Coast Guards Northern Watch

Dedication:To the men and women of the Canadian Coast Guard—past, present, and future. To the keepers of the lights, the breakers of the ice, and the crews who answer the call when the seas are at their most unforgiving. Your vigilance ensures our safety and protects the beauty of our three coasts.

Coast Guards Northern Watch 

Since 1962, the mission has stayed clear,

To guard the waves and keep the coastline near.

From ancient lights that flickered in the gale,

They guide the ships and watch the lonely sail.

Across the Great Lakes and the Arctic blue,

The ice is thick, but ships will venture through.

With massive hulls, they break the frozen white,

To keep the trade routes open through the night.

When signals fade and storms begin to rise,

The rescue crews look out with steady eyes.

In Dartmouth’s mist or St. John’s rocky shore,

They brave the spray and hear the ocean’s roar.

From the Atlantic to the Pacific tide,

The CCG has nowhere left to hide.

In Victoria’s ports and northern frozen seas, 

They serve the land and manage it with ease.

Though not a force that carries arms or steel,

A civilian heart is at the captain’s wheel.

Beside the Navy and the RCMP,

They hold the sovereignty of every sea.

If oil should spill or waters turn to grey,

The cleanup teams will lead the weary way.

With buoys and markers placed in perfect line,

They make the treacherous waters safe and fine.

Beneath the banner of the maple leaf,

They offer help and bring the lost relief.

A federal hand across the water’s span,

Protecting nature and the works of man.

So here’s to those who watch the shifting sand,

The silent guardians of the northern land.

The Canadian Coast Guard, steady, bold, and true,

Defined by service in the white and blue.

James E. Mercer *** September 21, 2024 *** Copyright protected.all rights reserved