United States Coast Guard
“Semper Paratus”
Always ready — the Coast Guard protects our shores, rescues mariners, enforces the law at sea, and stands watch over every American coastline.
What They Defend
To protect the public, the environment and the United States economic and security interests on our maritime borders and in any maritime region where those interests are at risk.
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.
Semper Paratus (Always Ready)
Written in 1927 by Captain Francis Saltus von Steidl and officially adopted by the Commandant in 1928.
Currently Playing
U.S. Coast Guard Band & Vocal Chorus
Full military band and choral ensemble performing the legendary verses and storm chorus.
Heritage & Origins
Captain Francis Saltus von Steidl penned the lyrics aboard the cutter Yamacraw in Savannah in 1922 and completed the music in 1927. Today, 'Semper Paratus' resounds across every cutter, lifeboat station, and air station — a tribute to the men and women who charge into hurricanes and stormy seas to save lives.
Official Lyrics & Verses
Official Service Text for the Coast Guard
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 foemen's might, Who cheered our crews and cheered again, For showing how to fight.
Chronicles the global deployments of Coast Guard cutters from the War of 1812 to modern international operations.
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're for you!
The sworn pledge of Coast Guard rescue swimmers, boatswain's mates, and aviators who risk their lives in raging waters.
SURVEYOR and NARCISSUS, The EAGLE and DISPATCH, The HUDSON and the TAMPA, These names are hard to match; From Atlantic to Pacific, And across the boundless main, Write glory to the shield we wear, And never let it wane!
Commemorates legendary heroic cutters in American history, including the USCGC Tampa lost in WWI and the training barque Eagle.