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The Space Force Song Behind the composition

With the establishment of the United States Space Force in December, 2019, one of the new service branches priorities was to create its cultural identity through the composition of a new service song. In order to stand alongside the U.S. Air Force Song (“Off We Go…”) as a memorable and pride-inducing anthem, two former and current service members were enlisted for the task to bring the new entry into the musical lexicon of Armed Forces service songs.

Nashville-based songwriter, and former vocalist with The United States Air Force Academy Band, James Teachenor composed the music and lyrics after meeting with General John Raymond, Chief of Space Operations.

“I wanted (the song) to encompass all the capabilities that the Space Force offers and its vision,” said Teachenor.

After the composition was finalized, Chief Musician Sean Nelson of the United States Coast Guard Band was selected to expand the music to full concert band instrumentation.

After the composition was finalized, Chief Musician Sean Nelson of the United States Coast Guard Band was selected to expand the music to full concert band instrumentation.

“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,” said Raymond. “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.”

Official portrait of General John W. "Jay" Raymond, Chief of Space Operations

The song is named after the United States Space Force motto, “Semper Supra,” which is Latin for “Always Above.” It was created to capture the esprit de corps of both current and future Guardians, and intends to bring together service members by giving them a sense of pride.

Once Teachnor’s song, along with Nelson’s arrangement was finalized, the Concert Band and Singing Sergeants of The United States Air Force Band were then utilized to bring an official recording of “Semper Supra” to life.

“Semper Supra” received its premiere at the annual Air & Space Forces Association Air, Space, and Cyber Conference on September 20, 2022.

The Singing Sergeants, along with composer, James Teachenor (left) and arranger, Chief Musician Sean Nelson (right) premiering “Semper Supra.”

LYRICS

SEMPER SUPRA

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.

Semper Supra (c) Department of the U.S. Air Force. All rights reserved.