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Michael Strahan Doesn't Hold Back Thoughts On Anthem Controversy

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Andrew McCarty | Last updated Nov 13, 2024 8:06 AM ET

During the NFL's 'Salute to Service' over the weekend, Hall of Fame football player Michael Strahan received criticism for not putting his hand over his heart during the national anthem.

For some reason fans thought Strahan, whose father served 23 years in the Army, was protesting the anthem and the nation's military - a day before Veteran's Day. The outcry grew so loud a tabloid sent someone to Strahan's home, which resulted in an altercation as Strahan wanted to "protect his family."

In a statement released on his Instagram page, the former football star finally made his first public comments on the controversy. He made it abundantly clear he loves and respects the military and the men and women of the armed forces.

“I have nothing to protest, I have no statement to be made,” Strahan said on Instagram," via the New York Post. "The only statement that should be made that I want to make is I love the military, I’ve always loved the military and I will always love the military. I do so many programs to help veterans and soldiers. I grew up on a military base with a father who was a major in the army. My brother, my sister, my cousins, they all served in the military — I’m a military brat. And so the fact of somebody saying that, you know, I’m unpatriotic, couldn’t be any further from the truth.”

In describing the decision not to place his hand over his heart, Strahan admitted he was caught up in the moment watching the brave men and women who decided to sacrifice for their country.

“I somewhat panic and I’m like, ‘Do I be the fool that puts his hand over his heart after or do I just stand here with my hand in front of me respectfully?’ Which, that’s what I did, that’s what happened,” Strahan explained after he realized he didn't have his hand on his heart.

While the criticism was loud, the support for Strahan was even louder. His on-air partner Jay Glazer sent a blunt message to anyone who thinks his friend was disrespecting the country.

Fox Sports reportedly decided he won't be punished for his actions.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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