( charge to cadets about to embark on a military career )

“We are the sea,” spectral voices said;
“We are the land,” spake voices dead.
“We are the air, and space as well,
and oceans’ depths where sailors fell.
We speak at the will of certain mortals;
poetic voices open our portals.”

“Remember well, you here in chosen glow
who have been selected for what you know;
but you know not enough, else ‘twould be vain to try
to add knowledge to that already full and by.

“Traditions bind the Coast Guard in peace and war,
other military services and the Peace Corps.
The rule is SERVICE - that is why you exist,
as forging tradition you enter now the list.
Grasp each new encounter in self-assured way;
learn well - to survive and win in future day.

“Except where required by law or appointed command,
speak not of opposite sex nor religion out of hand,
nor unravel good order nor weaken discipline
by troubling superiors with unasked criticism.
Prudence warns you to reflect and take guarded pause
before uttering speech harming mission’d cause.

“‘Though First Amendment freedom be your right in heritage,
‘til you lay down the regalia, in wisdom check this privilege.
And when free of that golden shackle locked by duty’s call,
you must then join the great debate in Freedom’s meeting hall.
Be heard, and ply the wisdom gained over many’d year;
contribute to the society which has financed your career.”

“Honor the sea,” the fading voices said;
“Respect the land,” spake voices dead.
“Value the air, and space as well,
and oceans’ depths where sailors fell.
Remember that you too are mortals . . . .
We close this counsel - so too these portals.”