We've Heard Semper Fidelis and Semper Paratus: How about Semper Supernus?

by James
(Massachusetts)

Dear Latin Teacher,

The U.S. Marine Corps has Semper Fidelis, "Always Faithful".
The U.S. Coast Guard has Semper Paratus, "Always Ready".

What would be the correct word if the U.S. Air Force went with "Always Above" as their motto? Semper Supra or Semper Supernus?


Dear James,

Either phrase is correct. If you use supra it is an adverb, however, not an adjective. As an adjective in the masculine singular, Supernus is more in keeping with the adjective Fidelis and Paratus.

Thanks for asking a Latin teacher!

Sincerely,

John

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