The visionary behind “Semper Supra” is James Teachenor, a singer-songwriter and former member of the U.S. Air Force band. He embarked on this journey in 2019, alongside Chief of Space Operations Gen. John “Jay” Raymond, shortly after the Space Force’s inception. General Raymond emphasized the historical importance of this project, stating, “This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to establish a Space Force song that will be part of our culture and heritage for years to come.” He further highlighted the song’s role in building camaraderie, “Our traditions are part of the fabric that weave us all together as we execute our missions side-by-side; I will be proud to sing ‘Semper Supra’ alongside my fellow Guardians.”
U.S. Space Force official emblem against a dark background, representing space.
Teachenor’s foundational work then progressed to military bands for musical arrangement. Out of twelve submissions, chief musician Sean Nelson, a U.S. Coast Guard Band trombonist and staff arranger, joined the project. Nelson elaborated on his approach: “I received the melody and words from James, and he wanted me to help add the harmony and to orchestrate it.” He aimed to distinguish “Semper Supra” from traditional military songs, explaining, “I wanted this one to have its own modern spin to reflect what the Space Force is – modern, new and very advanced.” Nelson’s orchestration incorporated over 30 instrument parts, culminating in a recording by the USCG band. After extensive development and revisions in collaboration with the USCG band, the Space Force selected the final version of “Semper Supra,” believing it best captured the essence of being a Guardian.
The lyrics of “Semper Supra” articulate the Space Force mission and identity:
SEMPER SUPRA
The Official U.S. Space Force Song
We’re the mighty watchful eye,
Guardians beyond the blue,
The invisible front line,
Warfighters brave and true.
Boldly reaching into space,
There’s no limit to our sky.
Standing guard both night and day,
We’re the Space Force from on high.
The powerful space song lyrics emphasize vigilance, guardianship, and the boundless reach of the Space Force’s mission. The phrase “Guardians beyond the blue” directly references the members of the Space Force, while “Always Above” is subtly woven into the essence of the song through the repeated notion of being “from on high” and reaching limitless skies.
Messrs. Teachenor and Nelson generously gifted “Semper Supra” and its copyright to the Department of the Air Force, solidifying its place as an enduring symbol of the U.S. Space Force. Licensing inquiries can be directed to https://www.music.af.mil/spaceforcesong/. “Semper Supra” stands as a testament to the Space Force’s commitment to innovation and unwavering protection, now voiced through its own inspiring anthem and space song lyrics.
