The U.S. Air Force did things the correct way when it made the use of the word “God” optional when swearing the oath of office. It lent respect to those of us who don’t happen to believe in, or worship, any gods.

Back in the 1950s, when the “church” foisted the words “under God” on all by insisting that it be added to the Pledge of Allegiance, as school students of the time we were required to regularly recite the pledge each school day. I refused to recite the new phrase and was sent home with a note pinned to my clothing that described the crime I’d committed.

All the fine, upstanding Christians might consider respecting the rights of those who don’t happen to believe in their God.

George Keiper

Amherst

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