To: ALAUX
From: CHDIRAUX
Subj: PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE -049/09

1. There has been considerable concern recently about whether or not Auxiliarists may recite the Pledge of Allegiance when in uniform. The following is provided to re-iterate and confirm associated policy.

2. There is U.S. Code that addresses the Pledge. It is 4 U.S.C. 4 which states, "The Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag: "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.", should be rendered by standing at attention facing the flag with the right hand over the heart. When not in uniform men should remove any non-religious headdress with their right hand and hold it at the left shoulder, the hand being over the heart. Persons in uniform should remain silent, face the flag, and render the military salute."

3. Specific provisional language exists in Coast Guard Auxiliary policy.
Section 1.A.5.b. of the Auxiliary Manual (COMDTINST M16790.1 (series)) states, "When the Pledge of Allegiance is given, Auxiliarists, in uniform or not, should face the National Ensign and stand at attention with their right hand over their heart." This provision is re-stated in Appendix A.6. of the Auxiliary Manual.

4. It is true that some convention exists among active duty and Reserve ranks to remain silent during the Pledge, if in uniform. However, it is also recognized that the recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance by Auxiliarists in uniform, with their right hand over their heart, has been a traditional mainstay of Auxiliary custom, ceremonies, and meetings, and that U.S. Code does not prescribe a mandate despite its implication of silence.
The option for Auxiliarists in uniform to therefore recite the Pledge with right hand over the heart remains firmly in place, and section 1.A.5.b. and Appendix A.6. of the Auxiliary Manual remain firmly in effect.

5. The purpose of this list is to keep Auxiliarists as well as all other interested parties abreast of current developments, policies, manuals, etc.
All information contained herein and linked is OFFICIAL policy and information.

6. Internet Release and Distribution is Authorized.

7. CG-54211, sends

Thanks for posting that. However I don't see any revision to policy. The statement just re-states what policy always was.

What it is, is a repudiation of the statements and emails of 2 DirAuxs as discussed in our prior thread 2 DirAuxs, The Pledge and Getting It Wrong