When The Caissons Go Rolling Along Lyrics

“When the Caissons Go Rolling Along” is a famous American military song. It was written in 1917 for the U.S. Army during World War I. The song highlights the hard work and dedication of soldiers. 

The lyrics celebrate the spirit of teamwork and marching together. It became an official U.S. Army song in 1956. The melody and lyrics continue to inspire pride and patriotism.

When The Caissons Go Rolling Along

Song credits

Role	Name
Songwriter	Edmund L. Gruber
Composer	Edmund L. Gruber
Lyrics	Edmund L. Gruber
Year Written	1917
Official Song	U.S. Army (1956)

Verse 

Over hill, over dale, we have hit the dusty trail,
and those caissons go rolling along.
“Counter march! Right about!”
hear those wagon soldiers shout,
while those caissons go rolling along.
For it’s “Hi! Hi! Hee!” in the Field Artillery,
Call off your numbers loud and strong.
And where e’er we go you will always know
that those caissons go rolling along.

Summary

This verse describes soldiers marching on a dusty trail. They shout commands like “Counter march! Right about!” as they move. The “caissons” refer to the wagons used in the military, rolling along as they go. The verse celebrates the strength and unity of the Field Artillery with pride and loud calls.

Verse 

To the front, day and night where the doughboys dig and fight
and those caissons go rolling along.
Our barrage will be fired on the rockets flare
while those caissons go rolling along.
For it’s “Hi! Hi! Hee!” in the Field Artillery,
Call off your numbers loud and strong.
And where e’er we go you will always
know that those caissons go rolling along.

Summary

This verse describes soldiers moving to the frontlines, fighting day and night. The “doughboys” refer to American soldiers in World War I. It mentions the powerful barrage and rockets firing during battle. The verse emphasizes the pride and strength of the Field Artillery as they march forward with determination.

Verse 

With the cav’lry, boot to boot we will join in the pursuit
and those caissons go rolling along.
Action front, at a trot, volley fire with shell and shot
while those caissons go rolling along.
For it’s “Hi! Hi! Hee!” in the Field Artillery,
Call off your numbers loud and strong.
And where e’er we go you will always know
that those caissons go rolling along.

Summary

This verse describes soldiers joining the cavalry in pursuit of the enemy. It mentions intense battle action with volley fire and shells. The soldiers march forward, with pride and determination. The verse celebrates the strength and unity of the Field Artillery, always moving ahead with purpose.

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Verse 

Should the foe penetrate, ev’ry gunner lies in wait
and those caissons go rolling along.
Fire at will, lay ’em low, never stop for any foe
while those caissons go rolling along.
For it’s “Hi! Hi! Hee!” in the Field Artillery,
Call off your numbers loud and strong.
And where e’er we go you will always know
that those caissons go rolling along.

Summary

This verse talks about soldiers waiting to fight the enemy if they break through. The gunners are ready to fire and defeat any foe. It emphasizes the relentless determination of the soldiers. The verse highlights the pride and unity of the Field Artillery as they continue marching forward.

Verse 

But if fate me should call, and in action I should fall
keep those caissons go rolling along.
Then in peace I’ll abide when I take my final ride
on a caisson that’s rolling along.
For it’s “Hi! Hi! Hee!” in the Field Artillery
Call off your numbers loud and strong.
And where e’er we go you will always know
that those caissons go rolling along.

Summary

This verse reflects a soldier’s acceptance of fate in battle. If the soldier falls, they want the caissons to keep moving. It speaks of finding peace in death while still being part of the march. The verse celebrates the honor of serving in the Field Artillery, no matter what happens.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who wrote “When The Caissons Go Rolling Along”?

The song was written by Edmund L. Gruber in 1917, with lyrics by Gruber and music composed by him as well.

What is the meaning of “caissons” in the song?

“Caissons” refers to military wagons used to transport artillery ammunition, symbolizing the strength and movement of the army.

When did the song become official for the U.S. Army?

It became the official song of the U.S. Army in 1956, celebrating the spirit of the Field Artillery.

What is the main theme of the song?

The song celebrates the unity, strength, and pride of the U.S. military, particularly the Field Artillery.

Final Words 

“When The Caissons Go Rolling Along” is a proud and patriotic anthem that continues to inspire and honor the dedication of military personnel. Its upbeat, marching tune and lyrics resonate with soldiers, symbolizing their resilience and commitment.