Submarine!

I’m the Galloping Ghost of the Japanese coast,

You don’t hear of me or my crew—

But just ask any man off the coast of Japan

If he knows of the Trigger Maru.

I look sleek and slender alongside my tender,

With others like me at my side,

But we’ll tell you a story of battle and glory,

As enemy waters we ride.

I’ve been stuck on a rock, felt the depth charges’ shock,

Been north to a place called Attu,

And I’ve sunk me two freighters atop the equator—

Hot work, but the sea was cold blue.

I’ve cruised close inshore and carried the war

To the Empire island Honshu;

While they wired Yokohama I could see Fujiyama,

So I stayed — to admire the view.

When we rigged to run silently, deeply I dived,

And within me the heat was terrific—

My men pouring with sweat, silent and yet

Cursed me and the whole damned Pacific.

Then destroyers came sounding and depth charges pounding;

My submarine crew took the test.

For in that far-off land there are no friends on hand

To answer a call of distress.

I was blasted and shaken — some damage I’ve taken;

My hull bleeds and pipe lines do, too;

I’ve come in from out there for machinery repair,

And a rest for me and my crew.

I got by on cool nerve and in silence I served,

Though I took some hard knocks in return—

One propeller shaft sprung and my battery’s done—

But the enemy ships I saw burn!

I’m the Galloping Ghost of the Japanese coast,

You don’t hear of me or my crew—

But just ask any man off the coast of Japan

If he knows of the Trigger Maru.