King Aerospace Case

More than a Mission

For King Aerospace and its chairman and founder Jerry King, “God, Country, Family” is far more than just a motto – it is the essence of KAI. For nearly 30 years, Jerry has grown and led KAI from a fledgling operation into a successful and respected company.

Earlier this year, the U.S. Department of Engergy (DOE) awarded KAI a contract at Kirtland Air Force Base in New Mexico. To inspire and encourage employees, KAI hangs signs with encouraging and motivational messages, including their motto, throughout the facilities in which they work. In May, KAI executives were shocked when they received an email from a government official directing them to “remove all signs that include ‘God’ from their facilities at Kirtland. KAI then reached out to First Liberty.

Immediate Response

After reviewing KAI’s case, First Liberty reached out to officials at the DOE, including Secretary Rick Perry, to remind the Department that the Constitution prevents the government from censoring KAI’s religious speech.

Almost immediately, the DOE retracted its demand, clarified that KAI could hang signs that include its motto, and worked with both FLI and KAI to ensure that KAI’s religious liberty was restored.

“’God, Country, Family’ is more than just a slogan for King Aerospace – it describes the core values of a company who is dedicated to serving those who serve America,” said Mike Berry, Chief of Staff to First Liberty. “We commend the Department of Energy’s swift response and action to ensure King Aerospace’s religious liberty is protected.”