MS HC7

Recognizes February 8, 1954, as the anniversary of Senator Homer Ferguson's introduction of a bill to add the words "under God" to the United States Pledge of Allegiance.

Notes that Senator Ferguson chose this date because it marked the five-year anniversary of Cardinal Joseph Mindszenty's imprisonment by Nazis and Communists for his sermons against religious eradication.

Documents that Congress members from both parties delivered speeches honoring Cardinal Mindszenty and emphasizing the threat of Communism to America.

States that the vote to add "under God" to the pledge was unanimous and that President Eisenhower was convinced of its appropriateness after hearing Reverend George Docherty's sermon on February 7, 1954.

The modified pledge was first recited publicly on Flag Day, June 14, 1954.