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

What does this answer mean?

When we say the Pledge of Allegiance, we show loyalty to the United States and to the flag. USCIS accepts either answer.

The Pledge begins with the words "I pledge allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America," and goes on to the republic the flag stands for. Allegiance means loyalty, so the Pledge is a promise of loyalty to the country and its flag.

The wording is set in federal law. The law also describes how to say it: stand facing the flag with your right hand over your heart. People in uniform stay silent and give the military salute, and veterans may salute the same way.

USCIS's model program for naturalization ceremonies includes reciting the Pledge, after the new citizens take the Oath of Allegiance. It's different from the Oath of Allegiance, the promise new citizens make to become citizens, which is the subject of the next question.

This is one of the 20 questions on the 65/20 list. At the interview, say "the United States" or "the flag."