.
Lyrics of the Armed Forces Medley
While the medley is often performed in a musical format, here are the essential lyrics associated with each branch’s song as featured in the Armed Forces Medley:
1. The Army Goes Rolling Along
Verse:
March along, sing our song, with the Army of the free.
Count the brave, count the true, who have fought to victory.
We’re the Army and proud of our name!
We’re the Army and proudly proclaim:
Chorus:
First to fight for the right,
And to build the nation’s might,
And the Army goes rolling along.
Proud of all we have done,
Fighting ’til the battle’s won,
And the Army goes rolling along.
2. Eternal Father, Strong to Save (Navy Hymn)
Verse:
Eternal Father, strong to save,
Whose arm hath bound the restless wave,
Who bidst the mighty ocean deep
Its own appointed limits keep.
Chorus:
O hear us when we cry to Thee,
For those in peril on the sea!
3. The U.S. Air Force
Verse:
Off we go into the wild blue yonder,
Climbing high into the sun;
Here they come zooming to meet our thunder,
At ’em boys, give ‘er the gun!
Chorus:
Down we dive, spouting our flame from under,
Off with one helluva roar!
We live in fame or go down in flame,
Nothing will stop the U.S. Air Force!
4. The Marines’ Hymn
Verse:
From the Halls of Montezuma
To the shores of Tripoli,
We fight our country’s battles
In the air, on land, and sea.
Chorus:
First to fight for right and freedom
And to keep our honor clean;
We are proud to claim the title
Of United States Marine.
Historical Background
The Armed Forces Medley has become a staple at various national events, including parades, military ceremonies, and patriotic celebrations. Its roots trace back to the early 20th century when the songs of each military branch began to gain popularity. Over the years, they were consolidated into a medley that serves as a musical tribute to the dedication and bravery of U.S. service members.
The first song, “The Army Goes Rolling Along,” was officially adopted by the United States Army in 1956, while “The Marines’ Hymn” dates back to the 19th century, making it the oldest official song in the U.S. armed forces. “Eternal Father, Strong to Save” was originally written in the 19th century as a hymn for the British Royal Navy, and it has since been embraced by the U.S. Navy. “The U.S. Air Force” was officially adopted as the service’s song in 1947.
Significance of the Medley
The Armed Forces Medley holds significant cultural and emotional weight. It serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by military personnel and their families. The medley is often performed at events like Memorial Day and Veterans Day ceremonies, where it evokes feelings of pride and patriotism among service members and civilians alike.
Additionally, the medley reinforces the camaraderie and shared purpose among the different branches of the military. It encourages unity and respect for each branch’s unique contributions to national defense. By celebrating their collective heritage, the Armed Forces Medley promotes a sense of national pride and gratitude for those who serve.