You can hear the bamboo cracking
Underneath our heavy tread,
While the forest trails we're tackling--
Following, where we are lead.

You have got to be a Hiker
To keep up with these Marines,
Not a big four-flush or piker--
Hiking in the Philippines!

Where the big mangoes are growing,
We have halted--Stacking Arms,
Far away, a rooster's crowing
On one of the native farms.

Under branches of big palm trees,
We are resting easy now--
Welcoming the cooling sea breeze
While we're waiting for our Chow.

Plainest fare is a fiesta
When you've Hiked for half a day;
And a little noon siesta
Helps to pass the time away!

Like a ribbon all unraveled
Starts the line at half past two,
There are new trails to be traveled
Back to old Olongapo!