Lyrics of 82nd All the Way by Sabaton
In the draft of 1917, a man from Tennessee
Overseas to the trenches he went, from the land of the free
Into war he brought two things along, a rifle and his faith
Joined the ranks as a private, assigned to 338th
There on that day
Alvin York entered the fray
Saving the day
82nd all the way
Into the fires of hell, the Argonne, a hero to be
Entered the war from over the sea
Intervene, 1918, all the way from Tennessee
Hill 223
When his faith has been put to the test, the call to arms he heeds
On the eighth of October he went, made a sergeant for his deeds
Fearless, leading the raid of the war, machine gun on the hill
Charge the enemy taking the prisoners by power of his will
There on that day
Sergeant York entered the fray
Saving the day
82nd all the way
Into the fires of hell, the Argonne, a hero to be
Entered the war from over the sea
Intervene, 1918, all the way from Tennessee
Hill 223
What Sergeant York achieved that day
Would echo to the U.S.A.
It’s 82nd all the way
Death from above, what they now say
What Sergeant York achieved that day
Echoes from France to the U.S.A.
It’s 82nd all the way
Death from above, what they now say
Into the fires of hell, the Argonne, a hero to be
Entered the war from over the sea
Intervene, 1918, all the way from Tennessee
Hill 223
Hell, the Argonne, a hero to be
Entered the war from over the sea
Intervene, 1918, all the way from Tennessee
Hill 223
Historical Background
Sabaton’s “82nd All the Way” pays tribute to Sergeant Alvin C. York, one of World War I’s most decorated American soldiers. The song encapsulates York’s extraordinary bravery during the Meuse-Argonne Offensive, highlighting his transformation from a conscientious objector to a celebrated war hero.
Setting the Stage
Born in 1887 in Pall Mall, Tennessee, Alvin York was a devout Christian who initially sought exemption from military service due to his pacifist beliefs. However, after introspection and discussions with his superiors, he reconciled his convictions with his duty and joined the 82nd Infantry Division.
On October 8, 1918, during the Meuse-Argonne Offensive, then-Corporal York participated in an operation to neutralize German machine gun nests on Hill 223. Amidst heavy fire, York’s unit suffered significant casualties. Demonstrating remarkable marksmanship and leadership, York led the remaining men to capture 132 German soldiers and seize numerous machine guns, effectively dismantling the enemy’s defense.
The Song’s Significance
“82nd All the Way” chronicles York’s journey from a humble Tennessee native to a national hero. The lyrics emphasize his initial reluctance, subsequent valor, and the pivotal role he played in the 82nd Infantry Division’s success. Sabaton’s powerful composition serves as a musical homage to York’s legacy and the broader contributions of the 82nd Division during the Great War.
Why “82nd All the Way” Matters
By immortalizing Sergeant York’s story, Sabaton sheds light on the profound impact an individual can have amidst the vastness of war. The song not only educates listeners about a significant historical figure but also inspires reflection on themes of courage, duty, and personal conviction.
Listen to the Song here:
