In God We Trust
Virginia drivers could have a new specialty license plate on their cars next year if approved by the General Assembly in January. The plate features the words “In God We Trust” against a beautiful red, white, and blue background of the American flag. It is being sponsored in the Assembly by Valley legislators, Sen. Mark Obenshain and Del. Dickie Bell.
Pre-Filed Applications Needed
Because the General Assembly requires at least 350 pre-filed applications to be on hand for approval, we are urging Valley residents to file their applications as soon as possible. You can download the form at www.ingodwetrustvaplate.com, which also contains a color picture of the plate. Please attach a $10 check and then send both check and application to the address provided on the form.
Our National Motto and Anthem
“In God We Trust” first appeared on U.S. coins during the Civil War in 1864, where it continues to appear on both coins and paper currency. It became the official motto of the United States during the Cold War in 1956.
The words appeared much earlier, however, during the War of 1812 when Francis Scott Key included them in the fourth stanza of “The Star Spangled Banner”, which he penned in 1814. That then became our national anthem in 1931.
Similar Plates Approved by Other States
At least nine states have already approved similar “In God We Trust” license plates, including Arkansas, Florida, Indiana, Kansas, Louisiana, North Carolina, Oklahoma, South Carolina, and Tennessee. Eight other states also have plates that include a reference to God, such as “God Bless America” and “One Nation under God.”
For further information, please contact the Forum at family@valleyfamilyforum.org or (540) 438-8966.
