Air Force Academy may drop “so help me God” from oath

From the Air Force Times:

The Air Force Academy is considering dropping or changing its honor oath because it has the phrase “so help me God.”

The review is in response to a complaint from the Military Religious Freedom Foundation, which advocates for the separation of church and state in the military.

Academy spokesman Maj. Brus Vidal said the Honor Review Committee met Oct. 22 to discuss the oath’s wording, but made no decision on whether or how to alter the 28 words. Vidal said the academy will “develop a way ahead that is respectful to all perspectives.”

“They considered a range of options and some of those options will be presented to academy leaders and, ultimately, the academy Superintendent [Lt. Gen. Michelle Johnson] for a decision,” Vidal said. “We value an inclusive environment that promotes dignity and respect for all.”

The academy’s honor oath currently reads: “We will not lie, steal or cheat nor tolerate among us anyone who does. Furthermore, I resolve to do my duty and live honorably, so help me God.”

Among the options the committee discussed were making no change to the oath, making the “so help me God” portion optional, or striking the entire oath.

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