United States Army
“This We'll Defend”
The oldest and largest of the armed forces, the Army secures our nation on land — projecting power, protecting populations, and standing ready wherever freedom is challenged.
What They Defend
To fight and win our Nation's wars by providing prompt, sustained land dominance across the full range of military operations and spectrum of conflict in support of combatant commanders.
Every branch serves a distinct role in the defense of the United States. Together, they form a unified force — ready, resilient, and resolute — that has answered our nation's call for more than two centuries.
The Army Goes Rolling Along
Originally composed by John Philip Sousa as the 'Caisson Song' in 1908 and officially dedicated on Veterans Day 1956.
Currently Playing
U.S. Army Band “Pershing’s Own” & Chorus
Full vocal choir and military brass performance featuring the complete verse and chorus.
Heritage & Origins
Written during the Philippine-American War by Artillery Lieutenant Edmund L. Gruber and adapted by John Philip Sousa, the melody became the timeless rally cry of American soldiers. In 1956, Army Secretary Wilber M. Brucker officially designated 'The Army Goes Rolling Along' as the official song of the United States Army.
Official Lyrics & Verses
Official Service Text for the Army
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:
The introductory fanfare establishing pride in the lineage of the Continental Army and all who served.
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 till the battle’s won, And the Army Goes Rolling Along. Then it’s Hi! Hi! Hey! The Army’s on its way. Count off the cadence loud and strong; For where’er we go, You will always know That The Army Goes Rolling Along.
The legendary chorus celebrating the sustained land power, courage, and unstoppable forward momentum of the Army.
Valley Forge, Custer’s ranks, San Juan Hill and Patton’s tanks, And the Army went rolling along. Minute Men, from the start, Always fighting from the heart, And the Army keeps rolling along. Then it’s Hi! Hi! Hey! The Army’s on its way. Count off the cadence loud and strong; For where’er we go, You will always know That The Army Goes Rolling Along!
Commemorates the Revolutionary War Minutemen, General George Patton’s Third Army, and pivotal battles in American history.