Draziw----
In most states you have the option of stating the truth the whole truth so help me god or just raising your right hand and saying I affirm that what I am to say is the truth the whole or some variation of that. One is not required to swear on a Bible! This page has some interesting information in it.

http://www.sunnetworks.net/~ggarman/sohelpme.html

IMO, The question is not the pledge but the religious overtones of said pledge. Also ones patriotism is not contingent on his religious affiliation. Nor is his love of freedom or this country dictated solely by asserting a pledge. One can buy into our social contract without having to call on the almighty. I am not a religious person but would defend our right to discuss/disagree and live freely.