US Congressman Introduces Bill in Response to Military Oath Deleting “God”

Photo Credit: Opposing Views

Photo Credit: Opposing Views

U.S. Rep. Sam Johnson introduced a bill that would make it illegal for any branch of the military to change its oaths unless approved by Congress.

Johnson said he wrote the legislation in response to a 2013 decision made by U.S. Air Force Academy to make the phrase, “so help me God,” an optional part of its oath.

Before the change, the cadet honor oath was, “We will not lie, steal or cheat, nor tolerate among us anyone who does. Furthermore, I resolve to do my duty and to live honorably, so help me God.”

Since 1984, cadets must recite the code when they first join basic training. Cadets are required to take the oath once every year, said Air Force Academy spokesman Maj. Brus Vidal.

U.S. Air Force Academy leaders said they decided to make the phrase optional after receiving a complaint for the Military Religious Freedom Foundation, a group that advocates for religious freedom within the U.S. military. (Read more from “US Congressman Introduces Bill in Response to a Change in a Military Oath” HERE)

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