US Air Force orders atheist sergeant: Swear to God — or leave http://t.co/2A9mcLBZoj Enjoy your lawsuit USAF

— Kragar (@Kragar_LGF) September 10, 2014

In the past, an airman could opt for an alternative phrase and omit the words “so help me God,” but the US Air Force changed its policy in October 2013.

The other branches of the American military do not require the reference to God and make the phrase optional.

“This is the only branch to my knowledge that’s actually requiring everyone in all instances to use the religious language,” Miller said.

The requirement violates the US Constitution, which bars religious tests to hold office or other positions, Miller said of the case, which was first reported by the Air Force Times.