What do we show loyalty to when we say the Pledge of Allegiance?

Answers from the USCIS list

Give one of these answers.

• The United States
• The flag

Our explanation

“Pledge” means promise, and “allegiance” means loyalty. When we say it, we stand, face the flag, and put our right hand over our heart. We show loyalty to the flag and the United States.

Remember it

Hand on heart, eyes on the flag: loyalty to the flag and the United States.

Source

USCIS 2025 Study Guide (M-1175) p. 71. Quote: “We show loyalty to the flag and the United States when we say the Pledge of Allegiance.” … “put our right hand over our heart.”

• 128 Civics Questions and Answers (2025 version), M-1778 (09/25) (PDF, USCIS)

Last checked on September 29, 2026.

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Easy to mix up with

• 67Name two promises that new citizens make in the Oath of Allegiance.