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

When reciting the Pledge of Allegiance, individuals are expressing loyalty specifically to the United States as a whole. The Pledge emphasizes allegiance to the flag, which symbolizes the nation, and fundamentally represents devotion to the ideals of the country, including liberty and justice for all. This expression of loyalty is rooted in the commitment to the values and principles that the United States stands for, reflecting a sense of national unity and identity.

While the other options mention important aspects of governance and service, they do not encapsulate the broader commitment that the Pledge signifies. Loyalty to the Constitution and the President are certainly important, but the Pledge itself is a declaration of loyalty to the entire nation, which includes its people and its foundational ideals. Similarly, while the military is a vital institution that serves the nation, the Pledge focuses on the United States as an entity, rather than an allegiance to specific institutions or figures. The correct choice captures this essence of national loyalty succinctly.