VFW Pledge of Allegiance

What we pledge. Together.

A presentation offered at the Leelanau County Memorial Day Observance

May 26, 2026

Alan Campbell

Welcome residents of Leelanau County, and salutations to members of the armed forces,, Eagletown post of the American Legion, and of course our hosts Post 7731 of the Veterans of Foreign Wars.

Thank you, Gene. Your words are kind, and so are you.

It’s one of the greatest honors of my life to be standing here with the opportunity to lead the Leelanau community, my community, in the Pledge of Allegiance. I won’t take long leading up to the pledge because this day, this service, is only partially about the pledge and certainly not about me. It’s a solemn day that unites us all.

The pledge is an analogy for that unification. Originally written 135 years ago by a self-avowed socialist working for a children’s magazine to celebrate the 400th anniversary of Christopher Columbus’ arrival in North America, it was as much a gimmick as a statement of patriotism..

The intent was to recruit kids to sell flags. Like Girl Scout cookies.

But the pledge stuck because the revered principles of America are woven in its message.

Silly as it sounds, it’s the symbolism of using the flag for allegiance that has allowed the pledge to continue through the daily criticism, some deserved, of America.. We’re not asked to align with an individual leader, party of political movement. Half of us might sit on our hands if that was the case.

To me, the ending words are my favorites and carry real meaning: “With liberty and justice for all.”

I tend to think Leelanau County is home to the best Memorial Day ceremony in the North because of our deeply shared belief in those words.

Today we pay tribute to the men and women who laid down their lives to gift the symbolism of the pledge to future generations.

At this time, all who are able please rise for the pledge. Civilians, please face the flag and place your right hand over your hearts. Members of the armed forces and veterans will be rendering a military hand salute.

Pause