2 • June 7-9, 2020 LOCAL • WALWORTH ESSAY Continued from page 1 this simply cleaned up the previous version from 1776. Rather than the “Thirteen United States of America”, it was referenced as the “United States of America” and still mentioned King George III. Then, in 1789 the first oath under the United States Constitution was created. This oath is very similar to the current oath, but was substantially different than the previous oath from 1778, for the United States of America had officially been created. Furthermore, it was much more eloquent and flowed in a manner that was logical and clear. After this, the Oath for Officers was changed in 1830 to match more of the changes to the regular Oath of Enlistment. This oath was lengthened and expanded in 1862, but shortened and simplified in 1884. Then, the Oath for Officers was changed again in 1959 which is the version that remains in place today. The next time the Oath of Enlistment was revised was in 1960, and the new version became effective in 1962. This version combined several of the different phrases from the 1789 version to improve overall flow and clarity. One more key change was the addition of the phrase “So help me God”. Over time, this became a standard for many different oaths including some judicial oaths, the Presidential Oath (even though it is not required by law), the Oath of Citizenship (optional), and in many oaths to public office for officials in certain states. To summarize, many changes have occurred from the first Oath of Enlistment in 1775, to the current Oath of Enlistment (last revised in 1960). However, protecting the land of the free, our home has prevailed. The revisions have been much needed, for our country has vastly changed since 1775. The Oath of Enlistment is something we need to take pride in and must continue to honor, to respect all active duty service members and veterans. Break down each segment of the oath and explain what it means to you. “I, ____, do solemnly swear (or affirm) that I will support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic;” I believe the first part of the Oath of Enlistment is arguably the most impactful segment to me. The men and women who take this oath are promising to defend our country against anyone who poses a threat. By making this promise, there is no going back. This is serious, not something to throw around or to take lightly. The individuals who take this oath are making the selfless choice to serve their country. They are fighting for what our founding fathers set forth and all the ideals of debransonglobe.com mocracy and government set forth in the Constitution. The United States Constitution represents everything our nation has fought for, and will continue to represent. So many people have dedicated their lives and have even given their lives protecting our freedoms. We must honor these individuals and continue to fight for what we believe in, and what is near to our heats. Members of the Armed Services must not only defend against anything that threatens the United States, but must also support each other and stand true in their beliefs. They represent our nation, our values, and our ideals. These men and women are the true embodiment of the United States Constitution, constantly fighting to keep the United States a free and independent nation. It is important to note that the United States faces threats and enemies on all fronts: both foreign and domestic. The men and women of the Armed Services are protecting us across the globe; they provide full-range, comprehensive protection and defense. “...that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same;” I believe the key word of this segment is “true”. Individuals who take this oath must SEE WALWORTH ESSAY, PAGE 3
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