Heart of Oak [British Patriotic Song]

“Heart of Oak” is the official march of the Royal Navy and is also used by several Commonwealth navies. The music was composed by William Boyce and the lyrics were written by David Garrick for the 1759 pantomime *Harlequin’s Invasion*. The song celebrates Britain’s naval strength and the victories of the “Annus Mirabilis” of 1759, when British forces achieved several important successes during the Seven Years’ War. Its title refers to the strong oak timber traditionally used to build British warships, while the lyrics praise the courage, freedom, and determination of British sailors. The song became a lasting symbol of Royal Navy tradition and remains associated with British naval history.