A hymn for the ages

The Marine Corps Hymn.  It is the oldest official song in the United States military, and one of the most inspirational tunes ever composed.

The lyrics were based on the accomplishments of the world's finest fighting force over the last 236 years and pay homage to the heroic deeds and terrible hardships endured by Marines since the year 1775.

Every Marine, past and present, knows these words and honors his predecessors when the hymn is sung with pride.  For those of you who haven't served, here are the lyrics and the hymn itself.

From the Halls of Montezuma,

To the shores of Tripoli;

We fight our country's battles

In the air, on land, and sea;

First to fight for right and freedom

And to keep our honor clean:

We are proud to claim the title

Of United States Marine.

Our flag's unfurled to every breeze

From dawn to setting sun;

We have fought in every clime and place

Where we could take a gun;

In the snow of far-off Northern lands

And in sunny tropic scenes;

You will find us always on the job

The United States Marines.

Here's health to you and to our Corps

Which we are proud to serve;

In many a strife we've fought for life

And never lost our nerve;

If the Army and the Navy

Ever look on Heaven’s scenes;

They will find the streets are guarded

By United States Marines.

Semper Fi,

LWM out..............