Semper Paratus 
(Always Ready)
 

Words and Music 
by Captain Francis Saltus Van Boskerck, USCG
 
 
 

Current Version
 

Verse

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.

Chorus

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 fight for you.
 
Versions & Changes
The original words and music were written 
by Captain Francis S. Van Boskerck, USCG in 1927. 
The first line of each chorus was changed in 1969.
 

Words and Music 
Copyright by Sam Fox Publishing Co, Inc.