Our Pledge

I pledge allegiance to the Flag of the United States and to the Republic for which it stands, one Nation, indivisible, with Liberty and Justice for all. "

This pledge was written by Francis Bellamy and published first in the issue of September 8, 1892 in the Youth's Companion. It was first used in celebration of Columbus Day October 12, 1892.

Bellamy's job was to promote the spirit of patriotism in the youth of this country and his aim was to have our Flag fly over every public and private school in the land.

He was successful in obtaining an interview with the President of the United States, Benjamin Harrison for the purpose of persuading him to endorse his idea. On June 21, 1892 President Harrison signed this proclamation.

A minor change was suggested and approved at the Second National Flag Conference in Washington on Flag Day 1924. The words "Of America" were added.

A second change was made in the pledge by a Congressional Act of June 14, 1954 under Resolution 243. It was approved by President Dwight Eisenhower. The words "Under God" were added.