How to Pledge Allegiance To The Flag

When we pledge allegiance to the flag we pledge loyalty to three things: to the flag itself, to our own state as well as the other 49 states and to our country's government.

The pledge is a demonstration of unity and loyalty to the United States of America. It is a privilege to take part in, but, remember, the very flag that many of us pledge allegiance to also gives the freedom for those who do not pledge themselves to it for religious or other reasons. Take a second look at the words. It has great meaning.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• appreciation for country
• flag
• hand

1. The proper way to pledge allegiance to the flag is to stand straight, put your right hand across your heart, and recite the Pledge of Allegiance. It is such a common thing that sometimes we lose sight of the meaning behind the gesture. By breaking down the pledge phrase by phrase we can examine it a little closer and get a deeper understanding of what we are saying.

2. "I Pledge Allegiance"
   
   By reciting these words you are giving your loyalty.

3. "to the flag"
   
   The flag is the symbol of our country.

4. "of the United States of America"
   
   The 50 states represented both individually and collectively by stars on a field of blue.

5. "and to the Republic"
   
   The Republic is our form of government.

6. "for which it stands,"
   
   This phrase tells us the flag represents that government.

7. "one Nation, under God"
   
   Our nation is governed by God above men.

8. "Indivisible,"
   
   Can not be divided!

9. "with Liberty and Justice"
   
   Each of us has an individual right of freedom under the law as long as we do not break that law.

10. "for all."
    
    Every citizen of the United States of America is entitled to these regardless of race, religion, color or creed.

11. In many circumstances the flag may be presented to us in ceremony before we pledge allegiance to it.
    
    Proper etiquette says that we salute the flag when it is presented to us. Chapter 3 of the Flag Code states:
    
    Section 301 of Title 36 tells us what to do when the national anthem is played.
    
    If the U.S. flag is displayed everyone except "those in uniform" should stand at attention facing the flag with the right hand over the heart. Personnel not in uniform but wearing hats should "remove their headdress with their right hand and hold the headdress at the left shoulder, the hand being over the heart."
    
    Military personnel in uniform "should give the military salute at the first note of the anthem and maintain that position until the last note." Boy and Girl Scouts usually follow the same etiquette.

Resources

• article by Jill Labbe, Star Telegram
• Red Skelton's Pledge Story

[PaulMcDaniel]

on 6/18/2008 I really like this article! Thanks for the information!