| Virgin Islands March | |
| Prefix: | Regional |
| Country: | the United States Virgin Islands |
| Author: | Collectively |
| Composer: | Sam Williams and Alton Adams |
| Music Date: | 1920s |
| Sound: | Territorial_anthem_of_the_United_States_Virgin_Islands.wav |
| Sound Title: | Instrumental version (Two verses) |
The "Virgin Islands March" is the regional anthem of the United States Virgin Islands. The song was composed by Sam Williams and U.S. Virgin Island native Alton Adams in the 1920s.[1] [2] It served as an unofficial regional anthem of the U.S. Virgin Islands until 1963, when it was officially recognized by Legislative Act.[3]
The song itself is a brisk martial march, consisting of an introductory instrumental section followed by a very cheerful melody. The Guardian reporter Alex Marshall compared it favorably to some national anthems, suggesting that it was reminiscent of the music of the Disney film Mary Poppins.[4]
Since the U.S. Virgin Islands is a U.S. insular territory, the national anthem is still the U.S. one, "The Star-Spangled Banner". During international sporting events, only the "Virgin Islands March" is played.
On most occasions, the first verse followed by the last verse is sung.[5]
IITo thee our Virgin Islands,Loving voices raiseA song in praise of brotherhood,Where right makes might to fight for good.To thee our Virgin Islands,Haven of the free,We sing our love to thee,Joyously,Our own fair islands of liberty. IIIMarch on oh Virgin Islands,In the joyful throng,Uphold the right and right the wrongWhere only peace and love belong.March on oh Virgin Islands,Democratic land.Together hand in hand,Take your stand,Forever soldiers in freedom's band. IVGod bless our Virgin Islands,Humbly now we pray,Where all mankind can join todayIn friendly warmth of work and play.God bless our Virgin Islands,Beautiful and tall.Beneath a sunny sky,Hilltops highHold out a welcome for one and all.[6] [7] |