There has been a lot of talk about the American national anthem lately, especially since San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick refused to stand up for The Star-Spangled Banner.
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Colin Kaepernick’s protest of the national anthem is apparently winning support from some military veterans on Twitter. Team center Daniel Kilgore, who is white, said he initially took offense to Kaepernick’s action, but gained a new understanding after listening to him explain why he felt the need to take a stand-actually a sit-against racial injustice.
Some of those soldiers responded on Tuesday night.
He said on Hollywood Today Live: “You are being a jerk and not understanding what this country stands for”. Several players on the current roster have parents, siblings or cousins who have served – and fullback Chris Swain is in the Navy Reserves. Many of Kaepernick’s critics also latched on to the trend and mocked it by sharing photos of American troops torturing prisoners.
One of those who publicly criticized Kaepernick is Brian Kolfage, who lost his legs and an arm while serving as part of Operation Iraq Freedom. “@Kaepernick7 is an American hero”.
Here’s how Kaepernick explained his reasoning: “At this point, I’ve been blessed to be able to get this far and have the privilege of being in the National Football League and making the kind of money I make and enjoy luxuries like that”.
Citing Kaepernick’s lack of repetitions because of injuries and the additional reps that Gabbert has received as a result, Kelly said it’s necessary to ensure Kaepernick gets a longer look as he is satisfied with Gabbert’s workload to this point.
But at Thursday night’s game against the San Diego Chargers, Kaepernick may be thrown from the frying pan into the fire.
“I have great respect for the men and women that have fought for this country”, Kaepernick told the press Sunday. I refuse to ignore the “pink elephant” of racism and inequality so pervasive in this country.
Not only did he come in off beat with his “All Lives Matter” tweet telling Kaepernick not to disrespect the flag but he even ended it with a Rodney King, “can’t we all get along” just to clear up all doubt. And they fight for freedom, they fight for the people, they fight for liberty and justice, for everyone.
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“We as service members take an oath to defend the Constitution and all that it stands for”.
