"Speak Out" is an expression of opinion from the Editorial Board of WBTV, and is presented by General Manager, Nick Simonette.
Tomorrow is Flag Day – a day we set aside to honor the symbol of our great nation.
One way we've traditionally saluted the "Stars and Stripes" is through The Pledge of Allegiance.
It's engrained in us from our early days in elementary school.
The Pledge is short and sweet – just 31 words…takes about 12 seconds to say.
It was originally written by Mr. Francis Bellamy in 1892.
Mr. Bellamy hoped to inspire a renewed sense of pride in our country, something which had ebbed since the Civil War.
Furthermore, he felt it was important to instill in our children a feeling of respect and patriotism.
We would hope that Americans of all ages still feel that way today.
The Pledge has been amended four times through the years – to make it America-specific and to include the words "under God."
It was formally adopted by Congress in 1942, and reached its current wording in 1954.
So, when was the last time YOU pledged YOUR allegiance to the flag?
Well if you're so inclined, we invite you to say it along with us now.
But even if not, please remember our flag tomorrow and the people, history, and the spirit it represents.
"I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America, and to the republic for which it stands,
one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all."
Tell us what YOU think. SpeakOut@wbtv.com.
