“The Army Song,” officially known as “The Army Goes Rolling Along,” stands as a powerful anthem embodying the spirit, history, and dedication of the United States Army. This iconic military song resonates deeply with soldiers, veterans, and patriotic citizens alike. It’s more than just a song; it’s a symbol of unity, courage, and the enduring strength of the Army.
Lyrics of “The Army Goes Rolling Along”
This timeless piece features verses and choruses that narrate the Army’s journey through history and its unwavering commitment to the nation. Here are the complete lyrics to help you sing along and understand its powerful message:
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:
First 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 till the battle’s won,
And the Army goes rolling along.
Refrain:
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.
Second Chorus:
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.
Refrain:
(same as above)
Third Chorus:
(slower, more freely)
Men in rags, men who froze,
Still that Army met its foes,
And the Army went rolling along.
Faith in God, then we’re right,
And we’ll fight with all our might,
As the Army keeps rolling along.
Refrain:
Then it’s hi! hi! hey!
The Army’s on its way.
Count off the cadence loud and strong; (two! three!)
For where’er we go,
You will always know
That the Army goes rolling along! (keep it rolling!)
And the Army goes rolling along!
The History Behind “The Army Goes Rolling Along”
The origins of “The Army Song” trace back to 1908 in the Philippines. First Lieutenant Edmund L. Gruber, serving in the Field Artillery, penned the original melody and lyrics, then titled “The Caisson Song.” Initially, the lyrics depicted the everyday life and tasks within a horse-drawn Field Artillery battery, reflecting a soldier’s routine of that era.
The song’s transformation into a powerful march came in 1917 when the renowned composer John Philip Sousa, known for his patriotic marches, arranged it. Sousa renamed it “The Field Artillery Song,” enhancing its musicality and making it suitable for marching bands and military parades. This adaptation significantly broadened its appeal and cemented its place within Army culture.
Decades later, in 1952, “The Field Artillery Song” was officially adopted as the song of the entire U.S. Army. It was at this point that it received its current title, “The Army Goes Rolling Along,” and the lyrics were revised to be more inclusive of the Army’s broader history and mission beyond just the artillery branch. The updated lyrics aimed to encapsulate the past, present, and future of the U.S. Army, making it a song for all soldiers, regardless of their specialization.
Today, “The Army Goes Rolling Along” holds a place of honor in Army traditions. It is played at the conclusion of every U.S. Army ceremony, serving as a concluding tribute to the soldiers and the institution. During these occasions, all soldiers are expected to stand and sing along, demonstrating their respect and pride in their service and the rich heritage of the Army. This tradition reinforces the song’s role as a unifying element within the Army community, connecting generations of soldiers through a shared musical expression of their commitment and values.
