Michael Strahan breaks his silence after infuriating America with ‘unpatriotic’ act ahead of Veterans Day
Fox Sports’ NFL analyst Michael Strahan has spoken out after he was heavily criticized for not placing his hand over his heart during the national anthem.
On the network’s broadcast from the San Diego Naval Base ahead of Veterans Day, the national anthem was played before Sunday’s busy schedule of NFL action while a large number of military personnel stood around the crew.
Yet while every other member stood with their hand over their heart, Strahan angered fans on social media when he instead decided to stand with his hands interlocked in front of him.
Amid the outrage over his controversial act, the former New York Giants star has shared a photo of his father, Major Gene W. Strahan Sr, during his time in the military on Instagram while paying tribute to veterans across the US.
‘Thank you to all veterans and active service members who courageously risk their lives to protect us every day,’ he wrote on his story. ‘Your selfless service is beyond measure.
Michael Strahan sparked outrage by not placing his hand on his heart for the national anthem
‘Just as I honor my father, I keep all of you in my thoughts each and every day as we would not have the safety and freedoms we cherish without you. Thank You.’
After he was seen not covering his heart during the Star Spangled Banner, Strahan was branded ‘unpatriotic’ by a number of furious Americans who took to social media to vent their frustrations.
Along with a photo of the moment, Newsmax host Todd Starnes first posted: ‘Michael Strahan disrespected the military during a Veterans Day pre-game show on @NFLonFOX.
‘The great irony is Strahan on a ship surrounded by men and women who would willingly sacrifice their lives to protect his freedom. So, his behavior is not just repugnant, it’s downright cowardly.’
Another fan commented: ‘What the hell is wrong with Michael Strahan!? On effing Veterans Day! Boo, @NFL. Boo, @NFLonFOX. Not cool.’
A third added: ‘Fire Michael Strahan! This is unacceptable!’
‘@NFLonFOX Michael Strahan, standing with US military honoring Veterans Day can’t show honor and respect during the National Anthem… Wow!’, wrote another
Another said Strahan’s decision was ‘disrespectful to all Veterans and Americans’.
‘Why does Michael Strahan not put his hand over his heart during the playing of our National Anthem?’ one fan asked.
