Woody Bennett, age 12, of Great Falls, Mont., for his question:

WHEN WAS THE PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE WRITTEN?

The pledge of allegiance to the flag of the United States is an oath of loyalty to the United States national emblem and to the nation it symbolizes. The idea for such a pledge and the words most likely originated with one of the editors of "The Youth's Companion," a magazine for children. By proclamation of President Benjamin Harrison, the pledge was first used on October 12, 1892, during Columbus Day observances in the public schools.

Here's how the pledge now reads:

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.

The original pledge used the words "my flag" which were subsequently replaced by the words "the flag of the United States of America" on Flag Day, June 14, 1924.

By joint resolution of Congress, the words "under God" were added in 1954.

When reciting the pledge of allegiance, civilians should stand at attention or with the right hand over the heart. Men should remove their hats. Armed services personnel in uniform face the flag and give the military salute.