"So help me God."

         Oath of Enlistment

I do solemnly swear that I will support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic; that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same; and that I will obey the orders of the President of the United States and the orders of the Officers appointed over me, according to regulations and the Uniform Code of Military Justice. So help me God.

U.S. Marine Corps 1974 - 1976 

U.S. Navy 1977 - 1998

Senior Chief Petty Officer U.S. Navy (Retired)

More than fifty-one years ago I stood on line with several other men and women. And with our right hand raised, we all recited as one, "The Oath of Enlistment." I was honored to say those words that day, as I joined the U.S. Marines Corps. And, over the next two decades, I repeated those words many times, at each re-enlistment. Never, was I uncertain about what I was saying - promising. During those twenty-plus years, I served under five Presidents.

Today, I am long retired from Military Service, but still hold tight to the "Oath." I believe, my promise to "Support and defend the Constitution of the United States..," remains valid. How ever, the portion of the "Oath," that reads; "I will obey the orders of the President of the United States..." would have stuck in my throat if our current President had been in office during my enlistment. Although I have always respected the Office of the President of the United States, I hold no regard for this sitting President.  

At present, I am more than ever before, disillusioned, disappointed and ashamed of the current "Leader of the United States." I consider myself fortunate that he wasn't my "Commander-in-Chief" during my proud years on active duty and subsequent period in the fleet reserves. I would have had much conflict regarding my oath.

As a Professional Soldier (generically speaking), the principle of obeying or following orders is simple. Although, all orders from superiors are expected to be obeyed, military training also teaches critical thinking and ethical considerations. It is the duty of the Soldier to disobey illegal orders. "All orders must not violate any laws or regulations." 

And so... As a child of God, Marine, Sailor, and Citizen of this great country, I find myself facing serious spiritual, moral, and ethical dilemmas.  

Do I obey what is writen in Romans; chapter 13 verses 1 - 5 about submission to governing authorities? Or do I side with Peter and the Apostles?

"We must obey God rather than men." - Acts; chapter 5 verse 29.

Their reply when the High Priest and Sadducees reminded them of strict orders prohibiting them from teaching in the name of Jesus.

So, Help me God be strong, faithful and wise.