This code was first set forth by President Eisenhower on August 17, 1955 and reaffirmed July 8, 1964 in the Department of Defense Directive #1300. Its tradition dates back to the Revolutionary War. As we honor the brave men and women on Armed Forces Day, let’s also pray for them and realize the sacrifices that they are making.
1. I am an American fighting man. I serve in the forces which guard my country and our way of life. I am prepared to give my life in their defense.
2. I will never surrender of my own free will. If in command, I will never surrender my men while they still have the means to resist.
3. If I am captured, I will continue to resist by all means available. I will make every effort to escape and aid others to escape. I will accept neither parole nor special favors from the enemy.
4. If I become a prisoner of war, I will keep faith with my fellow prisoners. I will give no information nor take part in any action which might be harmful to my comrades. If I am senior, I will take command. If not, I will obey the lawful orders of those appointed over me and will back them up in every way.
5. When questioned, should I become a POW, I am required only to give name, rank, service number and date of birth. I will evade answering further questions to the utmost of my ability. I will make no oral or written statements disloyal to my country and it’s allies or harmful to their cause
6. I will never forget that I am an American fighting man/woman, responsible for my actions, and dedicated to the principles which made my country free. I will trust in my God and in the United States of America.
Let us hold all of our men and women in the military up before the Lord, knowing that they have taken this pledge and that they have put themselves in harm’s way for the sake of all Americans.