The song you’re referring to is commonly known as “Taps,” but it does not have official lyrics. “Taps” is a bugle call that is traditionally played on a bugle or trumpet, and it is used by the United States Armed Forces to signal the end of the day, as well as to honor fallen soldiers.
However, there are lyrics that have been written to go along with the melody of “Taps.” These lyrics were written by Horace Lorenzo Trim in 1862, and they are as follows:
Day is Done
Day is done, gone the sun From the hills, from the lake From the sky All is well, safely rest God is nigh
Fading light, dims the sight And a star gems the evening sky Gleaming bright From afar, drawing near Falls the night
Thanks and praise, for our days Neath the sun, ‘neath the stars and sky As we go, this we know God is nigh
Sun has set, faded light From the lake, from the hills and the sky All is well, safely rest God is nigh
Fading light, dims the sight And a star gems the evening sky Gleaming bright From afar, drawing near Falls the night
Thanks and praise, for our days Neath the sun, ‘neath the stars and sky As we go, this we know God is nigh
Additional verses
There are also additional verses that have been written to go along with the melody of “Taps.” These verses are as follows:
Darkness falls, a peaceful sight A solemn sight, of rest and night Stars shine bright, in the evening sky As the night falls, the world says goodbye
Lord guard and guide, the ones we love Till morning’s light, and a new life above Darkness falls, and we must go But our hearts will stay, where love will grow
It’s worth noting that these lyrics are not officially recognized by the United States Armed Forces, and “Taps” is typically played as an instrumental piece. However, these lyrics have been written to go along with the melody of “Taps,” and they are sometimes used in memorial services and other ceremonies.
