Letter to the Editor - Why the Pledge?

Stay informed, stay empowered: invest in the journalism that invests in you. Editor, The Pledge of Allegiance is far more than a routine recitation in classrooms or a ceremonial opener at public gatherings—it stands as a powerful symbol of national loyalty and unity. Originally crafted to inspire patriotism among schoolchildren during the 400th anniversary of Columbus's arrival in the Americas, its enduring purpose remains clear: to affirm allegiance to the United States and its foundational ideals—not to any particular political party or administration. At its heart, the Pledge is a verbal commitment to the principles of liberty and justice. It promotes pride in the nation's values and serves as a unifying ritual across diverse communities, reinforcing a shared identity and instilling civic awareness in young citizens. While both community service and military service involve dedication and sacrifice, they are not equivalent expressions of patriotism. Volunteering in your neighborhood is commendable, but it does not carry the same weight as choosing to serve in the armed forces, where individuals risk their lives to defend the freedoms we all enjoy. It's important to recognize that the freedom to sit, kneel, or turn away during the National Anthem or the Pledge is itself protected by the very people who serve this country. Exercising that right is a personal choice—but conflating such acts with patriotism or equating them with the sacrifices made by those in uniform is a disservice to the gravity of military service. Finally, using personal grievances to obstruct or weaponize influence in local government as a form of protest against the current administration may feel cathartic—but it often comes across as petty and counterproductive. Civic engagement should be rooted in constructive dialogue and principled action, not performative resistance. ie to a perceived king. Kevin Dwyer, USAF Veteran Peachtree City, Georgia Unlock a world of knowledge! Sign up for free DecorahNews.com newsletters and receive local news, local events and everything that is happening in and around Decorah.