In New York Harbor, long ago, The prison ships rode upon the tide. Ten thousand Patriots crammed aboard, Starved, abandoned, and left to die. They sacrificed sweet life you see So we might enjoy Liberty.
When the Philadelphia ran aground, hard by the shores of Tripoli. We sent Marines to fire the ship That she not fall to piracy.
Again upon Saint Maryβs Heights at Fredericksburg, a sight to see. Ten Thousand Union casualties: white men dying to set blacks free.
Can you recall the names of those who did not want to live forever? They died in France in the Great War,. the one that would end wars forever.
From age to age, from Gen to Gen From falling hands the torch is passed. It is now ours to hold on high Let not the flame of Liberty die.
Tyranny and ignorance And the darkest superstition Oppose the light of Liberty and would make this Earth a prison.
We must be ever vigilant, despite the World's derision. For if the light of Liberty dies, Our faults won't be forgiven.