People Were Shocked These Marines Didn’t Salute During The Anthem Until They Saw The Sign Nearby

Feb 20, 2019 by apost team

In 2016, Colin Kaepernick started a movement that would divide the nation. The then San Francisco 49ers quarterback decided he would no longer stand for the national anthem. Kaepernick told the press he wanted to use his position as a public figure to bring attention to systematic oppression and racial injustices in America.

Players from several NFL teams joined Kaepernick in kneeling during the national anthem. At the start of the 2017 season, President Trump tweeted that players who protest should be fired, sparking a debate over patriotism and the right to peacefully protest.

While half of America supported the protests, the other half boycotted the NFL. Major advertisers pulled their ads, and ticket sales dwindled. The NFL eventually approved a policy that prevents players from protesting on the field.

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During the anthem controversy, the Minnesota Vikings wanted to remind Americans that we wouldn't be able to enjoy the things we love without the brave men and women of the armed forces.

The official Facebook page of the Marine Corps Recruiting Station Twin Cities released a video of two soldiers standing at attention during the national anthem. At first, viewers were outraged. The uniformed soldiers didn't salute while the anthem played. The outrage quickly turned to respect when they realized what the soldiers were doing.

The marines in the video are standing guard over two unfilled seats. The empty seats, found in section V8, symbolize the soldiers who were captured or are missing in action. All five branches of the United States Military are represented, and the seats are decorated with the POW/MIA flag.

Soldiers will stand guard over the seats during every game played in the Minnesota stadium.

The NFL franchise hopes this show of patriotism plays a role in bringing together a country that is divided in so many ways.

How do you feel about football players kneeling during the anthem? Was it disrespectful to veterans and active duty service members? Tag your friends, and help us spread the word about this heartfelt display of patriotism.